Visit for excellent displays on shipwrecks and Portland's whaling history. Other highlights include a sperm-whale skeleton that washed ashore, a giant squid caught in 1997 and the original 1858 wooden lifeboat used to save 19 passengers after the disastrous wreck of the SS Admella. The cafe has one of the best views in town.
Portland Maritime Discovery Centre
Great Ocean Road
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
4.01 MILES
Bird-lovers won't want to miss the opportunity to visit Australia's only mainland gannet colony, which can be viewed from a platform at Point Danger…
0.85 MILES
Set along the Great South West Walk is this superb purpose-built whale-viewing platform that looks out to stupendous views of the ocean. Free mounted…
0.44 MILES
The grassy precinct overlooking the harbour has several heritage bluestone buildings. The Customs House (1850) is still a working office, but on weekdays…
6.91 MILES
Head to the top of the still-operational Cape Nelson lighthouse (c 1884) for fantastic views overlooking the edge of the world. You'll be shown around the…
28.53 MILES
Just outside Macarthur on the road to Budj Bim National Park, this boutique winery on a small farm is run by a husband and wife both originally from South…
0.65 MILES
This restored 1886 cable tram (now diesel powered) does four to five trips a day, plying a circular 7.4km route on a track laid in 2002 that links the…
0.59 MILES
The third-oldest botanical gardens in Victoria (behind those in Melbourne and Geelong), this peaceful spot is a lovely place to stroll or enjoy a picnic…
0.55 MILES
Set in a massive shed decorated with motor paraphernalia is this car enthusiast's dream, featuring 40 vintage and classic Australian and international…
Nearby Great Ocean Road attractions
0.44 MILES
The grassy precinct overlooking the harbour has several heritage bluestone buildings. The Customs House (1850) is still a working office, but on weekdays…
0.46 MILES
Located in the former town hall (1863), this interesting museum details Portland's rich colonial and maritime history. There's also info on the drama…
3. Powerhouse Motor & Car Museum
0.55 MILES
Set in a massive shed decorated with motor paraphernalia is this car enthusiast's dream, featuring 40 vintage and classic Australian and international…
0.59 MILES
The third-oldest botanical gardens in Victoria (behind those in Melbourne and Geelong), this peaceful spot is a lovely place to stroll or enjoy a picnic…
0.65 MILES
This restored 1886 cable tram (now diesel powered) does four to five trips a day, plying a circular 7.4km route on a track laid in 2002 that links the…
0.85 MILES
Set along the Great South West Walk is this superb purpose-built whale-viewing platform that looks out to stupendous views of the ocean. Free mounted…
7. World War II Memorial Lookout
0.85 MILES
While the old water tower (c 1932) houses an interesting WWII collection donated by locals, it's of most interest for its commanding 360-degree views of…
4.01 MILES
Bird-lovers won't want to miss the opportunity to visit Australia's only mainland gannet colony, which can be viewed from a platform at Point Danger…