Port Fairy, Victoria -Seaside Charm, History & Coastal Beauty

Wander * Explore * Discover
Oct 30, 2022
3 min read

Updated: 13 hours ago

Port Fairy, Victoria -Seaside Charm, History & Coastal Beauty

Port Fairy is a picturesque seaside village set along the Moyne River in Victoria’s Great Ocean Road region. Known for its beautifully preserved historic buildings, towering Norfolk pines, and stunning beaches, Port Fairy is one of the state’s most charming coastal destinations. Located approximately 290 kilometres west of Melbourne, it’s a popular stop on the Shipwreck Coast and a favourite for relaxed seaside escapes.

Today, fishing and tourism are at the heart of Port Fairy’s economy. The town is home to one of Victoria’s largest fishing fleets, with local waters producing abundant catches of shark, crayfish, and abalone — seafood you’ll often find featured on local menus.

Exploring Port Fairy Town Centre

We enjoyed wandering through Port Fairy’s welcoming town centre, which is filled with character and charm. There’s a great mix of cafés, bakeries, and restaurants, along with clothing boutiques, homeware stores, antique shops, and gift stores, making it a lovely place to spend a relaxed afternoon.

Fisherman’s Wharf & the Moyne River

The Fisherman’s Wharf area along the Moyne River is a highlight of Port Fairy. Lined with working boats and fishing craft, it offers a glimpse into the town’s strong maritime roots. A stroll along the wharf is a peaceful way to enjoy the river views while watching the comings and goings of the fishing fleet.

Griffiths Island & the Port Fairy Lighthouse

Griffiths Island sits at the mouth of the Moyne River and is easily accessed via a pedestrian causeway. The island is home to a thriving colony of muttonbirds and is a haven for wildlife lovers and birdwatchers. You may spot wallabies and a wide variety of birdlife as you explore the walking tracks.

One of the highlights is the walk to the Port Fairy Lighthouse, a stunning spot to watch the sunrise. Built in 1859 by Scottish stonemasons, the bluestone lighthouse is unique for its sea-level location and is incredibly photogenic at any time of day.

Battery Hill Lookout

At Battery Hill, you can enjoy panoramic views over the bay and explore historic cannons, artillery, and buildings. From here, walking tracks lead down to the beach, making it a great spot to combine history with coastal scenery.

Port Fairy’s Heritage Buildings

Port Fairy is rich in historic charm, with more than 50 heritage-listed buildings dating back to its days as a bustling 19th-century port for sealers and whalers. Wandering the streets reveals many impressive examples of bluestone architecture, including:

A bluestone building built in 1857, originally the Bank of Australasia
The Royal Oak Hotel (1857), now operating as the Oak and Anchor Hotel
Joseph Goble’s Steam Flour Mill (1866), later used as a butter factory
The Star of the West Hotel (1856), once a Cobb and Co staging post
St John’s Church of England (1856), built from bluestone
Emoh (1844), an elaborate merchant’s residence
The Caledonian Inn (1844), Victoria’s oldest licensed hotel
The Lecture Hall (1882), used for dances, lectures, and performances
St Patrick’s Catholic Church (1859), constructed from bluestone

Beaches & Coastal Escapes

Port Fairy boasts several beautiful beaches, including East Beach, a family-friendly stretch of sand that is patrolled during the summer months. The beaches are ideal for swimming, walking, and enjoying the fresh coastal air.

The Crags Coastal Reserve

A short drive from Port Fairy is The Crags Coastal Reserve, a breathtaking section of coastline known for its jagged rock formations, dramatic cliffs, and sweeping ocean views. It’s a stunning location that perfectly showcases the raw power and beauty of Victoria’s southwest coastline.

Why Port Fairy Is a Coastal Favourite?

With its rich maritime history, beautifully preserved heritage buildings, relaxed village atmosphere, and spectacular coastal scenery, Port Fairy is a destination that truly has it all. Whether you’re exploring the Great Ocean Road, chasing history, enjoying fresh local seafood, or simply soaking up the seaside charm, Port Fairy is a place that invites you to slow down and savour the best of coastal Victoria.