Geelong is the main gateway to the Great Ocean Road, and almost everyone heading to the Twelve Apostles passes through. Closer to home, the Bellarine Peninsula has cool-climate wineries and seafront villages within 20–40 minutes' drive, and the You Yangs ranges to the north offer the best hiking in the immediate area.
- Bellarine Peninsula (~30 km) — wineries, Queenscliff's heritage streetscape, ferry to Sorrento.
- You Yangs Regional Park (~25 km) — granite peaks with wide views over the bay; trail running and easy walks.
- Twelve Apostles (~200 km via the Great Ocean Road) — long day; better as an overnight.
- Werribee Open Range Zoo & Mansion (~50 km) — African savannah-style enclosures on the Werribee Park grounds.