Anglesea - VIC

Anglesea is located on the Great Ocean Road in the Surf Coast Shire local government area.
Originally known as Swampy Creek, the area's name was changed to Anglesea River in 1884 when the township was established. A Post Office under that name opened on 16 April 1886 and was renamed Anglesea in 1950. The name is ultimately named after Anglesey which is an island in North Wales.
Alcoa of Australia operated a power station and open-cut coal mine near the town from 1969 until August 2015. The site is now the subject of restorative work.
In February 1983, the Ash Wednesday fires swept through the area, destroying many houses.
Anglesea is a holiday town, especially around Christmas and New Year's Eve. Although the town's main beach usually has reasonable surfing conditions, many surfers opt for the beach known as "Guvvo's", just west of town at the end of O'Donohue Road. Anglesea is also well known locally for its regular riverbank markets, which are held by the river on Anglesea's main street, the Great Ocean Road.
The Surf Coast Walk passes through the town and can either be followed north-east along the coastline to Torquay or south-east towards Aireys Inlet and Moggs Creek.
From towering cliffs and sprawling white beaches to abundant flora, native wildlife and coastal walking trails, Anglesea is a celebration of life by the water. Located on Wadawurrung lands, just 10 minutes west of Torquay, this quaint Great Ocean Road surf town is the perfect spot for all your natural adventures.
For those in search of a real challenge, test your stamina on the new Surf Coast Century course, a 100-kilometre running trail taking in wild beaches, towering cliff and remote wilderness.
Bring your mountain bike and get into gear at the four cross track at Anglesea Bike Park before exploring the Great Otway National Park on tracks around Eumeralla and on named tracks through the park (seasonal closures apply).
See website for more inspiration and details for where to stay nearby.
For free camping head about 20km out of town to Tanners Road Bend campground, or Hammond Road Campground.