Ocean Grove is the epicentre of the Bellarine Peninsula.
With a thriving cafe and beach scene, the largest town on the peninsula is crazy busy during the summer holiday period, but is low key and relaxing the rest of the year.
The Shop Local festival encourages locals and vistors to shop locally and The Terrace is closed to vehicles on a Friday night in early December when traders take their wares out onto the street for a night of fun.
Carols in the Park is huge. Thousands crowd Ocean Grove Park for the annual Christmas carol extravaganza in December. It’s a night of peace and carol singing.
The Tranquility Fair is held on the first Saturday of the New Year and features food, market stalls and activities to keep everyone entertained. In 2018, the fair has changed to a twilight timeslot.
The Terrace is a bustling cafe and shopping strip with many eateries to choose from. Indeed, on a warm day, there’s nothing better than pulling up a chair to enjoy a coffee or wine and watch the world go by.
The Light of Day festival is a music fiesta that has been growing since it first began in 2014. The festival attracts world renowned musicians for a two-day feast of sounds all to raise money for Parkinson’s Disease. Light of Day sells out every year. Get in quick for this not to be missed event held each July.
The Wallington Strawberry Fair is a celebration of all things strawberry each March. Rides, craft stalls, kids fun and food are all part of the fun.
Oakdene, Banks Road and McGlashan’s wineries are just short drive from town while Ocean Grove Nature Reserves provides walking tracks and wonderful birdwatching opportunities.
The Ocean Grove Market runs from October to April on the first Sunday morning of the month at Kingston Park. Run by the Rotary Club, the market has more than 70 stalls selling arts and crafts, food, produce, clothing, refreshments and entertainment.
The Bellarine Community Farmers’ Market sells fresh produce and brings bring together local farmers, community gardens, backyard growers and producers to provide fresh food and produce, direct to the public, in one convenient location. Find it at Ocean Grove Park on the third Saturday morning of every month.
For fitness fanatics or fun run lovers the annual Rip to River fun run is held on the sand early in the New Year and attracts runners from around the region and state.
For non-beach days, the indoor Bellarine Aquatic Centre, on Shell Road, has three heated swimming pools, including a 25-metre pool with lap lanes and a children’s area complete with a water adventure playground – and only 8km down Wallington Road is Victoria’s largest theme and water park. Located on the Bellarine Highway, Adventure Park opens for the summer season from October to April.
Keen divers can explore the HMAS Canberra, which was scuttled off the coast of Ocean Grove in 2009.
TOP THINGS TO SEE AND DO
Carols in the Park – sing your heart out.
Surfing or swimming at Main, Collendina or RAAFS Beach.
Enjoying coffee and cake on The Terrace.
Shop Local Festival – join in the fun as The Terrace is closed to traffic.
Light of Day – world renowned musicians galore.
TOP TIP
Check the swell on the webcam at www.coastalwatch.com
DID YOU KNOW?
Ocean Grove was settled by American Methodists in 1869 and many streets are named after important Methodist people.
