Welcome to Peterborough Vic – the beautiful town full of sunshine, surrounded by nature and all the wonders that the great outdoors can provide. This small Victorian locality provides a unique set of experiences for locals and visitors alike, with an eclectic mix of activities that promise to keep you entertained all year round.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing break away from it all, or are searching for adventure in your downtime – there’s plenty to explore here.
Where is Peterborough, Victoria?
Peterborough, Victoria is situated in the south-western region of the state, approximately 241 kilometers from the city of Melbourne, or just over 300 kilometres if you are travelling along the Great Ocean Road to Melbourne.
The town is located between Port Campbell and Warrnambool and boasts some of the best coastal views in Victoria. Originally it was home to Aboriginal communities, who were attracted by its abundance of natural resources and fresh water sources. However today, it has a tiny population of approximately 250 year round residents but attracts many holiday makers in the summer months.
Things to Do in Peterborough, Vic
Peterborough, Vic offers a wide range of activities and experiences to suit every taste. Here you can explore the stunning coastline, take advantage of the abundant fishing and swimming opportunities, go on boat tours or even try your hand snorkeling. If you’re after something a bit slower paced, Peterborough boasts plenty of fine beaches perfect for sunbathing or a gentle stroll, walking trails and lookout points.
Visit the Bay of Islands Coastal Park
The Bay of Islands Coastal Park stretches out across 32 kilometres between Peterborough and Warrnambool. It has the same rugged coastline and towering rock stacks as that around Port Campbell National Park but far fewer visitors.
When it comes to places to visit within the Bay of Islands Coastal Park, you can never go wrong visiting Childers Cove – it is one of the most beautiful beaches in the area. Next door along Childers Cove Road is Murnanes Bay and Sandy Cove, two other stunning beaches. Dogs are welcome on lead at Sandy Cove.
Stanhope Bay and the Cove are two more remote beaches located nearby which will take your breath away. In between is the Buttress Point, which is part of a hilltop track which runs from Murnanes Bay all the way to the Bay of Martyrs, offering spectacular coastal scenery along the way.
Closer to Peterborough, visit the Bay of Islands Beach which offers clifftop views of the unique rock formations and tiny offshore islands, then make your way down the short track to the beach. Nearby is Boat Bay, which is a sheltered bay with a boat ramp and more spectacular views of the Southern Ocean.
Bay Of Martyrs
The Bay of Martyrs is technically part of the Bay of Islands but has become an attraction in its own right. You can embark on the Bay of Martyrs Walk or visit the beach of the same name.
The bay received its name after an encounter between a group of European sealers and local Karrae-Wurrong Aboriginal people turned violent. Resulting in the brutal deaths of many Aboriginal people who called the area home.
Despite its dark past, the Bay of Martyrs has become a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning views of the coastline with its sheer limestone cliffs and unique rock formations.
You can follow the walking track from the Bay of Martyrs carpark to Wild Dog Cove. You will pass Worm Bay, Crays Beach, Halladale Point and Sancho Lookout along the way – all destinations worth visits in their own right. Halladale Point is the historic location where the ship the ‘Falls of Halladale’ ran aground of reefs in 1908, and a stark reminder of how dangerous it can be navigating the reefs along the “shipwreck coast”.
Alternatively you can travel the length of the Bay of Martyrs, or simply view it from the lookout point at the car park. The bay spans 2.5 kilometres. Further west is Massacre Bay and Crofts Bay which also have parking areas.
Go Skydiving
Experience the thrill of a lifetime in Peterborough, Vic by going skydiving. From 15,000 feet you’ll have experience up to 60 seconds of freefall over some of the Great Ocean Road’s most spectacular scenery. Take in the breathtaking views of the Twelve Apostles Marine National Park and the rugged coastline stretching out to Warrnambool as you make your way through the air. It’s the ultimate adrenaline-pumping activity in Peterborough, which you book here.
Peterborough Golf Course
This beautiful 9-hole links seaside golf course is nestled between the sand dunes and the Southern Ocean. Visitors are welcome to play for a very modest fee. They often rave about the views, friendly staff, and well maintained albeit challenging course.
Peterborough Beach
You can spend the day at this rugged, lesser known beach or simply stop by to enjoy the views. There are some rock formations off shore with rock pools that you can swim or wade out to on calm days. Otherwise, back on shore you can toboggan down the sand dunes which frame the beach.
There are no lifeguards patrolling this beach. However, surfers, sunbathers, and fisherman still flock to it.
Peterborough Coastal Reserve and Curdies Inlet
The Peterborough Coastal Reserve encompasses a protected lake and river mouth which empties into the ocean. You can meander around its shores or take advantage of the facilities near the mouth of the ocean.
The Curdies River Estuary is a calm reprise next to what is often a turbulent Southern Ocean just over the dunes at Peterborough beach. There are picnic, BBQ and swimming areas along the sandy shores of the river. Many families come here to spend the day.
There is boat ramp so you can also enjoy sailing, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding at your own pace. If you like bird watching, this may also be an interesting spot for you as many settle on the calm waters or make their nest along the shore.
The Grotto and London Bridge
Located to the immediate east of Peterborough towards Port Campbell, is the Grotto and London Bridge. These are some of the most popular rock formations along the Great Ocean Road. The Grotto is an archway which looks out to the sea and the London Bridge has an interesting history and a beach which penguins come home to at dusk.
Port Campbell National Park
Containing some of the most iconic attractions in Victoria such as the 12 Apostles and Loch and Gorge, Port Campbell National Park is well worth a visit if you are in the area.
Learn about all what Port Campbell National Park has to offer here.
Peterborough Accommodation
Visitors who are looking for accommodation in the area will be glad to know that there are several options available. Whether you’re after luxury , self-contained holiday apartments or caravan parks and camping grounds, Peterborough has something for you. These are our favourites.
Peterborough House
Peterborough House is a four star hotel within steps of the beach. You can choose from an artfully designed rooms in various configurations for families, couples, solo travellers or friends. There is a cafe on-site where you can grab a coffee or a snack even if you are not staying there. Guests love the cleanliness of the space, comfy beds and light and airy feel.
The Great Ocean Road Tourist Park
For generations the Great Ocean Road Tourist Park has been welcoming families and guests. Located on the shores of Curdies Inlet and 150 m from the Peterbourough Beach, this property offers self contained cabins for groups of all sizes and was voted Victoria’s Favourite Holiday Park in 2015. You will also find a games room, children’s playground and BBQ area on site.
Seahorse Coastal Villas
Seahorse Coastal Villas offers a selection of 2-bedroom villa, each with air conditioning, kitchen facilties and cosy interiors. This property is located in the center of town with parking available and a short walk to the beach. There is also a sunny garden to enjoy. Making it tranquil place to lay your head after a day of exploring.
These are just some of the activities that you can enjoy and places to stay when visiting Peterborough and the Great Ocean Road. There is plenty more to discover if you come with an adventurous spirit! If you like fine beach walking, excellent scenic driving, and relaxed scenic spots, you can’t go wrong with Peterborough.
