Things to see, eat and do around Inverloch

Things to see and do in Inverloch

Head to the beach

Inverloch is famous for its beautiful beaches, which are perfect for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. Main Beach is a popular spot for families, while those ready to hit the waves can head to the nearby Inverloch Surf Beach. 

If you have time, head to some other beaches in the area, including the calm waters of Anderson Inlet, the playful rockpools of Shack Bay, the stunning views from Eagles Nest, and the sandy dunes of nearby Venus Bay.

Don't forget to hit up the Inverloch Life Saving Club kiosk for a coffee or afternoon snack, a foundation proudly sponsored by the RACV Inverloch Resort. 

Go on a nature walk

Inverloch is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, and there are several nature walks in the area that offer breathtaking views.

One of the most well-known is the George Bass Coastal Walk, a 7km trek taking in the cliff-top views from San Remo to Kilcunda. 

The Screw Creek Nature Walk is also a popular choice for those looking for a gentler stroll, as the 2km trail takes you through the wetlands while offering views of the inlet and surrounding hills.

The 3.4km Ayre Creek Walk is also fantastic for bird watching while being both pram and wheelchair accessible, and the longer Inverloch Foreshore Walking Track is a 5km journey that provides stunning inlet views.

On a nice day, you can also take a stroll amongst The Caves, a rock formation along the beach that is perfect for watching the waves go by at low tide.

The Bunurong Coastal Drive is another must-see, as it takes you along the coast and offers dazzling views of the ocean below.

Find a dinosaur fossil

Head back 115-130 million years ago, when Australia was within the Antarctic Circle and dinosaurs inhabited a wide river valley that is now an intertidal rock shelf stretching from Inverloch to San Remo.

The first dinosaur fossil discovered in Australia in 1905 was the Cape Paterson claw, found further down the Bass Coast. It must have been a hotspot – over 20,000 dinosaur fossils have been found around Inverloch in the last 40 years alone.

Follow tips on how to find a fossil yourself for the dinosaurs that roamed the land before time.

Rummage the Kongwak Market

Running from 10:00am to 2:00pm every Sunday in the main street of Kongwak just 10 minutes drive away, the Market has developed a reputation for specialising in vintage, retro and collectable items, as well as books, plants, fresh produce, pet products, and more.

Have a roam while enjoying some local live music, homemade food and drink from local suppliers, and a hot coffee from some indepedent roasters.

Visit the National Vietnam Veterans Museum

Founded and built by veterans to support those returning from the Vietnam War, the museum 40 minutes west of Inverloch has themed exhibitions, galleries, information, and artifacts documenting the experience of local veterans. 

Get a massage

A holiday is the perfect time to relax and unwind with an invigorating wellness massage or spa treatment including aromatherapy, hot stone, reiki and bowen therapy.

Day trip to Phillip Island

Did you know that the famed tourist town Phillip Island is just 40 minutes’ drive from Inverloch? Spend some time enjoying the local attractions of the holiday region, from a trip to see the baby animals of Inverloch, to the Grand Prix Circuit and local eateries on the Cowes foreshore.

Cruise on a whale watching tour

Nearby Phillip Island is home to one of the greatest whale migrations in Victoria, where those aboard a whale watching cruise can spot humpback whales, dolphins, and Australia’s largest breeding fur seal colony.

Have a whale of a time spotting the sea life creatures in all their glory, while enjoying licensed food and drink from the comfort of your seat on board. 

Visit the Inverloch Shell Museum

Ever seen a beautiful shell on the beach? This museum in Inverloch sure has, with over 6,000 Victorian shell varieties on display.

As well as the opportunity to view the shells, the museum also runs a range of educational programs, including rock pooling, dinosaur digs, astronomy lessons, and nature art classes for the young and young at heart.

Go fishing

Inverloch is a popular spot for fishing, with its calm waters and abundance of fish including mullet, King George whiting, flathead, salmon, and gummy shark.

You can choose to fish from the beach or jetty, or hire a boat and head out to sea around Anderson Inlet, Maher’s Landing or Screw Creek. There are also several fishing charters in the area that offer guided tours and equipment hire.

Have a day of shopping

Inverloch has a range of boutique shops and galleries, selling everything from local art to handmade crafts. The Inverloch Farmers' Market on the third Saturday of the month is also a must-visit, with its range of fresh produce and artisanal goods made from local artists, cooks, farmers and suppliers.

See the penguins

Phillip Island is home to the largest colony of Little Penguins in the world.

Just 40 minutes from Inverloch, the famed Penguin Parade is one of the region’s biggest attractions, with the ability to view our blue-feathered buddies as they make their way to shore each evening a true highlight of the Bass Coast.

Best places to eat and drink in Inverloch

Cafes and bakeries

Paul the Pieman

Featuring award winning pies and sausage rolls, pop in for a delicious bakery treat.

For those with a sweeter tooth, there’s more than just pies – try a freshly baked scone, pastry, cake or donut, or try one of the many slice variations on offer, from custard to French vanilla, jelly and apricot. Enjoy with a morning coffee before taking in the sights of the town.

Vaughan's Cafe Deli

A hotspot since its inception in 2013, Vaughan's Cafe Deli is as popular for its coffee and all-day breakfast as it is for its inhouse store of handcrafted produce including wines, pasta, oils, and antipasti. 

Serving breakfast with a Mediterranean edge (think shakshuka and Turkish bread), the café also hosts the odd tapas night to enjoy local cheese and wine.

Kilcunda General Store

If you're up for a morning road trip, just 20 minutes out of Inverloch you'll reach the Kilcunda General Store, filled with breakfast classics like raspberry waffles and their eggs royale. The locale is also open for lunch with a range of pub favourites, sandwiches, pastries and sweets on offer until 2:30pm. 

Pubs, hotels and restuarants

Archies Creek Hotel

Traditional pub fare and locally sourced beverages alongside a rotating roster of live entertainment.

The new home of the travelling Caravan Music Club, the hotel has both an indoor and outdoor stage that features both Aussie and international music acts. Relish with a glass of local vino under the Bass Coast sun.

Limeandco

The family-owned Mexican cantina has become a favourite amongst locals for its delectable street food, morning coffees and spicy range of cocktails. When not in the main part of town, the travelling food truck can be found at local markets and festivals. 

The Esplanade Hotel

With its modern Australian cuisine and relaxed atmosphere, The Esplanade Hotel has been a favourite amongst residents and tourists alike since its inception in 1896.

Featuring a children’s play area, modern Australian pub menu and licensed bar, take in the ocean views from this family-friendly locale.

The Inlet Hotel

A local pub carrying seasonal Australian fare, The Inlet Hotel has a variety of specials on any given week, from Friday happy hours to footy tipping competitions, steak nights, and local music performances to keep the patrons rolling in for breakfast, lunch and dinner.