Things to do in Geelong

The port city of Geelong is around 75 kilometres from Victoria’s state capital Melbourne and is the gateway to the picturesque Bellarine Peninsula. This part of Australia is also around half an hour’s drive from the Great Ocean Road, making it a great starting point for an adventure road trip.  

Geelong sits on the western side of Port Phillip Bay (the Mornington Peninsula sits to the east) and the city and surrounding area offer plenty of fun things to do and attractions for both visitors and locals.  

Whether you’re a local or visitor, we’ve got a range of Geelong activities you’ll want to try.  

Top 5 fun things to do on a Geelong day trip

We have a great range of experiences in Geelong for adventure lovers and you’ll find a number of things to do in Geelong with kids too. When you’re not having the time of your life on an adventure, you’ll find fantastic beaches, a rich history, museums, cool cafes and so much more to keep you entertained.  

But first, make sure to add some of these to your Geelong itinerary: 

Skydiving  

Always wanted to skydive? Keen to do it again? Geelong and surrounds is the perfect place to make it happen. Experience the unique rush of freefall with our incredible tandem skydives. Enjoy awesome views of the Great Ocean Road, Port Phillip Bay and even Melbourne CBD in the distance.  

Hot air ballooning  

A hot air balloon ride in Geelong offers some of the best views in Australia. Take in the mountains to the west and the iconic landscape down the Great Ocean Road as you soar high in the sky. It even includes a well-earned breakfast once you touch back down to earth.  

Helicopter rides  

Looking for a unique adrenaline rush with unbeatable scenic views? Then a helicopter flight in Geelong is an absolute must-try experience. Take in stunning coastal views, see the sights of the city from above, zoom above the Great Ocean Road and even see as far as Melbourne on a clear day!  

Surfing 

Just a short journey from Geelong is Torquay, sometimes known as the surf capital of Australia. As you’d expect, it’s an awesome place to catch some waves or try some surfing lessons. Or head over to Queenscliff to learn to surf then swim with dolphins and seals on a snorkelling tour. An activity kids and adults will love! 

Jet boats 

Blast across the water and take in the sights of Geelong Waterfront on a jet boat ride. Hold on tight, there’ll be plenty of twists, turns and manoeuvres thrown in. This family-friendly activity is perfect for thrill-seekers of all ages.  

Explore the Great Ocean Road by motorbike 

Does riding along the Great Ocean Road by motorbike sound like your idea of a good time? Then our motorcycle tours and hire options will be right up your street. Enjoy the open air and explore spots like Torquay, Lorne and Apollo Bay on what’s likely to be one of the rides of your life. 

Jump aboard a fishing trip….

Stuck for what to do in Geelong? There are some spectacular fishing spots off the coast of Geelong and Queenscliff. Choose from a range of fishing trips, tours and charters and spend some quality time on the waters of Port Phillip Bay and beyond.  

How to get to Geelong from Melbourne

If you’re planning to travel from Melbourne to Geelong there are a number of ways to do it. Your first option is to hit the road and drive. Hop in your own car or hire a car or motorbike and it’ll take a little over an hour to reach Victoria’s second city.

You can also travel by train. Journeys from Melbourne Southern Cross to Geelong Station also take around an hour.  

Another option is to travel by ferry. The trip takes around 90 minutes and there are typically a couple of departures from Docklands heading to Geelong each day.