Incredible Things To Do In Port Fairy

From joining a kayaking tour to pedalling along a historic rail trail and swooning over a cute, heritage lighthouse, there are plenty of things to do in Port Fairy.

A coastal town that once hung its hat on whaling and fishing, Port Fairy is now a hub where food, creativity and the arts flourish. A charming blend of old and new, Port Fairy is one of those places that makes you dream of packing it all in and setting up a new life by the seaside. Whether you prefer an active break or a more chilled getaway by the sea, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Port Fairy. Here are some to get you started.

1. Go to market

Held on alternating Saturdays at Railway Place, the Port Fairy Community Market and Port Fairy Farmers Market are lovely spots for a wholesome morning wander.

people busy shopping at Port Fairy Market — Shop your way around Port Fairy Market. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Fresh produce, cakes, preserves, local honey, wine, arts and crafts, plants and more are all for sale here, making it a top place to grab a gift for a friend or stock up on gourmet goods straight from the producer.

a woman holding a ceramic at a stall in Port Fairy Market — Head to Port Fairy Market for great ceramic finds. (Image: Visit Victoria)

2. Step back in time on a walking tour

Did you know that Port Fairy was once called Belfast? Or how about the town having more than 50 buildings listed with the National Trust? Learn historical facts and other stories about this distinctive town on a walking tour led by a local expert guide from the visitor information centre.

a couple on a historic walk in Port Fairy — Go on a historic walk in Port Fairy. (Image: Visit Victoria)

If you miss out on joining one of the tours, you can DIY by downloading a heritage trail map and going for a self-guided wander.

a couple on a walking tour in Port Fairy — You can also opt for a self-guided wander. (Image: Visit Victoria)

3. Join in the festival fun

When it comes to festivals and community celebrations, little old Port Fairy certainly punches above its weight. Throughout the year, the town hosts a wide-ranging program of festivals, including the ever-popular Port Fairy Folk Festival (March), Port Fairy Jazz Festival (February), Port Fairy Literary Weekend (September), Port Fairy Spring Music Festival (October) and the Port Fairy Annual Show (November). Large festivals like the Port Fairy Folk Festival draw big crowds (so be sure to book accommodation and restaurants well in advance) while the Port Fairy Annual Show is a classic country fair beloved by locals. Either way, visiting when one of Port Fairy’s many festivals and events is in full swing is a great time to witness the strong community spirit of this mighty, little town by the sea.

4. Explore Griffiths Island on foot

Walking from the centre of town to Griffiths Island’s famous lighthouse is a must-do when visiting Port Fairy. Home to a range of native wildlife, you may be lucky enough to see a swamp wallaby or echidna here.

the lighthouse on Griffiths Island — Griffiths Island’s famous lighthouse is a must-do when visiting Port Fairy. (Image: Visit Victoria)

More than 80 bird species have been recorded on this small island, so if you’re into birdwatching bring your binoculars and bird book – you may just get to tick a few new species off your list.

walking on foot at sunset on Griffiths Island — Walk on foot at sunset. (Image: Visit Victoria)

As a nesting site for short-tailed shearwaters, you’ll need to leave your dog at home for this walk. The circuit around the island should take an hour or so to complete but take your time to take it all in – there’s no rush in this corner of Victoria.

biking around Griffiths Island — You can also pedal your way around Griffiths Island. (Image: Visit Victoria)

5. Get stuck into some water sports

If you’ve ever wanted to learn to surf, try your hand at kayaking or find out what paddleboarding is all about, Port Fairy is the top place to give it a go.

surfers heading out to the beach in Port Fairy — Learn to surf or go paddleboarding in Port Fairy. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Run by local surfers with top knowledge of local conditions, Port Fairy Surf School has a range of classes and tours that enable visitors to experience the area’s beautiful beaches and waterways.

surfers gathering at sea in Port Fairy — Hit the waves in Port Fairy. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Whether you book a group kayaking tour for you and your mates, a private surf lesson to brush up on your technique or your very first surf class to learn the basics, you’ll walk away with some new skills and an awesome experience to remember Port Fairy by.

surfing on a sunny day in Port Fairy — Soak up the sun on your surfboard. (Image: Visit Victoria)

