San Remo

Located on the eastern entrance of Western Port and serving as the gateway to Phillip Island, San Remo is a significant fishing port and a popular feeding spot for flocks of friendly pelicans.

Snap up fresh fish and seafood at San Remo Fisherman's Cooperative, the leading supplier of fresh fish for the region, or dine out at a local hotel and have it served up in true gourmet style. Cast a line off the jetty or, for some serious ocean angling, join a fishing charter and head out to sea.

San Remo was settled in 1840 and the township that grew up along the port fast became a popular tourist spot. Hit the waves at the surf beach or splash around with the kids in the bay. Soak up the village atmosphere in local cafes, bakeries and restaurants, browse studios and boutiques, and then head down to the jetty to feed the local pelicans. San Remo's most well-known inhabitants congregate on the foreshore each morning to await the largesse of visitors.

Take in San Remo's scenery and historic landmarks on foot. Explore the George Bass Coastal Walk, which begins at the southern end of Punchbowl Road and runs all the way to Kilcunda. Wander along the foreshore to Bore Beach, where the historic coal bore can be seen, and keep moving on to Shelly Beach, Griffiths Point and Quarry Rocks.

San Remo offers diverse accommodation options, from caravan parks to motels and resort-style indulgence. Tennis and squash courts as well as bowling greens are available in town.

February brings the annual San Remo Channel Challenge, a biathlon event and day festival featuring a swim from San Remo to Newhaven and then a run back across the bridge.

San Remo is located 125 kilometres south-east of Melbourne or about 90 minutes by car along the South Gippsland Highway and the Bass Highway.