Top Things to do in Anglesea
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Top 9 Things to do in Anglesea, Australia
Discover the best top things to do in Anglesea, Australia including Coogoorah Park Nature Reserve, Point Addis Marine National Park, Anglesea Bike Park, Point Roadknight, Inverlochy Playground, SeaEarth Adventures, Angel Sea Garden, Anglesea Art House, Anglesea Visitor Information Centre.
Restaurants in Anglesea
1. Coogoorah Park Nature Reserve
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 32 reviews
Reviewed By UrbanDrifter - Melbourne
It is easy to spend several hours in Coogoorah Park which is often more sheltered than the coast. Take a bush walk around the pathways, fish from the jetties, stop for a barbecue or rest while the children play in the playground which includes a wooden ship inspired by the ‘Inverlochy’, wrecked off the coast in 1902.
The kids can play in the Anglesea River, there are a number of Conservation areas and you can go fishing off the jetties. I've taken many groups canoeing and stand up paddle boarding on the river.
Listen out for frogs calling and look out for egrets walking in the shallows searching for lunchFacilities at the Reserve or nearby
Open 24 hours a day.
Fishing platforms, walking tracks, Picnic tables, Public toilets, nearby Car parking
Dogs allowed on lead.
A must visit in Anglesea.
2. Point Addis Marine National Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 22 reviews
3. Anglesea Bike Park
Overall Ratings
5 based on 9 reviews
Reviewed By UrbanDrifter - Melbourne
The Anglesea Bike Park was built in September 2006 and at that time was Victoria’s first professionally designed Mountain Cross (or 4X) track. The Bike Park was the result of years of successful lobbying by local riders and the Anglesea community. The Surf Coast Shire and Alcoa, in partnership with the Anglesea community, made it possible for this facility to become a reality. The construction of this track adds to Anglesea’s reputation as an emerging outdoor activities town.
The Bike Park was designed and built by legendary trail builder Glen Jacobs of World Trail and was Victoria's first professionally designed and world class 4X track. The track consists of straights and switchbacks and is about 400m long. Various track features have been included to enable users of all skill levels to safely enjoy the track. The features include mounds, rollers, jumps and table tops and these vary in height from 200mm to 1800mm high. Other features of the Anglesea Bike Park include a dirt jump area and a skills course with log rides. The Bike Park is suitable for riders of all ages and level of experience.
The Anglesea Bike Park is ideally located, just 1 kilometre from the town centre, accommodation, restaurants, cafe’s, public transport and surf Beaches. The region boats a strong cycling culture and the Anglesea Bike Park ensures a big future for mountain biking on the Surf Coast.
The park is set into a hill with the natural slope offering the ideal contour for a Mountain Cross Track. Tall pine trees surround the track, providing a picturesque and shady environment – great for both riding and for spectators. A toilet, shelter and picnic area are recent additions to this fantastic bike facility.
The Anglesea Bike Park is located at 80 Camp Rd and car parking is available on site. For more information on how to get there see
4. Point Roadknight
Overall Ratings
4 based on 5 reviews
Reviewed By UrbanDrifter - Melbourne
Having come here for over 40 years, it really hasn't changed much over the years. Except for the property prices perhaps.
Whether I've been here with school groups, with events, or just a paddle for myself, it's a truly beautiful part of the coastline.
There is plenty of parking except on a hot summers day and you may have to park some distance away. Please observe the parking signs as there are people who live here and get grumpy when people park across their driveways.
The beach is sometimes patrolled and would recommend you come here during those times. More than once there has been a shark spotted and you need to be prudent about when to swim here.
When the tide is out the rocks are awesome to explore. Just wear good solid footwear and you'll be okay. Do not remove any items from the rocks. It's against the law.
There are toilets in the carpark. Out of season there is no food or refreshments. During high season there are sometimes vans selling items for beach goers.
Anglesea itself is only a short drive away but believe me, if you leave your carspot you'll lose it.
