Portarlington’s bid for tourism glory

PORTARLINGTON is vying for top honours in this year’s Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards, and locals are encouraged to cast a vote to help crown the seaside locale as one of the state’s best destinations.

Known for its mussels, wineries and sweeping bay views, Portarlington has been named a finalist in the small tourism town award category, for destinations with a population of between 1,500 and 5,000 people.

Public voting forms a key component of the awards’ judging process and will remain open until Friday, June 27.

Tourism Greater Geelong and the Bellarine executive director Tracy Carter said Portarlington being named a finalist in the awards is testament to the town’s passionate tourism operators who work tirelessly to deliver the kind of exceptional experiences that keep visitors coming back for more.

Indeed, Portarlington recorded 680,000 visitors through 2024, an increase of more than 35 per cent on the preceding year, according to recent data from Tourism Research Australia.

“When you cast a vote for Portarlington, you’re casting a vote for the barista who makes your morning coffee, the retail staff who greet every customer with a smile, the tour guides who bring to life the story of our proud little town and everyone else who contributes to making Portarlington the friendly, welcoming place it is,” Ms Carter said.

Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj encouraged the entire community to get behind Portarlington and cast a vote to “help it claim the title it deserves”.

“Famous for its fresh mussels, cool climate wineries and beautiful bayside walks, Portarlington has long been one of our region’s most beloved coastal destinations and its reputation amongst discerning foodies is only growing,” he said.

“A hatted chef has opened two restaurants by the water, a grand hotel is gleaming following a multi-million-dollar restoration and the country’s only boutique mussel tour is based right here in Portarlington. This beautiful part of the world is becoming impossible to keep secret.

“Being named a finalist in these awards is a proud moment for the entire Greater Geelong community.”

Winners will be announced on July 24 and will have the opportunity to enter the national awards and battle it out for the title of Australia’s top tourism town.

To vote for Portarlington in the Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards, visit vtic.com.au/toptourismtown/2025finalists/portarlington