Your guide to the best Port Fairy accommodation

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Charming inns, bell tent glamping, stylish holiday homes, heritage pub stays and cruisy caravan parks, there’s a wealth of Port Fairy accommodation options to choose from.

Any Great Ocean Road trip needs to include a visit to Port Fairy. Home to a wealth of well-preserved heritage buildings, this historic fishing village honours its past while also welcoming the new. When choosing where to stay, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Whether you’re splashing out on a celebratory weekend to remember or planning a budget family break by the sea, there are lots of Port Fairy accommodation options to suit you.

Hotels

1. Merrijig Inn

Best for: Food and wine lovers

A little microcosm of magic, the Merrijig Inn is one of those inviting places with a special aura of its own.

the exterior of Merrijig Inn in Port Fairy
The Merrijig Inn is said to be Victoria’s oldest inn. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Laying claim to being Victoria’s oldest inn, a stay in one of the charming suites or compact attic rooms (not recommended for tall folk) includes a smorgasbord breakfast of house-made delights.

a dining room with a fireplace at Merrijig Inn in Port Fairy
Keep warm by the fireplace. (Image: Visit Victoria)

No visit is complete without a tipple at the convivial front bar and dinner at Merrijin Kitchen – food is an important chapter of this hospitality legend’s story.

the entrance to Merrijig Inn, Port Fairy
Step into the Merrijig Kitchen next door. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Address: 1 Campbell St, Port Fairy

2. Seacombe House

Best for: History lovers

From motor inn suites to historic cottages and rooms in a heritage-listed guesthouse, Seacombe House has lots of different styles of accommodation to choose from.

the exterior of Seacombe House, Port Fairy
Stay in a heritage-listed guesthouse.

Like many other buildings in this storied town, Seacombe House is listed on the National Trust, so when you stay here you’ll be walking in the footsteps of the traders, sailors and merchants who earned a crust living or visiting Port Fairy in centuries gone by.

the living room interior of Seacombe House, Port Fairy
Seacombe House offers a cosy spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

Address: 22 Sackville Street, Port Fairy

3. The Victoria Apartments

Best for: Travellers who prefer self-catering holidays

If you love having all the creature comforts of home while you’re away, try Victoria Apartments. Book a 2-bedroom apartment or 3-bedroom townhouse here and you’ll enjoy access to a range of amenities that will make you feel right at home. Use the large, well-equipped kitchen to cook meals, do a load of washing in the laundry, relax in the spacious lounge room while watching movies on the flatscreen TV and park your wheels in a lock-up garage – these apartments have everything you need for a comfortable break.

Address: 48/50 Bank Street, Port Fairy

4. The Oak & Anchor Hotel

Best for: Couples and solo travellers looking to enjoy an adults-only break

Although this heritage-listed hotel dates back to the mid-1800s, you’ll bed down in supreme comfort. Choose from seven stylish suites (most with freestanding bathtubs and Euro-style walk-in showers) ranging from the ground-floor Anchor Suite all the way up to the luxurious Bridal Suite.

a Euro-style walk-in shower with tub at The Oak & Anchor Hotel, Port Fairy
The stylish suite boasts spacious, Euro-inspired bathrooms. (Image: Visit Victoria)

If you’re after an adults-only retreat, you’ll be pleased to know this boutique accommodation is just for grownups.

the bed at The Oak & Anchor Hotel, Port Fairy
Experience ultimate comfort and relaxation in the beautifully designed beds. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Address: 9 Bank Street, Port Fairy

5. Central Motel

Best for: Visitors who value convenience and affordability.

Located right in the centre of town just 25 metres or so from some of Port Fairy’s best restaurants and cafes, you can’t beat Central Motel for convenience. If you’re watching your pennies, this neat and tidy motel has all the basics covered at an affordable price point. Looking for accessible accommodation? There’s a ground-floor, wheelchair-friendly room perfect for travellers with special needs.

Address: 56 Sackville Street, Port Fairy

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6. YHA Port Fairy

Best for: Budget-conscious travellers who are happy sharing communal spaces

If you love meeting other people and staying in places with a more communal vibe, YHA Port Fairy is just the place for you. This warm and welcoming heritage accommodation has shared ‘co-living’ rooms with bunk beds, family rooms and private rooms as well as shared spaces like a self-catering kitchen, communal lounge room, laundry, pool table and outdoor courtyard with a barbecue. Perhaps the best part is you’re just one block away from some of Port’s Fairy best eats, including killer cocktails and pizza at Coffin Sally on Sackville Street.

