How to spend 48 hours in Warrnambool

If you’re heading along the Great Ocean Road then there’s no doubt that you’ll pass through Warrnambool, located 260 kilometres south-west of Melbourne. Whilst this buzzing town is towards the end (or start if you’re heading in the opposite direction) of the Great Ocean Road, it’s a road trip stop not to be missed. Let’s explore how you can make the most of your trip to Warrnambool in 48 hours!

Day 1

9.30am: Grab a find at the Fletcher Jones Market

Fletcher Jones Market is a vintage market made up of over 60 stalls across two levels, where you can find unique pieces and collectables. Aside from antiques, records and books, you can also grab your hands on a once-off piece of vintage clothing! You’ll also have a scenic route heading toward the market, with the Fletcher Jones Gardens situated right next door. 

12pm: Immerse yourself in history at the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village

The Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village is a museum telling the stories of the hundreds of ships that had been taken by the Shipwrecked Coast in the 19th Century, with an impressive light show detailing the history of the early settlers and how these shipwrecks came about.

Top things to do in Warrnambool
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Villagel. Image: Getty Images

3pm: Get those legs into gear with a coastal walk

Stretching out for approximately 5 kilometres from the town centre to Logan’s Beach, the Foreshore Promenade walk provides scenic views of Lady Bay to your left and the Southern Ocean to your right. You can walk along the boardwalk or the sand if you wish, as well as take a dip in the ocean to cool off.

6pm: Dinner time at Simon’s Waterfront

Situated on top of the Warrnambool Surf Lifesaving Club, Simon’s Waterfront offers breakfast, lunch and dinner with a coastal backdrop and some of the best views along the Great Ocean Road. Our recommendation is the Pearl Cous Cous with Mediterranean vegetables and a beetroot orange dressing!

Tip: Warrnambool really comes alive in winter when it’s whale breeding season. Southern Right whales, Humpback whales and Blue whales have known to come as close to 100m from the shore to nurse their young during the cooler season – with Warrnambool being one of the only places in the world that this occurs! The best place to spot whales in Warrnambool is at Logan’s Beach which features purpose-built whale watching platforms.

Day 2

9am: Wake up with a coffee and brunch

Bohemia Café & Bar is a go-to amongst the locals and is known for their warm and inviting vibes.  Only a short walk from the main street in Warrnambool, there’s something on the menu for everyone.

11am: Treat yourself at a Hot Spring Sanctuary

Short breaks are still an opportunity for rest and relaxation, so what better way to incorporate that into your trip than to unwind in a Hot Spring Sanctuary? The Deep Blue offers 15 different hot springs bathing experiences, a day spa where you can relax with a massage or facial, and a Nourish Dome to replenish your thirst and hunger after a busy couple of days.

Vast ocean coastline of Victoria, Australia - aerial view
Enjoy sensational views at the Bay of Islands on the Great Ocean Road.

4pm: End the afternoon at the Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands is lesser known than the Twelve Apostles down the road, however offers equally remarkable views of the Great Ocean Road coastline, the unique cliff faces and the unusual placement of rock stacks created by the ocean over centuries. This is one to tick off your bucket list!

Need a place to stay?

You have plenty of accommodation options in Warrnambool – including the Comfort Inn Warrnambool International, Comfort Inn On Raglan and Comfort Inn Western hotels. All three options are conveniently close to Warrnambool’s attractions and sites, as well as only a short walk to shops and restaurants.

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