Lara

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Lara's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in Lara, enjoying freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries. After breakfast, take a stroll around the historic center, admiring the charming architecture and vibrant street art that tells the story of the town. Don't forget to visit the local heritage museum to learn about Lara's rich history and culture.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, indulge in a delightful lunch at a nearby eatery, sampling some of the region's fresh produce. Afterward, head to the nearby park for a relaxing walk or a picnic, soaking in the serene natural surroundings. If you're up for it, rent a bike and explore the local trails that weave through the stunning landscapes.

evening
:

As evening approaches, find a cozy restaurant for dinner, where you can savor Australian cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy a glass of regional wine while watching the sunset over the fields that surround Lara. Conclude your day by visiting a local pub for live music, immersing yourself in the community's vibrant nightlife.

day 2
Nature Walks and Wildlife Spotting
morning
:

Kick off the day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation or a nearby café, fueling up for an exciting day outdoors. After breakfast, head to the You Yangs Regional Park, where you can embark on a guided nature walk through stunning landscapes and eucalyptus forests. Keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife like kangaroos and bird species that call this area home.

afternoon
:

After your morning adventure, enjoy a packed lunch at one of the park's picnic spots, surrounded by nature's beauty. Post-lunch, explore more of the park's trails, perhaps hiking to the summit for panoramic views of the region. Don't forget to take plenty of photos to capture the breathtaking scenery.

evening
:

Return to Lara as the sun sets, and treat yourself to dinner at a local restaurant that specializes in fresh, seasonal dishes. Reflect on your day's adventures while enjoying a warm atmosphere and friendly service. If you're up for it, take a brief evening walk around the town center to enjoy its peaceful ambiance.

day 3
Cultural Experiences at Local Markets
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Lara Community Market, where you can enjoy breakfast from various food stalls offering everything from fresh fruit to gourmet treats. Browse the unique handmade crafts, local produce, and artisanal products while mingling with friendly vendors. The market atmosphere is lively and a perfect way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

afternoon
:

After exploring the market, spend your afternoon visiting local art galleries showcasing works from regional artists, providing insights into Lara's cultural scene. Grab lunch at a quaint café nearby that offers a menu inspired by seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms. Take some time to relax at a nearby park, perhaps enjoying a book or people-watching.

evening
:

As nightfall approaches, head to one of Lara's popular dining spots for dinner, sampling dishes that reflect the diverse culinary influences of the region. After dinner, consider catching a local theater performance or live show to experience Lara's vibrant arts scene. Wind down your evening with a stroll along the picturesque streets, appreciating the small-town charm.

day 4
Adventure at the Surf Coast
morning
:

Wake up early and have a hearty breakfast before setting off for the Surf Coast, just a short drive from Lara. Spend the morning at one of the stunning beaches like Torquay or Jan Juc, soaking up the sun and enjoying the ocean breeze. If you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at surfing with a local instructor or take a swim in the refreshing waters.

afternoon
:

After a morning of fun in the sun, have lunch at a beachside café, where you can enjoy fresh seafood while overlooking the ocean. Post-lunch, take a leisurely beach walk or explore the coastal trails, taking in the breathtaking views of the cliffs and waves. If time allows, consider visiting the iconic Bells Beach, famous for its surf competitions.

evening
:

As the day winds down, return to Lara and enjoy a casual dinner at a local eatery that features seasonal dishes. Share stories of your beach adventures with fellow travelers or friends while enjoying a relaxed atmosphere. End your evening with a nightcap at a nearby bar, soaking in the lively ambiance and local flavor.

day 5
Day Trip to Geelong
morning
:

After breakfast, embark on a short trip to Geelong, where you can explore the waterfront and the Geelong Botanic Gardens. Spend the morning admiring the beautiful floral displays and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Don't forget to stop by the Geelong Gallery to appreciate its impressive collection of artworks.

afternoon
:

For lunch, visit one of Geelong's many waterfront restaurants, where you can indulge in fresh local cuisine while enjoying views of the bay. After lunch, take a stroll along the Geelong Waterfront, checking out the local shops and cafes along the way. Consider visiting the Geelong Maritime Museum to learn about the city's nautical history.