Address: 8 Cox Street, Port Fairy

Guesthouses and Airbnbs

7. Cherry Plum Cottages

Best for: People seeking a secluded break in the countryside.

This collection of cute, self-contained cottages surrounded by greenery is the ideal spot to get away from it all.

the living room interior at Cherry Plum Cottages
This rustic abode is designed with a cosy interior.

Take a wander through the gardens (don’t forget to say hi to the alpacas), prepare dinner on the barbecue and sit on the veranda in the morning and listen to the birdlife with a cup of tea in hand – this is the perfect place to enjoy living life in the slow lane.

breakfast by the garden at Cherry Plum Cottages
Spend early mornings in quiet contemplation.

Address: 37 Albert Road, Port Fairy

8. Sweet Tide O Moyne

Best for: Groups, families and pet owners.

If you want to plan a private break with your nearest and dearest, look no further than this well-appointed holiday house.

the outdoor deck at Sweet Tide O Moyne, Port Fairy
This charming beach-style cottage is just steps from East Beach.

Sleeping up to nine guests, this comfy home right by East Beach has all the mod cons needed for an independent, self-catered break.

a painting mounted on the wall with a vase below at Sweet Tide O Moyne, Port Fairy
The walls are adorned with paintings of the beach.

Use the Nespresso machine to make your morning coffee, cook up a banging lunch in the kitchen and use the barbecue to prepare dinner each night while everyone gathers around the firepit.  Board games, books and a travel cot make this holiday house perfect for a family getaway.

a close-up shot of the bed at Sweet Tide O Moyne, Port Fairy
This chic accommodation is a holiday haven for families.

Address: 1 Moyne Court, Port Fairy

9. Clonmara Country House & Cottages

Best for: Couples and small groups looking for a quiet and cosy country retreat full of charm.

Soak up the serenity at this historic country house and cottages located just outside the historic town centre. If you value the classic ‘cottage-core’ aesthetic and love wandering in country-style gardens, you will be in your element here. A top spot for a quiet, gentle break where you can truly relax, Clonmara Country House & Cottages is the type of place to enjoy lazy afternoons reading a paperback in the shade and cosy nights drinking wine by the warmth of the gas log fire. Bliss!

the Clonmara Country House & Cottages in Port Fairy
Settle into a cosy country retreat.

Address: 106 Princes Hwy, Port Fairy

Camping Grounds

10. Port Fairy Glamping

Best for: Couples and friends looking for a whimsical weekend away.

If you love the idea of camping but don’t want to truly rough it, enjoy the best of both worlds with Port Fairy Glamping. Forget struggling to pitch a tent, this local outfit will set up a romantic bell tent in a grassy area of one of Port Fairy’s caravan parks for you.

Inside you’ll find plush bedding, towels, lamps, rugs and cushions to ensure you’ll enjoy a comfy stay. An outdoor table setting means you’re set to enjoy sundowners and snacks after a day exploring Port Fairy’s historic buildings and windswept beaches.

a Port Fairy Glamping tent
Spend a whimsical weekend in a Port Fairy Glamping tent.

Caravan Parks

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11. Gardens Caravan Park

Best for: Visitors who value access to the river, beach and town centre.

When it comes to convenience, this caravan park’s location can’t be beaten. Sitting on the banks of the Moyne River, it’s just 600 metres from the centre of town and also right near East Beach and the botanic gardens.

the Gardens Caravan Park at sunrise
Gardens Caravan Park is spread along the banks of the Moyne River.

Check in to a cabin to enjoy some creature comforts or roll into a powered or unpowered site if you’re travelling with a motorhome or caravan.

two women walking along the Tower Hill Reserve, Port Fairy
Be at one with nature as you walk along through the coastal landscape.

Address: 111 Griffiths St, Port Fairy

12. Southcombe Caravan Park

Best for: Beach lovers and families

If being near the beach is your number one priority this family-friendly caravan park near Southcombe Beach is a winner.

a boat sailing at Southcombe Caravan Park
Go fishing by the river near Southcombe Beach.

Stay in a one-, two- or three-bedroom villa or set up your tent, motorhome or van on one of the powered or unpowered sites. Stroll into town for dinner or use the free barbecues or camp kitchen to whip up dinner each night – the choice is yours.

a girl lying on a blanket while reading a book
Or lie on a blanket with a book in hand.

