Fairhaven(Australia) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Ferndale, the best choice for ocean views is Ferndale Beach Resort, offering spacious rooms with private balconies overlooking the Southern Ocean. This boutique hotel blends modern comfort with coastal design, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and sea-facing bathtubs. Guests enjoy daily access to Ferndale Beach and can participate in guided sunset fishing tours or intertidal zone walks. The resort also hosts local art exhibitions showcasing Indigenous and coastal Australian themes, making it a cultural as well as scenic retreat.

For first-time visitors, the Ferndale Central District and Coastal Promenade Zone are ideal. These areas are within walking distance of Ferndale Beach, the harbor pier, and local eateries. Enjoy morning strolls along the coastal path, then relax at a seaside café serving fresh seafood. The neighborhood is safe, quiet, and rich in local charm, perfect for experiencing authentic Victorian coastal life without the crowds. Many guesthouses here offer breakfast-included packages and free bike rentals.

Ferndale offers several unique cultural experiences. Visit the Ferndale Historical Museum to explore stories from the 19th-century gold rush and early fishing industry. Every Saturday, the Harbor Farmers' Market features local artisans selling kangaroo sausage and honey cake. Don’t miss the Aboriginal Guided Walks to the Korak Rock Art Site, where elders share Dreamtime stories and traditional land knowledge—offering deep insight into Indigenous heritage in Victoria’s coastal region.

Yes, Ferndale is highly family-friendly. The beachfront sand zones are safe and shallow, ideal for children. The Ferndale Park has a dedicated playground, splash pad, and weekly kids’ craft workshops like pottery and nature sketching. Many hotels, including Ferndale Beach Resort, offer family suites and childcare services. Evening programs such as stargazing talks and nighttime beach yoga provide enriching, low-stimulation activities perfect for young travelers.

Ferndale’s nightlife is calm and intimate. Head to Harbour Loft Bar, known for its ambient lighting, live jazz, and curated Australian wines paired with seafood platters. Some restaurants, like The Reef Restaurant, offer outdoor dining under the stars. For a tranquil evening, join a moonlit beach yoga session on Ferndale Beach. The town’s relaxed pace makes it ideal for those seeking quiet evenings after a day of coastal exploration.

Must-try dishes in Ferndale include the Smoked Bass Sandwich, made with locally caught fish, house-made chili jam, and grilled tomatoes. Another highlight is the Intertidal Seafood Platter, featuring blue mussels, sea urchin, and crab claws sourced daily by local fishermen. Try ginger turmeric scones and lemon macarons at Seabreeze Bakery. Visit the weekend Harbor Market to taste these authentic flavors and support local producers.

Don’t miss the Korak Cliffs Trail, a scenic coastal walk offering panoramic views of the Southern Ocean and seabird colonies. The Intertidal Zones are perfect for exploring sea stars, anemones, and sea urchins—ideal with a magnifying lens. The Ferndale Mangrove Wetlands serve as a sanctuary for migratory birds like the white-faced heron and Australian duck. Join a guided eco-cruise to witness these ecosystems up close and learn about conservation efforts in coastal Victoria.

Yes, Ferndale is very walkable and bike-friendly. Free electric shuttle buses connect major hotels, beaches, and markets. From Melbourne, take the Victorian Rail Service to Ferndale Railway Station, then transfer to a taxi or rent a bike. Extensive bicycle paths run along the coast and through rural lanes, ideal for exploring nearby sites like the Korak Rock Art Site and Mangrove Wetlands. Renting a bike or using the local e-scooter service enhances your mobility and flexibility.

From May to July, join the Ferndale Turtle Conservation Season, where visitors help monitor nesting sites and release hatchlings into the ocean. During winter, the Harbor Light Art Festival transforms the beachfront with projection art and soundscapes. In summer, the Surf & Sound Festival at the harbor features indie bands and beachside food stalls. These events celebrate local ecology and community spirit, offering unforgettable experiences throughout the year.

Visit the Seabreeze Craft Market, where over 30 local artisans sell handmade ceramics, natural-dyed textiles, and wood carvings. Explore Ferndale Antique Street for vintage nautical instruments and Indigenous totem sculptures. Pick up authentic gifts like sea salt soap and seaweed skincare kits, all crafted with local ingredients. These shops support sustainable practices and preserve traditional craftsmanship, making them ideal for meaningful keepsakes.