You can walk from Point Roadknight to Anglesea but depends on tide. Be mindful of the cliffs and the tides.
Enjoy!
5. Inverlochy Playground
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3 reviews
Reviewed By Beck and Steven X - Melbourne, Australia
The year was 1902 & the sailing vessel named 'Inverlochy' had departed Liverpool, England bound for Hobart with in-excess of two tonnes of general cargo. Having finally sighted Cape Otway, Captain Kendrick set course for Port Philip Heads.
[The History Behind the Playground]:
Records indicate that their progress was impeded by easterly winds forcing Inverlochy to tack along the Otway Coast. At approximately 10:00pm the wind fell away suddenly & the ship was left to drift. An hour later the call went out that breakers lay ahead so the anchors were dropped, but to no avail. The Inverlochy struck the reef & with the swells significant, the ships cables strained & seeing the masts swaying & shaking the decision was taken to evacuate.
Thankfully there was no loss of life with all aboard surviving the long trip to shore through the combination of rough seas & torrential rain. Initial attempts to salvage the ship bore little fruitage & eventually the decision was made to focus on retrieving as much of the stricken cargo as possible, leaving the vessel itself to the mercy of the seas. Scavengers made 'unofficial visits' to the wreck to snatch up what they could & locals would gather up those many items that washed ashore including large casks of ale & spirits as well as the ships bell. In 1903 with more than half of the cargo still believed to be remaining in the hull a request was made by its new owners to blow up the Inverlochy thus preventing further looting & avoiding the cost of maintaining the site under guard.
The history & legend of the Wreck of the Inverlochy is quite substantial & I recommend that my fellow travellers may wish to partake in their own research. The actual log book is said to be on display in the Museum of the Anglesea and District Historical Society suggesting that may be a great place from which to start.
[ Now we know a bit about the Legend, let us discuss this Magnificent Playground ]:
Located in Anglesea the Inverlochy Playground is by far one of the most impressive community focused facilities I have ever seen. A wooden replica of the ship has been laid as the foundation with its wrecked pieces created in such a way as to allow for climbing, sliding, treasure hunting, crawling & walking the plank. In addition you can enjoy a rest in the hammock, have a turn on the swings & take in the gorgeous view across the large waterways from the ships 'crows nest'.
Sheltered BBQ's are provided in addition to a separate play area for younger ones with a number of picnic tables & chairs placed at various locations. Public toilets are situated near the car park which is also quite large.
With elaborate bush walking tracks nearby that also allow ample space for bike riders & the Anglesea River at its doorstep this park could easily entertain for an entire day.
Include a Football, Cricket Bat, Frisbee, Kite or even your favourite book then prepare a packed lunch & you won't need to go anywhere else. Please respect the fact that dogs are NOT permitted in the play area & smoking is banned from within ten [10] metres of this playground as well.
[Summary]:
At just under ninety [90] minutes drive from central Melbourne to Anglesea this site makes for the perfect destination whatever the Season. The history behind this playground being built to imitate a shipwrecked vessel is a bonus & with it being next to the river one really can get the illusion that she is still setting sail today.
An abundance of birdlife adds to the attraction & the drive through the preceding ferntrees & bushland leading up to the entrance is in itself relaxing & picturesque.
I hope that you enjoy the experience as much as I did!
Thank you for Reading this review, I hope that it has been helpful. Please also refer to the photographs I have attached as they form a part of this review.
**Directions: As if travelling from Melbourne.
Drive along the Great Ocean Road and cross over the Anglesea River. You will find yourself immediately at a roundabout.
To your left is signage advertising the hire of Paddle Boats & Canoes.
Directly ahead the Great Ocean Road continues with a green road sign pointing & saying Lorne & Apollo Bay.
On you Right the signage will read "Noble Street" and you should see three old white boat sheds sitting riverside.
Please turn right into Noble Street. Keep a very close look out as just after having turned right into Noble Street you will be wanting to take the very next sharp right turn again, this time into "River Reserve Road'. Those boat sheds should still be on your right.
