With so much to see and do in Port Fairy, we have narrowed down our must-see experiences during your stay at Edge 17.

 GRIFFITHS ISLAND

Take a walk around scenic Griffith’s Island. The hour-long easy-grade walk sits at the mouth of the Moyne River and is connected to the mainland by a causeway. Take in the 11 metre-high historic lighthouse, built in 1859 by John Griffiths, the island’s namesake. The lighthouse is a local landmark and tourist icon – paying homage to the early sea-faring days. In local Aboriginal language, Griffith’s Island is known as ‘mallone’ or ‘mallin’.

If you’re lucky, you might just catch a show from the resident mutton birds and wallabies. The island is a haven for breeding shearwaters (also known as mutton birds). You can find them between the months of September to April as they incubate and then care for their young hatchling.

EXPLORE PORT FAIRY WHARF

Sit back and watch the boats go by as the birds cry out and the gentle waves lap rhythmically against the pier. Old meets new as the old-school fisherman head out to the open ocean on their traditional fishing trawlers, whilst modern charter boats move among them, all navigating their way along the calm waters of the Moyne River.

The river provides a relaxing backdrop to your morning or afternoon tea coffee and cake from the Wharf-at Port Fairy. For lunch or dinner their seafood is fresh and bursting with flavour, and you can enjoy your meal whilst watching the fishermen returning to port with their daily haul.

EAST BEACH

A trip to the beach is a quintessential holiday past time, and at Port Fairy there are numerous beaches to discover.

We highly recommend East Beach, as it is perfect for long, thoughtful walks, building sandcastles, beach fishing, collecting seashells, surfing, swimming and all kinds of water sports. The beach is patrolled by lifeguards over the summer period. We recommend staying towards the southern end of the beach, which is calmer than the northern end. If you would prefer to enjoy the beach from a distance, Charlie’s on East is a licensed restaurant providing delicious food with an impressive view across Stingray Bay out to the lighthouse on Griffiths Island. Open daily between 8am-4pm, if you can, sit out on the balcony and enjoy the ocean breeze along with your meal. 

TAKE A WALK AROUND TOWN

The centre of town is the beating heart of the community.

You could easily spend a whole day here; browsing through the stylish boutique stores and losing yourself among the incredible artworks in local galleries. To recharge, stop in for a bite to eat and a cup of tea or coffee at one of the many cafes. Meet and chat with locals and local producers – the Port Fairy crowd is a friendly bunch, we love getting to know you and sharing our favourite things to do and see in the area.

Reward your body for all it does for you by indulging in a spa treatment, leaving you feeling well and truly rejuvenated and ready to continue your Port Fairy odyssey. There are many great restaurants in town serving up mouth-watering meals alongside impressive local wines.

Immerse yourself in the feel of Port Fairy with a day spent in the Port Fairy village, just a short stroll from your accommodation at Edge 17.

SAIL THE SEAS WITH A FISHING CHARTER

Don your life-jacket, sunscreen and hat and hit the high seas with a local fishing charter departing just metres from your accommodation at Edge 17.

There are a number of fishing charter companies to choose from, with Southern Coast Charters offering a variety of sports fishing and deep-sea fishing charters available. If you’re more of a sightseer, they also run a tour around Lady Julia Percy Island – Australia’s only offshore volcano. Access to the nature reserve is not permitted, with the boat charter allowing you to get as close as possible to the island to enjoy its scenic beauty, local seal colony, rugged cliff faces and intriguing blow hole. Enjoy this special place and the informative commentary from your knowledgeable local guide.

Your Port Fairy adventure starts here…