Planning a coastal getaway to Portarlington? This relaxed seaside town on the Bellarine Peninsula is a popular choice for family holidays, couples’ escapes and weekends away with friends. With beautiful bay views, calm swimming beaches, local wineries, cafés and restaurants, there is plenty to enjoy without travelling far.
Choosing where to stay will depend on the type of Portarlington holiday you have in mind. Whether you want to be close to the beach, within walking distance of town or looking for a holiday home with plenty of space for family and friends, here are a few things to consider.
Stay Close to Portarlington Beach and the Foreshore
If spending time by the water is high on your list, look for accommodation close to Portarlington Beach and the foreshore. The beach and surrounding foreshore make this part of town particularly convenient for families and visitors wanting to enjoy Portarlington’s relaxed coastal lifestyle.
Bellarine Holidays has a range of Portarlington accommodation near the beach, including holiday homes suited to couples, families and larger groups.
Stay Close to the Portarlington Town Centre
Staying near central Portarlington makes it easy to enjoy the town’s cafés, restaurants, shops and foreshore. It’s a convenient choice for shorter stays, or for visitors who want to leave the car at their holiday home and explore the town on foot.
If you’re travelling from Melbourne, staying close to town can also be convenient for the Portarlington Ferry, which arrives close to the foreshore and town centre.
Find a Holiday Home with Bay Views
One of the highlights of staying in Portarlington is the outlook across Port Phillip Bay. If views are important to you, look for a holiday home with a balcony, deck or living area positioned to make the most of the coastline.
Our Portarlington collection includes holiday homes with beautiful coastal outlooks, giving you the chance to enjoy the bay from the comfort of your accommodation.
Portarlington Accommodation for Families and Groups
A holiday home can be a great choice when travelling with children, extended family or friends, giving everyone more space to relax and spend time together.
When choosing your accommodation, consider the number of bedrooms and bathrooms you need, along with features such as outdoor entertaining areas, Wi-Fi, parking, boat space or proximity to the beach and town centre.
Bellarine Holidays offers Portarlington holiday homes for a range of group sizes, from smaller coastal stays through to larger homes suitable for families and groups travelling together.
Travelling with Your Dog?
If your dog is coming along too, look specifically for pet-friendly accommodation in Portarlington. Not every holiday home accepts pets, so it’s important to check the individual property information before booking.
Bellarine Holidays has pet-friendly options available, making it easier to find a stay where your four-legged family member can come along too.
Staying in Portarlington Without a Car
Portarlington is a convenient Bellarine Peninsula destination for visitors travelling from Melbourne, with Port Phillip Ferries operating passenger services between Docklands and Portarlington.
If you’re arriving by ferry without a car, consider accommodation close to the town centre and foreshore. This puts cafés, restaurants, shops and the beach within easier walking distance during your stay.
What to Do During Your Portarlington Stay
There’s plenty to enjoy in and around Portarlington beyond the beach. Spend a morning walking along the foreshore, enjoy local cafés and restaurants, visit nearby wineries, play a round of golf or simply slow down and enjoy the views across the bay.
Portarlington is also home to popular local events throughout the year, including the Portarlington Mussel Festival and Summer Breeze Festival in January and the National Celtic Festival in June.
For more ideas, explore our Things to Do and What’s On pages when planning your Bellarine getaway.
Find Your Portarlington Holiday Accommodation
Bellarine Holidays offers a range of locally managed holiday homes throughout Portarlington and the surrounding Bellarine Peninsula.
Whether you’re planning a family beach holiday, a weekend with friends, a couples’ escape or simply looking for a relaxing stay by the bay, browse our Portarlington holiday accommodation and find a home that suits your getaway.
Frequently Asked Questions About Staying in Portarlington
Where is the best area to stay in Portarlington?
The best area depends on the type of holiday you’re planning. Staying close to the town centre and foreshore is convenient for the beach, cafés, restaurants and shops, while accommodation a little further from the centre can offer more space and a quieter setting.
Is Portarlington good for families?
Yes. Portarlington is a popular choice for family holidays, with calm bay beaches, foreshore areas and plenty of space to enjoy the outdoors. Choosing a holiday home also gives families the convenience of their own kitchen, living areas and additional space during their stay.
Can you stay near the beach in Portarlington?
Yes. Bellarine Holidays has Portarlington holiday homes close to the beach and foreshore, as well as properties in different locations throughout the town.
Can I travel from Melbourne to Portarlington by ferry?
Yes. Port Phillip Ferries operates passenger services between Docklands and Portarlington. If you’re visiting without a car, choosing accommodation near the town centre and foreshore can make it easier to explore Portarlington on foot.
Does Portarlington have pet-friendly accommodation?
Yes, there are pet-friendly holiday homes available in Portarlington. Pet policies vary between individual properties, so always check the property information before booking.
Does Portarlington have accommodation for larger groups?
Yes. Bellarine Holidays offers Portarlington holiday homes for different group sizes, including larger homes suitable for families and groups travelling together.
Explore more local tips and holiday inspiration in our Discover Guides.