Town by Town Snapshot: Fairhaven

The size of Fairhaven is approximately 5.2sqkm, with 41.2 per cent of the total area dedicated to green space across two parks.

The population of Fairhaven in 2016 was 296 people. By 2021, the population was 390 showing a population growth of 31.8 per cent in the area during that time.

Tucked along the Great Ocean Road between Aireys Inlet and Eastern View, Fairhaven is a peaceful coastal hamlet known for its sweeping ocean views, unspoilt bushland and relaxed, low-key charm. With a permanent population of just a few hundred, Fairhaven remains one of the quieter corners of the Surf Coast — a hidden gem prized by nature lovers, holidaymakers and those seeking a retreat from city life.

Fairhaven’s standout feature is its long, uninterrupted beach — the longest along the Great Ocean Road — stretching more than 6km and backed by rugged dunes and native vegetation. The Fairhaven Surf Life Saving Club, perched above the sand on the aptly named Surf Coast Walk, is a community hub and one of the few built structures in the area, with a modern clubhouse and patrolled swimming zones in summer.

To the east, Spout Creek winds its way through the landscape, emptying into the sea at the iconic Pole House — one of the most photographed homes in Australia, suspended above the cliff on a single concrete pillar. Nearby, Split Point Lighthouse in neighbouring Aireys Inlet is a local landmark and popular walking destination, offering panoramic views of the coastline and Bass Strait.

Fairhaven’s history is closely tied to the development of the Great Ocean Road, which was built by returned soldiers in the 1920s as a memorial to those who served in World War I. The surrounding bushland — much of it within the Great Otway National Park — is rich with walking tracks, lookouts and wildlife, providing residents and visitors alike with easy access to some of Victoria’s most scenic natural experiences.

While the township has limited commercial infrastructure, and no shops of its own, neighbouring Aireys Inlet provides essential amenities, cafes, and services just a few minutes away by car or bike. This absence of urban development is part of Fairhaven’s appeal: a tranquil, predominantly residential area that prioritises space, views and a strong connection to the land and sea.

Though often overlooked in favour of more built-up destinations along the coast, Fairhaven offers a rare sense of seclusion and simplicity — a place where nature takes the lead and time slows down.

The predominant age group in Fairhaven is 60-69 years.

Households in Fairhaven are primarily childless couples and are likely to be repaying $1,400-$1,799 per month on mortgage repayments.

In general, people in Fairhaven work in a professional occupation. In 2021, 90 per cent of the homes in Fairhaven were owner-occupied compared with 83.5 per cent in 2016.

 

Quick Stats

Population: 390

Male: 50.4%

Female: 49.6%

Median age: 56

5 Year Population Change: 31.8%

Median House Value: $1,884,409

Change in Median House Price (5 Years): 8.51%

Median Asking Rent Per Week: NA

Average Length of Ownership (Years): 18

Median House Price Over Time:

June 2025: $1,884,409

June 2024: $2,035,134

June 2023: $2,070,606

June 2022: $2,231,282

June 2021: $1,736,425

House Sales (12 Months): 12

Land Median Sale Price: NA

Land Sales (12 Months): 3