Is there family-friendly accommodation in Lorne?

Yes, Lorne has plenty of family-friendly accommodation options. Cumberland River Holiday Park and Lorne Caravan Park both offer great facilities for all ages.

Lorne

Situated on Victoria’s Great Ocean Road, Lorne is a treasure that’s popular all year round. Famous for its stunning coastline, rich culture and adventurous vibe, Lorne has something for everyone. Whether you’re a nature lover, foodie or culture vulture, Lorne can cater to all types of travellers. The one-mile-long Lorne Beach, ancient forests and lively local community make it the perfect spot for a break. Let’s get into what makes Lorne one of Australia’s favourite destinations.

Irresistible Coastal Charm

Lorne is more than a beach town; it’s a place where life slows down and the scenery takes over. The Lorne Foreshore is always alive with a mix of family-friendly beaches, walking paths and ocean views. The town’s charm is amplified by its position between the Otway Ranges National Park and the Southern Ocean. Whether it’s a sunny day at Loutit Bay or an afternoon exploring rock pools along the shore, Lorne wants you to relax and get lost in tranquillity.

Cultural Capital

Lorne’s arts community is at the heart of the town’s culture. At the centre of this is Qdos Arts, an outdoor sculpture park and gallery that features contemporary works from Australian and international artists. Art lovers come to Lorne for the Lorne Sculpture Biennale, a major event that turns the town’s coastline into an open-air gallery. Along with visual arts, Lorne has Lorne Theatre, which has been entertaining locals and visitors for years with a mix of film and live shows. These cultural attractions make Lorne one of the seaside towns that really celebrates creativity.

From Settlement to Seaside Destination

Lorne’s history is woven into its natural beauty and culture. The region was originally home to the Eastern Maar & Gunditjmara people, who had been here for thousands of years. Their connection to the land is still evident today in Lorne’s natural and cultural landscape. European settlement began in the mid-19th century, with timber and fishing industries shaping the town’s early days. Historic landmarks like the Lorne Hotel and Cumberland Lorne tell the story of a town that has grown while still retaining its old-world charm.

Nature and Wildlife

Lorne is surrounded by some of Victoria’s most beautiful natural wonders. The Great Otway National Park is a nature lover’s paradise with towering eucalypts, birdlife and native wildlife (kangaroos and koalas). The town is also a great spot to see marine life – seals on the rocks and dolphins in the surf. If you like to hike, Lorne’s rainforest trails will get you up close and personal with nature, and you’ll discover hidden gems like Henderson Falls, Sheoak Falls and Kalmina Falls.

Top Attractions

Adventure On At Live Wire Park

For thrill-seekers, Live Wire Park is a must-do. This elevated adventure park offers heart-pounding excitement and stunning natural scenery. Zip lining through the treetops of Lorne is a thrilling ride with a bird’s eye view of the rainforest. The Super Circuit is a challenging obstacle course that will test your agility and endurance with rope climbs, swinging bridges and balance beams. For a more leisurely pace, the Canopy Circuit Walk is a serene stroll high above the forest floor where you can take in the beauty of Lorne’s ecosystems.
One of the coolest things about Live Wire Park is its commitment to sustainability. As an eco-certified park it’s off-grid, solar powered and rainwater harvested. The park’s minimal environmental impact means you can have fun and not hurt the environment. Perfect for families, groups of friends or solo adventurers looking to face their fears and get up close and personal with nature. With safety as the number one priority the park provides all the gear and trained instructors so everyone has an awesome time.

Shopping

Lorne’s shopping is as quirky as the town itself. The main street is a strip of boutique shops showcasing local talent. Essential Lorne is a must-visit for unique souvenirs or gifts – from handcrafted jewellery to bespoke clothing. For surfers or water sports enthusiasts, the street is dotted with surf shops and surf wear stores.
The Caravan Park markets are on weekends and during peak season and are a treasure trove of fresh produce, artisan goods and vintage finds. Fresh harvest fruits and veggies, unique home decor items, eco friendly products, handmade candles and locally made skincare – you name it. Whether you’re looking for a gift or just some retail therapy Lorne’s shopping caters for all tastes and budgets.

Treat Yourself and Dine Out

Lorne’s food is amazing, and the town’s food culture is legendary. From beachside cafes to fine dining restaurants, there’s something for everyone. Start your day with breakfast at one of Lorne’s cafes, where you can enjoy freshly brewed coffee and baked goods. For lunch, enjoy local seafood at the historic Lorne Hotel, where beer-battered fish and chips are served with ocean views. Dinner options range from Greek to modern Australian. Mantra Lorne has a fine dining restaurant with dishes made with local ingredients. If you prefer a more chill vibe, the food trucks in town have a variety of street food options from wood fired pizzas to tacos. Whatever you choose to eat, pair it with a local wine or craft beer.

Paddle, SUP or Surf

Water sports lovers will find heaven in Lorne with its waves and calm bays for all levels. Lorne Beach is a surfers hot spot with consistent breaks for beginners and pros. Surf schools in the area offer lessons and equipment rental so you can get in the water. For a more relaxed aquatic adventure, try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) or kayaking in the calm waters of Loutit Bay. These activities give you a unique perspective of Lorne’s coastline and are perfect for those who like to take their time. Pier fishing at the Lorne Pier is another popular pastime where you can catch local fish like snapper and whiting while taking in the views. Whether you’re looking for thrills or serenity, Lorne’s waters have got you covered.

Events and Festivals

Lorne’s events calendar is full of celebrations of the town’s culture and community. The Falls Music and Arts Festival is the biggest event of the year, attracting thousands of visitors for a multi day music, art and cultural festival. Held over New Year’s it turns Lorne into a creative hub of activity. The Lorne Festival is another highlight, a more chill but equally as good experience. Live music, food stalls with great food and workshops for all ages. Throughout the year Lorne also has smaller events like art exhibitions, wine and food tastings and community markets so you can get amongst the action.

Waterfalls

Lorne is surrounded by some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Victoria. Erskine Falls, one of the town’s most famous natural wonders, drops 30 meters into a ferny gorge. The short walk to the viewing platform is stunning, or for the more adventurous, you can take the steep trail to the base of the falls for a closer look. Nearby, Phantom Falls, Splitter Falls, and Straw Falls each have their own magic, with trails through the rainforest that lead to these misty waterfalls.
Each waterfall is a peaceful retreat, a cool haven on hot days and a sight to behold after rain. They’re all within easy reach of Lorne, so add them to your itinerary.

Walks

Walking is one of the best ways to experience Lorne’s many landscapes and the town has walks for all fitness levels. The Surf Coast Walk is a must do, with stunning ocean views as it meanders along the coast. For a more immersive nature experience head to the Otway Ranges National Park where trails lead through ferny rainforest to hidden gems like Kalmina Falls and Henderson Falls.
In town, the Lorne Foreshore Trail is a gentle walk along the beach that stops at the Lorne Swing Bridge and Lorne Pier. Whether you’re after a challenging hike or a leisurely stroll, Lorne has walked for all, and you can connect with the town’s natural beauty.
Many visitors also explore the region through great ocean walk tours, which offer guided access to coastal trails and natural highlights.

Your Travel Options

Getting to Lorne is part of the fun. The town is only 2 hours from Melbourne and the drive along the Ocean Road is some of the most scenic in Australia. If you don’t have a car public transport options including regular V/Line buses are available.
Once you’re in Lorne, everything will be within walking distance. Whether you’re here for a day or a longer stay, Lorne is the perfect base.