Nestled in the serene coastal town of Curlewis, VIC, Adventure Park is Victoria’s premier theme park for family fun, thrill-seeking adventures, and outdoor excitement. Spanning over 52 hectares, this aquatic wonderland and amusement park radiates a sense of joy that’s palpable from the moment you step through the gates. With its adrenaline-pumping water slides, countless amusements, and tamer attractions for younger adventurers, it’s a spot that captures the essence of a perfect day out. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking to beat the summer heat or a family ready for some relaxed, splash-filled adventures, Adventure Park has something for everyone.
Overview of the Attraction
Adventure Park first opened its doors in 1991, and since then, it has established itself as one of Melbourne’s most beloved theme parks. Located a quick 20-minute drive from Geelong, it perfectly blends the laid-back atmosphere of the Bellarine Peninsula with high-energy and engaging attractions.
The park’s highlight is undoubtedly its array of water slides. With heart-pumping rides like the Tornado Wave – the largest and fastest ride in Victoria – there’s no shortage of aquatic excitement. Adventure Park is also home to Victoria’s biggest water playground, a splash zone with over 300 water features, including fountains, slides, and tipping buckets. But it’s not just about daredevil rides: kids can enjoy the Little Buggy Speedway and the enchanting Grand Carousel, while the young at heart can treat themselves to a whirl on the Ferris Wheel.
What sets Adventure Park apart is its perfect balance between thrilling attractions and classic fairground fun, ensuring that irrespective of age, there’s ample entertainment. Additionally, the park provides plenty of undercover picnic areas, well-maintained gardens, and scenic walking paths for moments to recharge between adventures.
Location and Directions
Adventure Park is located at 1249 Bellarine Highway, Curlewis, VIC. The park is most accessible by car, and ample free parking is available on site for all visitors.
- From Geelong: Take Portarlington Rd/B110 towards Curlewis. You’ll spot the park’s colourful signs that help guide the way.
- From Melbourne: A simple 1.5-hour drive via the M1 will bring you to the heart of Adventure Park. Take the Princes Freeway, exit at Geelong, and follow signs for the Bellarine Peninsula.
If you’re relying on public transport, catch the Melbourne to Geelong V/Line train, which stops at South Geelong Station. From there, connecting bus services to Curlewis are readily available via the Bellarine Transit Route, dropping you close to the park.
For those depending on ride-hailing services or guided tours, companies like Go West Tours offer packages directly from Melbourne to Adventure Park, making logistics a breeze.
Why Visit
Adventure Park is a celebration of aquatic fun mixed with amusement-worthy antics.
- For Families: If you’ve got little ones with an abundance of energy, Adventure Park’s Shipwreck Harbour Splash Zone and the Kids Crazy Coaster will have them entertained for hours. The park is well equipped with playgrounds and smaller rides ideally catered for younger children, and shaded relaxation spots make it parent-friendly too.
- For Thrill Seekers: Test your mettle on the roaring Tornado water ride, or race your mates down the Aqua Racer Slide. With adult-sized go-karts, a four-lane race track, and water slides that spin, twist, and plummet, it’s an adrenaline playground.
- For Photographers and Sightseers: Boasting stunning views over the Bellarine Peninsula and views of the greenery surrounding the park, even a wander away from the excitement reveals just how quaint and beautiful the landscape of Curlewis is.
One of the signature draws of the park is seasonal: Christmas Festival of Lights, a family-friendly event filled with festive cheer. With more than 2 million colourful lights displayed over extravagant light shows and festive village setups, it’s a magical experience during the holiday season.
Visitor Tips
Planning your visit in advance is key to making the most of the day. Here are a few practical tips to bear in mind:
- Best Time to Visit: If you’re not fond of long queues, visiting outside the school holiday period is ideal. Mid-week visits offer lighter crowds and more relaxed vibes. Early mornings are perfect for catching uncrowded rides and enjoying cooler weather.
- Opening Hours: The park generally opens from 10 AM to 5 PM during its peak season (October through April). However, these times may vary during public holidays or seasonal events like the Christmas Light Festival, so it’s always best to check ahead on their official website.
- Ticket Prices: Entrance can be on the steep side, especially if visiting during peak summer. Typically, single-entry admission for an adult ranges from $40-$50, and children’s tickets are about $30. Off-peak promotional deals and family passes are worth seeking out.
- What to Bring: Sunscreen, hats, and comfortable walking shoes are a must, given the amount of outdoor exposure. Since much of the entertainment revolves around water, don’t forget swimsuits, towels, and flip-flops to comfortably navigate the wet park areas. Packing snacks is fine, though there are plenty of kiosks and food stalls within the park.
- Amenities: Family-friendly amenities are abundant, including baby-changing facilities, lockers to stow valuables, and even cabanas you can hire if you’re looking to elevate your visit with a bit of luxury.
Nearby Attractions
You don’t have to venture far from Adventure Park to continue your exploration of Curlewis’s most captivating sights. The following attractions make for a great extended itinerary:
- Bellarine Adventure Golf: Located just minutes up the road from Adventure Park, this mini-golf course offers well-crafted and quirky challenges for both beginners and experts alike. An ideal post-park activity.
- Curlewis Golf Club: For a more relaxed outing, a day on the greens at the Curlewis Golf Club is a delightful way to soak in the coastal views and enjoy one of Victoria’s top-rated golf courses.
- Portarlington: A short drive southeast, this coastal town is renowned for its fresh seafood, charming village atmosphere, and scenic piers, making it a great pitstop for a tranquil afternoon.
- Queenscliff Harbour: If boating or seaside relaxation is on your mind, Queenscliff Harbour offers tours, marine wildlife encounters, and lovely waterfront dining.
Tahlia’s Attraction Insights
Tahlia’s Attraction Insights | Details |
---|---|
Star Rating | 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 |
Excitement Level | 👍👍👍👍 |
Accessibility | 👍👍👍👍 |
Family-Friendliness | 👍👍👍 |
Scenic Beauty | 👍👍👍👍👍 |
Tahlia’s Thoughts | “A must-see gem for anyone exploring the area!” |
Best Time to Visit | Early mornings for sunrise views |
Must-Bring Essentials | Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, camera |
For more information, visit Adventure Park’s official website: Adventure Park Geelong, and start planning your next epic adventure!