Portland, Victoria, is located on the southwest coast of Australia and offers a captivating blend of nature, rich history, and vibrant culture. Many tourists visit here yearly due to the hundreds of things to do in Portland. This city is also connected with all other big cities of Australia, which makes it easy to reach here.Portland has been a significant tourist spot for many years due to its architectural places and pleasant weather. If you are seeking an escape from the complex, routined life and make you feel comfortable, then this place is for you.

For those visiting this place for the first time, this article will help you with what to do and guide you to Portland, Victoria.

The Giant Cape Nelson Lighthouse

The Cape Nelson Lighthouse is about ten to fifteen minutes from Portland, just 13 km away. This could be if you are looking for the best things to do in Portland during the night. This 35-meter-tall building is the reason for many people's attraction over the last few years.

This building was built in 1884, and its keeper’s accommodation has turned into a cottage. You can take these cottages on rent and enjoy the great view of whales.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to watch whales from here is between May to October each year.

Timing

It opens between 11 am to 2 pm with guided tours.

Entry Fees

• Adult: $15
• Child: $10
• Family: $40

Location

Rugged Cliffs of Cape Nelson Road, Portland, Victoria, Australia

Gannet Colony (Birds Watching spot)

Suppose you are a bird lover and like to watch them for hours, then take advantage of this opportunity to visit the Gannet Colony. This is a great place to go if you want to do things in Portland with kids.

When you watch Birds with the simple eye, you will see White Rocks, but when you watch them through binoculars, you will see undisturbed birds sitting. Watching these birds feed on small sea creatures is a delight. They can also go upto 20 meters below water, which is very difficult for any other birds.

Best Time to Visit

Between April and July is the best time to visit this place because you can watch them catch fish at that time, and it is the annual nesting season of Gannet.

Location

This place is located just 6km away from Portland. The road is slightly unsealed but suitable for many vehicles to come here quickly. Its address is Point Danger Coastal Reserve.

Whale Watching at Portland

Whale watching in Portland is an experience to be noticed. The Southern Whale and Blue Whales are the main reasons for many tourist attractions. There are also free binoculars set up to watch the majestic whales clearly, but there is also no restriction to bring your own.

Best Time to Visit

May to October is the perfect time to go to this place because Southern Right Whlaes migrate from Antarctica to Australia.

But if you plan to visit between November and April, don’t be disheartened because you still have the luck to watch them from Cape Bridgewater and Cape Nelson.

Location:

Visitor Information Centre Portland

Botanical Gardens Portland

In the 1850s, William Allitt designed this beautiful botanical garden in Australia. It is also one of Australia's oldest botanical gardens. In the fantastic climate of Victoria, this garden showcases an extensive array of flowers.

You can stroll in this beautiful garden with your loved ones and family. People also use this garden as a picnic spot due to the facilities of BBQs, picnic tables, toilets, and even grassy tennis tables, which are also available for tourists to play.

Best Time to Visit:

Due to the spring season, September to November is the best time to visit this botanical garden.

Timing

It opens from 9 am to 5 pm every day except Christmas Day.

Location:

Glenelg St, Portland VIC 3305, Australia

Maritime Discovery Portland

Let’s take some steps toward the history of Portland. This museum was built in 1998 and displays the region’s rich maritime history, including boats, whales, and the history of the local fishing industry.

A 14-meter sperm whale is the main reason of tourists attraction to this museum. School and College trips in Portland keep this place at the top of the list. There are also many other attractions besides Skeleton, like the Couta boats, the 1858 lifeboat of Portland, the great Admella story, and many more.

Timing:

It opens from 9 am to 5 pm daily.

Entry Fee

• $7.50 for Adults
• $ 6.50 For Students
• Free for Children below 16 years

Location:

Lee Breakwater Road

Cable Trams Museum Portland

The Cable Tram is one of the most exciting things to do in Portland. Powered by diesel, this restored cable tram runs four to five trips daily. Starting your journey in Portland this way is among the best options.It covers all the essential spots of Portland, including the Maritime Discovery Centre, botanical gardens, WWII memorial water tower, and vintage-car museum. Travelers can easily get on and off any spot and explore the destination.

Timing

Tram tours run daily from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Entry Fee

• $65 for a family of 5,
• $22 for adults,
• $10 for 5-16-year-olds.
• Kids under 5 are free.

Location

2A Bentinck St, Portland VIC 3305, Australia

Amazing South West Walk

This 251km track is amazing for hiking, established in 1981. During the walk on this track, you can feel the charm of the SouthWest Coast of Portland. There are 14 walker campsites, every 10-20km along the way.

Many old lakes, sandy bays, cliffs, and the River known as Glenelg can also be seen. It also covers many tourist spots and national parks like the Discovery Bay Coastal Park, the Cape Nelson State Park, and Cape Bridgewater.

Location

Western District, Victoria, South Australia

Car and Motor Powerhouse Portland

Portland Powerhouse Motor and Car was built in the 1930s and has a collection of many vintage and classic cars, bikes, and motors. This place is just like heaven for the car lover.

The main reason for tourist attraction is a few models like a 1919 Overland Roadster Model 4, the 1960 Messerschmitt KR200, and the 1927 Essex. If you love vintage and classic cars, you will surely love this place.

Timing:

It opens from 10 am to 4 pm.

Entry Fee

• $8 for Adult
• $1 for a child
• $16 for a family

Location

Friendly Society Reserve, 23 Glenelg Street, Portland

Cobboboonee National Park

Our next stop will be Cobboboonee National Park in Portland, Victoria. In November 2008, Cobboboonee State Forest became a national park. This National Park is spread over 18,510 hectares and is loved by travellers and hikers.

A number of endangered and unique species of animals can be found in Cobboboonee National Park. Another reason of tourist attraction for this place is the Horse Trail. You can also enjoy the trail by foot or vehicle.

Timing

It opens 24 hours.

Location:

Mount Deception Road, Greenwald, Australia

Cape Nelson State Park

As mentioned above, the Cape Nelson Lighthouse is within a 600,466-acre park. Cape Nelson State Park. It is the best destination for the wanderers who enjoy discovering new places.

Additionally, within Cape Nelson State Park, a 3000 m coastal cliff walk offers breathtaking views. One can observe Southern Right Whales from this cliff during the summer and winter.

Location

Cape Nelson Road, Portland West, Australia

Conclusion

Portland Victoria is the best place to visit in summer vacations due to its pleasant weather, exciting history, and incredible architectural spots. Here are the top 10 things to do in Portland Victoria, i.e., The Cape Nelson Lighthouse, Gannet Colony, Whale Watching, Cable Trams Depot Museum, Cobboboonee National Park, Cape Nelson State Park, and many more places. You will see a Lighthouse, a botanical park, whales, vintage cars, and many more.

So why wait? Pack your bags and get ready to experience the ultimate indulgence in Portland, Australia. Your slice of paradise awaits!