The Best Geelong Pubs and Breweries for the Finest Ales

Salute the humble hop at our pick of the finest Bellarine and Geelong pubs and breweries.

I’ve always been a Melbourne laneway kind of reveller but a recent visit to Victoria’s second city, Geelong, converted me into a craft beer cheerleader. Home to industrial-chic warehouse operations churning out hopalicious heroes, plus sprawling all-day taprooms with stellar beer gardens, Geelong pubs and breweries are casual-cool yet filled with quality indulgence.

Here are my top port city picks – stretching into the Bellarine Peninsula – for good times and great classic pours.

In short

If you only visit one of the best Geelong pubs, make it Little Creatures Brewery Geelong. With a kids’ playground, indoor and outdoor seating and slick merchandise, it’s the city’s OG craft beer superstar.

1. Little Creatures Brewery Geelong

a crowded pub at Little Creatures Brewery Geelong — Gather with friends at Little Creatures Brewery. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Arguably the flagship taphouse that kickstarted Geelong’s craft brew craze, Little Creatures Brewery Geelong is my go-to for a family-friendly afternoon session. When I visited, I managed to get a table for eight adults and two children without calling ahead – it’s that huge. The rustic-meets-industrial brewery and beer hall is housed in a vast brick building that was formerly a wool mill, and there’s even an entirely separate taphouse for the brand’s sister brewery, White Rabbit. Just wander down the alley to spot it. If you’re here for Little Creatures proper, you’ll love the Freo-born business’ signature hop-driven American Pale Ale, best washed down with woodfired pizzas and share plates. The food is surprisingly delicious, earning the Geelong pub’s dining room a place on my list of the best Geelong restaurants. Hopheads can take a brewery tour or simply try a paddle of whatever taps, including the crowd-pleasing Pipsqueak apple cider, take their fancy.

Address: 221 Swanston St, South Geelong

2. Mount Pleasant Rd Brewers

the bar counter at Mount Pleasant Rd Brewers — Enjoy a range of beers on tap. (Image: Mount Pleasant Rd Brewers)

In town on the weekend? Run, don’t walk, to Mount Pleasant Rd Brewers , which only opens Friday to Sunday in summer, or Friday and Saturday during the cooler months. The independent brew masters blend seriously killer flavours that flow freely in their small yet cosy taproom and umbrella-dotted brew garden out back, drawing Geelong locals plus passionate beer fans from all over. Nine taps pour the brand’s beloved lager, IPAs, pilsners and experimental takes while a snack menu lines stomachs if there’s not a food truck hanging on-site.

Address: 110 Mt Pleasant Rd, Belmont

3. Malt Shovel Taphouse

With its super contemporary look and feel – all white walls and flourishes of greenery – this Geelong taphouse welcomes both the uninitiated and the hobbyist brewer. Expect 16 beers on tap at any one time, a collection curated from different local brewers in addition to their own. Can’t decide on one? Opt for a tasting flight instead, and if you don’t pledge allegiance to the humble hop, there are wines and cocktails, too. Take your poison out to this Geelong pub’s sizable beer garden, festooned with string lights and featuring a retractable roof – it’s an ideal spot to while away an entire afternoon in the sunshine. Once hunger strikes, you’ve got options: this place specialises in rotisserie meats (think beef brisket, roasted herb porchetta and more), but pub grub classics like steaks, burgers, a chicken parmi and salads, are also up for grabs.

Address: Corner Bellarine and Malop St, Geelong

4. Flying Brick Cider Co.

a cider tasting paddle at Flying Brick Cider Co. — Swap your beer for a cider tasting paddle. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Over on the Bellarine Peninsula, Flying Brick Cider Co. is a haven for the sweeter stuff. Choose from three core creations as well as taproom-only seasonal batches that lean into peak fruity flavours. The team are proud to play with purely Australian-sourced fruits including local apples and Packham pears, so it’s a great spot to visit if you like your cider more delicious and less carbonated water. Vibe-wise, the Geelong pub dazzles through its natural light-flooded beer hall and restaurant which opens to spacious lawns (often used for weddings). Wash your homegrown beverages down with grazing platters, hearty pub classics spanning burgers, steaks and a market fish, while children get their own dedicated menu of deep-fried delights.