evening
:

As the sun sets, return to Lara and unwind with dinner at a cozy local restaurant. Reflect on your day in Geelong, sharing highlights and memorable moments over a delicious meal. If you're in the mood, catch a movie at a local cinema to round off your evening in a relaxed manner.

day 6
Relaxation and Spa Day
morning
:

Treat yourself to a leisurely morning with a relaxing breakfast at your accommodation or a favorite café, savoring your meal without rush. After breakfast, indulge in a spa day at a local wellness center, where you can enjoy a range of rejuvenating treatments like massages and facials. This is the perfect way to unwind and recharge your batteries for the days ahead.

afternoon
:

Continue your relaxation journey with a light lunch at a health-focused café that specializes in nutritious meals. Afterward, take a gentle yoga class or participate in a guided meditation session to enhance your sense of tranquility. Spend the afternoon pampering yourself with more spa treatments or simply lounging by the pool.

evening
:

As evening approaches, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at an upscale restaurant known for its farm-to-table concept. Bask in the serene atmosphere and enjoy a beautifully plated meal, celebrating your day of self-care. Wind down your evening with a peaceful walk around Lara, appreciating the quiet charm of the town.

day 7
Exploring Local Wineries
morning
:

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café before heading out to explore the nearby wineries. Spend the morning at a renowned winery, learning about the winemaking process while enjoying a guided tour of the vineyard. Taste a selection of wines paired with local cheeses, savoring the unique flavors of the region.

afternoon
:

After your morning experience, head to another winery for lunch, where you can indulge in gourmet dishes made from local ingredients, perfectly paired with their wines. Spend the afternoon relaxing in the vineyard's picturesque surroundings, perhaps enjoying a game of bocce or simply soaking up the sun. Take some time to purchase a few bottles of your favorite wines to take home as souvenirs.

evening
:

As you conclude your winery tour, return to Lara and enjoy a casual dinner at a local pub where you can sample more regional flavors. Share stories from your day with fellow travelers or friends over a hearty meal. If you’re up for it, enjoy a nightcap at a nearby bar, celebrating the lovely wines you've discovered.

day 8
Family Fun at Local Attractions
morning
:

Gather the family for a fun-filled breakfast at a kid-friendly café before heading out for a day of excitement. Visit the Lara Fun Park, where children can enjoy various activities from mini-golf to go-karting, ensuring smiles all around. Spend the morning engaging in the park's attractions, creating lasting family memories.

afternoon
:

After an energetic morning, have lunch at a nearby family restaurant, where everyone can choose their favorite dishes. Post-lunch, head to the local splash park, where kids can cool off and play in the water while parents relax nearby. Alternatively, visit one of the local playgrounds for more outdoor fun.

evening
:

As evening rolls in, treat the family to dinner at a casual restaurant that offers a variety of options to please even the pickiest eaters. Share stories and laughter from the day’s adventures while enjoying a relaxed meal together. Wind down your day by watching a family-friendly movie at home or a nearby cinema.

day 9
Adventure at the You Yangs
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café before heading to the You Yangs Regional Park for an outdoor adventure. Spend the morning hiking one of the park's many trails, where you can appreciate the stunning views and diverse flora and fauna. Bring your camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes and perhaps spot some kangaroos along the way.

afternoon
:

After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the park's designated areas, surrounded by nature's beauty. Following lunch, consider renting a mountain bike to explore more of the park's trails, providing a thrilling way to take in the scenery. Alternatively, you can try your hand at rock climbing if you're feeling adventurous.

evening
:

As the day winds down, head back to Lara and enjoy a well-deserved dinner at a local restaurant that specializes in hearty fare. Reflect on your exhilarating adventures while enjoying the company of fellow travelers or friends. End your evening with a stroll around the tranquil town, appreciating the peaceful ambiance as the stars come out.

Discover Lara

Read more in our Lara 2025 Travel Guide.

Lara Travel Guide