Free coastal activities on offer across the Surf Coast this summer

FAMILIES across the Surf Coast will have more opportunities to explore and enjoy the coast this summer, with bookings now open for the 2026 Summer by the Sea program.

More than 100 free activities, delivered by local coastal land managers, community groups and conservation agencies, will be on offer between January 3 and 18.

The program invites participants to discover coastal and marine environments either close to home or while holidaying, with a strong focus on learning, conservation and connection to place.

A range of events are planned for the Surf Coast that will appeal to all ages and interests.

On January 5, families and beach explorers can join a twilight rockpool ramble in Aireys Inlet, where experienced guides from Eco-Logic Education will lead a close-to-shore walk at dusk, uncovering the marine creatures and plant life that inhabit the intertidal zone as the tide recedes.

 

A fossil safari at Point Addis on January 8 then offers a unique chance to learn about the ancient history written in coastal rocks and search for fossil evidence of past marine life buried in the cliffs and beaches of this rugged Surf Coast landscape.

A pier discovery session at Lorne Pier will also feature in the program, offering families a chance to learn about the marine life that thrives around the iconic structure. Led by experienced educators, the session will explore how piers create important habitat for fish and invertebrates, while helping participants identify species commonly found beneath the surface.

Another Surf Coast highlight will be a coastal walk and wildlife discovery session in Jan Juc on January 12. Participants will explore clifftop tracks while learning about local seabirds, native vegetation and the ways coastal landscapes are cared for and protected.

 

The guided walk offers a relaxed introduction to the Surf Coast’s unique natural environment, with plenty of opportunities for families to stop, observe and ask questions.

These local offerings sit alongside a broader program of walks, snorkelling, canoeing and discovery activities across the Surf Coast and beyond, all designed to connect young Victorians and their families with coastal nature.

An “ocean action day” with marine conservation organisation, Sea Shepherd, will also be held at the Geelong Waterfront on January 11.

Minister for Environment, Steve Dimopoulous, said the initiative would give families a fun, free way to get active and enjoy local beaches.

“The program also helps young people learn about Victoria’s amazing marine species and habitats, and to learn how they can help protect our coastal environments,” he said.

For the full program of events and to make a booking, head to marineandcoasts.vic.gov.au/coastal-programs