Ocean Grove, Great Ocean Road — Victoria

Ocean Grove is a town located on the Bellarine Peninsula, in the state of Victoria. It is also situated along the eastern bank of Barwon River estuary, across the town of Barwon Heads.

Most of the visitors who come to Ocean Grove spend a large part of their vacation at the Smiths Beach, the long stretch of sand facing the Bass Strait. The beach is ideal for swimming, surfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Fishing can also be done along the beach or out in the open water, as numerous boats for hire are available at the foreshore.

Along the river are several nature walks that provide visitors with the chance to observe some of the animals and birds that frequent the area. There are also ideal picnics spots scattered all over the area, under the shade of numerous trees.

The promontory that extends towards the mouth of the river has been designated as the Foreshore Reserve. This area features numerous spots for picnics and camping, with walking trails that allow visitors to explore the reserve. The reserve is bisected by the Barwon Heads Ocean Grove Road.

Another good area for picnics is the Ocean Grove Nature Reserve, the only extensive bush land within the Bellarine Peninsula. The reserve supports several animal species, including a community of koalas and the recently discovered ant blue butterfly. The reserve is accessed on the northern part of Ocean Grove and offers opportunities for bush walking and bird watching.

The Begola Wetlands, accessed via the Emperor Drive, is also a good spot to go bird watching.

Bird watching is also the major activity done at the Reedy Swamp, situated northwest of Ocean Grove where numerous water birds call home.

For a bit of water-based recreation, visitors can also head out to the Blue Waters Lake along Lake Avenue. Boating, canoeing, and fishing are some of the activities done here.

Visitors and their families should also take the time to visit A Maze ‘n Games, located along the Bellarine Highway. This family-friendly complex features a huge wooden maze, a mini golf course, a puzzle center, and a croquet court. Refreshments and snacks can be had at the onsite café, while facilities for picnics and barbecues are also provided.

Opposite this attraction is the Bellarine Adventure Golf which is also a mini golf course.

Another good destination for the whole family is Adventure Park, located on the corner of Swan Bay Road and the Bellarine Highway. The park features several amusement rides, a waterslide, mini golf course, and an archery range. There are also facilities for picnics and barbecues. Venues can also be hired for birthdays and corporate events.

Another activity that visitors can indulge in is horse riding. There is the Australian Equestrian Academy along Bellarine Highway and the Koombahla Park Equestrian Centre on Wallington Road. Both facilities offer horse riding lessons through appointment.

Ocean Grove is also the home of renowned artist Jane Kempe, which produces artworks inspired by the ocean. Her studio gallery is located on Sandpiper Court, where most of her works can be viewed and purchased.