Address: 1251-1269 Bellarine Hwy, Wallington

5. FarmDog Brewing

a bartender holding two glasses of cocktail at FarmDog Brewing, Geelong pub — Kick off the night with punchy cocktails. (Image: Johnny Rollins Photography)

While we’re exploring the Bellarine, drop into FarmDog Brewing too, a top-notch operation located on McGlashan’s Wallington Estate winery. You’ll score a range of beers plus house crafted gins, best sampled as a FarmDog Gin Tasting Board with Fever Tree tonic and zesty garnishes. Beer paddles are also a popular choice, plus there’s a long list of classic cocktails to choose from if your sweet tooth can’t be silenced. The FarmDog love extended into a second tasting room right in the heart of Geelong in September 2025, offering the same famous blends in an intimate bar space right off Little Malop St. Destined to be hot in summer 2025, mark our words.

Address: 225 Swan Bay Rd, Wallington and Unit 2/5 Denny’s Pl, Geelong

6. Blackman’s Brewery Geelong

people sitting inside the pub at Blackman’s Brewery Geelong — Beer lovers gather at Blackman’s Brewery Geelong.

Located in an industrial precinct, Blackman’s Brewery Geelong is perhaps the archetypal new-age craft beer brewery. Open since early 2021, Blackman’s brews are poured out of a repurposed neon orange shipping container, and its mash tuns and fermentation tanks are on full display in all their shiny silver glory behind the taproom’s chairs and tables. There’s about 10 beers – and one cider – in its core range, plus a steady stream of seasonal brews. The spacious spot often plays host to live music sessions of a weekend, with regular food truck pop-ups too. If you’ve got time on your side, pay a visit to this Geelong brewery’s sister bars in Torquay and Ocean Grove, too.

Address: 29/8 Lewalan Street, Grovedale

7. The Batesford Hotel

Brown leather seating and tables in a pub — The charming country pub delivers historic charm. (Image: Ryal Sormaz)

Moving into proper country pub territory, The Batesford Hotel is a regional Geelong pub with bucketloads of charm. You’ll spot it about six minutes’ drive from town, right along the highway – look for the long white building with a Carlton Draught sign on the roof, and don’t let the facade fool you. Inside, a beautiful, refurbished space, rich in timber and forest green to reflect its lush surroundings, instantly impresses. Live music flows all weekend, classic pub meals roll out of the kitchen and a beer garden dotted with picnic tables, right by a lake, sets a totally serene scene.

Address: 700 Ballarat Rd, Batesford

8. Murphys

Let your hair down at Murphys , a pub every Geelong local’s practically grown up with. The spot to catch a game of footy or sink cocktails with friends, Murphys is my favourite pick for low-key hangs as the drinks flow freely of a weekend and there’s always a crowd. The views are impressive from the pub’s rooftop too, stretching out over the skyline, with protective sheeting ensuring it’s a great spot even when the weather is miserable. Grab an affordable feed as weekly specials include Tuesday Parmi Night, Wednesday Burger Night and Thursday Steak Night, while the regular menu features six different parmis, several burgers, steaks, pastas, fish and chips, and more.  

Address: 30 Aberdeen St, Geelong West

The wild, otherworldly beauty of The Grampians offers a perfect place to unwind, slow down and relax.

Not all holidays yield the same result; some are bustling, with endless things to do, events to book and places to see. All great things, but they leave you feeling more tired than before. Then, there are destinations that help you slow down, making real connections and participating in self-care.

Destinations like The Grampians : surrounded by untouched nature, allowing a chance to reconnect with yourself and loved ones at a slower pace.

Discover six science-backed ways to enjoy a holiday and feel restored at the end of it.

1. Practice mindfulness

Hamilton Gallery, the grampians — Be present at Hamilton Gallery. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Mindfulness – the practice of tuning into the present moment – has been found to help in reducing stress, anxiety and depression. One way to practice this art is by immersing yourself in art.

Hamilton Gallery has been in operation for over 60 years, and is not only home to many significant art pieces but also runs workshops and events for all ages to expand their awareness and understanding of art. The gallery is also the custodian of the largest collection of Gunditjmara artefacts held on country.

If you prefer to practice mindfulness through movement, visit Halls Gap Zoo to feed the meerkats – who wouldn’t feel better after focusing on these little guys? Or visit The Grampians Horse Riding Centre for an unforgettable morning ride through 10 kilometres of bushland. Enjoy the soothing movement of the horse and experience the bush anew.

