From Whale Watching To Folk Festivals, This Underrated Australian Village Has It All

At the western end of Victoria's famed Great Ocean Road lies Port Fairy, a a quaint Australian coastal town with a deep history. Celebrated for its distinctive architecture, stunning coastal landscapes, whale watching, and colorful art scene, Port Fairy provides an underrated taste of Australia's past and present. Originally known as Belfast, the village owes its name to the Fairy, a ship that graced its shores in the early 19th century. By 1852, it had become Victoria's first city and a bustling port town. 

Today, it retains much of its historic charm, with over 50 heritage-listed buildings and streets lined with whitewashed cottages from the 1800s. Visitors can stroll past old stone churches or explore Port Fairy Maritime and Shipwreck Heritage Walk, where informational plaques tell stories of the town's seafaring past. Craggy cliffs meet windswept beaches, leading up to rolling green countryside. Serving as the final stop for many on the journey along the Great Ocean Road, it's the perfect end to a scenic drive that showcases some of Australia's most breathtaking coastline.

The town is a haven for creatives, and art lovers will revel in the Port Fairy Art Walk, which features 11 galleries and studios showcasing everything from silversmithing to glassblowing. The community market, held weekly in January and biweekly otherwise, adds to the vibrant atmosphere, offering locally made products, fresh produce, and handmade crafts. For foodies, this coastal Australian town doesn't disappoint. Cozy cafes, artisanal bakeries, and seafood restaurants dot the town, providing plenty of opportunities to savor the local delicacies. In addition, the town draws people near and far for whale watching in the winter months and the infamous Port Fairy Folk Festival in March.

From May to September, Port Fairy transforms into a premier whale-watching destination as these majestic marine giants migrate from Antarctica along the Whale Trail. This natural corridor along the Southern Ocean draws southern right whales, humpbacks, and the occasional blue whale or orca. During the Australian winter, the whales retreat to the whale corridor for a time of breeding, birthing, and raising their calves close to shore.

The breathtaking East Beach, with its white sand and clear blue waters, offers one of the best vantage points for spotting these marine titans. For the best whale watching experience, patience is key. Sunny days offer optimal visibility, and seasoned locals are probably willing to point out sightings. Keep an eye on the horizon for unexpected breaches — the sight of a breaching whale is truly unforgettable. 

Port Fairy's whaling history adds another layer of intrigue. In the 19th century, it was a hub for whaling — a practice now replaced with conservation efforts to ensure these endangered species are protected. Alongside whales, visitors can also spot native birds like the wallaby, seals, dolphins, kangaroos or emus, making the area a paradise for wildlife lovers.

Every March, Port Fairy comes alive with the sound of music during the Port Fairy Folk Festival, a four-day extravaganza celebrating community, culture, and creativity. This award-winning festival, which began in 1977, has grown into one of Australia's most beloved cultural events, drawing artists both nationally, regionally, and from around the world.

Held during the country's long Labour Day weekend, the festival features an eclectic mix of artists performing everything from folk and Celtic to blues, jazz, and acoustic rock. The multi-venue setup ensures a immersive experience, with concerts, interactive workshops, wandering acts, and themed performances scattered throughout the venue. Beyond the music, food vendors serve a variety of offerings, while craft workshops, circus instruction, and a writer's program add layers of enrichment and opportunities for participation. Families are well catered-to, with numerous kid workshops, puppet shows, and crafting sessions ensuring the little ones have as much fun as the big kids. 

The festival's community-driven ethos and dedication to showcasing diverse talent are what make it so special. It's not just a celebration of music but a testament to the spirit of Port Fairy — a town that thrives on creativity, connection, and a deep appreciation for its natural and cultural heritage. From the leviathans of the deep in the Southern Ocean to the soulful tunes of the Folk Festival, this underrated Australian coastal oasis captures some of the best of Victoria.