Geelong is home to some of the best beaches along Victoria’s coastline. Whether you’re after a lazy afternoon by the water or a refreshing swim, the local beaches here are serene.

The bay’s calm waters make it a top spot for families, while the open surf further along the coast keeps things exciting for swimmers and paddleboarders.

Each beach in Geelong has its own charm, from sandy stretches perfect for sunbaking to quieter corners where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll.

The waterfront spots also bring easy access to cafes, playgrounds, and walking tracks, adding a bit of variety to your day.

If you’re planning a weekend by the water or just chasing a relaxing escape, there are some good beaches in and around Geelong.

Here are the 6 best beaches in Geelong that locals love and visitors keep coming back to.

Best Beaches in Geelong

1- Eastern Beach Reserve

Eastern Beach Reserve is one of Geelong’s most popular waterfront spots, located right in the city’s heart.

This historic beach, built in the 1930s, offers more than just sand and water. It features an enclosed sea bath, diving towers, a children’s pool, and floating islands, making it one of the best beaches in Geelong for families.

You’ll also find a boardwalk, terraced lawns, picnic areas, and a playground for kids. Lifeguards patrol the swimming areas during summer, so it’s a safe option for all ages.

However, parents are reminded to closely supervise young children, especially those under 5.

There are public toilets, barbeque facilities, and plenty of parking, making it easy to spend a full day here.

The recently reopened Beach House café inside the heritage-listed pavilion is a great place to grab a coffee or meal between swims and playtime.

2- Torquay Beach

Torquay Beach, especially the front beach, is a calm, relaxing place just off The Esplanade near Price Street, with the town centre conveniently behind it.

The water here is generally calm, making it better for swimmers than surfers.

For families and casual visitors, the Torquay beach offers a playground, outdoor gym, picnic tables, and well-maintained walking trails.

You’ll also find showers, toilets, and several dining spots along The Esplanade, perfect for a post-swim meal.

Many locals and visitors enjoy strolling the length of this clean, expansive beach.

It’s also incredibly dog-friendly, so you’ll see plenty of pets enjoying the sand and sea.

While surfing might be better elsewhere, Torquay Beach is still one of the best beaches in Geelong for a laid-back beach day.

3- Point Lonsdale Beach

Point Lonsdale Beach offers a mix of calm waters and rugged surf, making it suitable for different types of beachgoers in Geelong.

The front beach, with its soft sand and calm waves, is ideal for young families and those looking for a safe swim.

You’ll also get a great view of ships navigating the Rip, a challenging and narrow channel between the bay and the ocean.

The back beach, however, is more open and suited to experienced surfers and strong swimmers due to its powerful waves.

Nearby, a scenic walkway lines the beach, along with a shaded playground and picnic areas—great for a relaxing afternoon.

On clear days, you can see the coast curving towards Queenscliff. Parking can be tricky on busy summer days, so it’s worth arriving early to secure a spot.

Also Read: Best Beaches in Melbourne

4- Ocean Grove Main Beach

Ocean Grove Main Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula.

Stretching 2 kilometers, it offers plenty of space for swimming, surfing, and walking along the sand.

The beach is patrolled by lifeguards during peak times, ensuring added safety, especially for families with kids.

Red and yellow flags mark the safest swimming areas, which is important because rips can form every 250 meters.

Surfers enjoy the consistent waves here, while walkers appreciate the scenic coastline that runs between Point Lonsdale and the Barwon River mouth.

Some parts of the beach are dog-friendly, making Ocean Grove Main Beach one of the best pet-friendly beaches in Geelong.

With public facilities, nearby shops, and plenty of parking, Ocean Grove Main Beach is a well-rounded destination whether you want to swim, surf, or just relax by the water.

5- Thirteenth Beach

Thirteenth Beach is a well-known surf beach along the coast between Barwon Heads and Black Rock, stretching about 4.5 kilometers.

Facing directly south, it experiences consistent waves averaging 1.5 meters, making it a favorite for experienced surfers.

The beach is backed by dunes and bordered by the Barwon Heads-Torquay Road, providing several access points.

The safest place to swim is near the Thirteenth Beach Surf Lifesaving Club, which patrols a section of the beach and responds to rescues each year.

However, strong permanent rips exist, particularly east of the club, so caution is important. Surfers often head to The Beacon, a popular surf break marked by a shipping beacon.

Beach fishing is also popular here, thanks to the rip holes along the shore. A stop at the car park lookout offers stunning ocean views and a peaceful coastal atmosphere.

6- Portarlington Swimming Beach

Portarlington Swimming Beach is a calm and family-friendly beach located on the Bellarine Peninsula, facing the peaceful waters of Port Phillip Bay.

The calm waves and shallow waters make it perfect for kids and those who prefer a relaxed swim. Its soft white sand invites visitors to lie back, sunbathe, or enjoy a seaside picnic.

Families often set up beach tents for shade, as the afternoon sun can be quite sunny.

Being just 30 minutes from Geelong, it’s a convenient escape for a day trip.

The beach is also close to cafes, pubs, and a supermarket, so you can easily grab lunch or refreshments.

The nearby Fishermen’s Pier and ferry terminal add to the experience, offering more activities and scenic views.

Portarlington Swimming Beach is ideal for a relaxing day by the bay with everything you need within easy reach.