Anglesea, a beautiful seaside town on Victoria’s famous Great Ocean Road, is renowned for its stunning views, rich history and outdoor activities. Situated on the Surf Coast, this lovely town is the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re walking the Anglesea Heath, paddling the Anglesea River or cycling the mountain bike trails, Anglesea will be unforgettable. The town is also significant to the Eastern Maar & Gunditjmara peoples who have been the traditional owners of this land for thousands of years.
History of the Town
The history of Anglesea is embedded in the natural environment and Indigenous cultural heritage. Before European settlement the area was home to the Eastern Maar & Gunditjmara peoples who lived in harmony with the land for thousands of years using the natural resources for food, shelter and cultural practices. With the arrival of European settlers in the mid 19th century the landscape changed as timber milling and farming took hold. The town was originally called Swampy Creek but was renamed Anglesea in 1884 after the town of Anglesey in Wales by English settlers.
The construction of the Great Ocean Road in the early 20th century changed Anglesea again, this time as a tourist destination. But the building of the Alcoa Anglesea Power Station and coal mine pit in the 1960s marked a big shift in the town’s economy. The power station was a major employer but also a source of environmental concern. Its closure in 2015 marked the beginning of a new chapter for Anglesea as the community turned its focus to sustainability, conservation and celebrating its cultural heritage. Today work is underway to rehabilitate the former mine site and turn it into a community and environmental asset for the town as it looks to the future and honour its past but move forward positively.
Planning Your Visit
Best Times to Visit
Anglesea best time to visit depends on what you want to do. Summer (Dec to Feb) is beach and water sports time, with the Anglesea Paddleboats a great way to explore the Anglesea River. Spring (Sept to Nov) and autumn (March to May) is for the 44km Surf Coast Walk, which takes you through stunning coastal scenery and diverse ecosystems. Winter (June to Aug) is quiet time, perfect to explore the Anglesea Heath and see the Eastern Grey Kangaroos grazing near the Anglesea Golf Club, where you can play golf with kangaroos.
Getting to Anglesea
Anglesea is only 115km southwest of Melbourne so it’s an easy day trip or longer stay. The Great Ocean Road drive is stunning, or you can take public transport – V/Line buses from Melbourne to Geelong and then connecting buses to Anglesea. If you like to cycle, the Anglesea Bike Park has mountain bike trails for all levels so you can make the journey to Anglesea part of the adventure.
Discovering Anglesea
Anglesea is a playground in every sense of the word. Surf at the town’s famous beach, explore the Anglesea Heath, or take the family friendly Surf Coast Walk. Play a round of golf at the Anglesea Golf Club where you can see kangaroos roaming the fairways. If you love local art, the town is home to many surf coast artists whose work is inspired by the region and the community.
Riverside Adventures
The Anglesea River is the hub of many activities in the town, something for everyone. The calm, clear waters are perfect for kayaking and canoeing, a peaceful way to see the area. For families the Anglesea Paddleboats are a fun and safe way to enjoy the river, pedal boats for hire from the riverbank. Fishing folk will find many spots along the river to cast a line, bream and other species are common in these waters.
The Friends of the Anglesea River, a local volunteer group, work to protect the river’s health and vitality, with clean-up events and educational programs to promote the importance of this waterway. Along with other conservation groups the river remains a thriving ecosystem for wildlife and the community. The river walking paths and picnic areas are also a popular spot for a leisurely walk or family day out, a peaceful place to sit and enjoy the surroundings.
Looking for a perfect day trip to Great Ocean Road? Visit the Anglesea River for picturesque scenery, outdoor activities, and a memorable escape into nature’s beauty!
Wildlife
Anglesea is wild life heaven with a huge variety of native species throughout the town and surrounding areas. The Anglesea Heath is one of the most biologically diverse areas in Australia with over 1000 plant species and many animals. This reserve is famous for its spring wildflowers and attracts nature lovers from all over to see the colours and unique flora. Among the heath’s residents are koalas, echidnas and many bird species so it’s a great spot for wildlife viewing and photography.
