Home to a large number of migratory shorebirds and waterbirds including sharp-tailed sandpipers, whiskered terns, ducks and more. Bird watch, look for frogs or simply walk around to take in the wonders of nature.

Popular with residents, Warralily Shopping Centre is in close proximity to the village. The perfect spot to to pick up shopping essentials at the supermarket and specialty stores or have a coffee with friends.

Pakington Street in Newtown is a shopping strip full of trendy cafés and restaurants, homewares, retail stores and boutiques. Wander the streets to find art galleries and eclectic offerings. Its proximity to the Barwon River makes it an easy walk to take in nature. There are plenty of walks and parks to enjoy after a delicious brunch.

The Geelong Waterfront is a hive of activity. Full of restaurants and cafes, beautifully landscaped gardens, attractions and public art, all with amazing views of Corio Bay. From here you can catch the ferry over to the docklands for easy access into the city without any traffic. The Eastern Beach swimming promenade has a children's pool, enclosed sea baths with diving platforms, which are patrolled by lifeguards during the summer months.

With free carparking and more than 140 stores on one level, Waurn Ponds Shopping Centre is the place to enjoy retail therapy. Big brand stores like Kmart and Target can be found alongside Coles, boutique stores and the cinemas. Enjoy a coffee break in one of the cafes before heading home with hands full of shopping!

Body surf the waves or simply paddle in between the flags, Bancoora beach is a common place for locals to meet.

Buckleys Bay is a small, beach, surrounded by boulders and sand dunes. Access the beach through the caravan park behind the dunes. Good for fishing with deep water areas and a great little picnic beach. Waves can get higher than 1m and rips often form around the rocks so swimmers are advised to stay in the shallows.

There are many spots along the river where anglers catch mullet and salmon and large bream. From the mouth of Thompson Creek towards Bancoora Beach, anglers often walk out and cast into areas to catch mullet, salmon, flathead and the occasional gummy shark and pinkies.

One of the famous destinations of the surf coast, Torquay Beach is a great surf spot for beginner to advanced surfers. There are waves to catch in most conditions and tides. Towel off and head up to Bell Street for a meal and resfreshing drink.

Perfect for a long beach walk or a day on the sand with family or friends. Cosy corner has rockpools to delight and in low tide the shallows are great for mud pies and cooling off. Head up to the pine tree lined grass area to dust off the sand and breathe in the serenity.

With views of Torquay and Jan Juc beaches, the Par 71 golf course is equally picturesque as it is challenging for all golfers. The 18-hole traditional links-style course is open to the public via pro shop or online bookings.

With 36 spectacular holes, 13th beach is a favourite of golfers in the Greater Geelong area. Open to the public and to memebers 13th beach is a great course for those who enjoy a social round or those who are keen to work on their handicap.

Two kilometres long, the Ocean Grove Main beach is a family-friendly surf beach that spans from Point Lonsdale to the Barwon River mouth. Locals and holiday-makers flock to this beach by car or on foot. There are many coastal walks through the tea trees and surrounding scrub land.

A rescue haven for native wildlife and a place of serenity for people to appreciate their connection with the environment. Jirrahlinga also operates as part of a theraputic program for those experiencing dementia, disadvantaged youth and those with physical or mental difficulties.

With delightful views, delicious food and inviting shops, this is a harbour village experience. From catching the ferry over to Sorrento, to signing up for a sunset cruise or adventure activity - there is plenty to see and do!

Locally crafted beer and gin, they also serve up delicious woodfire pizzas. Their brewers and distillers have mastered some very unique flavors and they're happy to share their knowledge. Look out for their four-legged farm hands.

Known as Victoria's best water theme park, Adventure Park Geelong has some of the biggest and most daring waterslides. Take it easy in a family cabana or float along the Lazy River or put your thrillseeking to the test with the Tornado. For those who don't want to get wet carnival rides and the kids zone provide another way to have family fun.

Ranked within the top 100 Australian courses by Golf Australia, Curlewis Golf Club is a great public course on the surf coast. With a driving range, food and dining, mini golf and x-golf there is plenty on offer for serious or social golfers!.

Boasting spectacular views out towards the bay, Bellarine's finest wining and dining can be found here. Jack Rabbit, Terindah Estate, Bennetts on Bellarine and Scotchmans Hill - to name a few. Come for the wine and stay for the view.