Shelly Beach: Secluded Beach Near Anglesea
If you want a peaceful nature getaway, Shelly Beach is the place to be. Situated just a short drive from Anglesea on the beautiful Great Ocean Road, this unspoiled beach provides an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its soft sands, clear waters and stunning views, it’s no wonder that many visitors consider this hidden gem their favourite secluded spot. Whether you’re looking to sunbathe, swim in gentle waves or explore unique rock pools – Shelly Beach has got it all! It combines natural beauty with tranquillity which makes it perfect for anyone who needs some time off. In this article we will go through different reasons why should you include Shelly Beach into your travel itinerary.
Introduction to Shelly Beach
Situated on Victoria’s southern coast, Shelly Beach is a calm destination known for its untouched beauty. Unlike busier beaches where people are packed like sardines in a can, here visitors can actually enjoy their surroundings without feeling crowded at all! The peacefulness of this place creates perfect conditions for relaxation and rejuvenation. Many travellers love coming here because they can forget about their daily routine and have closer contact with nature than usual. The beach is surrounded by breathtaking coastal scenery including cliffs covered with native plants as well as the soft roaring sound of waves hitting against them – it’s not just another location but an experience that stays with people forever.
How to Get to Shelly Beach
Location and Accessibility
Shelly Beach is easy to reach which makes it convenient both for locals and tourists. It lies immediately south of Anglesea with the main route being none other than Great Ocean Road itself! If you’re driving from Melbourne then expect around two hours’ journey time filled up mostly by enjoying picturesque views along your way there; however if public transport is more up your alley, regional buses connect Anglesea with major cities followed by a short walk to the beach. Like many other coastal destinations, it’s good to plan ahead especially during peak holiday periods when traffic might get heavy.
Parking Facilities
There is limited parking space available at Shelly Beach so it’s important to come early particularly on weekends and holidays. Spaces are usually allocated on first come first serve basis hence arriving early ensures that you secure yourself a spot; there are some designated parking areas close by as well as public toilets nearby for convenience of visitors. If you’re planning to visit during peak times then consider carpooling or using public transport in order to minimize parking struggles – with a little bit of planning, everything will go smoothly upon arrival!
What Makes Shelly Beach Unique?
Natural Beauty and Scenery
The breathtaking natural beauty is one of the things that attract people most about Shelly Beach. The beach itself is surrounded by tall cliffs which are rich in biodiversity showcasing various types of native plants and animals; this makes it an ideal place for nature lovers who want to see something different from what they’re used to seeing every day! In addition, crystal clear waters teaming with marine life provide excellent opportunities for spotting colourful fish while soft sands create perfect contrast against them. There are also many bird species found here thus making it great for birdwatchers too – not forgetting those stunning gold & orange sunsets which paint the evening sky with magic! With such picturesque views all around, there’ll be no shortage of photo ops so don’t forget your camera!
Activities to Enjoy
Shelly Beach offers a wide range of activities suitable for families as well as solo travellers alike.
Here are some things you can do while you’re here:
- Swimming and Sunbathing: The water is calm and great for cooling off or just basking in the Australian sun.
- Snorkeling and Exploring Tide Pools: If you’re feeling adventurous, dive into the underwater world or check out the cool tide pools that form during low tide.
- Picnicking Opportunities: Pack a picnic and enjoy it with a view of the ocean – there’s no better place to do it!
Best Times to Visit Shelly Beach
Seasonal Considerations
When planning your trip to Shelly Beach, keep in mind that different times of year bring different weather. Summer (December-February) is usually the best time for beach weather, but it can also be crowded. Spring and autumn have milder temperatures and fewer people, so if you like peace and quiet these might be good months for you. Winter is cold but beautiful – think big waves crashing against the shore – so don’t rule it out completely. Each season has its own special charm; it just depends what kind of experience you’re after.
Ideal Times of Day
The time of day can also make a difference to your visit. Early mornings are peaceful and perfect for watching the sunrise or having some quiet time before everyone else arrives. On the other hand, sunset is magical as the sky turns all different colors over the ocean. To simplify things, here’s a quick guide:
| Time of Day | Experience |
|---|---|
| Morning | Serenity and solitude – great for reflection and photography |
| Afternoon | Swimming, sunbathing, exploring |
| Evening | Gorgeous sunsets, cooler temperatures – perfect for picnics |
Nearby Attractions and Amenities
Local Dining Options
If you’re hungry after a day at Shelly Beach, head into Anglesea where there are plenty of places to eat. You can find cute cafes serving up fresh local produce or restaurants with all kinds of cuisine on offer. Don’t leave without trying some fish and chips – it’s an Aussie classic that visitors love! Eating out is a nice way to wind down after being in the sun all day.
Additional Recreational Activities
In addition to beach activities, the area around Shelly Beach has lots of hiking trails and coastal walks if you want to get more into nature. There’s also the beautiful Great Otway National Park nearby as well as some famous surf beaches in the region. So you can have your relaxation time at the beach but also get out and do something active if you feel like it. Exploring towns like Lorne or Torquay further along the coast could also be fun; each has its own unique charm and things to see.
Environmental Preservation and Responsible Tourism
With so many people coming to Shelly Beach, it’s important that we look after the environment so that it stays beautiful for years to come. We need to be responsible tourists and make sure our visit doesn’t harm any of the plants or animals that live here. Even small things like not leaving rubbish behind, not picking flowers and sticking to the paths can make a big difference. Always follow any signs or advice from locals about how to protect the area.
Being a responsible visitor will help keep this secret paradise alive for many years to come.
Conclusion
In short, Shelly Beach is an unknown oasis that ensures a private getaway with nature, making it perfect for relaxation and exploration. Whether you want to lay on soft sands, snorkel in clear waters or simply take in the stunning views there is something for everyone at this peaceful place. Soak up the peace and natural beauty of Shelly Beach today – plan your trip now! Escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in these calm surroundings which are ideal for reconnecting with nature and yourself.
FAQs
- Is Shelly Beach suitable for families with children?Answer: Yes, Shelly Beach has calm waters and shallow areas which make it safe for kids. However, parents should always supervise their children while they are playing on the beach.
- Are there any facilities available at the beach?Answer: Being more natural and secluded than other beaches, Shelly Beach does not have many facilities. It would be best if you brought your own food, drinks and any necessary amenities.
- Can I camp near Shelly Beach?Answer: Camping directly on the beach is not allowed but there are several campsites around Anglesea which is only a short drive away from here.
- What should I bring for a day at Shelly Beach?Answer: Sunscreen, water bottles, snacks, beach towels as well as snorkeling gear if you plan on exploring marine life beneath its surface.
- Are there any safety tips for visiting Shelly Beach?Answer: Always be aware of tides and currents when visiting Shelly Beach, look out for marine animals and follow any signs about swimming conditions.
