Attractions

There are numerous attractions in and around Portarlington for all age groups. If you like walking; Portarlington is suitable for those who like to stroll along the foreshore, and venture out onto the Pier to purchase freshly farmed mussels. For the more active walker you can step out and walk east to St Leonard’s along the path, or go west to Point Richards where you can see Pelicans at play.

As you stroll along the foreshore by the Fairfax Street boat ramp you can see evidence of the aboriginal shell middens firmly imbedded in the cliff face.

Cycling

Portarlington hosts many professional cycling events that are held in the warmer months with competitors coming from all over the world to compete.

For the recreational cyclist there is 24 kilometres of track along the foreshore from Portarlington to St Leonards. Cycling can be for all the family. The track if fairly flat, with numerous vantage points along the way. Stop at Indented Head and view the wreck of the Ozone, once a famous paddle steamer. Enjoy a coffee and snack at the Indented Head Store. Continue along towards St Leonards, enjoy fish and chips or venture into the hotel for a counter lunch. Those who are familiar with the television series; "Sea Change" will recognize the hotel.

Swimming

During the summer months there are endless places to swim along the foreshore. A favourite spot is to the west of the Pier that is mainly a sandy beach with trees for protection from the sun. If you want an even safer place then east of the Pier is suitable for all. Please note there is not personal watercraft permitted in these areas. There are other swimming spots all along the foreshore to St Leonards.

Fishing

Fishing is important to Portarlington, once the scallop industry of Victoria, now it is known as the Mussel capital with mussel beds visible from the Esplanade. You will always see a number of fishing vessels tied up at the pier, or the weekend fisherman casting line from the pier.

If you enjoy Squid head down to the St Leonard’s Pier Portarlington has a large recreation reserve, which has camping and caravan facilities as well as permanent units.

During summer you can venture out on a chartered boat trip with friends. This can be organised with the skipper down at the Pier. If you wish to hire you own boat then venture down to Indented Head. Just opposite the general store there is a boat hire shed. Here you can hire by the hour, and local knowledge will ensure you that you know where the fish are. Even better is that Rod will clean the fish for you.

Golf

There is an 18-hole golf course. at Portarlington that offers many a challenge for the golfer. After a few holes with friends have a drink at the 19th hole. If it’s getting onto the evening then why not enjoy a meal in the bistro.