Eastern Beach in Geelong is a gem that has history, leisure and scenery. Located on Eastern Beach Road, this is a local and tourist favourite way to get away and enjoy coastal life. With its Art Deco building, family pool, and stunning views of Corio Bay Eastern Beach, Geelong is a must-see. The area is close to Geelong, so you can drive, take public transport, or walk from the city centre. Whether you want to swim in the pool, have a picnic or just enjoy the bay views, Eastern Beach has it all.
Eastern Beach Geelong History
Eastern Beach has a history dating back to the 1930s when it was part of a plan to beautify the Geelong waterfront. During the Great Depression, the City of Geelong built the Eastern Beach Sea Bathing Complex with its stunning Art Deco design. The semicircular swimming pool surrounded by a historic promenade and beautiful gardens was a community project to provide employment and enhance the recreational use of the waterfront. Today, Eastern Beach Geelong is an iconic landmark and a favourite spot for relaxation and family fun.
Getting Here
Eastern Beach is just minutes from the Geelong city centre and is accessible by car, public transport or a leisurely walk. If you are driving, take the Geelong Ring Road and follow the signs to the Geelong Waterfront and Eastern Beach Road. There is plenty of parking, but it can get busy during peak times. Public transport is also an option, with regular buses stopping near the beach, and Geelong train station is a short walk away. If you are staying nearby, it’s a short walk from Westfield Geelong, Geelong Arts Centre and Deakin University.
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Swimming
Eastern Beach Geelong has a safe and clean swimming pool, perfect for all ages. The Art Deco seawater pool is surrounded by a circular promenade, which makes for a unique and scenic swim. For those who prefer a more natural setting, the Geelong beach area adjacent to the pool has soft sand and calm water that is perfect for a refreshing dip. The enclosed area is a safe haven for families and younger swimmers, and the deeper sections are for those who want a more vigorous swim. Lifeguards are on duty during peak times so everyone can swim safely and enjoy.
Take a Walk
A walk along the Eastern Beach promenade is the perfect way to chill out and take it all in. The paths wind through lush grass, palm trees and beautifully landscaped gardens and offer stunning views of the bay. As you walk, you’ll pass by the historic sea baths, the Art Deco buildings and several lookouts with views of Corio Bay and Geelong. The gentle slope of the paths makes them suitable for all ages and fitness levels, so you can take your time and enjoy the waterfront and sea air.
Have a Picnic
Events and Festivals
Throughout the year, Eastern Beach and the Geelong Waterfront hosts a range of events and festivals that attract visitors from all over the region. From the Geelong Waterfront Makers & Growers Market to the Festival of Sails, there’s always something on along this part of the coast. These events showcase the best of Geelong’s local arts, crafts and produce and are a great opportunity to experience the community’s creative spirit. Special events like the Adventure Park Geelong summer celebrations and Geelong West Christmas festivals add to the fun, making Eastern Beach the entertainment and cultural heart of the city.
Eating and Drinking
Eating at Eastern Beach is a treat in itself, and there are a variety of cafes and restaurants to choose from. Whether you’re after a casual coffee at a waterfront café or a fine dining experience at a restaurant, you’ll find plenty of options to tickle your taste buds. Popular spots like Novotel Geelong offer a more refined dining experience, while the cafes along the Geelong Waterfront offer a range of cuisines, from fresh seafood to international flavours. Many of the venues use locally sourced ingredients reflecting the region’s food culture.
Play with the Kids
Eastern Beach is a great spot for family fun, with loads of amenities to keep the little ones entertained. The kids pool area is perfect for tiny swimmers with shallow water and interactive fountains that will keep them busy all day. The nearby playground has swings, slides and climbing equipment so the kids can burn off some energy while you chill out. There’s plenty of open space for games and picnics so Eastern Beach is a family friendly spot for all ages.
Eastern Beach Geelong Accommodation
If you’re staying for a while, there are plenty of accommodation options near Eastern Beach to suit all budgets. The Novotel Geelong is right on the waterfront and offers luxury rooms with bay views and beach access. If you’re on a budget, there are many motels and apartments within walking distance. Staying in the area means you can soak up the coastal lifestyle and be close to Geelong’s best attractions, including Pakington Street shopping, Geelong Arts Centre and the city centre.