Barwon Heads, VIC – Accommodation, To Do & More

Barwon Heads, a picturesque coastal town in Victoria, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and relaxation. Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant local culture, and friendly atmosphere, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Bellarine Peninsula.

Overview

Barwon Heads is a charming seaside town located at the mouth of the Barwon River in Victoria. It’s a hotspot for both locals and tourists, offering a variety of activities that cater to all ages and interests.

• Origin of Name: Named after the Barwon River, which itself is believed to be derived from the Aboriginal word “Barrwang,” meaning magpie. The “Heads” refers to the headlands at the river’s mouth where it meets the sea.
• Known For: Famous for its stunning beaches, excellent surfing spots, and the scenic Barwon Heads Bridge. The town gained further popularity from the Australian TV series “SeaChange.” read more
• Tourist Friendly: Yes, Barwon Heads is ideal for tourists with a love for outdoor activities such as surfing, golfing, paddleboarding, and cycling. The town also offers great dining options and unique shopping experiences. read more
• Where: Located on the Bellarine Peninsula, approximately 23 km south of Geelong. Nearby towns include Ocean Grove, Point Lonsdale, Queenscliff, and Torquay. read more

Accommodation

Things To Do

Barwon Heads Golf Club

If you fancy yourself a bit of a Tiger Woods (or just enjoy the idea of hitting things with sticks), the Barwon Heads Golf Club is your kind of place. This historic golf club offers beautifully maintained greens, challenging holes, and some of the best ocean views you’ll ever see while trying to avoid a sand trap.

Even if your golfing skills are a bit rusty, the experience here is more about the atmosphere than the scorecard. The clubhouse, which looks like something out of a period drama, is perfect for relaxing with a drink after a round. Just try not to think about how many balls you lost in the process.

• Main Attractions: Golfing, historic clubhouse, ocean views
• Location: Golf Links Road, Barwon Heads
• Website: Barwon Heads Golf Club
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/QwkNNQuD3zFbC8WE9

Stand-Up Paddleboarding on Barwon River

Stand-up paddleboarding on the Barwon River is the ultimate mix of relaxation and workout. You get to glide along the calm waters, taking in the scenic views and the occasional friendly wave from fellow paddlers. It’s like walking on water, but without the whole miracle part.

Even if you’ve never set foot on a paddleboard, the river is a great place to start. The waters are gentle and forgiving, perfect for beginners. And once you get the hang of it, you’ll find it’s a surprisingly serene way to explore the area. Just watch out for the occasional fish that might leap out to say hello.

• Main Attractions: Paddleboarding, scenic river views, beginner-friendly
• Location: Barwon River, various launch points in Barwon Heads
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for calm waters
• Equipment Rentals: Available from local shops like Rasta Surf Co. and Go Ride A Wave
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/tMMi38rqduPpumpw5

Sunset Picnic at Barwon Heads Bridge

Picture this: a warm evening, a gentle breeze, and a golden sunset casting a magical glow over the Barwon Heads Bridge. It’s the perfect setting for a sunset picnic, and it’s bound to be one of the most relaxing experiences you’ll have. Spread out a blanket, unpack your favourite snacks, and let the serenity of the scene wash over you.

The bridge area is a local favourite for good reason. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky transforms into a canvas of pinks, oranges, and purples, reflecting beautifully on the water. It’s the ideal backdrop for some stunning photos—or just a peaceful moment to yourself. Don’t forget to bring a jacket; it can get a bit chilly once the sun goes down.

• Main Attractions: Scenic views, perfect sunset, peaceful atmosphere
• Location: Barwon Heads Bridge, Barwon Heads
• Best Time to Visit: Evening, around sunset
• Facilities: Nearby parking, picnic spots, walking paths
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/qNSaG6Cg525Vsjz5A

Explore Beach Houses and Caravans

Take a leisurely stroll around Barwon Heads and marvel at the eclectic mix of beach houses and caravans. From colorful bungalows to sleek modern homes, the architecture here is as diverse as it is charming. Each house tells a story, and you can’t help but wonder about the adventures of those who’ve stayed there.

For a truly unique experience, check out the quirky Natural Harry Caravan. This adorable caravan offers a slice of vintage charm and is a popular spot for photos. It’s also a reminder of simpler times, where a holiday meant parking your van by the beach and soaking up the sun all day long.

• Main Attractions: Unique architecture, vintage caravans, photo opportunities
• Location: Various spots around Barwon Heads
• Best Time to Visit: Any time of day, but evening walks offer a special glow
• Highlights: Natural Harry Caravan, colorful beach houses
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/5n1m6ec79kQcoDU56

Barwon Heads Road Cycling

For those who like their adventures on two wheels, Barwon Heads offers some fantastic road cycling routes. The scenic coastal roads provide the perfect backdrop for a vigorous ride, whether you’re a casual cyclist or a hardcore road warrior. The mix of flat stretches and gentle hills will keep things interesting.

Cycling around Barwon Heads is not just about the exercise; it’s also a great way to explore the local area. You’ll pass by beautiful beaches, charming neighbourhoods, and maybe even spot some local wildlife. Just make sure to bring a map, or at least your phone, so you don’t end up taking the scenic route home unintentionally.

• Main Attractions: Scenic routes, exercise, local exploration
• Location: Various routes starting from Barwon Heads
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid traffic and heat
• Equipment: Bring your own bike or rent from local shops
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1kip2aiMME4oSfct8

Local Dining at Annie’s Provedore and Produce Store

Foodies, rejoice! Annie’s Provedore and Produce Store is your go-to spot for a delicious meal in Barwon Heads. This charming café serves up hearty breakfasts, delightful lunches, and a selection of gourmet products to take home. The vibe is cozy and welcoming, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy some local flavours.

