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When to explore Victoria’s coastline
The best time of year to explore Victoria’s beaches is during the warmer months from December to March, when summer is in full swing and the weather is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and coastal adventures. During this period, you can enjoy long daylight hours, vibrant seaside towns, and comfortably warm ocean temperatures. If you prefer fewer crowds and milder weather, late spring (November) and early autumn (April) also offer beautiful beach conditions, perfect for hiking, wildlife spotting, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Victoria coast without the peak-season hustle.
Beach safety in Australia
Beach safety is essential when exploring Australia’s stunning coastline. Always swim between the red and yellow flags, as these areas are patrolled by lifeguards and are deemed the safest for swimming. Be cautious of rips (rip currents)—strong, narrow currents that can quickly pull swimmers out to sea. Signs of a rip include discoloured water, foam on the surface, or channels of calm water between breaking waves. If caught in one, don’t panic—stay calm, float, and signal for help, or swim parallel to the shore until you’re out of the current. It’s also important to check local surf conditions, avoid swimming alone, and keep an eye on children at all times. When in doubt, always ask a lifeguard for advice before entering the water.
Let’s explore the most beautiful beaches in Melbourne, along with top VIC beach picks across the state—each paired with local highlights and handy camping or caravan park options. Once you’ve collected your campervan from our Melbourne branch, you’re ready to explore.
Top 15 beaches in Victoria
Victoria’s impressive coastline has over 600 beaches to explore. Safe to say, you could easily spend a lifetime exploring. To help, we have narrowed it down to the top 15 most popular and iconic beaches Victoria has to offer.
1. Bells Beach – Torquay
Distance and drive time from Melbourne: ~105 km, ~1 hour 30 minutes
Highlights:
One of the most iconic surf beaches in Victoria, Bells Beach is a must for wave chasers. Home to the famous Rip Curl Pro event, this beach delivers massive swells and stunning cliffside views. Surf culture is rich here—don't miss the Australian National Surfing Museum in nearby Torquay.
Where To Stay:
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Torquay Foreshore Caravan Park – Right on the beach, with powered sites, BBQs, and access to the bustling town centre.
Image: Visit Victoria
2. Lorne Beach – Great Ocean Road
Distance and drive time from Melbourne: ~145 km, ~2 hours 15 minutes
Highlights:
If you're seeking nice beaches in Melbourne that offer a peaceful escape, Lorne is ideal. This long stretch of sandy coast is perfect for swimming, walking, and relaxing. The town boasts boutique cafes and a laid-back vibe.
Where To Stay:
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Nearby BIG4 Apollo Bay Pisces Holiday Park – Well-equipped with cabins, powered sites, and walking distance to the beach.
3. St Kilda Beach – Melbourne
Distance and drive time from Melbourne: ~6 km from CBD, ~15 minutes
Highlights:
A favourite among beautiful beaches Melbourne has to offer, St Kilda Beach blends sun, surf, and city vibes. Stroll along the promenade, grab a gelato, or try spotting penguins on the pier.
Where To Stay:
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Discovery Parks Melbourne – 30 minutes away from the CBD and offers full campervan facilities for city-side beachgoers.
4. Sorrento Front Beach – Mornington Peninsula
Distance and drive time from Melbourne: ~110 km, ~1 hour 40 minutes
Highlights:
Known for its calm, turquoise waters, Sorrento Front Beach is perfect for families or relaxed swimmers. It’s one of the best beaches near Melbourne if you're looking for charm and serenity.
Where To Stay:
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Sorrento Foreshore Caravan Park – A beachfront site that fills up fast during summer, offering powered sites and excellent facilities.
5. Point Leo Beach – Mornington Peninsula
Distance and drive time from Melbourne: ~95 km, ~1 hour 30 minutes
Highlights:
A hidden treasure on the Victoria coast, Point Leo is popular with surfers and art lovers alike. It's quiet, scenic, and surrounded by nature.
Where To Stay:
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Point Leo Foreshore Reserve – Rustic beachfront camping with limited sites, so book ahead.
6. Apollo Bay Beach – Great Ocean Road
Distance and drive time from Melbourne: ~200 km, ~3 hours
Highlights:
Gentle waves and grassy picnic spots make Apollo Bay one of the best beaches in Victoria for relaxing and recharging. You’ll love the small-town atmosphere and fresh seafood.
Where To Stay:
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BIG4 Apollo Bay Pisces Holiday Park – Well-equipped with cabins, powered sites, and walking distance to the beach.
