Cunningham Pier entry

©Kate Morgan/Lonely Planet


Geelong's sparkling revamped waterfront precinct is a great place to stroll, with plenty of restaurants set on scenic piers, plus historical landmarks, a 19th-century carousel, sculptures, grand homes, swimming areas, playgrounds and grassy sections ideal for picnics. In summer you can cool off at popular Eastern Beach, with a 1930s art deco bathing pavilion complete with diving boards, sunbathing area and toddler pool. Jan Mitchell's 100-plus painted Baywalk Bollards are scattered the length of the waterfront.

Pick up a Baywalk Bollards brochure from the information kiosk so you can more formally acquaint yourself with the famous painted bollards that give the waterfront its unique character. The newest one is a tribute to Mitchell, who died in 2008.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Geelong Waterfront Carousel

0.08 MILES

A prominent feature along Geelong's waterfront is this ornate 19th-century hand-carved carousel, housed within a slick 21st-century glass pavilion.

2. National Wool Museum

0.16 MILES

More interesting than it may sound, this museum showcases the importance of the wool industry in shaping Geelong economically, socially and…

3. Geelong Art Gallery

0.4 MILES

With over 6000 works in its collection, this long-established gallery features celebrated Australian paintings such as Eugene von Guérard’s View of…

4. Eastern Beach

0.42 MILES

Making up part of Geelong's scenic waterfront are this sandy beach and art deco bathing pavilion. There's classic European-style enclosed bay swimming,…

5. Old Geelong Gaol

0.68 MILES

Built in 1849, HM Prison Geelong may have closed its doors in 1991, but this old bluestone jail remains as terrifying as ever. You'll see its grim cells…

6. Geelong Play Space

0.84 MILES

At this different kind of play area for kids, in Geelong's Eastern Gardens, near the Botanic Gardens, there's a pirate ship, a musical bridge, sandy areas…

7. Botanic Gardens

0.91 MILES

Geelong's botanic gardens (established in 1851) are the fourth oldest in Australia and make for a peaceful stroll or picnic. Aim to get here for a…

8. Boom Gallery

1.61 MILES

Down an industrial street off Pakington St, Boom's warehouse space in an old woollen mill shows contemporary works by Melbourne and local artists. It…