6. Cruise the bay (and back) in under an hour

Getting out on the water is a must-do when visiting the Great Ocean Road, and the good news is you don’t have to commit to spending an entire day on a boat in order to experience some time on the sea. If you’re short on time, book a half-hour bay cruise on a small boat with Mulloka Cruises . Cruises leave from the town’s main fisherman’s wharf and offer top views of Port Fairy’s historic lighthouse. This short, simple cruise is perfect for kids or anyone who loves the idea of cruising, but not the cost (or seasickness) that comes with a full day out on the choppy, open water.

a woman walking on Port Fairy Beach — Spend an entire day on the sea. (Image: Visit Victoria)

7. Ride the Port Fairy to Warrnambool rail trail

If the weather is fine, hop on your bike and explore this scenic rail trail that stretches from Port Fairy all the way to Warrnambool. On this 37.5-kilometre trail, you’ll pedal along the Moyne River, past the Koroit old rail station building, through wetlands areas and tracts of picturesque farmland. Don’t have your own wheels? Hire a bicycle or e-bike and helmet from the Port Fairy and Region Visitor Information Centre.

8. Taste premium seafood on an abalone farm tour

Seafood fans are well taken care of in Port Fairy. There are fish and chip shops, fine dining restaurants specialising in seafood and fishing charter boats you can join for a day of angling.

a basket full of abalones at Ocean Road Abalone, Port Fairy — Hold a basket full of molluscs at Ocean Road Abalone. (Image: Jo O’Keefe)

What many visitors don’t know is Port Fairy is also home to Ocean Road Abalone , a large abalone farm that is a pioneer of land-based abalone farming in Australia.

a hand holding a shell of abalone at Ocean Road Abalone, Port Fairy — Get a taste of premium Australian tiger abalone. (Image: Jo O’Keefe)

On the 90-minute tour, you’ll learn all about the production of premium Australian tiger abalone and get to taste some of the delicacies found on fine dining restaurant menus around the world.

a farmer harvesting abalone at Ocean Road Abalone, Port Fairy — See how farmers harvest abalones up close. (Image: Jo O’Keefe)

Here are 8 of the best Port Fairy cafes to add to your list.

There’s nothing quite like Melbourne in the warmer months. Come spring, the city emerges from its cold-weather cocoon and brims with marquee events, vibrant seasonal menus, brilliant blooms and a fresh energy.

The centre of the city is where most of the magic happens. It’s a labyrinth of art-lined alleys and meandering laneways, filled with restaurants, cafes, rooftop bars, galleries, live music joints, theatres, boutiques, high-end hotels like The Westin Melbourne and much, much more. In spring and summer, especially, locals and travellers alike come to enjoy the balmy weather and celebratory spirit.

If you’re planning to be one of them, here are the best places for eating, drinking, exploring and staying.

Where to stay

The Westin Melbourne

Situated in the heart of the city on bustling Collins Street, The Westin Melbourne is a supremely convenient base. With the hotel as a base, explore the entire CBD – including Federation Square and Melbourne’s shopping, dining, theatre and sporting precincts – on foot.

Despite its central location, the hotel is something of an oasis. It has a serene ambience and elegantly understated design that provides respite at the end of a busy day. Think timeless interiors with warm timbers and neutral tones, and spacious rooms with signature Heavenly® beds and sumptuous linens. You’ll also indulge in impeccable service and amenities like fitness and wellness centres and an indoor pool. Selected rooms have sweeping city views.

Where to eat and drink

1. Allegro

Allegro is refined yet welcoming, pairing seasonal Australian produce and international flavours, finished with finesse. The à la carte, set and pre-theatre menus change seasonally. In spring and summer, expect a lively and creative line-up of dishes. You can also partake in a playful and limited-edition High Cheese offering that’s well worth trying if you’re a lover of blues and bries.

The restaurant happens to be located right inside The Westin Melbourne. It’s an ideal spot if you’re staying at the hotel and need somewhere to dine or drink before hitting the town.

2. Lobby Lounge

the westin melbourne lobby lounge — Step into the Lobby Lounge.

Whether you’re after a quick bite before exploring the city, a leisurely lunch or dinner, or a post-theatre nightcap, head to The Westin Melbourne’s elegant Lobby Lounge .

The menu features everything from moreish snacks, small bites and share plates to hearty all-day meals and desserts. The accompanying drinks list is a treasure trove of varietals, with a notable leaning towards Victorian drops and an excellent selection of spirits.