Address: James St, Port Fairy

13. Big4 Port Fairy Holiday Park

Best for: Families and groups

Sure, there’s plenty to do in Port Fairy but this modern holiday park has heaps of amenities to discover too. Big kids and little kids alike will love navigating the mini golf course while the indoor heated swimming pool provides an option for wet weather days.

a group of travellers gathering outside a caravan at Big4 Port Fairy Holiday Park
This modern holiday park is an ideal retreat for those travelling in groups.

There’s even a purpose-built cycling track. This holiday park’s three-bedroom cabins sleep up to eight people making it a top spot for a group getaway or intergenerational holiday.

Address: 115 Princes Hwy, Port Fairy

14. Gum Tree Caravan Park

Best for: People travelling with pets

There’s no need to leave your four-legged friends at home as they’re welcome to stay at this dog-friendly caravan park. Guests are well taken care of here with a range of items for hire, including baby chairs, cots, bikes, surfboards and wetsuits.

Address: 8 Amble Lane (off Toolong Rd) Port Fairy

15. Port Fairy Holiday Park

Best for: Visitors who love active breaks

If you like staying active during your holidays, then this holiday park’s facilities are sure to impress.

the caravan site at Port Fairy Holiday Park
Port Fairy Holiday Park is perfect for campers and caravanners.

There’s an indoor heated swimming pool, a full-sized tennis court, a playground and a giant jumping pillow for the little ones.

a deep-soaking tub inside a safari tent at Port Fairy Holiday Park
The outdoor tub is the perfect way to end the day.

There are also lots of different accommodation styles ranging from safari tents with deep-soaking, clawfoot baths, deluxe villas and cabins, holiday units and powered and unpowered sites for campers and caravanners.

the safari tent at Port Fairy Holiday Park
Seek comfort in a safari tent.

Address: 139 Princes Hwy, Port Fairy

Discover the best things to do in Port Fairy.

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Jo Stewart
Jo Stewart is a freelance features writer who pens stories about nature, pop culture, music, art, design and more from her home in the Macedon Ranges of Victoria. When not writing, you can find her trawling through vinyl records and vintage fashion at op shops, antique stores and garage sales.
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Your guide to the ultimate Melbourne weekend

Credit: Visit Victoria

    Kate Bettes Kate Bettes
    Here’s how to turn your next work trip into a Melbourne city break, with market lunches, rooftop bars and gallery visits fitting neatly around the odd meeting or two.

    A long weekend in Melbourne is an easy sell. Begin with a coffee prepared with the precision of a laboratory experiment, before disappearing down the rabbit warren of graffiti-covered laneways. Explore the cutting edge of Australian art and culture in museums, and spend sunsets with a rooftop cocktail in hand.

    Follow our guide to the perfect weekend stay in Victoria’s capital.

    Where to stay

    lyf on Elizabeth Melbourne

    Modern living space at lyf on Elizabeth Melbourne, the perfect base for the ultimate Melbourne weekend.
    Explore Melbourne from the perfect base.

    Make the short stroll from Melbourne Central Station towards Queen Victoria Market to arrive at lyf on Elizabeth Melbourne, a 90-room hotel whose communal spaces are a siren call for remote workers and travellers alike. Parked in the free tram zone and right beside Queen Victoria Market, it’s as central as it gets.

    Designed by DKO Architects inside a heritage 1975 building, lyf’s interiors lean into warm Japandi-like styling, colourful art and flexible shared spaces. Whether you’re settling into the Collab workspaces, cooking in the Bond communal kitchen, squeezing in a workout at Burn gym or catching up on laundry at Wash & Hang, the hotel is built around sharing and spontaneous connections.

    Where to eat

    Bonnibel

    A juicy burger and crispy fries from Bonnibel, a delicious stop on the ultimate Melbourne weekend.
    Power your day with Melbourne’s best flavours.

    First stop is lyf on Elizabeth Melbourne’s neighbourhood kitchen and bar, Bonnibel. Like any Melbourne spot worth its truffle salt, Bonnibel serves a cracking coffee alongside an all-day menu that runs the gamut from barbecue beef brisket benedict with jalapeño salsa and gochujang hollandaise to coconut chia nourish bowls.

    Bond

    Contemporary dining at Bond's Kitchen.
    Take your Queen Vic finds from market to plate.

