Apollo Bay was first sighted by Lieutenant Grant abroad the sailing vessel Lady Nelson. In 1845, the bay was named by Captain Loutit who sheltered here in his vessel Apollo. It is not difficult to understand why this part of the world is regarded as ‘Paradise by the Sea’. The town nestles into the picturesque green foothills of the Otway Ranges that roll down to a sweeping arc of golden beaches and sky-blue sea. Dozens of cypress trees dot the wide foreshore reserve, while the fascinating Otway National Park is just a stone’s throw away. More people are slowly discovering what the 1,200 locals already know — Apollo Bay is a special place. The fact that it is further along the Great Ocean Road has probably helped the town retain that unique charm. Enjoy a drink in one of the old pubs or cafes revamped to cater to the new generation of travellers. (A great place to find a latte — often difficult in rural areas — is La Bimba café on the waterfront. They also have local artwork on the walls for sale). For the best views over the town, drive up Marriner's Lookout Road. Superb views are to be had although watch out for wandering cows! Another favourite lookout is Crows Nest in Tuxion Road. Drive a little further, through the Otway forests to the lighthouse, explore nearby forest and waterfall walks, or on a fine day take a scenic plane flight from the Apollo Bay airstrip to the Twelve Apostles. Alternatively drive a few kilometres out of town past neighbouring Marengo to discover a superb bird's eye view of Apollo Bay's rolling green hills, the Great Ocean Road and Bass Strait beyond. Apollo Bay makes most of its living from fishing, farming and tourism. And the fishing fleet, moored behind the safety of a huge breakwater, has itself become part of the tourism experience. The specialties — crayfish and abalone — are in big demand. You can wander along the pier where the boats are moored, past stacks of craypots, and see the fishermen making ready for another trip out to sea. Their fresh-daily catch is readily available from the colourful fishermen’s co-operative at the pier entrance. Nearby is the town’s golf course, which has one of the best locations you could imagine — high on the point of the bay with the sea, town and hills in the background. Apollo Bay, for all its other wonders, is a beach resort with marvellous opportunities to enjoy swimming, surfing or just walking along the sand. Don’t forget the many giftshops, galleries and teahouses to explore, plus the regular foreshore market where local arts, crafts and produce are on sale.
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