start exploring
eat + drink
restaurants, cafes, bars and hidden gems. our guide to dining in warrnambool.
things to do
discover our favourite experiences for families, couples and solo adventurers.
from seaside markets to cultural festivals, stay across everything happening in the region.
what’s on
things to do
scenic spots
tower hill wildlife reserve
a stunning volcanic crater filled with lakes, walking tracks, and native wildlife. keep an eye out for koalas, emus, and kangaroos along the way.
warrnambool botanic gardens
Beautiful heritage gardens designed for wandering, picnicking, and relaxing. A peaceful spot right in town.
One of Victoria’s widest waterfalls and just a short drive from town. It’s especially impressive after rain and an easy stop for photos.
hopkins falls
thunder point coastal reserve
A spectacular clifftop walk with sweeping ocean views and dramatic coastline scenery. A favourite local spot for sunsets and whale watching.
logans beach whale watching platflorm
Visiting between June and September? spot Southern Right Whales close to shore. Outside whale season, it’s still worth visiting for sweeping ocean views.
middle island + stingray bay
Home to Warrnambool’s famous penguin colony and the story behind Oddball the Maremma dog. Best viewed from the viewing area near Stingray Bay.
activities
One of Victoria’s best playgrounds with giant slides, climbing structures, and open spaces. Perfect for families or letting kids burn off energy.
lake pertobe + playground
the golf shed warrnambool
Try indoor golf simulators and test your swing regardless of the weather. Great fun whether you're a beginner or experienced golfer.
deep blue hot springs
Relax in naturally heated geothermal rock pools overlooking the ocean. A perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring, especially in the cooler months.
this huge indoor market is packed with antiques, vintage pieces, books, and collectables. It’s set inside the historic Fletcher Jones factory, with beautiful gardens outside worth exploring too.
fletcher jones market
lockology escape rooms
Solve puzzles and clues to escape themed rooms before time runs out. A fun challenge for families, friends, or groups.
cheese world & museum
A classic local stop for cheese tastings and family-friendly fun. Perfect to pair with a Great Ocean Road drive.
mini golf by the sea
A relaxed and fun activity for all ages. Located near the foreshore, it’s easy to combine with a walk or picnic.
warrnambool wildlife encounters
Meet wallabies, reptiles, birds, a wombat and other friendly animals in this hands-on wildlife experience. A favourite with families and animal lovers.
the bowl
Enjoy bowling, arcade games, and family-friendly fun all under one roof. A perfect rainy-day activity.
warrnambool skate park
A popular hangout for skateboarders, BMX riders, and scooter users. There’s plenty of space to ride or watch the action.
experiences
warrnambool art gallery
Victoria’s oldest regional gallery featuring a mix of classic and contemporary Australian art. A great indoor option on cooler or rainy days.
flagstaff hill maritime village
Step back in time and explore historic buildings, shipwreck stories, and museum displays. The night-time Sound and Light Show is a highlight if you’re staying overnight.
warrnambool library + learning centre
A modern space perfect for browsing books, relaxing, or spending a quiet afternoon. There’s plenty of space for kids to explore too.
lighthouse theatre
Check what’s on during your stay — from live music to theatre and comedy shows. A great option for a relaxed night out.
weekend markets
From fresh produce to handmade goods, local markets pop up most weekends. A great way to explore local makers and community life.
various locations
eat + drink
restaurants + bars
lost cat
A casual, seasonal dining spot in a relaxed setting serving simple, thoughtful food in the heart of Warrnambool.
lot 17
A modern restaurant focusing on contemporary dining with a seasonal, locally inspired menu in a stylish space.
proudfoots
A relaxed riverside venue known for hearty meals, great views, and a casual all-day dining atmosphere.
hotel
warrnambool
A lively pub-style venue offering classic meals, drinks, and entertainment in a central, social setting.
coffin sally
A quirky pizza and bar spot known for creative toppings, moody vibes, and a fun, alternative dining experience.
whalers hotel
A multi-level venue with a bistro, sports bar, rooftop, live music, and nightclub all under one roof.
ichiban izakaya
A Japanese izakaya serving sushi, small plates, and hearty comfort dishes in a casual, authentic-style setting.
merrijig kitchen
A refined, seasonal dining experience in nearby Port Fairy focusing on local produce and a chef-driven menu.
the dart
& marlin
A contemporary restaurant and bar offering elevated pub-style dining with a focus on fresh, seasonal flavours.
bojangles
A long-standing Warrnambool favourite serving Italian-inspired comfort food, pizza, and crowd-pleasing classics in a lively space.
salt restaurant
A modern dining spot offering refined seasonal dishes in an intimate, stylish setting on Liebig Street.
images
restaurant
A classic local restaurant known for its fine dining feel, relaxed atmosphere, and focus on fresh, seasonal produce.
cafes + breakfast
rough diamond
A laid-back specialty coffee spot known for quality toasties, great coffee, and a relaxed courtyard vibe.
borough
chambers
A beautifully designed coffee shop and wellness space offering wholesome breakfast and lunch in a calm, welcoming setting.
allee
espresso
A tucked-away laneway café known for its house-made treats and strong specialty coffee offering.
bohemia
An eclectic and welcoming café serving generous breakfasts and quality coffee in a creative, art-inspired space.
toto town
A popular corner café in a heritage building known for reliable coffee, brunch favourites, and a lively atmosphere.
wilba & co
a welcoming café serving Padre coffee alongside a menu of fresh breakfasts, house-made bites, and grab-and-go options.
jude the cafe
a vibrant and proudly independent café on Kepler Street with an ever-changing daily muffin, standout specialty coffee, and a feel-good atmosphere.
the beach kiosk
tucked between the promenade and Lake Pertobe playground, this beloved beachside spot serves up great coffee, fish and chips, housemade pies, and ice cream.
pavilion cafe & bar
perched on the Warrnambool breakwater with floor-to-ceiling windows framing views of Lady Bay and the Southern Ocean, the Pavilion serves up beautiful breakfasts and coffee seven days a week.
beaches cafe & bar
ideally positioned at the end of the Great Ocean Road with uninterrupted views across Lady Bay and Flagstaff Hill, Beaches offers a relaxed but refined setting for breakfast, lunch, local wines, and cocktails.
piccolo coffee
roasters
Piccolo serves their own award-winning house blends and single origins from their Raglan Parade café, alongside chef-made breakfast and lunch options worth the visit alone.
bank st + co
Bank St + Co serves exceptional coffee and a seasonally inspired menu full of generous, globally influenced dishes in a warm and lively rustic setting.