Welcome To,

Queenscliff

21 May 2026

Queenscliff’s charm is unique. Historically, it’s been a 19th century holiday destination for Melbourne’s elite, a busy maritime centre and a strategic defence base. Today, visitors continue to flock there throughout the year. Hesse Street is the main strip, and there’s a variety of shops of many descriptions, including antique stores, boutiques, interior shops and unique book stores.
Enjoy great dining in a selection of top restaurants and cafeÌs and mark down the last weekend in November for a musical weekend you won’t forget – the Queenscliff Music Festival.
Explore the Heritage
Queenscliff’s collection of stately and historical buildings is impressive. Many of them are hotels, which are wonderful places to stay, dine or both. A must-see is the signature black lighthouse, one of just three in the world – it’s located inside Fort Queenscliff. For the history buffs the Queenscliff Historical Museum and the Maritime Museum should be inclusions on the itinerary.
Gourmet Goods
You won’t have trouble keeping the wolf from the door in Queenscliff – fine foods and local produce are readily available around town. If you enjoy your fish and chips, ask a local or enquire at the Visitor Information Centre about where to find what is reputedly the best in the world – and if coffee and cake is your thing, you’ve come to the right place.
The Harbour
Don’t leave without visiting the revamped Queenscliff Harbour. Experience the 360 degree views from the 42 metre high tower, or enjoy a meal at the 360Q Restaurant. There are cafeÌs and specialty shops – enjoy a coffee and shop with a view! To get out and amongst it all, you can book to swim with the dolphins, organise to go scuba diving or fishing. Tour the bay and learn about its history. The Queenscliff-Sorrento vehicle and passenger ferry also berths in Queenscliff Harbour.
Ride the Rail
Take a ride from Queenscliff to Drysdale and back on the vintage steam train. At night between August and May, you can jump aboard the legendary Blues Train and party your way from Queenscliff to Drysdale and back being entertained by some of the country’s best blues artists.
Maritime Wonders
The Marine Discovery Centre is well named – there’s plenty to discover here. You’ll notice the distinctive grass covered roof as you drive into Queenscliff. Inside you can check out the aquarium and touch-tank, student laboratory and classroom, and educational gift shop. The Maritime Museum is full of information about the town’s rich maritime history, including the hazards faced by shipping over many decades. There is also a restored Watson Class lifeboat on display.