The menu features a variety of dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for a decadent brunch or just a good cup of coffee, Annie’s has you covered. Don’t forget to browse their shelves for some award-winning cheeses, homemade jams, and other goodies to take a piece of Barwon Heads home with you.

• Main Attractions: Delicious meals, cozy atmosphere, gourmet products
• Location: 2/50 Hitchcock Avenue, Barwon Heads
• Website: Annie’s Provedore and Produce Store
• Best Time to Visit: Breakfast or lunch time
• Specialties: Local produce, award-winning cheeses, homemade jams
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/g4cw5YiumQg9PRdb8

Surfing at Thirteenth Beach

Thirteenth Beach is where the surf is always up and the waves are calling your name. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie with a rental board, this beach has the perfect waves to get your heart racing. The beach stretches on forever, giving you plenty of room to find your own slice of wave heaven without bumping into too many fellow surfers.

Grab your board, slap on some sunscreen, and get ready to ride the swells. After a few hours in the water, you’ll have earned your bragging rights and maybe even a few gnarly stories to share over a cold one. And if you’re not quite ready to tackle the waves alone, there are plenty of surf schools ready to show you the ropes.

• Main Attractions: Surfing, long beach walks, picturesque views
• Location: Thirteenth Beach Road, Barwon Heads
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for the best waves
• Surf Schools: Rasta Surf Co., Go Ride A Wave
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/MMRr7VficCpkVmYdA

Nearby Towns

Ocean Grove, VIC:

• Distance from Barwon Heads: 3 km east
• Highlights: Known for its beautiful beaches, surf spots, and family-friendly parks. Ocean Grove offers a range of dining and shopping options along its main street.
• Notable Sites: Ocean Grove Nature Reserve, Main Beach, and Collendina Beach.

Point Lonsdale, VIC:

• Distance from Barwon Heads: 13 km southeast
• Highlights: Famous for its lighthouse and scenic views of the Bass Strait and Port Phillip Bay. Point Lonsdale has charming cafes and boutique shops, perfect for a relaxing day trip.
• Notable Sites: Point Lonsdale Lighthouse, Rip View Lookout, and the Bellarine Rail Trail.

Queenscliff, VIC:

• Distance from Barwon Heads: 17 km southeast
• Highlights: Rich in maritime history, Queenscliff boasts historical buildings, museums, and stunning coastal views. It’s also home to the popular Queenscliff Music Festival.
• Notable Sites: Queenscliff Fort, Queenscliff Harbour, and Marine and Freshwater Discovery Centre.

Torquay, VIC:

• Distance from Barwon Heads: 21 km southwest
• Highlights: As the surfing capital of Australia, Torquay is home to iconic surf brands and the famous Bells Beach. It offers excellent surfing conditions, surf shops, and the Surf World Museum.
• Notable Sites: Bells Beach, Surf World Museum, and Point Impossible Beach.

Geelong, VIC:

• Distance from Barwon Heads: 23 km north
• Highlights: A vibrant city with a bustling waterfront, Geelong offers a mix of cultural attractions, shopping, and dining experiences. It’s a gateway to the Bellarine Peninsula and the Great Ocean Road.
• Notable Sites: Geelong Waterfront, National Wool Museum, and Eastern Beach.

History

• Pre-European Settlement: The area around Barwon Heads was originally inhabited by the Wadawurrung people, the traditional owners of the land.
• 1835: European explorers and settlers began arriving in the region, with the Barwon River providing a significant resource for early settlers.
• Early 1850s: The settlement of Barwon Heads began to develop as more settlers moved to the area, attracted by its natural beauty and resources.
• 1870s: The name “Barwon Heads” was officially adopted. The name comes from the Barwon River, with “Barwon” believed to be derived from the Aboriginal word “Barrwang,” meaning magpie. The “Heads” refers to the headlands at the river’s mouth where it meets the sea.
• 1887: The Barwon Heads Bridge was constructed, linking the town to nearby Ocean Grove and aiding in the development and accessibility of the area.
• 1920s-1930s: Barwon Heads became a popular holiday destination for residents of nearby Geelong and Melbourne, leading to the development of holiday homes and guesthouses.
• 1950s-1960s: The town saw significant growth and development, with more permanent residents moving in and infrastructure improving.
• 1990s: Barwon Heads gained further popularity after being featured in the Australian TV series “SeaChange,” which showcased its picturesque setting and relaxed lifestyle.
• 2000s-Present: The town continues to thrive as a popular tourist destination and residential area, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant community, and outdoor activities.

Information Centre

Barwon Heads does not have its own dedicated Visitor Information Centre. Information can be accessed from the Bellarine Visitor Information Centre located at 1251-1269 Bellarine Highway, Wallington, VIC. For assistance and local information, you can contact them at (03) 5250 6861. The centre offers maps, brochures, and advice on attractions, accommodations, and events in the region.

Getting There

To get to Barwon Heads, VIC, you have a few travel options:

By Car

• From Melbourne: Take the M1 towards Geelong, then follow the signs to Barwon Heads via the Surf Coast Highway.
• From Geelong: Drive south on the Surf Coast Highway and follow the signs to Barwon Heads.

By Public Transport

• From Geelong:
• Take the Public Transport Victoria (PTV) bus number 55 from Geelong Station. The bus travels through Ocean Grove and arrives in Barwon Heads. The journey takes about 33 minutes.
• Alternatively, take a bus from Moorabool Street Bus Stops/Moorabool St directly to Barwon Heads Rd/Sheepwash Rd.

Tips

• Tickets: Use a Myki card for travel on public transport.
• Schedules: Check the PTV website or app for the latest bus schedules and route information.

For more detailed travel planning, visit the Public Transport Victoria website.