Being the largest town on the Bellarine Peninsula there is so much to do for the visitor, and the beach is the place to be. Ocean Grove’s beaches are some of Australia’s best. Wide sandy beaches protected by high dunes and crystal clear surf beach looking out to Bass Strait. Swimming, Fishing, Surfing or walking or just lying in the sun, Ocean Grove is one of the Geelong region’s greatest assets. There are six main beaches along the Ocean Grove strip overlooking Imgamells Bay, Collendina to the East, Smiths Beach, The patrolled Surf Beach, RAAFS Beach and Sandy Point at the entrance to the Barwon River. The western shoreline of the Barwon River overlooking Barwon Heads is also popular with protected waters.
For nature lovers, there are plenty of walks; the beach is popular all year round with firm sand, protection from the dunes and fresh sea air. The Barwon River to the town’s west also has a good walking path and is also popular with cyclists and bird watchers.
The Ocean Grove Nature Reserve is also a popular attraction and there are always a few fury native animals to see, whether it be kangaroo, koala or even possum and more recently flying foxes or fruit bats have become familiar sightings. The reserve is also home to many species of birds including some lovely finches and parrots. The 143 hectare reserve is the last piece of natural bushland left on the peninsula and is planted with she-oaks, banksias, eucalyptus, wattles and tea trees.
There are some delicious dining choices around the ’Grove’, The Dunes Cafe and Bar next to the Surf Life Savings Club nestled amongst the sand dunes is a quality dining experience. Along the terrace Thai Mekong does a magnificent spicy curry and the Ming Terrace opposite has some lovely Asian style seafood dishes. For Mexican lovers, the Mex on Grubb road is very popular. The Terrace is also home to many cafe’s, serving gourmet foods many with local ingredients and there is a great range of fast foods, tasty pizza’s, fresh fish and chips, chicken and even the big takeaway chains are starting to appear in town. There’s nothing like sitting in one of the alfresco areas enjoying a long brunch on a sunny morning.
For shoppers, Ocean Grove offers a mix of boutiques and specialty stores. Recently some of the major brands have come to town. With the beach being the main focus in town, there are plenty of surf wear shops and of course some great places to buy a surf or boogie board.
For the holiday maker to Ocean Grove looking for somewhere to stay, the choices are just about endless. The town has high end accommodation with plenty of luxury and papering right down to the basic camp site. bed and breakfasts, apartments, motels, hotels, several quality caravan parks and even backpacking. There’s something to suit everyone’s taste and budget.
