Drives and road trips

Warrnambool is a thriving coastal city.

Tucked away at the western end of the Great Ocean Road and overlooking the mouth of the Hopkins River, it’s replete with first-class attractions and experiences.

And this handy guide will introduce you to the best of them.

Quick profile

Where: 260km southwest of Melbourne.

Population: 35,500 (LGA, 2020)

Nickname: The ‘Bool.

Major honour: In 2019, a Life in Australia study by global market research firm, Ipsos, ranked ‘Warrnambool and the South West’ as the nation’s most liveable region.

Warrnambool beaches

There are a few prime places to have on your radar. Logans Beach is a renowned surfing hotspot while protected Lady Bay suits swimming and other water leisure and is patrolled during summer.

About 25km southeast of Warrnambool are two neighbouring strips of sand that epitomise the immense appeal of the Great Ocean Road but reliably dodge crowds: Childers Cove and Murnanes Beach.

Whale watching in Warrnambool

From June to September, Southern right whales come to play. They are best viewed from an expansive designated viewing platform at Logans Beach, just a stone’s throw from the car park. Better yet, these giants often swim within just 100m of the shore. At worst, soak up excellent views of the powerful coastline.

Best walks in Warrnambool

Walking trails in Warrnambool offer countless rewards for varying tastes. Try this trio:

Warrnambool Foreshore Promenade: Hive of activity, particularly during summer, with its 5km-plus path that suits walking, cycling, or skating.

Warrnambool to Port Fairy Rail Trail: Smooth, mostly flat 37km-long path that links these two locations. Ample highlights along the way; favoured by both cyclists and walkers.

Warrnambool Heritage Trail: Traces the city’s oldest structures over 3km. Maps are available from the Warrnambool Visitor Information Centre on Merri St.

For the nature lover

Take the 15min drive from the city centre to Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve. It’s home to a massive volcanic crater and bursts with funky geological features, a lake, wetlands, and indigenous heritage. Wildlife abounds and includes kangaroos, emus, and koalas, and various native bird species. View it all on a series of walking trails of varying difficulty and length.

Photo ops in Warrnambool

A few key spots include:

  • Stingray Bay: Sheltered cove with gin-clear rock pools and endless angles for framing photos.
  • Bluehole: Also known as the mouth of Hopkins River. Features craggy cliffs, fabulous formations, and rock pools.
  • Heritage buildings: Grand old structures are scattered throughout Warrnambool.
  • Point Ritchie: Sensational views to soak up from this rocky headland, located at the mouth of Hopkins River.
  • Hopkins Falls: Spectacular 90m drop with two viewing areas. A 15min drive from the CBD.
  • Logan’s Beach: The viewing platform we mentioned earlier is as accommodating for cameras as it is people.
  • Thunder Point: Pick of the places for a stunning sunset pic overlooking the ocean.
  • Cannon Hill: Lookout point with sweeping views over Lady Bay, Lake Pertobe, and more.

Best attraction in Warrnambool

Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village takes this crown. Inside, explore the area’s rich maritime past and retrace the compelling stories of the many ships that came to grief in these treacherous waters. Visually, the standout exhibit is the famous Loch Ard Peacock statue. Valued at $4 million-plus, it’s seriously impressive to gaze at, complete with a fascinating backstory.

Outside, wander through the maritime village and imagine life as it once was through a cluster of colourful old buildings. Then in the evening, a dramatic sound and light show recounts the past in stunning fashion.

Family-friendly Warrnambool

If burning energy is required, head straight to Lake Pertobe Playground. Its wide assortment of amusements appeals to children of all ages and is backed by a relaxing lakeside setting and undercover BBQ area. Also within this precinct is a mini-golf course.

Free things to do in Warrnambool

On a pleasant day, Warrnambool Botanic Gardens are ideal for a relaxing stroll or a picnic. These tranquil surrounds have several notable features, including a Dutch elm, a Wollemi pine, lake, and rotunda.

What is that?

Approaching the city from the east, a large silver sphere protrudes from the skyline, balanced atop an orange ‘tripod’. Apparently, it’s an old water storage bowl, which is part of the iconic and colourful Fletcher Jones Gardens.

A quick history lesson: the gardens are on the site of the Fletcher Jones & Staff trouser factory, which was once a major employer in Warrnambool but is now closed. The pretty gardens remain open to the public, though.

Best coffee in Warrnambool

For excellent brews combined with sparkling views, you can’t beat Pavilion. Its spacious deck overlooks the water and attracts a busy brunch crowd and in the arvo you can swap cappuccinos for cocktails. From this point there’s the easiest of access to the Warrnambool Foreshore Promenade. Elsewhere, try Bohemia (great ambience) and Coffee Treat.

Warrnambool pubs

Options abound but special mention goes to Hotel Warrnambool for its cosy, rustic, and spacious surrounds and extensive menu and tap range. The Victoria Hotel has excellent food and super friendly staff in an old-school setting.

Elsewhere, Warrnambool teems with a vast array of cuisine. The precinct at the southern end of Liebig St buzzes on weekends.

What to do when it's raining in Warrnambool

Historical Warrnambool Art Gallery has a central position and showcases thought-provoking permanent and touring exhibitions. Year-round highlights include various Aboriginal artefacts as well as artworks depicting Tower Hill game reserve. A portrait of Warrnambool icon, David Fletcher Jones, is prominent.

Best time to visit Warrnambool

The essential time to visit is for the annual Warrnambool May Racing Carnival held at the start of the month. Dubbed ‘schoolies for adults’, the world-famous event boasts a 160-year history and features three consecutive days of thrilling action on and off the track. Top tip: Book your accommodation early.

Warrnambool accommodation

We have two great parks in Warrnambool. 

BIG4 Tasman Holiday Parks - Warrnambool: Enjoys a central location within easy walking distance of the CBD. 

NRMA Warrnambool Riverside Holiday Park: Lives up to its name, occupying a prime riverside setting that’s just a 5min drive from the city centre.

Isn’t it time you enjoyed a break? Book your next BIG4 escape now. 

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