Incredible Things To Do In Lorne | Australian Traveller

From zip-lining among gum trees to swimming laps at the historic sea baths, there are plenty of things to do in Lorne on your next trip to the Great Ocean Road.

Looking for things to do in Lorne? This seaside holiday hot spot offers slow-paced pursuits like perfecting your swing on a bush-fringed golfing green, yoga classes at beach baths or catching a flick at a cute, vintage cinema.

Prefer to get your heart rate up? Try a group surf lesson at Lorne Beach or go on a zip-lining adventure that’s guaranteed to get your blood pumping. However you choose to enjoy Lorne, be sure to start (or finish) your day with a wander along the scenic Lorne Pier – it’s the ideal activity to bookend your day.

1. Feel the rush at Live Wire Park

Home to what has been called ‘Australia’s most extreme zip line’, Lorne’s Live Wire Park has a range of electrifying experiences for all the family, including a wheelchair-accessible circuit. There are plenty of options to try here depending on your skill level and confidence.

the Live Wire Park signage — Live Wire Park has a range of electrifying experiences for all the family. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Choose to glide high among the blue gums on the 120-metre Canopy Circuit or challenge yourself on the 525-metre high-intensity, Shockwave Zip Coaster for a fast and furious experience.

wall climbing at Live Wire Park, Lorne — Conquer your fear of heights at the Live Wire Park. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Want to tire the kids out? Book in to traverse the Super Circuit where you’ll spend two hours scaling trees, crossing suspended bridges, flying through the air on Tarzan swings and other agile, aerial treetop adventures.

Brush up on local history at the Great Ocean Road Heritage Centre

Much more than a piece of soulless infrastructure designed to get drivers from A to B, the Great Ocean Road has a fascinating history behind it. Located at the Lorne Visitor Centre, the Great Ocean Road Heritage Centre shares the story of Australia’s most famous road. Constructed as a memorial to the Australian soldiers who lost their lives in World War One, this iconic road was built by returned soldiers from 1919 onwards and officially opened in 1932. The road is both a feat of engineering and a poignant monument to the many who made the ultimate sacrifice. Spend some time and you’ll view the Great Ocean Road in a whole new light.

Take a stroll along Lorne Pier

Lorne’s first pier was built back in 1879 to serve the logging industry. Over time that pier slowly degraded, but this new pier retains a small section of the old pier as a historical reminder of Lorne’s industrial past. Take a wander along the pier which quite a few people still use to fish for whiting, bream, flathead and mullet. By night, the pier is lit up so take a stroll after dinner to enjoy balmy breezes and a spot of stargazing.

walking at sunrise in Lorne Pier — Take in balmy breezes as you wander along the Lorne Pier. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Learn to surf at Lorne Beach

Since Lorne is one of the more sheltered beaches along the Great Ocean Road, it’s the ideal spot for beginners and kids to learn the basics without being wiped out by the big swells you see at places like Bells Beach.

a scenic landscape of the Lorne Beach — Lorne Beach offers an idyllic surfing spot. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Whether you’re a casual surfer looking to brush on your technique or a total newbie hoping to stand up on a board for the very first time, Go Ride A Wave has a lesson to suit you.

surfers at Lorne Beach — Newbies are welcome to book a private lesson. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Join a group class or book a private lesson for some one-on-one tuition; either way, you’ll have a classic Surf Coast experience that will put you in good stead for years to come.

Take a dip at Lorne Sea Baths

Want a break from the beach? Open seven days a week, these historic sea baths offer so much more than lap swimming. Here you can also stretch yourself in a seasonal poolside yoga class, revive your tired muscles with hydrotherapy or play a round of mini golf with your kids. Hungry? Head to the kiosk for an ice cream or enjoy a special lunch with water views at the onsite restaurant, Almyra.

Walk the Swing Bridge Circuit

This gentle, pram-friendly 1-kilometre loop is the perfect way to start the day. Starting at the visitor centre, stroll through the Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park towards the Swing Bridge. Grab a takeaway coffee from the Swing Bridge Café , then wander along the boardwalk, through the caravan park, over the Erskine River Bridge back to where you started at the visitor centre.

the Swing Bridge Cafe in Lorne — Stroll through the Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park towards the Swing Bridge.

Get in the swing of things at Lorne Country Club

Fancy a game of social tennis? Or perhaps you want to refine your golf swing on the green? With a 9-hole golf course and several synthetic grass and clay tennis courts, the Lorne Country Club is a great spot to spend an afternoon in the sun.

an aerial view of the Lorne Country Club — Come for golf or tennis at Lorne Country Club. (Image: Visit Victoria)

High up on a hill, this bush-fringed spot has incredible ocean views too. Come for tennis or golf, stay for a beer and meal at The Peak bistro.

a man playing golf at Lorne Country Club — Refine your golf swing on the green.

Catch a show at Lorne Theatre

This Art Deco picture palace has entertained Lorne locals and visitors to the Great Ocean Road since 1937. During summer, this charming theatre shows a select range of Hollywood and arthouse films. If you love live music, be sure to check the website before you head to Lorne – you might be able to catch a live set here too since the theatre hosts international and local acts.

Need coffee? Here are 9 Lorne cafes to get your caffeine fix.

In recent years, Ballarat has emerged as one of Victoria’s most dynamic and daring cities. And, this spring, two unexpected creative showcases will take over the town.

No matter the season, it’s always a good time to visit Ballarat – but spring might be the most ideal. The weather is warmer, the skies are clearer, the flowers across its botanical landscapes are in bloom. And events in Ballarat transform the city into a playground of creativity.

This year, Ballarat will welcome both new and returning artistic events, best paired with a jaunt through the city’s eclectic array of things to eat, drink and explore. Here’s how to spend a spring weekend in this cool cultural hub.

