Located just off Surf Beach Road at Beach Access Point 14W, the
Ocean Grove Foreshore BBQ and Picnic Area is a great spot to relax and have a picnic just metres away from beautiful Ocean Grove Beach.
It's a nice grassy area with great facilities, and despite being so close to the beach, is fairly sheltered from the wind, due to the trees and shrubs acting as a windbreak. The area incorporates the walking track, so it is fairly busy, with a constant flow of joggers, cyclists and dog-walkers using the track.
There are four electric barbecues, which are free and easy to use (they are operated by the push of a button). When I visited, they were all clean and the surrounding areas clean and well-maintained.
Two of the electric barbecues under a shelter
The other two electric barbecues are located behind the picnic shelter
There are plenty of picnic tables and seats, with a number of them located in a purpose-designed shelter.
The barbecue shelter provides a place to sit and eat
There are also some picnic tables located on the grass, and on the other side of the walking track, near the beach.
Wooden picnic table on the grass area near the barbecues
Beach-side tables offer a beautiful view of the ocean
In terms of restrictions, glass and alcohol are not permitted in the area.
If you are using the area between the 1st of November and the 30th of April, make sure you check the
CFA website for current Fire Danger Ratings.
During Total Fire Ban days, use of the public electric barbecues is still permitted, provided that certain conditions are met (these conditions are listed on the
Geelong Council Website).
If you're thinking of heading down to the beach after lunch, it's literally only metres away, with beach access via a sealed pathway. The beach is beautiful, however if you're going for a swim, please note that it is
classified as 'Moderately Hazardous' and can experience strong currents.
The pathway to the beach
An information sign near the pathway to the beach
Ocean Grove Beach
Overall, it's a nice, clean and well-maintained area, and highly recommended to those looking for a good picnic spot in Ocean Grove.
Parking: Free parking is available nearby, in carparks on either side of the picnic area. From the carparks, just follow the walking track.
Parking is available in a carpark between the BBQ area and Surf Live-Saving Club.
Yes, there are rubbish and recycling bins
Toilets: Toilets are located a short distance away - just head west along the track, past the carpark.
Shade/Shelter: Yes
Other things to do nearby: Visit the beach, go for a walk along the track, or head up to the Ocean Grove Lookout and Playground.
