Our Favourite Victorian Swim Spots
Posted by Lewis Pitchford on
Although not quite as famous for its beaches and swim spots as its northern and western cousins, Victoria still boasts some stunning summer hangouts and breathtaking locales for summer respite. To follow up the list of our favourite Sydney Swim spots, I thought it only fair to share this state's aquatic glory.
Yes, the weather can at times be a little fickle but Victoria is usually blessed with a late summer period of steamy warm days that extends long past the end of February.
Check out our favourite Victorian swimming locales, there is still (hopefully) plenty of sun-drenched opportunities to test them out.
The Pillars, Mount Martha
Only 50 minutes from Melbourne down the Mornington Peninsula, this classic beach spot is largely unknown to even the most local of locals. Don't get confused, I am not talking about Mount Martha main beach with all the day-trippers from Melbourne. Head further south, away from the crowds, and take the small picturesque walk over the cliffs to reach this quiet little spot. The Pillars makes for the perfect day of swimming and sunning yourself. This spot clifftop spot is more like an Aegean sea hangout with pristine coastline, ridiculous views and the bluest of blue water. Pack the esky with a couple of cold drinks, grab fish and chips from the nearby chipper and count away the hours jumping in and out of crystal clear water. You won't want to leave. I suggest checking out our boy Harvey's calendar to align your visit with his Mobile Beach Club - think summery tunes, great vibes and beautiful location. Now that is summer livin'!
Loch-Ard Gorge, Great Ocean Road
Traveling down the Great Ocean Road gives you a sense of how rugged the south-west coast of Victoria truly is. Twisting along clifftop outlooks, past surf beaches, and through dense forest, there are so many swimming 'stop-offs' along the way and in my opinion, none more breathtaking than Loch-Ard Gorge in Pot Campbell. Although a little further out of Melbourne, just beyond the Twelve Apostles, your arrival to this pearlescent bay will make the car ride a distant memory, quickly. This secluded little beach is slathered in natural wonder, flanked by amber washed cliffs and crystal clear water, it is like a scene out of 'The Beach'. You're in for a full day here so set up your beach chair and umbrella and wishfully hope Leo comes strolling out of the water... if not, it's still worth it.
Lake Catani, Mount Buffalo National Park
Here's one for the more adventurous and the outdoorsy types. Lake Catani is located in the Mount Buffalo National Park, not far from Falls Creek, and is a little too far for an aquatic day trip. Boasting super clear water in a stunning alpine backdrop, Catani is worth planning a camping trip around. In between all the other activities in the region like, walks, hikes, and mountain biking, you can slip in and out of the glassy water and spend downtime drinking in the picturesque setting. It is the perfect refresh in the warmer months and heart starter in the colder part of the year. Please stay safe and check the water levels, conditions and temperature before getting wet.
Contrary to the beliefs of so many around the country, there are a couple of amazing little swimming spots in Melbourne, and Half Moon deserves to be included in this list. A short drive or an easy cycle from Melbourne CBD, Half Moon is all about simple summer days. It can get busy so get down there early, claim your spot and enjoy Melbourne people-watching in all its glory. It is a perfect beach day for the family with great snorkeling around the rocks and nearby shipwreck and the classic Aussie kiosk right there for your Calipos's and Fish & Chips to nib any tears in the bud before they start. Our preference is to walk to the northern cliffs with a full esky and some tunes for a little impromptu beach club - you will not be alone!
Get down to the beach and enjoy yourself, but please, don't forget to stay sun safe, always.
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