Discover Geelong & Beyond

Your Local Guide from Novotel Geelong! Perfectly positioned on Geelong's spectacular waterfront, Novotel Geelong is your gateway to one of Victoria's most exciting destinations. Combining coastal charm, world-class events, award-winning food and wine, stunning beaches and easy access to Melbourne, Geelong offers visitors the best of both worlds — a vibrant regional city with unforgettable experiences right on its doorstep. Novotel Geelong sits in the heart of the CBD and directly on the waterfront, placing guests within walking distance of many of the region's most iconic attractions.

Why Visit Geelong?

Often described as the gateway to the Bellarine Peninsula and the Great Ocean Road, Geelong has evolved into one of Australia's most dynamic regional destinations. Visitors enjoy a unique blend of waterfront living, arts and culture, sporting events, boutique shopping, exceptional dining and easy access to some of Victoria's most beautiful coastal landscapes. The city continues to attract travellers looking for a relaxed alternative to Melbourne while remaining just over an hour from the CBD.

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Explore the Geelong Waterfront

The Geelong Waterfront is widely regarded as one of Australia's most successful waterfront redevelopments and is the centrepiece of any visit to the region. Located directly outside Novotel Geelong, the waterfront stretches along Corio Bay and offers scenic walking paths, public art, restaurants, gardens and family attractions.

Highlights Along the Waterfront

Eastern Beach Reserve
One of Victoria's most iconic swimming destinations, Eastern Beach features its famous sea baths, palm-lined promenade, picnic areas and spectacular bay views.

The Geelong Bollard Trail
More than 100 colourful timber bollards created by artist Jan Mitchell tell the story of Geelong's history and local characters. Walking the trail is one of the city's most popular visitor experiences.

The Carousel
Dating back to the 1890s, the beautifully restored carousel remains one of Geelong's most beloved attractions and is perfect for families visiting the region.

Cunningham Pier & Waterfront Dining
Enjoy fresh seafood, waterfront cocktails and stunning sunset views overlooking Corio Bay.

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What's On in Geelong: Winter & Spring 2026

Geelong's event calendar continues to grow, attracting visitors from across Victoria and beyond.

Discovering the Impressionists at Geelong Gallery

From 20 June to 11 October 2026, Geelong Gallery hosts its largest exhibition ever, featuring more than 70 Impressionist masterpieces associated with legendary art dealer Paul Durand-Ruel. This landmark exhibition is expected to attract significant national attention and makes Geelong a must-visit destination for art lovers.

Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention & Event Precinct

Geelong's new waterfront convention centre precinct continues to transform the city as a major destination for conferences, exhibitions and events. The venue is expected to drive increased visitation and position Geelong as one of Australia's leading regional business events destinations.

Geelong Arts Centre Program

Throughout the year, visitors can enjoy theatre productions, live music, comedy performances, dance and family entertainment at the Geelong Arts Centre, one of regional Australia's premier performing arts venues.

GMHBA Stadium Events

Home to the mighty Geelong Football Club, GMHBA Stadium hosts AFL matches and major sporting events that bring thousands of visitors to the city each year.

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Geelong's Best Dining & Nightlife Precincts

Little Malop Street

Widely regarded as Geelong's cultural and culinary heart, Little Malop Street is filled with:

Hidden bars
Craft breweries
Specialty coffee roasters
International cuisine
Street art and creative spaces

Many locals consider this precinct Geelong's answer to Melbourne's laneway culture.

Waterfront Dining

The Geelong waterfront continues to be one of the region's premier dining destinations, with restaurants showcasing fresh local seafood, Bellarine wines and seasonal Victorian produce. Be sure to check out Tempo Kitchen & Bar which is the perfect example of this - open 7 days a week.

Local Tip

Many visitors and locals recommend combining a waterfront walk with the Botanic Gardens and Little Malop Street dining precinct to experience the best of Geelong in a single day.

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Discover the Bellarine Peninsula

Just a short drive from Novotel Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula offers some of Victoria's most beautiful coastal experiences.

Queenscliff

Historic streets, boutique shopping, waterfront dining and maritime history make Queenscliff one of Victoria's most charming seaside towns.

Point Lonsdale

Known for its iconic lighthouse, dramatic coastal scenery and relaxed village atmosphere.

Portarlington

Famous for fresh mussels, wineries and spectacular views across Port Phillip Bay toward Melbourne.

Bellarine Wineries

The Bellarine wine region is home to award-winning wineries, cellar doors and farm-to-table dining experiences that showcase the best of regional Victoria.

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Explore the Surf Coast & Great Ocean Road

One of the greatest advantages of staying in Geelong is proximity to the world-famous Great Ocean Road.

Torquay

The official start of the Great Ocean Road, Torquay is Australia's surfing capital and home to beautiful beaches, coastal walks and surf culture. Local recommendations frequently include a day trip to Torquay when visiting Geelong.

Great Ocean Road

Experience:

- Dramatic coastal scenery
- Rugged cliffs and beaches
- Rainforest walks
- Wildlife encounters
- Iconic Victorian landscapes

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Day Trip to Melbourne

One of the unique benefits of staying at Novotel Geelong is easy access to Melbourne.

Guests can travel via V/Line rail, car or ferry and enjoy:

Melbourne Laneways

Discover hidden cafés, street art, boutiques and some of Australia's best coffee culture.

Sporting Capital of Australia

Attend AFL, cricket, tennis and major international sporting events throughout the year.

Arts & Culture

Visit:
- National Gallery of Victoria
- ACMI
- Federation Square
- Arts Centre Melbourne
- Seasonal Melbourne Events

Throughout the year Melbourne hosts major exhibitions, festivals, concerts, sporting events and cultural celebrations, making it an ideal day trip for Novotel Geelong guests.

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Stay on Geelong's Waterfront

Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway, conference, sporting event, family holiday, coastal road trip or business meeting, Novotel Geelong offers the perfect base from which to explore Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula, the Surf Coast and Melbourne.

With breathtaking waterfront views, award-winning dining, easy access to local attractions and a location at the centre of the city's action, Novotel Geelong connects guests with the very best experiences that Victoria has to offer. From waterfront walks and world-class exhibitions to coastal adventures and Melbourne day trips, there has never been a better time to discover Geelong.