    If the freshly baked sourdough, local produce and fresh fruit on offer at Queen Victoria Market have your fingers twitching towards your wallet, no need to hold back. Pick up, then head back to lyf’s Bond communal kitchen to cook it yourself. Fully equipped, it’s designed for guests to prepare meals together – and if you forget that dukkah for your avo and eggs, Queen Vic is only next door.

    Soi38

    Stretch your legs and make your way to Soi 38, one of Melbourne’s favourite Thai lunch spots. Specialising in street food-style dishes, the sprawling menu can feel as busy as a Bangkok market. Just know that the boat noodles are a must, alongside the Crying Tiger with marinated Black Angus brisket, crispy pork belly with house dipping sauce and a glass of sweet pink nom yen.

    Shanghai Street

    Shanghai Street Melbourne
    Stop by for Melbourne’s famous dumplings. (Credit: Alpha)

    At Shanghai Street, order the xiao long bao as soon as you sit down at this cult restaurant; the delicate-skinned soup dumplings remain its signature. Don’t overlook the crispy-bottomed pan-fried pork buns or the homemade dumplings, served boiled, pan-fried or coated in chilli oil.

    Where to drink

    Fleet Rooftop Bar

    Sitting 22 floors above Flinders Street, Fleet Rooftop Bar pairs Southbank views with one of the city’s best rum selections. Thanks to its retractable roof and glass panelling, the terrace works in Melbourne’s famously unpredictable weather. If rum isn’t your thing, flag down the martini trolley for a classic, oyster shell or olive leaf martini, then settle in with snacks like torched salmon caviar.

    Goldilocks Rooftop Bar

    Drinks at Goldilocks Rooftop Bar, a must-visit for the ultimate Melbourne weekend.
    Raise a glass above the city.

    Hidden above the Denyers Building, Goldilocks Rooftop Bar is one of the CBD’s favourite spots for bottomless brunch. Expect shared plates of spinach and mushroom bao, fried chicken ribs and xiao long bao alongside free-flowing mimosas, peach and yuzu spritzes, Aperol spritzes and Bloody Shiraz jugs. It’s just right for a long afternoon in the city.

    Fifty-five Bar

    Swap rooftop views for basement vibes at Fifty-five Bar, where dim lighting, rotating craft beers and DJs create one of the CBD’s cosiest late-night hangouts. The cocktail list is just as fun, with drinks like the Silk Road Sour, made with pomegranate molasses and sumac, and frozen white peach cosmos.

    Things to do

    Free City Circle Tram

    The City Circle Tram passing along Swanston Street, an iconic sight on the ultimate Melbourne weekender.
    Travel between landmarks for free. (Credit: Visit Vic)

    Say hello to every Melbourne traveller’s new best friend, the free City Circle Tram. This magic carpet of Melbourne transport loops around the CBD and Docklands, getting you from landmark to landmark without dropping a cent.

    Melbourne Central

    Coop's Shot Tower at Melbourne Central
    Shop until your drop. (Credit: Visit Vic)

    Carve a chunk of time out of your schedule because all work and no play makes anyone a dull Melburnian. Instead, visit Melbourne Central to crack on with vintage shopping, duck into colourful laneways, wander through the grand 19th-century arcades and get to know its many museums. The architecture and people-watching aren’t too shabby either, whether you’re watching the crowds spill out of Flinders Street Station or gathering in Federation Square.

    National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) – new Cartier exhibition

    Striking artwork inside the National Gallery of Victoria's stunning red gallery.
    Explore one of Melbourne’s must-see exhibitions. (Credit: Visit Victoria)

    The jewel in Melbourne’s art scene, the NGV has welcomed one of its most glittering exhibitions yet: Cartier. Created by London’s V&A, it showcases jewels worn by some of history’s greatest divas, from Elizabeth Taylor and Rihanna to Princess Margaret and the Duchess of Windsor. Sketchbooks, photographs and original designs from the Cartier archives reveal the skill behind the sparkle.

    Explore Melbourne’s arty laneways

    Colourful street art lining Hosier Lane, a vibrant highlight of the ultimate Melbourne weekend.
    Follow the city’s vibrant street art trail. (Credit: Visit Victoria)

    Start at Hosier Lane, the undisputed heart of Melbourne’s laneway art scene, where fresh murals appear thick and fast. From there, wander over to the music-themed AC/DC Lane, then duck into Union Lane, where independent artists constantly layer new works over old.

    Start planning your ultimate Melbourne weekender at discoverasr.com.

    Find Trip Inspiration With Our Port Fairy Accommodation Guide | Australian Traveller