Point Lonsdale, VIC – Accommodation, To Do & More

Point Lonsdale, a coastal gem on the Bellarine Peninsula in Victoria, offers visitors a delightful mix of history, adventure, and natural beauty. From its iconic lighthouse to serene beaches, there’s something for everyone in this charming town.

Overview

Point Lonsdale, located on the tip of the Bellarine Peninsula, is a favorite destination for those seeking a blend of coastal relaxation and historical intrigue.

• Origin of Name: Named after Captain William Lonsdale, the first police magistrate of the Port Phillip District in the 1830s.
• Known For: Its historic lighthouse, beautiful beaches, and the dramatic scenery of The Rip. read more
• Tourist Friendly: Absolutely! Point Lonsdale is perfect for tourists, offering activities like surfing, snorkelling, and birdwatching, alongside quaint cafes and markets. read more
• Where: Located on the Bellarine Peninsula, about 100 km southwest of Melbourne. Nearby towns include Queenscliff, Ocean Grove, Barwon Heads, Drysdale, and Torquay. read more

Accommodation

Things To Do

Golf at Lonsdale Links Golf Club

Fancy yourself a bit of a golfer? Lonsdale Links Golf Club is calling your name. This impressive course offers challenging play and beautiful views, making it a must-visit for golf enthusiasts. Whether you’re aiming for a hole-in-one or just looking to enjoy a leisurely game, this course has something for everyone.

After your round, head to the clubhouse for a drink and a bite to eat. With its friendly atmosphere and stunning surroundings, Lonsdale Links is more than just a golf course – it’s a perfect day out.

• Main Attraction: Challenging golf course
• Location: 31 Clubhouse Dr, Point Lonsdale VIC 3225
• Website: Lonsdale Links Golf Club
• What to Bring: Golf clubs, appropriate attire, good company
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/HyhNEW57mE31xkYt8

Visit Ripview Lookout

For those who love a good view (and let’s face it, who doesn’t?), Ripview Lookout is the place to be. This vantage point offers breathtaking views of The Rip, the narrow entrance to Port Phillip Bay. Watching the ships navigate through this treacherous stretch of water is like watching a real-life action movie.

Grab a coffee from a nearby café, head to the lookout, and settle in for some top-notch ship-spotting. It’s a relaxing way to spend an afternoon, with the added bonus of some truly spectacular scenery.

• Main Attraction: Views of The Rip
• Location: 24 Point Lonsdale Rd, Point Lonsdale VIC 3225
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon
• What to Bring: Binoculars, camera, coffee
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/AXby4kQ2qxLt9Whg9

Relax at Point Lonsdale Front Beach

Looking for a place to unwind and soak up some sun? Point Lonsdale Front Beach is the perfect spot. With its calm, sheltered waters, this beach is ideal for a refreshing swim or a lazy day on the sand. The nearby playground and BBQ facilities make it a hit with families, while the picturesque surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing day out.

Pack a picnic, bring the kids, and don’t forget your beach umbrella. Whether you’re building sandcastles or simply enjoying the gentle lapping of the waves, Point Lonsdale Front Beach is the ultimate spot for relaxation and family fun.

• Main Attraction: Calm bay waters and family-friendly facilities
• Location: Point Lonsdale Front Beach, Point Lonsdale, VIC
• Best Time to Visit: Summer months for the best beach weather
• What to Bring: Swimsuit, sunscreen, picnic basket
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/uMDj7f757DtEE4ty8

Explore Point Lonsdale Lighthouse

Standing tall and proud, the Point Lonsdale Lighthouse is more than just a beacon for ships – it’s a gateway to the past. This historic lighthouse has been guiding vessels safely through The Rip for over a century. A tour of this iconic landmark will give you fascinating insights into local maritime history, and the views from the top are absolutely worth the climb.

Don’t forget your camera because the panoramic vistas of the coastline are stunning. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot a pod of dolphins frolicking in the waves below. Whether you’re a history buff or just love a good view, the Point Lonsdale Lighthouse is a must-visit.

• Main Attraction: Historic lighthouse and panoramic views
• Location: 9-13 Point Lonsdale Rd, Point Lonsdale VIC 3225
• Website: Point Lonsdale Lighthouse Tours
• What to Bring: Camera, walking shoes, curiosity
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/oHF3uQUseXR7WaxLA

Fishing off Point Lonsdale Pier

If the idea of casting a line and reeling in a big one gets your heart racing, then Point Lonsdale Pier is the place to be. This popular fishing spot is a haven for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner hoping to catch your first fish, the pier offers a great fishing experience with the added bonus of stunning ocean views.

Pack your fishing gear and some snacks, and get ready for a relaxing day by the water. With a bit of luck, you might just land the catch of the day and have a fishy tale to tell.

• Main Attraction: Excellent fishing opportunities
• Location: Point Lonsdale Pier, Point Lonsdale, VIC
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for the best fishing
• What to Bring: Fishing gear, bait, snacks
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/RPq5raJSUAJokrbL9

Surf at the Back Beach

If you’re seeking a thrill and don’t mind a bit of salt water up your nose, Point Lonsdale’s back beach is your ticket to adventure. Known for its excellent surf conditions, this spot is a magnet for surfers looking to catch some serious waves. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or just starting out, the back beach offers waves that will have you yelling “Cowabunga!” in no time.

Not into surfing? No worries, mate. The beach itself is a stunning place to relax, with its rugged coastline and powerful surf creating a dramatic backdrop. Bring a picnic, sit back, and watch the surfers do their thing while you enjoy the view.

