‘Must Do’ Family Weekend in Portarlington
Making Memories – ‘Must Do’ Family Weekend in Portarlington
Portarlington, a true hidden gem in the Bellarine, is the perfect destination for a fun-filled weekend with the kids. And whatever their age, there’s an activity that is sure to please!
DAY 1
DOUBLE SHOT LATTE! – (or perhaps an English Breakfast?!) Whatever your style, start the day right and fuel up for your family adventure. Edina Waterfront Café is perfectly positioned with picturesque views across the water. After departing your vessel take the road directly in front of you for a short 5-minute stroll. Here passionate Baristas can serve you up great coffee or you can choose from a selection of teas, smoothies, milkshakes, or a hearty breakfast/brunch. Edina also has some special treats for the kiddos. Where > 1a Harding Street, Portarlington.
PLAY TO THEIR HEARTS CONTENT – Portarlington Playground is a popular play space, beckoning upon the hill in the centre of town. The views across the water also offer glimpses of the cityscape on a clear day. Recently redeveloped for kids of all ages, it features a balance of traditional play equipment alongside nature-based play options. It will keep them engaged for hours! Coastal-themed art installations, play sculptures, native gardens, water play, climbing ropes, nest swing, balancing logs, a mini-trampoline, slides, and traditional swings all feature. A separate play area is also available for toddlers. Parents will love the convenience of nearby toilets, shops, picnic and BBQ facilities, and maybe even the exercise station/outdoor gym equipment! The older kids will especially love the flying fox and adjoining Skate Ramp. Where > 1a The Esplanade, Portarlington.
TIME TO CHECK-IN – Bellarine Bayside Holiday Park is the ideal overnight destination. Featuring all a family needs – cabins with kitchenettes, a campground, BBQ and picnic areas, laundry facilities, and a restaurant. Kids will especially love the arcade/games room and the proximity to the beach and recreational reserve. Located a 5-minute stroll to the Portarlington Waterfront. Where > 2 Sproat Street, Portarlington.
HOOK, LINE, AND SINKER – carve yourself a little bonding time with the kids and take up a bit of fishing in the early evening. Whether you are a seasoned fisher or a complete newbie, there’s a huge variety of species caught from the Portarlington Pier. Locals claim to have caught snapper, salmon, flathead, pinkies, and sometimes squid and garfish. If fishing is not quite your thing, the Pier also supports a local commercial fish industry and so early evening can be a great time for watching them unload the catch-of-the-day. Note: The Portarlington Pier is currently accessible however some parts are currently being upgraded. (The old Portarlington pier, which closed in 2018, will be demolished.) Where > 2a Harding Street, Portarlington
DAY 2
BIKE OR HIKE – start the day with a bike (or hike) along the beautiful esplanade track complete with expansive water views. The trail is an easy gradient making it suitable for all ages. Pack a picnic and stop at your leisure along the way. Bella e-bike hire is available in Portarlington and their prices include a helmet, security lock, and carry rack. Prices start at $50 for a half-day. Port Phillip Ferries has some allocation for bringing bikes onboard, however, space is limited and must be booked. Find out more >>
SWEET TREAT STOP – you’re guaranteed to be popular if you stop off for a break at the Pierview Lolly Shop or Daniel Donuts – both in the heart of the town. Chose from over 150 different lolly varieties from Australia and across the globe. If you’re needing to cool down, choose from a thick shake, Slush Puppy or one of 20 flavours of locally made Nordenfine Ice cream. pierviewlollyshop.com.au. 92A Newcombe Street. Daniels Donuts serves great coffee for the adults and its donuts (40 different varieties) have a cult following with stores popping up all across Victoria. The store is a colourful culinary feast for both the eyes and the stomach and shouldn’t be missed! Where > 64 Newcombe Street, Portarlington.
BLOW OFF SOME STEAM – Portarlington Bayside Miniature Railway is conveniently situated just along from the Portarlington foreshore. This charming attraction will especially appeal to younger children (and those young-at-heart.) The railway sits within 8 hectares of open picturesque native parklands and features a vintage Railway Station and Signal Box with an undercover platform. There are BBQ’s, picnic tables and a Children’s Adventure Playground. The Kiosk also offers drinks and light refreshments. A Family Pass for 2 Adults and 3 Children is only $35. Dates and times of opening vary, so check before arrival. Where > Boat Road, Portarlington.
SEAFOOD GALORE – a trip to Portarlington wouldn’t quite be complete without some Mussel tasting – it’s what the coastal township is famous for! The Little Mussel Cafe is fully licenced and offers a delicious seafood menu (as well as coffee and cakes). Sit inside, in the courtyard, or watch from the deck as the boats at the nearby pier pull in with their catch of the day. Whilst the menu changes regularly, French Mussels – mussels simmered in creamy white wine, garlic, bacon and spring onion broth are a favourite. Here you can learn about baby mussels (spat), either caught naturally in Port Phillip Bay or generated in a purpose-built hatchery at Queenscliff. Enjoy your seafood feast in-house at the café or alternatively, purchase them from their retail outlet and take them home to enjoy for dinner to complete your perfect weekend! Where > 40 Newcombe Street, Portarlington.