Queenscliff between coastal trails and maritime history

Queenscliff is defined by coastal trails, historic streets and a history closely connected to the sea. Around Swan Bay, wetlands and birdwatching take centre stage; elsewhere, trails follow the cliff edge or lead to notable spots in town. Museums, train rides and the ferry service to Sorrento offer other perspectives on the area. When planning your trip, you can weigh up these different interests rather than reducing Queenscliff to just one kind of excursion.

Coastal trails between Swan Bay and the cliff edge

The section of the Bellarine Rail Trail through Queenscliff follows the shore of Swan Bay, an internationally recognised wetland. The Ferry to Pier Trail runs through the coastal reserve, connecting the ferry terminal and Queenscliff Harbour with Queenscliff Pier, Princess Park and the town. Lovers Walk passes through Coastal Moonah Woodland along the upper sections of Santa Casa, Narrows and Springs beaches. These trails offer different highlights: wetland and shoreline, several named destinations, or coastal woodland.

Along Thwaites Walk, the trail follows the cliff edge at Queenscliff Beach. From there, views extend across Port Phillip Bay to Point Nepean and the Mornington Peninsula. If you’re planning walks, these routes offer a range of sights: the landscape of Swan Bay, the connection between the ferry terminal and the pier, or views across the bay. Their specific destinations and landscapes can help you choose an outing to suit your interests.

Historic streets and maritime heritage

The history of Fort Queenscliff dates back to 1860, when an open battery was built on Shortland’s Bluff to defend the entrance to Port Phillip Bay. Queenscliff’s streetscapes also tell stories of the past, with Victorian-era hotels, imposing churches and picturesque fishermen’s cottages. Hesse Street features examples of historic architecture alongside art galleries, shops and places to eat.

The Queenscliffe Maritime Museum focuses on the maritime heritage shaped by the area’s proximity to the entrance of Port Phillip and the dangerous “Rip”. It displays the “Queenscliffe” lifeboat, which saved people and ships for fifty years. The Queenscliffe Historical Museum presents the history of Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale through the themes “Origins and Environment”, “Creating Community” and “Queen of Watering Places”. The museums have distinct focuses: one centres on maritime history and lifesaving, while the other explores the development of two towns through three thematic perspectives.

Train rides, boats and guided experiences

The Swan Bay Express travels along Swan Bay in historic carriages. The eight-kilometre round trip starts and ends at Queenscliff Station; black swans and other migratory birds are often spotted along the way. The service is available at certain times, so check in advance. Run by volunteers, Bellarine Railway offers steam and diesel train rides and related experiences between Queenscliff and Drysdale. Unlike the Swan Bay Express, which is described as a loop, Bellarine Railway connects the two towns.

Various charter boats also set out from Queenscliff to explore Port Phillip Bay. Availability and conditions may change, so check before your visit. The Queenscliff Heritage Walk lasts one hour and 15 minutes and follows the town’s streets and footpaths. It includes afternoon tea and a conversation with the guide; a walking-only tour is also available. Check the dates and inclusions before your trip.

The Marine and Freshwater Discovery Centre has an aquarium for visitors, a student laboratory and a classroom. Public access is limited during the school term; ask about current programs before visiting. The surrounding habitats are suitable for activities such as rock-pool exploration and exploring tidal mudflats. Programs and booking options may change, so check in advance.

Ferry connection and planning your stay

The ferry from Queenscliff to Sorrento takes 40 minutes and carries passengers and cars across Port Phillip Bay. If you’d like to include the crossing in your trip, check the timetable and booking conditions in advance, as both may change. From there, you can plan what you’d like to discover in Queenscliff.

Discover more destinations: Batesford, Ocean Grove, Torquay, Point Lonsdale, Anglesea, Portarlington.

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