• Main Attraction: Excellent surf conditions
• Location: 77 Ocean Rd, Point Lonsdale VIC 3225
• Best Time to Visit: Morning for the best waves
• What to Bring: Surfboard, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/p9Jngsw1r4j13a746

Snorkel in Port Phillip Marine National Park

Ever wondered what’s going on beneath the waves? Snorkelling in Port Phillip Marine National Park will answer that and more. This underwater paradise is teeming with marine life, from colourful fish to playful seals. Strap on your snorkel and get ready to explore an aquatic world that’s just as vibrant as anything on land.

The park is perfect for both beginner and experienced snorkelers. You’ll find clear waters and plenty of spots to explore. And don’t worry about getting cold feet – the beauty of this underwater haven is worth every shiver.

• Main Attraction: Diverse marine life
• Location: POcean Rd, Point Lonsdale VIC 3225
• Website: Parks Victoria
• What to Bring: Snorkelling gear, wetsuit, underwater camera
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/dPnqwWuRGjY1ZahC9

Nearby Towns

Queenscliff, VIC:

• Distance from Point Lonsdale: 5 km northwest
• Highlights: Known for its historic charm and vibrant arts scene, Queenscliff offers visitors a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved Victorian architecture and museums.
• Notable Sites: Queenscliff Fort, Bellarine Railway, and the Queenscliff Maritime Museum.

Ocean Grove, VIC:

• Distance from Point Lonsdale: 14 km southwest
• Highlights: A bustling coastal town famous for its beautiful beaches and family-friendly atmosphere. It’s a popular spot for surfing, swimming, and enjoying beachside activities.
• Notable Sites: Ocean Grove Beach, Ocean Grove Nature Reserve, and local cafes and shops.

Barwon Heads, VIC:

• Distance from Point Lonsdale: 20 km southwest
• Highlights: Famous for its stunning river and coastal scenery, Barwon Heads is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy activities like kayaking, golfing, and exploring the scenic trails.
• Notable Sites: Barwon Heads Bluff, Jirrahlinga Koala & Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Barwon Heads Golf Club.

Drysdale, VIC:

• Distance from Point Lonsdale: 18 km northwest
• Highlights: A charming town known for its wineries and farm-to-table dining experiences. Drysdale offers a blend of rural charm and modern conveniences.
• Notable Sites: The Bellarine Railway, Drysdale Cheeses, and local wineries like Scotchmans Hill.

Torquay, VIC:

• Distance from Point Lonsdale: 32 km southwest
• Highlights: Known as the gateway to the Great Ocean Road, Torquay is a mecca for surfers and beach lovers. It’s home to famous surf beaches and the Australian National Surfing Museum.
• Notable Sites: Bells Beach, Surf City Plaza, and the Australian National Surfing Museum.

History

• 1836: Captain William Lonsdale arrives in Port Phillip District (now Victoria) as the first police magistrate, tasked with maintaining law and order in the early settlement that would become Melbourne.
• 1852: Point Lonsdale is named after Captain William Lonsdale in recognition of his contributions to the early administration and development of the region.
• 1863: The first lighthouse is built at Point Lonsdale, made of timber and later replaced by the current structure. The lighthouse was crucial for guiding ships through The Rip, one of the most dangerous entrances to Port Phillip Bay.
• 1890: The existing Point Lonsdale Lighthouse is constructed, replacing the original wooden structure. This new lighthouse becomes a significant navigational aid, still operational today.
• 1900s: The town of Point Lonsdale begins to develop as a popular holiday destination, attracting visitors with its beautiful beaches and scenic coastal views.
• 1910: The Point Lonsdale Pier is constructed, providing a spot for recreational fishing and a scenic viewpoint for locals and tourists.
• 1920s-1930s: The area sees increased residential development as more people build holiday homes and permanent residences, drawn by the town’s coastal charm.
• 1970: The establishment of the Point Lonsdale Primary School Market, which becomes a local institution, running monthly markets that attract visitors and support the community.
• 2000s: Point Lonsdale continues to grow as a favored destination for both tourists and new residents, maintaining its reputation as a peaceful seaside retreat with a rich maritime history.
• Present Day: Point Lonsdale is a well-loved coastal town known for its historic lighthouse, beautiful beaches, and vibrant local community, continuing to attract visitors with its mix of natural beauty and historical significance.

Information Centre

Point Lonsdale does not have its own dedicated Visitor Information Centre. However, visitors can access information at the nearby Queenscliff Visitor Information Centre located at 55 Hesse Street, Queenscliff. For assistance and local information, you can contact them at (03) 5258 4843. The centre offers maps, brochures, and advice on attractions, accommodations, and events in the region. Additionally, information is available from the Geelong Visitor Information Centre, tel: (03) 5283 1735 or 1800 755 611.

Getting There

Traveling to Point Lonsdale, VIC, is relatively straightforward, with various public transport options available, especially from Melbourne and Geelong.

From Melbourne:

1. Train: Take the V/Line train from Southern Cross Station to Geelong.
2. Bus: From Geelong Station, catch the number 56 bus operated by Public Transport Victoria. The bus route takes you directly to Point Lonsdale and runs several times a day.

From Geelong:

1. Bus: The most convenient way is to take the number 56 bus from Geelong Station/Railway Terrace to Point Lonsdale. The journey takes about 46-51 minutes, depending on traffic and time of day.

For schedules and more detailed route planning, visit the Public Transport Victoria website.

Driving:

• From Melbourne: Drive southwest via the M1 and then take the B110 to reach Point Lonsdale. The trip takes approximately 1.5 hours.
• From Geelong: Drive along the Bellarine Highway (B110) towards Point Lonsdale. This route typically takes around 30-40 minutes.