Follow River Reserve Road straight for approximately 500 metres & you will reach a large gravel car park with signage referring to the Coogoorah Park Nature Reserve.
This is your destination and you should be able to see the large wooden "Inverlochy" from where you park. Enjoy!
6. SeaEarth Adventures
Overall Ratings
5 based on 2 reviews
SeaEarth Adventures runs programs for corporate groups, youth groups, schools, tertiary institutions and the general public. Activities include Surfing, sit on top kayaking, snorkeling, mountain bike tours, team building and initiative programs, rock climbing and abseiling, adventure races, expeditions, marine and bush environmental education programs. Activities can vary from a one hour private surf lesson to a multi-day corporate adventure program. We cater for all ages and requirements, including groups with special needs. All programs are specifically tailored to the client’s requirements to best achieve your aims. We are a mobile operation, able to run programs at a wide range of venues throughout Victoria. We handle all facets of program organisation including the provision of specialist equipment, qualified instructors and facilitators, first aid, insurance, permits, etc. A range of accommodation and conference centres can also be recommended if required.
Reviewed By silviamanini93 - Melbourne, Australia
I really recommend a lesson with them. The teachers are very passionate and you can feel it.
In the end of the lesson everybody was stand up on the board. The beach is quiet and good for learning how to surf.
I had never tried Surfing before and I loved it.
Thank you for the amazing experience.
7. Angel Sea Garden
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
8. Anglesea Art House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 10 reviews
Reviewed By Beck and Steven X - Melbourne, Australia
My husband & I are pleased to be able to provide you with this review of the Anglesea Art House which is a community based venue located in Anglesea, Victoria. The facility is available to artists & craft people on a member & non member basis. Visitors & the general public are also
invited to attend this fantastic venue to view the wonderful artwork on display & even make a purchase or two!
[ *** Kids School Holiday Programmes ***] - My husband & I were thrilled to discover that each January the Anglesea Art House holds what is called "the Kids Art Bash". Children must be accompanied by an adult. Entry is free & there is a huge selection of activities to choose from.
These include, painting on canvas & paper, wooden shapes such as animals, letters & flowers to paint, tiled mosaics that you get to create from scratch, cups / plates & bowls that you can decorate & paint as well as ceramics, placemats & picture frames.
There is a reasonable cost for these activities which start from $5.00 & increases dependent upon what you choose to create. What you are actually paying for is only the item you select to decorate. Everything else is included for free.
= ** For example, my husband chose a planter to make a mosaic on. He paid $20.00 for the terra-cotta pot & everything else was included in that price. An endless & unlimited about of tiles he was allowed to break & take, as much of the glue that was needed they also supplied & they also grout the tiles for you free of charge.
= You get to stay there as long as you need to & the lovely people whom run the Kids Bash - all whom are volunteers mind you - they do not rush you at all. If you don't finish your creation in one visit they will hold it there for you for a reasonable period until you can return & finish it.
I selected a long tile about 30cm in length which I turned into a mosaic. Again I was allowed to use as much of the available materials as I required & was charged only $14.00.
Considering that for these highly reasonable prices you will have a complete day of fun & creativity, get to make a unique art piece for yourself or a loved one that you are able to keep, meet some really helpful & lovely people whom operate the programme & can spend time enjoying your proximity to the Great Ocean Road - a visit to this absolutely incredible venue is a must !!
My husband & I live in Melbourne & travel to Anglesea especially for the School Programme each January. As to the remainder of the year the Art House continues with many other fantastic things to do, the details of which we have included below for your convenience.
[Membership] - For the cost of what appears to be a very reasonable Annual Fee people can choose to become a Member which entitles you to access the various tools & equipment such as pottery & glass kilns, printing machine & a matt cutter.
