Port Campbell is located on the Great Ocean Road and is a seafood heaven for seafood enthusiasts: fresh seafood and a taste of the Southern Ocean. The coastline is breathtaking, and the ocean views and fishing grounds are on the Bass Strait. Here’s Port Campbell’s seafood scene, from fresh catches to top eats.
The Spectacular Coastline
Port Campbell’s coastline, with its cliffs, rock formations and turquoise water, is the perfect setting for the region’s food. Visitors are drawn to the area’s unique rock formations, shaped over millions of years by the Bass Strait’s waves. Dining along this coastline allows you to enjoy the Southern Ocean views while eating fresh seafood from the local fishing ports. This coastline is also the traditional land of the Eastern Maar & Gunditjmara peoples, who have a deep connection to this land and sea. This cultural heritage adds a sense of reconciliation to Port Campbell’s food scene, with locals focussed on preserving the natural beauty and respecting the history.
Fresh Seafood: A Culinary Delight
Port Campbell is a seafood lover’s heaven, with fresh fish and shellfish and unique specialties like abalone and crayfish. The seafood is caught daily and celebrated for its freshness and quality, served with minimal intervention to preserve the natural flavours. Many of Port Campbell’s eateries are committed to sustainable seafood so you can enjoy a great meal and the marine environment. From grilled fish to seafood platters, Port Campbell’s food scene showcases the diversity of the Southern Ocean.
What’s special about Campbell’s Seafood?
The clear, nutrient-rich waters of the Southern Ocean are a big part of Port Campbell’s seafood excellence. These cold, pristine waters support a diverse ecosystem, from crayfish to snapper. Unlike many other coastal towns, Port Campbell has a fishing community that is committed to sustainability so future generations can enjoy this seafood paradise. This commitment to sustainability is visible at the local fish markets and restaurants that only source their seafood from trusted, ethical suppliers. Port Campbell’s fresh seafood is often paired with local artisanal products like Apostle Whey Cheese and ABecketts Creek Beef to give you a true taste of the region and its craftsmanship.
Seafood Delights
Port Campbell’s seafood dishes are both diverse and delicious, catering to a wide variety of tastes and preferences. Diners can choose from classic options like grilled fish, seafood platters, and Southern Rock Lobster or try something new, like seafood pasta loaded with fresh scallops and prawns. Fresh seafood salads, hot coffee, and even craft beer pair well with these seafood options, allowing visitors to enjoy the region’s flavours in a relaxed setting. Many of these dishes are crafted with locally sourced produce, adding a farm-to-table quality that enhances the dining experience. Restaurants and cafes in Port Campbell also feature fresh sandwiches and light lunches for those who want a quick bite without compromising on quality.
Fish Market
The Port Campbell Fish Market is the central hub for fresh seafood, bringing together the best of the Bass Strait in a community-focused environment. Whether you’re after deep-water seafood like snapper or seasonal shellfish, the market has it all. You’ll often find fresh juice stands and other local products alongside the seafood, so it’s a great place to pick up ingredients for a meal. If you want to try Port Campbell’s seafood at home, this is the place to go.
Local Fishmongers
Port Campbell’s fishmongers are passionate about quality. They only sell the best seafood and go beyond the usual. Local vendors have traditional fish dishes and unique specials like Southern Rock Lobster and scallop pies. They’re a great resource for cooking a seafood extravaganza at home, and many also sell fresh juice and artisanal products. With a focus on sustainability, Port Campbell’s fishmongers are a reflection of the town’s commitment to quality and the environment.
Where to Find Fresh Seafood
If you love fresh seafood, Port Campbell’s seafood markets, fishmongers and top restaurants are a must visit. Fresh seafood is available daily at the Port Campbell Fish Market, local fishmongers have everything from snapper to the unusual crayfish. For a more formal dining experience Port Campbell’s seafood restaurants have everything from traditional fish dishes to vegetarian options all made with local produce and stunning ocean views.
The Southern Catch Restaurant
Fresh seafood is their thing, so The Southern Catch Restaurant has a huge menu of local flavours. Seafood platters, lobster, fresh fish tacos and more, with a selection of wines and craft beers to boot. A focus on sustainability and a seasonal menu makes The Southern Catch the embodiment of Port Campbell’s foodie vibe.
Bay & Bounty
Right on the beach, Bay & Bounty is famous for their seafood platters, grilled scallops and tempura prawns. Casual vibes and views of the coast make it a local and tourist favourite. They also do fresh sandwiches, veggie options and craft beers so you have plenty of choice.
The Pier Eatery
Hearty servings and views of Port Campbell Bay make The Pier Eatery a classic seafood spot. Fisherman’s basket with fresh catches of the day, cosy and scenic, perfect for dining solo or with family and friends. Fresh sandwiches, light lunches and plenty of side options make The Pier Eatery a local and visitor favourite.
Seafood Events
Port Campbell’s seafood culture is showcased through several local events that bring the community together. Seafood festivals to harvest markets. These events are all about fresh and sustainable food.
Seafood Festival
The Port Campbell Seafood Festival is an annual event that celebrates the town’s seafood. Fresh seafood stalls, cooking demos, live music and workshops on sustainable fishing. Taste dishes from local vendors, sample craft beer and learn new cooking skills from local chefs.
Great Ocean Road Harvest Market
Held during the warmer months, the Great Ocean Road Harvest Market is a fantastic outing, perfect for foodies seeking fresh seafood, artisanal treasures, and local produce. Boasting over 30 vibrant stalls, you’ll discover everything from freshly caught fish to unique and delightful culinary surprises, showcasing the region’s rich diversity. With breathtaking ocean views and an energetic atmosphere, this experience is an essential highlight of any great ocean road tour package.
FAQ
What seafood can I find in Port Campbell?
In Port Campbell you can find seafood, Southern Rock Lobster, fresh scallops, crayfish, barracouta and snapper.
Are there vegetarian options at seafood restaurants in Port Campbell?
Yes, many seafood restaurants in Port Campbell have vegetarian options.
Where is the best seafood in Port Campbell?
Port Campbell Fish Market and local fishmongers have the freshest seafood straight from the Bass Strait.
What seafood events in Port Campbell?
Port Campbell Seafood Festival and The Great Ocean Road Harvest Market. Live music, food stalls and sustainable fishing workshops.
Can I eat seafood with a view of Port Campbell?
Yes! Bay & Bounty and The Pier Eatery have seafood with coastal views.