The events

Two of the most exciting events hitting Ballarat this spring are the 2025 Ballarat International Foto Biennale and the inaugural edition of Sunnyside, a captivating and immersive art extravaganza.

Ballarat International Foto Biennale

Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or simply curious, the Ballarat International Foto Biennale is a must. The event permeates the entire city, with works by over 360 local and international photographers adorning over 100 buildings, businesses, streets and public spaces.

This year marks the 11th chapter and will centre on ‘Lifeforce’ – a theme that’s all about humanity and connection. Among the many talents on show, the headline artist is Campbell Addy, a British-Ghanaian creative who explores roots and identity. Be sure to visit before it ends in 2025 on 19 October.

Sunnyside

Sunnyside is making its debut this year, introducing a brand-new celebration of colour, creativity and community to Ballarat. The 17-day celebration, from 6 to 23 November, will feature immersive installations and experiences, talks, a vibrant opening night gala, and workshops covering everything from crochet to neon block printing.

Internationally acclaimed London-based artist Morag Myerscough will lead the celebration and convert Ballarat’s historic Mining Exchange – a gold rush era trading hall – and the city’s streets into a multi-sensory art spectacle.

While you’re there

Don’t miss out on everything else Ballarat has to offer. Here’s where to eat, drink, see and stay in the city.

Where to eat

Vibrant Latin American dishes at Pancho, adding flavour to Events in Ballarat. — Savour bold Latin American dishes at Pancho. (Image: Einwick)

For daytime dining, you’re spoiled for choice. Johnny Alloo does contemporary cafe fare in a warm and inviting space, while Hydrant Food Hall is a popular pick for breakfast and lunch classics. Eclectic Tastes makes seasonal dishes that incorporate plenty of local produce, giving you a great opportunity to taste the region’s flavours.

At night, head to Roy Hammond for delicious cocktails and contemporary Asian-inspired eats or Pancho for vibrant (and very good) Latin American food in fun surrounds. At Hop Temple, you’ll find an incredible selection of craft beers (more than 200, to be exact) and punchy pub fare, or you can head slightly out of town for tasty bistro classics at the historic and character-filled Buninyong Hotel .

In the mood for something fancy? Visit one of Ballarat’s many hatted restaurants, like Babae (produce-driven fine dining inspired by regional Victoria), Mr Jones (modern Asian by a chef with a Michelin pedigree) and Underbar (an ultra-exclusive spot doing ultra-refined tasting menus).

Where to drink

Food and wine tastings at Blue Pyrenees Estate, a refined experience beyond Events in Ballarat. — Relax over wine at Blue Pyrenees Estate. (Image: Visit Victoria)

No matter your poison, you’ll find a venue to suit in Ballarat. Aunty Jacks is a local institution, serving a generous line-up of beers made in the on-site brewery. Renard is perfect for a pre-dinner drink or nightcap, with a menu that spans creative signature cocktails, locally produced wines and Australian spirits.

Try some of Ballarat’s finest creations at one of its many boutique distilleries, including Grainery Lane and Itinerant Spirits. The former specialises in gin and vodka, while the latter offers gin, vodka and craft whiskey. Buy a bottle from either as a memento of your trip.

You can also venture a little further afield to one of the area’s renowned wineries and cellar doors. There are 25 scattered around the Pyrenees (Ballarat’s very own surrounding wine region), including Dalwhinnie, Summerfield and Blue Pyrenees Estate. Eastern Peake – a family-owned winery led by Young Gun of Wine 2025, Owen Latta – is also a must-visit.

What to see

A koala eating eucalyptus leaves at Ballarat Wildlife Park. — Meet a koala at Ballarat Wildlife Park. (Image: Visit Victoria)

If you’ve got time to spare after the thrill of the spring festivities, there’s lots to see and do. More art can be found in the city’s streets and laneways, with local street artists transforming the walls with impressive murals and installations.

Ballarat is equally renowned for its heritage architecture, much of which flourished during the gold rush. Notable buildings include Ballarat Town Hall, Her Majesty’s Theatre and Craig’s Royal Hotel, all located centrally and within walking distance of one another.

Travelling with kids? Head to Sovereign Hill for a living-history adventure or Ballarat Wildlife Park to meet koalas, reptiles and free-roaming kangaroos.

Where to stay

An elegant suite at Hotel Vera, offering boutique comfort. — Enjoy all-out luxury at Hotel Vera. (Image: Visit Victoria)

If you’re venturing to the city by train and want to stay somewhere central, Quest Ballarat Station is an excellent pick. The modern serviced apartments are situated just 250m from the station and a short stroll from downtown Ballarat, making coming, going and exploring the city incredibly easy. There’s also an on-site gym, barbecue area and accessible rooms available.

For a touch of French luxe in regional Victoria, The Provincial Hotel is a standout choice, with gorgeously appointed rooms and suites in a restored heritage-listed building. The hotel is also conveniently located on Lydiard Street, which is lined with grand historic architecture.

If you’re after something truly luxe, book a few nights at Hotel Vera. The exclusive collection of only seven suites presents all-out opulence: think lush linens, designer furniture, works by notable artists and gilded touches. It also happens to house fine-dining favourite Babae, making it an optimal stay if you’re keen to try the restaurant.

Getting there

aerial of hop lane in ballarat — Turn your Ballarat visit into a memorable weekend. (Image: Einwick)

One of the best things about Ballarat is its proximity to Melbourne. It’s only 90 minutes away by car – an easy journey down the Western Freeway – or can be easily reached by rail. The train from Southern Cross to Ballarat Station takes less than 90 minutes and drops you right in the centre of town.

Start planning your stay at visitballarat.com.au.

The best things to do in Lorne on your next seaside trip