Where the Moyne River meets the ocean, Griffiths Island is home to a protected short-tailed shearwater (mutton-bird) colony; they descend on the town each October and stay until April (dusk is the best time to visit) before commencing their extraordinary 15,000km northern migration to Alaska. The 3km circuit makes for a lovely one-hour walk, passing the lighthouse (c 1859) and some swimming spots along the way.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Battery Hill

0.38 MILES

Located across the bridge from Port Fairy's picturesque harbour, Battery Hill is worthy of exploration, with cannons and fortifications positioned here in…

2. Wharf

0.53 MILES

Back in the 1850s the town's port was one of the busiest in Australia, serving as the main departure point for ships heading to England laden with wool,…

3. Port Fairy History Centre

0.54 MILES

Housed in the old bluestone courthouse (complete with mannequins acting out a courtroom scene), this museum has shipping relics and old photos.

4. Mott's Cottage

0.69 MILES

One of Victoria's oldest buildings, Mott's Cottage (c 1843) is owned by the National Trust and is only open on specific dates; call ahead if you're keen…

5. Pea Soup

0.73 MILES

More attractive than it sounds, Pea Soup is a lovely little sheltered beach that's popular with families.

6. Wishart Galley

0.73 MILES

Port Fairy's best gallery, set in a historic bank building, is run by the former curator of the Warrnambool Art Galley. The multi-room space exhibits…

7. East Beach

0.95 MILES

Safe for swimming, East Beach has a surf life-saving club and small waves to suit beginners.

8. Basalt Wines

5.76 MILES

Just outside Port Fairy is this family-run biodynamic winery that does free tastings in its tin shed, with a glass atrium so you can enjoy the views…