For a truly indulgent experience, book yourself in for the signature high tea . You’ll savour three tiers of beautifully crafted sweet and savoury treats, specialty tea and coffee, and the option for a sneaky glass of bubbly.

3. Other places to dine

diners at supernormal melbourne — There’s no shortage of tasty dining options, in and nearby The Westin Melbourne. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Dotted around the city are some of Melbourne’s most acclaimed dining destinations. Supernormal is a local institution. Feast on inventive Pan-Asian dishes made with fresh ingredients, paired with a Japanese whisky or sake from the extensive drinks list. At Gimlet , the surroundings are utterly romantic, the service impeccable and the food outstanding. Expect sustainably sourced meats, seafood and produce finished with European flavours and technique.

Apollo Inn – the sister venue to Gimlet and Supernormal – does punchy snacks, share plates and incredible drinks. Try the signature Picon Biere, a refined take on a shandy.

Dukes Coffee Roasters at Ross House is a great place to start your day, serving up organic and sustainable brews made with precision.

While you’re in the city, take a wander down Hosier and AC/DC Lanes. Beyond the famed street art along both, you’ll find a cluster of must-try eateries and bars, including MoVida, Pastuso, Bar Bambi and Tres a Cinco.

Things to do

1. Take a run through Melbourne’s green spaces

a bridge across yarra river — Run or walk along the Yarra River. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s outdoors look their very best in spring and summer. The parks and gardens come alive with colourful blooms, the trees in and around the CBD regain their verdant canopy, and the Yarra River sparkles in the sun.

A run or walk in nearby green spaces, like Carlton Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens and the Royal Botanic Gardens, lets you soak up the scenery. The Westin Melbourne also provides curated running routes through surrounding gardens and along the Yarra. Workout gear and Bala weights can be borrowed from the hotel if you forget to pack your own.

2. Browse the boutique galleries

two women looking at an exhibition in the national gallery of victoria — See the collections of NGV. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Independent art galleries are practically synonymous with Melbourne, and many of them are conveniently situated in the city centre. You can easily hop between Flinders Lane Gallery , Arc One Gallery , Outre Gallery , Caves Gallery , Gallery Funaki and D’Lan Contemporary , allowing you to experience the city’s vibrant art scene in a single day.

If you’ve got an afternoon to spare, venture over the Yarra to the National Gallery of Victoria . The iconic and historic institution houses both a vast permanent collection and an exciting roster of rotating exhibitions.

3. Catch some live music

live music at the cherry bar in melbourne — Dive into Melbourne’s live music scene. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s live music scene reignites when spring hits. In and around the CBD are several beloved live music venues that showcase everything from jazz to rock to electronic.

Visit intimate venues like Bird’s Basement , Wax Music Lounge and Cherry Bar , or larger ones, such as The Toff , Forum and Palais Theatre , for major acts. Plenty of bars, restaurants and clubs host regular gigs, too, including The Westin Melbourne’s Lobby Lounge. Every Saturday from 12-3pm, enjoy live strings alongside your lunch or afternoon tea.

4. Soak up the atmosphere at the MCG

three punters in big hats at the melbourne cricket ground — Book tickets for a big sports bash. (Credit: Visit Vic)

The Melbourne Cricket Ground welcomes its namesake sport in the warmer months. Watch One-Day Internationals, T20 Internationals, Big Bash League and Sheffield Shield matches throughout the season, or settle in for the multi-day Boxing Day Test.

Spring and summer are also when the MCG holds big events and concerts. Surrounded by the roar and energy of the venue’s legendary crowds, there are few places better than this to see a live gig.

5. Experience the magic of the Regent Theatre

the inside steps of melbourne's regent theatre — Soak in Regent Theatre’s architecture. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Standing proud for nearly 100 years, the Regent Theatre is a stunning venue: its grand exterior opens to a gorgeously ornate interior decked out with chandeliers, plush drapes and gilded details.

Stopping by to take in its architecture is memorable enough. But if you’ve got the time, book a ticket to one of the spectacular shows that take place inside. The venue hosts a diverse line-up of live music, musicals, opera, dance, theatre and comedy. In spring and summer, the program is at its most energetic, with events to suit all tastes.

Whatever draws you to Melbourne, The Westin Melbourne is at the centre of it all. Start preparing for an adventure at marriott.com.

8 of the best things to do in Port Fairy