2. Indulge in self-care

two people swimming in the Venus Baths, the grampains — Take an immersive bath in nature on the Venus Baths loop walk. (Image: Visit Victoria)

While the term self-care might conjure up images of indulgent bubble baths or a soothing massage, there’s more to it than pampering. Self-care is any action that protects your physical, emotional and mental well-being.

Like taking an immersive ‘bath’ in nature. Do just that on the Venus Baths loop walk – ideal for less experienced hikers or those walking with kids – stopping at freshwater-filled rockpools to cool down along the way.

Serious hikers (we’re talking some rock hopping and traversing slippery tracks) can tackle the Wurgarri, or Mount Sturgeon walk, which rewards the effort with panoramic views from the summit.

For those whose idea of self-care leans more towards arts and culture, a visit to WAMA is a must. Australia’s first national centre for environmental art is home to exhibitions that explore the natural world through film, installation, painting, performance and more.

3. Embrace nature

Boroka Lookout, the grampians — Soak in incredible views over Halls Gap at Boroka Lookout. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Spending time in nature is the ultimate way to soothe your body and mind. It’s been proven to help with all manner of things, from reducing stress to boosting cognitive function. And there’s no better place to enjoy it than among the raw sandstone, wildflowers and native creatures of The Grampians.

Rocklands Reservoir, spanning 6700 hectares, is an ideal spot. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the view over Grampians National Park. Cast a line, hire a canoe or follow nature trails along the water’s perimeter. How’s the serenity?

To appreciate nature’s imposing power, head to Splitters Falls. Here, find unrivalled tranquillity. Spring is the best time to visit, when bouquets of native spring flowers greet visitors.

Those with limited mobility will appreciate Boroka Lookout, a viewing platform surrounded by breathtaking views over Halls Gap and the eastern Grampians. Come early to witness a sunrise you’ll never forget.

4. Prioritise Rest

outdoor bathtub at Nook On The Hill — Recharge at Nook on the Hill. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Above all else, a holiday should be an opportunity to recharge, and there’s no better way to do it than to get a good night’s sleep. We don’t need to tell you how essential sleep is, for everything from mental health to strengthening the immune system.

Try Wanderlust Glamping , where guests fall asleep to the soothing sounds of nature after an evening relaxing around the fire pit and wake to your very own green oasis.

For pure luxury in the foothills of the Grampians National Park, look no further than Nook on the Hill – a handcrafted tiny house surrounded by rewilded, lush native Australian bush. It might be small, but Nook on the Hill has everything needed to unwind in style, including an outdoor bath for balmy nights.

For a modern farm stay, book at Mount William Station in the foothills of The Grampians. The station combines old-world charm with modern amenities and easy access to everything this region has to offer.

5. Engage Your Senses

Salingers Cafe, destinations that help you slow down — Indulge in a meal at Salingers. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Few human senses are as fun to indulge in as taste. A meal at Salingers in Great Western is the ultimate treat, and not only for the taste buds. The food is excellent, but Salingers’ really unique attraction is the bustling beehive that lives within the walls of the historic building.

For an expertly smoked burger, ribs, or beef brisket, head to Flame Brothers in Halls Gap. Tuck into delicious food while you enjoy the view.

If you prefer your senses heightened by the pump of adrenaline, Grampians Soaring Club offers an eagle-eye view of the Grampians National Park and Pyrenees Ranges from a glider. Take in the sights with a cross-country flight, ridge soar, or altitude wave flight.

6. Connect and reconnect

The Dimboola Imaginarium, Wimmera Mallee victoria — Step into the whacky Dimboola Imaginarium. (Image: Denis Bin)

Making shared memories is a wonderful way to reconnect with old friends or make new ones. These unexpected finds make it easy to discover something new in The Grampians.

Amateur geologists will delight at the Kanawinka geotrail, which covers 60 sites over Australia’s most extensive volcanic province. Visit the Penshurst Volcano Discovery Centre to learn more about volcanic activity in The Grampians, or head to nearby Mount Napier State Park for a trip into the Byaduk lava caves.

Pop in to the Ros McArthur Art Studio to peruse the gardens full of native and exotic plants and flowers that serve as the subjects of Ros’s still life paintings.

For a shopping experience like no other, head to the Dimboola Imaginarium . Far more than a shop, the Dimboola Imaginarium is an immersive experience where you’ll find all manner of quirky bits and pieces. Expect the unexpected.

Put these science-backed holiday benefits to the test during a trip to The Grampians. Plan your peaceful getaway at visitgrampians.com.au.

8 of the most thirst-quenching Geelong pubs and breweries