Apollo Bay: Paradise by the Sea

Nestled in at the base of the Otway Ranges, separating the lush green rainforest from the deep azure blue of the Southern Ocean, lies the peaceful coastal hamlet of Apollo Bay. Referred to by locals, and remembered by visitors, as 'paradise by the sea', Apollo Bay is built on a perfect, bow shaped beach whose white sands and gentle waves help justify this label, as does the relaxed atmosphere of the town and the laid back, no worries attitude of its residents.

With a history of fishing that dates back over 100 years, fishing, together with farming and tourism is one of the chief incomes of the town. The huge fleet moored in the towns harbour has become something of an attraction to visitors, who like to wander through the wharves observing the different boats coming in with their catch for the day. Seafood doesn't come much fresher than this, and lobsters and various other fish and crustaceans can be bought directly from the fishermen. If you fancy a bit of fishing yourself then charters are available from which you can fish out at sea or along the coastline, or you can hire rods and try your luck in the surf of the beaches around Apollo Bay. These beaches are swimming safe, so a dip could provide the perfect respite from your endeavours with the rod.

On the landward side of Apollo Bay lie the spectacular Otway Ranges. Characterised by the thick, lush rainforest vegetation and breath taking mountain scenery, you will need at least a couple of days to explore the exciting and enthralling attractions throughout this mountain range. There are thirteen impressive waterfalls in these mountains, and it is well worth your while to visit at least a few of them as they are all easily reachable from Apollo Bay. The Erskine Falls are the most visited, where water cascades down a steep rocky face into a fern lined gully, kicking up a wall of spray that coats everything around in a fine layer of moisture. Triplet Falls are just as impressive, sharing the same damp rainforest characteristics.