The Great Ocean Road is famous for its views, rainforests and the opportunity to see the natural wonders of southern Australia. If you’re doing a Great Ocean Road tour from Melbourne the journey is full of icons, landscapes and hidden gems like the Bay of Whales Gallery.
A Unique Artistic Haven
The Bay of Whales Gallery is a unique space on the Great Ocean Road, in a coastal town surrounded by forests and ocean views. This is more than an exhibition space, it’s a seaside town artistic hub that reflects the connection between the natural environment and human creativity. As you walk in the gallery you’re greeted by art that reflects the coastline, the ocean, the wildlife that lives here. It’s where art meets nature, a calm and inspiring space for all ages.
The gallery is designed to blend in with the natural environment, with large glass windows that frame the southern ocean and the coast. This connection between inside and out brings the art to life, a calm and immersive space for all. Whether you’re an art lover or just passing through on a road trip the Bay of Whales Gallery is a sensory experience of the coastal journey.
The Story
The story of the Bay of Whales Gallery is one of artistic passion and environmental responsibility. Founded by a group of artists and conservationists the gallery was born out of a desire to showcase the Great Ocean Road and raise awareness for the region’s fragile ecosystems. The founders were inspired by the whales that migrate past the coast and wanted to create a space where art could inspire people to love and protect marine life.
The gallery is also connected to the local Eastern Maar & Gunditjmara communities whose cultural traditions and connection to the land are reflected in the gallery’s purpose. Through a commitment to reconciliation the Bay of Whales Gallery acknowledges the cultural heritage of the region and builds lasting relationships with Indigenous communities. These relationships ensure the gallery’s conservation work is aligned with Indigenous knowledge and practice so everyone gets a fair outcome.
Exhibitions That Capture Coastal Spirit
One of the best things about the Bay of Whales Gallery is the rotating exhibitions which showcase a wide range of artworks that capture the essence of the Great Ocean Road. From big ocean to green hills and temperate rainforests, the exhibitions take you on a visual journey through the region’s natural beauty. Many of the artworks are of the famous surf beaches and pristine beaches of the area, Bells Beach and Wreck Beach, so the gallery is a love letter to the local environment.
The gallery has a range of mediums, from realist animal paintings to abstract coastal interpretations. Many of the works are inspired by the unique rock formations along the coast, Bay of Islands, Cape Otway, Childers Cove. The artworks show the relationship between land and sea, the coastline in all its colourful glory. You can see works of the region’s native wildlife, whales, seals, bird species that can be seen along the coast.
Along with local artists the gallery also has works by internationally acclaimed artists who have been inspired by the Great Ocean Road’s views and natural beauty. Below is a list of some of the gallery’s past exhibitions:
Coffee Shop
After visiting the gallery you can relax at the Bay of Whales Gallery and Coffee Shop, a warm and inviting space that serves great coffee and light food. The coffee shop is inside the gallery so you can enjoy your coffee and treats surrounded by art. Big windows look out to the southern ocean so it’s the perfect place to sit and take it all in.
We use locally sourced ingredients, beans from local roasters and produce from local farms. This extends to the menu which features seasonal dishes and snacks made with fresh local ingredients. Take your time and enjoy a cup of coffee and reflect on the art you’ve just seen. The coffee shop is also a great place for lunch, light meals to match the calm and peaceful gallery.
Art and Conservation
The Bay of Whales Gallery is about art but also making a difference. A portion of the proceeds from every exhibition goes towards local conservation projects with a focus on marine life and environmental sustainability. The gallery partners with local conservation groups and Indigenous communities to support projects that protect the region’s native animals and ecosystems.
The gallery’s conservation focus is also reflected in its programs. Throughout the year the gallery runs workshops and events that educate visitors about the importance of the environment. These workshops are often marine conservation focused and show the gallery’s commitment to the local whale populations and the Great Ocean Road. Visitors can get hands on and learn how art can be used as a tool for environmental advocacy.
Whale Watching and Art Appreciation
One of the Bay of Whales Gallery’s greatest assets is its location near the best whale watching spots along the Great Ocean Road. Visitors can combine a visit to the gallery with a whale watching trip as Logan’s Beach and Kennett River are two of the best places to see migrating whales. During whale watching season the gallery even runs special events where visitors can paint outdoors while watching these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
If you love art and nature then the Bay of Whales Gallery is the perfect combination of both whale watching and artistic inspiration. The gallery’s exhibitions often feature artworks of whales and marine life so you can connect with the natural world. Whether you’re a seasoned whale watcher or a first time visitor the gallery is a must see.
How to Get There
The Bay of Whales Gallery is located on the Great Ocean Road near Apollo Bay and other attractions such as Port Campbell National Park and Port Fairy. Whether you’re driving the coastal route or the inland route the gallery is easy to find and a lovely stop along the way.
If you’re coming from Apollo Bay the drive to the gallery is a scenic one with stunning coastal views, passing through quaint seaside towns and temperate rainforest. The journey is an adventure in itself with many places to stop and explore along the way. Some of the nearby attractions include Hopetoun Falls, Erskine Falls, Beech Forest and Lavers Hill all with beautiful walking trails and stunning views.
Visitor Information
- Location: Great Ocean Road
- Open: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Mon-Sun)
- Entry: Free (donations welcome for conservation)
- Facilities: On site coffee shop, parking, toilets, wheelchair access
- Nearby: Port Fairy, Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum, Cape Otway, Split Point, Apollo Bay Base
- Website: www.bayofwhalesgallery.com (check for exhibitions and events)
Conclusion
Bay of Whales Gallery is more than an art gallery – it’s a place to connect with the Great Ocean Road and support conservation. With rotating exhibitions, sustainability and right on the doorstep of some of the region’s best natural wonders, it’s a must see for visitors. Whether you’re here for the art, the coffee or to see whales in their natural habitat, Bay of Whales Gallery is a must stop on the Great Ocean Road.
FAQ
What kind of art is at Bay of Whales Gallery?
Photography, sculptures, oil paintings of the coastal views, wildlife and coastline.
Can I see whales near Bay of Whales Gallery?
Yes, Logan’s Beach is a popular whale watching spot. Many people visit the gallery and then go whale watching during the migration season.
What else is nearby?
Located near many Great Ocean Road attractions: Port Fairy, Apollo Bay, Port Campbell National Park. Nature lovers can visit Hopetoun Falls, Kennett River, Wreck Beach.
Does the gallery support conservation?
Yes, all art sales from the gallery go towards local marine conservation projects to protect the region’s marine life and ecosystems.
How do I get to Bay of Whales Gallery?
Easy to get to from Apollo Bay via the coastal route which has many scenic drives and stops along the way: Cape Otway, Bay of Islands, Childers Cove.