From bush to beach, explore the best things to do in Lorne.

There is an abundance of great things to do in Lorne, for nature lovers to water babies and everyone in between. Just two hours from Melbourne, nestled between the beach and beautiful forests of the Great Otway National Park, the cosmopolitan town is a favourite destination for those travelling the Great Ocean Road. Make it your home base, and start exploring.

In short

If you only do one thing in Lorne, visit Lorne Beach. It’s one of the safest and most sheltered beaches along the Surf Coast; whether you want to swim, surf or simply relax, nothing beats the pristine sand and blue waters of Loutit Bay.

Visit Qdos Fine Arts

Best for: Art lovers

This arts venue is set amongst the serene natural beauty of the Great Otway National Park. Explore the latest exhibition, wander the garden with its outdoor sculptures, and enjoy lunch with a view of the trees at the on-site cafe, where they use some of their own organic produce and eggs from their chooks. If you like what you see, you can even stay in one of the five treehouses on the property.

Opening hours: 9am–5pm, Thursday to Sunday from September to April

See glow worms at Sheoak Picnic Ground Nature Walk

Best for: Families and wildlife enthusiasts

As night falls, keep an eye out for twinkling glow worms along the Sheoak Picnic Ground Nature Walk. This easy 30-minute loop through the forest starts at the picturesque picnic ground, equipped with toilets, a picnic shelter and gas barbecues. If you’re a keen hiker, come earlier to explore one of the several trails leading to waterfalls in the area.

Relax at Lorne Beach

Best for: Everyone

Sheltered by Point Grey and one of the only beaches patrolled during the summer months, Lorne Beach is the ideal place to take a dip on a hot day. The sandy two-kilometre stretch is backed by grassy picnic areas, BBQ facilities and Lorne’s main strip of cafes and restaurants, so there’s no reason not to spend the day (fish and chips on the beach, anyone?). There are also accessibility features that can be booked in advance. Just don’t forget some insect repellent – the last time I was there, my partner fell victim to some sand flies.

Explore the waterfalls of the Otways

Best for: Nature lovers

Lorne is a gateway to the stunning waterfalls of the Great Otway National Park. Your first stop, and the most popular, should be Erskine Falls, a 30-metre cascade just 15 minutes from town; other worthwhile stops include Upper and Lower Kalimna Falls, Sheoak Falls and Phantom Falls. Check conditions before you go and note that the seasons and rainfall can affect water flow.

Taste local drops at St Anne’s Winery

Best for: Oenophiles

With multiple vineyards in Victoria and New South Wales, St. Anne’s Winery is a family-run business offering a diverse range of premium Australian wines. The cellar door is in the heart of Lorne, right amongst the shops and restaurants and across from the beach; pop in after a dip to sample some wines and pick up a bottle for dinner (the flagship riesling is a favourite).

Take the kids to Lorne Sea Baths

Best for: Families

If you’re looking for a bunch of family-friendly activities in one place, Lorne Sea Baths ticks all the boxes. There’s a solar-heated pool, beachfront mini golf, cafe and restaurant, plus paddleboard and kayak hire for the more adventurous. No kids? Relax in the hydrotherapy spas and sauna.

Opening hours: Check the website as hours vary for different areas.

Enjoy the views from Teddy’s Lookout

Best for: Everyone

Head to Teddy’s Lookout for a breathtaking vantage point of St George’s River and the blue expanse of Bass Strait. Explore the surrounding bush trails, watch the sunset, and from May to September keep an eye out for whales migrating north to warmer waters.

Go ziplining at Live Wire Park

Best for: Adventure enthusiasts

For outdoor adventures amongst the treetops, look no further than the completely off-grid Live Wire Park. Experiences range from the accessible Canopy Circuit to an exhilarating 525-metre zipline and challenging Super Circuit, consisting of mid-air trails, suspended bridges and Tarzan swing. Kids will love the Short Circuit; it’s an hour-long experience with a minimum height of 110 centimetres.

Opening hours: 9.45am–5pm daily

Hike the Canyon (Lorne Waterfalls Circuit)

This moderate hike includes three waterfalls – Won Wondah, Henderson and Phantom Falls – along with a narrow canyon featuring sheer rock faces and moss-covered boulders. Admire the lush rainforest setting along the way, from tall eucalypts to fern-lined creeks; just make sure you wear sturdy footwear.

Best for: Hikers and nature lovers

Enjoy a cuppa by a historic bridge

Best for: Everyone

The charming Lorne Grocer sits at the mouth of the Erskine River, next to the historic swing bridge, a tranquil setting away from the hustle and bustle of Mountjoy Parade. Whether you come for coffee or brunch, you’ll want to linger for the friendly atmosphere and beautiful views.

Opening hours: From 7am daily

Learn to surf at Lorne Beach

Best for: Active holiday goers

New to surfing? Where better to learn than along Lorne’s stunning coastline. It’s one of the most sheltered beaches along the Surf Coast, which makes it ideal for first-timers. Go Ride a Wave offers daily 2-hour sessions for both beginners and intermediates, and there’s also the option to book in private one-on-ones if you want to master the waves faster.

See a show at the Lorne Theatre

Best for: Cinephiles

The heritage-listed Art Deco Lorne Theatre has been open since 1937 and underwent a refurbishment in 2024. Perfect for a rainy day or evening activity, it’s where locals and visitors go to catch the latest films or attend live shows, from music concerts to stand-up comedians.

Browse the boutiques of Mountjoy Parade

Best for: Window shoppers

Support local by shopping at the variety of stores and boutiques that line Mountjoy Parade. Browse Australian and New Zealand labels at Wolf Whistle, pick up a timeless piece for the wardrobe at Vic and Bert, or explore homewares and textiles at Sage x Clare. One of my personal favourite things to do when I arrive in town is to grab a beach read from Lorne Books.

Enjoy dinner and drinks at the Grand Pacific Hotel

Best for: Foodies

The Grand Pacific Hotel is the ultimate pub with a view. Established in 1879 and recently refurbished, the iconic venue is perched up high, right by the Lorne Pier and overlooking Bass Strait. Grab a cocktail at the Fisherman’s Bar or head to the dining room for Italian-inspired dishes and classic pub fare.

Opening hours: Noon–late, Tuesday to Sunday

Take a dip in a swimming hole

Best for: Water and nature lovers

Jebb’s Pool is a picturesque swimming hole with several cascades, set amongst a tranquil bush setting. It can be reached by the track starting at Cumberland River Holiday Park. Take a picnic, go for a swim and laze about on the rocks on a warm summer’s day. If you’re feeling adventurous, the track continues on to Cumberland Falls.