Warrnambool Beaches

While Warrnambool’ s stunning coastline may not always entice sunbathers and swimmers, it draws many visitors and locals alike due to its beauty and recreational variety. All year round, Warrnambool’ s beaches are teeming with runners, walkers, surfers, sightseers, and boating enthusiasts. Then, when the weather finally heats up, visitors and locals come to the waves to cool down. And the best part, they are all within walking distance of The Deep Blue Hotel and Hot Springs. 

1.Surfside Beach (Main Beach)

This beach is popular amongst the swimmers on sunny days, with a lengthy stretch of sandy beachfront reaching several kilometres lining the Lady Bay. During the summer, surf lifesavers from the Warrnambool Surf Club guard the centre section of the beach. Windsurfing and yachting are also popular in the area, while those looking to ‘paddle’ should head to the Breakwater end of the main beach, where it is more sheltered and smaller waves that lap the sand. 

2.The Flume (Surf Beach)

To the east of Main Beach, where the waves get a little rougher, is The Flume, Warrnambool’ s favourite Surf Beach. 

When conditions are ripe, groundswells provide much of the surf, with the optimal swell direction from the southeast. With offshore winds blowing in from the northeast and no protection from cross-shore breezes, it is an ideal section of the beach to jump on your board. Beware of strong rips if surfing here.

3.Logans Beach

The beach is famous for its surfing, fishing, and WHALES! This section of the coast becomes a nursery for the Southern Right Whales and their calves between June and September. Migrating from the cooler waters of the Arctic, the female Southern Right Whales can often be spotted during this time just a few hundred meters offshore, while the male and young adult whales stay out in the deeper, cooler ocean.

The whales can be seen from either the beach or the platform built into the side of a dune. This platform is free to access and offers easy access via a ramp. Suitable for all abilities. 

4.Blue Hole River Pool (Hopkins River Mouth)

Warrnambool’ s Blue Hole River Pool is a beautiful spot to visit and explore. Blue Hole River Pool is adjacent to Moyjil – Point Ritchie and the Warrnambool Bluehole Reserve and Revegetation Area. 

Dogs are allowed off-leash on the east bank of the river between April 1st and November 30th, and this will surely be their favourite spot for a run along the sand or swim in the river. 

5.Stingray Bay

Stingray Bay lies at the entrance of the Merri River, shielded from the ocean by adjacent Merri and Middle islands, and it is located on Viaduct Road near the breakwater. It’s a stunning scene with the exposed sand bars at low tide, the ocean pounding against the islands, and the river mouth providing calmer waters.

Stingray Bay is a spectacular spot to explore, from roaming the rockpools to snorkelling across the reefs. It is safe to swim at Stingray Bay, but be aware that the currents can get quite strong if you wander out towards the islands. However, if swimming isn’t your thing, there is plenty of sand to lay a towel on to relax in the sun. 

6.Shelly Beach

Follow the beaten track and dunes from Thunder Point, and you will find this hidden gem, Shelly Beach. Shelly Beach got its name from the number of shells found there. It’s a peaceful, secluded beach for surfing, picnics, and exploring but unfortunately not suited for swimming. If it is a sunset you are seeking, this is your spot. On a clear afternoon, bring a picnic rug and lay on the dunes while you watch the sun disappear behind the ocean’s horizon. 

7.Worm Bay

Saving the best for last, Worm Bay, right on Deep Blue Hotels doorstep and conveniently nestled between Warrnambool’ s Main Beach and the Breakwater. Follow the path at the end of Worm Bay Road, and you will discover a beach that undoubtedly has something to offer all ages. A strip of coast ideal for sandcastle building, lazy beach days, gentle surf for summertime swimming, winter beach strolls along the water’s edge and uninterrupted views of the Lady Bay. Breath in the fresh coastal air while watching the sunrise above the dunes or wander along the cool sand when the night sky is clear, and you can see the stars.