= In addition they advertise that studio space is made available on a daily basis where Members can work on their chosen art form as well as having the ability to display their products & sell them if they so choose. The Art House website has an extensive list of what else Members are entitled to.
[General Public] - This friendly community environment also seems to extend to the General Public & the Art House advertises that they operate regular weekly classes in areas such as Watercolours, Pottery, Mosaic, Painting & Life Drawing. A programme of weekend workshops also seems to run & this is indicated to include visits by a variety of prominent artists. Again their website contains details as to the prices charged to attend one of the many classes.
[*** Summary ***] -Whether you live locally & get to attend weekly art classes, or if you live in Melbourne & can only make it for a day, the Anglesea Art House is wonderful. Prices, when applicable are extremely reasonable & the selected of crafts is huge.
It is suggested that you may wish to make a quick check of the hours of operation with a view to maximising your time, as well as to ensure that the activity you seek is available on the day you have selected.
Thank you for Reading this review, we hope that it has been beneficial.
9. Anglesea Visitor Information Centre
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 3 reviews
Reviewed By Beck and Steven X - Melbourne, Australia
Located alongside the Anglesea River this Visitor Information Centre has been wonderfully designed to blend in almost seamlessly with its stunning natural surroundings. In addition to the main building the adjacent structures & immediate area allow for a wide range of riparian activities - [thank you Mrs Hyacinth Bucket] - such as Bike Riding, BBQ, Picnicking, Trail Walking & Fishing.
[ Where to Go & What To Do ]:
Whilst somewhat smaller than their counterparts found along the Coast the advice dispensed is no less valuable covering a wide of enquiries such as affordable Accommodations, Historical Sites & Places of Interest, popular Restaurants & of course being the Great Ocean Road, a variety of Maps & Sets of Directions.
I personally enjoy being able to pick up locally based Newsletters regarding up & coming events such as the Sunday Riverside Markets & those that help us in discovering the multitude of National Parks, Waterfalls, Native Flora & Fauna that are particular to the region. Sometimes Visitor Information Centres & even some of the general stores along this stretch of the Great Ocean Road will also supply leaflets for the movies that may be currently showing at the iconic 100 year old Lorne Theatre.
For those whom love art and bushwalking you can combine the two by experiencing the Anglesea Art Walk which spans for just over two [2] kilometres incorporating six [6] mosaic art installations that are situated at various points of interest along the way such as 'Lookouts' offering sensational views of the Surfcoast & the famous 'White Lady' at Aireys Inlet. The Mosaic Art Works highlight the history and unique flora and fauna of the area. A brochure about the Art Walk is available from the Anglesea Information Centre.
[ Other facilities are provided ]:
It is clear that a great deal of thought has gone into what the public may require of such an Information Hub & other assistance includes Public Toilets both Male & Female, ample tables & chairs along with a Shaded BBQ Area, Allocated Disabled Car Park spaces, easy access ramps & a water pump dispensing water for free to fill up your drink bottles along the way.
The Anglesea Jetty is directly opposite & it is understood that fishing is a popular past time with catches including Snapper, Bream and Salmon. Within walking distance of the building is an opportunity for canoe, paddle boat, canoe or kayak hire which is also a great way to arrive here & meet with the staff to benefit from their extensive knowledge of the area.
[Summary]:
All in all I am sure many would agree how the assistance provided by means of such Visitor Information Centre's is extremely valuable & helps add to the enjoyment of our travels by showing us the best this country has on offer as we journey through the vast & wide open spaces.
We can be grateful too that in times such as Bushfire Season we are able to turn to them & draw upon their local knowledge which many will agree - it is no exaggeration to highlight - such details can be crucial to our survival.
Whilst they do try & operate to set hours please remember that mostly these community offices are staffed by friendly volunteers so on the odd occasion you may find them closed unexpectedly. If that is the case you will find that additional centres are situated all through the Great Ocean Road.
Thank you for Reading this review, we hope that it has been helpful. Please also enjoy the attached photographs & their captions as they too form a part of this review.
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