One of Anglesea’s best wildlife experiences is seeing Eastern Grey Kangaroos up close, especially at the Anglesea Golf Club. These beautiful roos are a common sight on the fairways so it’s a great spot to play a round of golf. The Coogoorah Park Nature Reserve with its walking tracks and boardwalks is another great spot to see native wildlife in their natural habitat. Birdwatchers will love the variety of species here from parrots and cockatoos to the elusive tawny frogmouth.
Anglesea for Kids
Families visiting Anglesea will find plenty to keep the kids entertained. The adventure playground near the river is a local and visitor favourite with a range of equipment and play areas in the natural environment. The Anglesea Miniature Railway runs on the first Sunday of each month and lets kids and adults ride on a mini train through the bush.
For a more educational experience the Eco-Logic Centre offers interactive programs that teach kids about the local environment, wildlife and sustainability. Kids can learn about the unique plant and animal species that live in Anglesea and participate in hands on activities that make them think about their role in protecting these natural habitats. Whether it’s the adventure playground, paddling in the river or learning about the natural world Anglesea has plenty of family friendly activities to make your visit a fun one.
Wineries and Produce
Anglesea and the Surf Coast are food and wine heaven. Taste the local flavours. The region’s cool climate vineyards produce great wines – Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Shiraz – which can be sampled at boutique wineries all over the region. Just a short drive from Anglesea is the Bellarine Peninsula where you can do wine tastings and cellar door experiences surrounded by vineyards and stunning coastal views.
Anglesea Fruitz is a local favourite where you can find fresh, seasonal produce grown in the region. From crisp apples and juicy berries to artisanal cheeses and handmade preserves, there’s something for everyone. The town’s cafes and restaurants showcase the best of local produce with menus that celebrate the region’s agricultural heritage. If you want to go further afield the Surf Coast has a network of farmers markets and food festivals where you can meet the producers and sample a wide range of gourmet goodies.
Flora and Fauna
Anglesea’s natural beauty is reflected in its flora and fauna so it’s a nature lover’s paradise. The Anglesea Heath, part of the Great Otway National Park, is home to over a quarter of Victoria’s plant species, many of which are rare and endangered. This unique ecosystem supports a wide range of wildlife from tiny insects and colourful birds to larger mammals like kangaroos and koalas.
Spring is the best time to visit Anglesea as the heathlands come alive with wildflowers. You can take a guided tour to learn about the different plant species and their role in the ecosystem or simply take a leisurely walk through the bush to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. The town’s commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism means these natural wonders will be protected for future generations to enjoy, making Anglesea a model for eco-tourism.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
Anglesea’s community spirit shines through in the many events and festivals that happen throughout the year. The Anglesea Music Festival is the highlight of the town’s cultural calendar with local and regional artists performing a wide range of music. Held in October each year, the festival attracts visitors from far and wide and is a celebration of the region’s talent and community.
Another big event is the Surf Coast Century, an ultra marathon that takes runners along some of the most beautiful parts of the Surf Coast. Held in September each year, it attracts athletes from all over the country and beyond and is a unique way to experience the region. Throughout the year there are regular farmers markets and craft fairs where you can taste local produce, meet artisans and buy handmade goods. Every event in Anglesea is an opportunity to connect with the community, experience local culture and celebrate this special coastal town.
Anglesea Accommodation
Anglesea has a wide range of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets. For families the Anglesea Family Caravan Park is a great choice with cabins, campsites and amenities just a short walk to the beach. The park has a swimming pool, playgrounds and easy access to the Anglesea River so it’s a great base to explore the town and surrounding area.
For a more luxurious stay there are several boutique holiday homes and beach cottages to rent many with ocean views and modern amenities. The Anglesea Riverside Motel is located in the heart of town and overlooking the river and offers comfortable and convenient accommodation with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, family holiday or solo retreat you’ll find options to suit your needs and make your stay in Anglesea one to remember.
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