The Best Hotels and Places to Stay in Queenscliff, Victoria

Built in 1884, this old-world charmer will take you on a nostalgic trip into yesteryear. The spacious seaside property was built to accommodate the workers who built Point Lonsdale Lighthouse, and within walking distance are shops, beaches, fishing spots, rock pools and the famous lighthouse. There are 22 guest rooms in all: nine older-style rooms and 13 contemporary, maritime-themed rooms. For all your gastronomic needs, there’s an on-site restaurant – Flouch’s Point Lonsdale – where guests can savour delicious food prepared by the in-house chef from bountiful local crops.

Holding pride of place as Queenscliff’s oldest operating guesthouse is Athelstane House, built in 1860 and gazing out to the sea. Admire the historic exterior and experience the more contemporary interiors, which were renovated in the late 90s, when many luxuries were added. The accommodation ranges from small, standard rooms to a fully equipped apartment – all with a warm and homely ambience. There’s a large guest lounge to relax in and there’s a delicious a la carte breakfast selected from a specially prepared menu.

Located in the heart of Queenscliff, this historic guesthouse has been in operation since 1875 and has been newly renovated. Perfect for large groups, there are 15 elegant en-suite rooms, multiple lounges, a fully equipped commercial kitchen, dining space and a bar. Guests can explore the Seaview Gallery here, which is home to the works of more than 40 Australian artists. There are also several attractions nearby, including historic Fort Queenscliff, golf courses, Adventure Park Geelong and Queenscliff Harbour, where there are cafes, shops and restaurants.

Home to a flourishing winery and Lighthouse Grove, where premium extra virgin olive oils are produced, Oakdene offers several accommodations surrounded by a pristine wilderness. The lighthouse cottage features three bedrooms, a large dining area and a cosy lounge with a fireplace. There’s also the Oakdene Vineyards Guest House, a beautifully restored 1920s homestead that features three uniquely themed rooms. Also on the property are Mr Grubb, a restaurant with family-friendly dining options, the Merne at Lighthouse, an award-winning restaurant, and Manor Suite Wine Bar, where guests can listen to live music as they dine and drink.

A holiday park located just at the entrance to Queenscliff, BIG4 Beacon Resort is set among native gardens and right opposite the beach. Here, you can immerse yourself in a coastal getaway and stay in luxurious accommodation, which includes custom-designed villas, contemporary self-contained cabins and powered caravans. Enjoy the on-site facilities, which include a heated indoor pool, therapeutic spa, yoga and pilates classes, clubhouse for children and an indoor adventure playground.

Located in Drysdale, this three-star motel features 10 rooms that open onto furnished patios. The rooms are sound-proof, cosy and finished in white, and there’s an outdoor pool where guests can relax, a spa tub, barbecue grill and a picnic area. There are cafes and restaurants in Drysdale to choose from, and Adventure Park Geelong, Clifton Springs Beach and Leura Park Estate winery are about a six-minute drive away. Guests can also engage in golfing and boating activities nearby.

Set on a 4ha (10-acre) property is the Oxley Estate in Portarlington, just 500m (1,640ft) from the beach and opposite the well-known Portarlington Golf Club. The spacious rooms come with a suave palette of neutral tones with white furnishings, along with floor-to-ceiling windows that provide excellent views of the exterior. Facilities include an outdoor pool, barbecue facilities and free private parking. Guests get to experience a taste of country life with the livestock, gardens and orchard on the property.