7. Squeaky Beach – Wilsons Promontory
​​Distance and drive time from Melbourne: ~210 km, ~3 hours
Highlights:
Named for its squeaky quartz sand, this beach is a standout among beach Victoria Australia options. Surrounded by granite boulders and bushland, it offers epic views and walking trails.
Where To Stay:
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Tidal River Campground – Inside Wilsons Prom National Park, with unpowered sites, BBQs, and facilities.
8. Jan Juc Beach – Surf Coast
Distance and drive time from Melbourne: ~100 km, ~1 hour 25 minutes
Highlights:
Just a stone’s throw from Bells Beach, Jan Juc is popular with beginner surfers and sunseekers. It also features scenic cliff walks and great local cafes.
Where To Stay:
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Jan Juc Caravan Park – Laid-back and friendly, just minutes from the water.
9. Ninety Mile Beach – Gippsland
Distance and drive time from Melbourne: ~230 km, ~3 hours
Highlights:
One of the longest uninterrupted beaches in the world, this stretch is ideal for fishing, swimming, or long walks. A VIC beach treasure for those who love remote beauty.
Where To Stay:
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Seaspray Caravan Park – Direct access to the beach, peaceful and perfect for stargazing.
10. Inverloch Beach – Bass Coast
Distance and drive time from Melbourne: ~145 km, ~2 hours
Highlights:
A family-friendly beach near Melbourne, Inverloch has calm waters and a welcoming town. Whether it’s building sandcastles or catching waves, it’s a perfect coastal retreat.
Where To Stay:
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BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Inverloch – Excellent playgrounds, a pool, and beach access for the full family experience.
11. Eastern Beach – Geelong
Distance and drive time from Melbourne: ~75 km, ~1 hour
Highlights:
A classic foreshore with art deco charm, Eastern Beach is a great urban beach with swimming enclosures, picnic areas, and the iconic diving tower.
Where To Stay:
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Geelong Surfcoast Highway Holiday Park – A convenient base to explore Geelong and nearby beaches.
12. Point Lonsdale Beach – Bellarine Peninsula
Distance and drive time from Melbourne: ~110 km, ~1 hour 35 minutes
Highlights:
A quiet alternative to the busier beaches, Point Lonsdale offers rockpool exploring and a historic lighthouse walk. Great for photographers and nature lovers.
Where To Stay:
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BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Queenscliff Beacon – A luxury holiday park nearby with pools, spas, and plenty of family activities.
13. Lakes Entrance Beach – Gippsland
Distance and drive time from Melbourne: ~320 km, ~4 hours 15 minutes
Highlights:
Lakes Entrance blends beach and lake life, offering everything from fishing and kayaking to beachside cafes. It's a great stop on a longer road trip.
Where To Stay:
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Eastern Beach Holiday Resort – Minutes from town and right beside the coast.
14. Williamstown Beach – Melbourne
Distance and drive time from Melbourne: ~13 km from CBD, ~20 minutes
Highlights:
For those after good beaches in Melbourne without going far, Williamstown is a top pick. Enjoy gentle waters, city views, and a local vibe with great eateries.
Where To Stay:
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BIG4 Melbourne Holiday Park – Located in Coburg, it’s a short drive to Williamstown and the Melbourne CBD.
15. Sandy Point Beach – Wilsons Promontory
Distance and drive time from Melbourne: ~180 km, ~2 hours 45 minutes
Highlights:
Tucked between wild dunes and remote coastline, Sandy Point is a Victoria beach gem for those who love space and solitude.
Where To Stay:
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Shallow Inlet Caravan & Cabin Park – Near the inlet, with easy access to the dunes and water for adventurers.
Why Campervan Travel is the Best Way to Explore Victoria's Beaches
Travelling by campervan gives you the freedom to discover Victoria’s beaches at your own pace. With no strict check-in times, your van becomes your base—perfect for early morning swims or beachside dinners. You’ll also find countless beachfront holiday parks offering powered sites and modern amenities along the Victoria coast Australia.
Whether you're looking for the best beaches near Melbourne, scenic surf beaches, or peaceful corners of the Victoria coast, this state has a beach for every kind of traveller. Add these coastal gems to your next road trip itinerary and discover why these beautiful beaches in Melbourne and beyond continue to capture hearts.
Ready for your next campervan adventure?
Hire a campervan with Britz and discover the best beaches Victoria has to offer. For more ideas on where to take your campervan while road-tripping in Victoria and beyond, check out the Britz blog.