At the western end of the very scenic and iconic Great Ocean Road lies the beautiful seaside town of Port Fairy. The town could easily be mistaken for an English or Irish village with its mild climate, quaint cottages and faithfully preserved Victorian architecture that line the historic streets of this settlement. The British / Irish vive fuses perfectly with the Australian landscape, with pristine beaches where waves gently lap the sand with clear salty water.
Being an Aussie who has lived in England, the destination felt like the perfect place to get your ‘UK experience ‘brit fix’ without leaving the country, or something that feels a little different than your quintessential Australian coastal towns. Furthermore, it is a hidden gem of the gastronomy world down under… and it’s also dog friendly. So if you’re looking for that coastal getaway where you can stroll ye olde streets, indulge in history, read a book in front of the fire place and enjoy the seaside… all while not leaving the country, then this is the place for you!
Port Fairy’s history
The original settlement was established as a whaling port in 1835 due to its idyllic position of being on the South West Victorian coast and easy access to the Moyne river. The town was named after a whaling boat “the fairy” owned by one of the town founders, John Griffiths. Despite being temporarily changed to an Irish fisherman’s home town of Belfast, It was again changed back to Port Fairy in the late 19th century once again.
Within its time, Port Fairy has been more than a whaling port, also serving purpose as an Aboriginal camp, quarry and ship building site. Although no whale fishing is thankfully continued today, it still acts as a port for fishing boats and locals alike in addition to a home base for seals, penguins and even the endangered mutton bird.
What to do and see in Port Fairy
Stroll around the charming town
The town is small and makes for a spectacular stroll. As mentioned, Port Fairy is home to some incredible historic architecture that has been both beautifully preserved and restored, along with grand contemporary builds, fusing both old and new. From mud-brick settlers’ cottages with curated gardens, to modern Scandinavian inspired builds that boast their port side docks, it makes for some interesting and completely picturesque views.
The town is best known for its port and for good reason; other than it’s historic significance, the outlook over the footbridge is stunning. With glistening water that is lined by fishing boats and yachts docked by locals and visitors alike, it’s extremely photogenic. The wharf can be accessed one block from the main street so you can effortlessly continue your stroll and truly take in the beauty of Port Fairy.
Relax on the beach shores
Port Fairy is lined by a number of beaches, however the best in my opinion is Southcombe Beach, located just West of Griffith’s Island. Here soft sand is perfectly paired with some of the most blue and pristine water I’ve seen. Facing South East, the beach is a great place to lay out a towel and watch the sky transform into sunset. It can also be enjoyed with a wade in the shallow water. Just keep in mind that Port Fairy does have a cool climate due to the Southerly winds, so it’s not perfect beach weather for everyone.
Visit Griffith’s Island and light house
Griffith’s Island is close to the town centre, located just south of the port and is a walkable distance, however it has it’s own car park which sits next to Ocean Drive. This part of the coastline is a protected reserve due to the habitation of mutton birds on the island. For this reason, dogs are not allowed. The Island can be accessed via a small path bridge. Once on the Island, you will notice two paths (right and left). They both adjoin into a loop known as the reserve track. The left path however is the quickest route to the lighthouse (0.8 kms).
In the 1930’s Griffith’s Island was used as a Whaling base for a bay whaling station for Southern whales. This continued until the depletion of whale populations in 1943. However, you will now be happy to know that the ocean waters are now home to a whale nursery, where whales now live peacefully and can watched as they playfully breach from the shore. It also homes Griffith’s Island light house, built in 1859 by Scottish stonemasons to aid boats in navigating the Moyne river. The lighthouse is now an icon of Port Fairy a stunning place to visit, especially at sunset.
Find a shipwreck
Port Fairy is part of the infamously named Shipwreck coast which runs 130kms along the Victorian coastline from Cape Otway to Port Fairy. As the name suggests, this area has left a historic shipwreck trail with famed English Explorer, Matthew Flinders having quoted “I have seldom seen a more fearful section of coastline”. The Shipwreck coast has been responsible for approximately 638 known shipwrecks, with only 240 of them being discovered along the trail. There are four known shipwrecks not far from shore on East Beach, Port Fairy with the shipwreck dates dating from 1837-1952. These include; The Socrates and Thistle.
Where to eat & drink in Port Fairy
Oak and anchor
The Oak and Anchor is my favourite place to go in Port Fairy! The heritage listed hotel may appear like an old pub on the exterior, however, the back extends into an extravagant courtyard encased by basalt stone walls and a spongy lawn. Here you can pick a table to unwind with a drink in hand, or even a picnic blanket paired with a cheese board table. This fun yet intimate area transforms into an entertainment quarter occasionally, hosting artists such as Ziggy Alberts for local concerts.
As you step inside the pub you will notice beautiful stone walls complimented by modern wooden accents. Oozing sophistication and warmness, this area sets the scene for its excellent menu and possibly the best gastronomy pub experience i’ve had. It is very popular, so I recommend booking in advance.
Bank St & Co.
This venue is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious breakfast or lunch. Restaurant owners Ricky and Matt, have taken inspiration from all over the globe. Taking inspiration from Indigenous Australian, Moroccan, French, English and Indonesian cuisine, they have designed a menu that takes you around the World. Whether it be a sweet treat, hot beverage or meal, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Popo’s artisan ice cream
When we were walking back to our accomodation one night we saw this sweet ice creamery being flooded by locals. Of course we joined in to see what all the hype was about, and it was worth it! With mouthwatering home made artisan gelato and sorbet, it’s the best place in town to drop off and enjoy a sweet treat.
Where to stay in Port Fairy
The Oak & anchor hotel
As mentioned above, the Oak and Anchor is an incredible culinary experience. It’s also home to some of the best accommodation in town. With exposed stone walls and contemporary accents, the rooms are the true definition of comfort. There are only a small selection of rooms, so ensure to book in advance.
Edge 17
This gorgeous accomodation overlooks the port from the wharf. This accomodation feels like a mixture between country Australia and the Hamptons. Relaxing, fresh and most importantly, comfortable, this accomodation is perfect for truly immersing oneself into the Port Fairy lifestyle.
Aqua Mist Seascape
If you’re looking for something within the modern beach house realm, then this is your place. The accomodation overlooks the beach shore and ocean that can be enjoyed from the large glass windows and the balcony. Fitted with a gas fire place and Island bench, it’s the perfect place to share with friends and enjoy your weekend away.
Wander Mak 
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