Four Hidden Gems: Affordable Beach Towns Near Melbourne
Summer is here, and the beach is calling. But for many families, the dream of a coastal retreat within a two-hour drive of Melbourne remains just that - a dream. The cost of holiday homes and coastal living can be prohibitively expensive. However, there are some hidden gems that offer incredible value without compromising on the beachside lifestyle.
Let's explore four beach towns that are a bit further from the city but still within a reasonable driving distance. These places are perfect for those willing to venture a bit further, offering a more affordable and authentic beach experience.
Port Fairy: A Historical Gem on the Moyne River
Port Fairy, located about four hours west of Melbourne, is a charming historical beach town nestled along the Moyne River. It boasts a vibrant creative community, a thriving food scene, and a unique river mouth surf break. The town's annual four-day folk festival adds to its allure.
While a few older properties on the highway might be within reach, the majority of homes are priced out of reach for local first-time buyers. The median house price is $857,000, a 12.5% decrease from the previous year but still a 30.6% increase over the last five years.
Sarah McCorkell, an agent at Stockdale & Leggo Port Fairy, highlights the diverse range of properties and buyers. She mentions that among the ten properties set to settle, two are for first-time buyers, three are for those downsizing, and the rest are for individuals moving to the area or purchasing holiday homes.
Port Fairy's appeal lies in its rural charm and the love it receives from Melbourne buyers. As McCorkell notes, "We are really lucky that Melbourne buyers love Port Fairy. It’s still a rural country town with good food and hospitality."
Portland: A Coastal Haven with Affordable Living
Located on the far west coast of Victoria, Portland is a maritime town boasting at least a dozen beaches and some of the state's most consistent surf spots. It offers a unique blend of coastal beauty and affordability.
The town's median house price is $415,000, a significant 45.6% increase over the last five years. Portland's economy is diverse, with employment opportunities in industries like Alcoa's aluminium smelter, the deepwater port, forestry, logistics, and agriculture. The town also has a thriving arts and sporting community.
Nash Wollard, an agent at Portland Seaview Real Estate, highlights the potential for investors. He notes that the opening of a Bunnings store in July has attracted buyers interested in local cafes and shops, which is driving up housing demand.
Wollard is a big fan of the Portland lifestyle, emphasizing the convenience of having the beach, tennis courts, and sports fields within easy reach. He says, "You can leave your house, go for a run to the beach, go for a hit of tennis and a kick of the footy all within a couple of hours. I cannot imagine trying to do that in Melbourne."
Venus Bay: A Creative Haven with Affordable Living
Venus Bay, a coastal hamlet, offers a median house price of $507,500, which is 8.6% lower than the previous year but still a 41.3% increase over the last five years. The town's charm lies in its sense of community and creative spirit.
Dan Lawrie, an agent at Alex Scott & Staff Venus Bay, compares Venus Bay to towns like Rye or Rosebud from 30 years ago. He notes that during the COVID years, most buyers were from Melbourne and purchasing holiday homes, but recently, 95% of buyers have been owner-occupiers. This shift reflects the changing preferences of buyers.
Lawrie is a strong advocate for Venus Bay, praising its creative and artistic community, sports clubs, community center, and various recreational activities. He says, "I’m a big advocate for Venus Bay, not only because I live here, but because we have a very creative, artistic community, footy, netball and tennis clubs, bowls, a community centre and a Landcare group. There’s even a pony club."
Lakes Entrance: A Family-Friendly Coastal Escape
Lakes Entrance, located in Gippsland and about four hours east of Melbourne, exudes a family-friendly vibe. With a median house price of $507,500, it is a popular spot along Ninety Mile Beach, offering easy access to the Southern Ocean and the region's extensive inland waterways.
Rachael Newman, an agent at Shoreside Real Estate, highlights the town's charm, emphasizing its untouched nature. She says, "It might be further than a drive to the Mornington Peninsula, but you can buy something for less than half the price here. For a city person who just wants to come and chill out and spend summer on the beach, Lakes Entrance is perfect."
These four beach towns offer a unique blend of affordability, natural beauty, and a sense of community. While they may be a bit further from Melbourne, the rewards are a more authentic beach experience and a chance to discover hidden gems that won't break the bank.
