Marlo is a charming sleepy coastal village located in the East Gippsland region of Victoria, Australia – 385km east of Melbourne.
It lies along on the banks of the Snowy River surrounded by bushland and is known for its stunning remote and unspoilt beaches, viewpoints and walking trails.
Marlo is the perfect place to stop off for a day or two and break up the journey on a Melbourne to Sydney Road Trip. It’s a really relaxing place and a popular holiday spot to get away from everything, unwind and enjoy nature.
This article will show you all the best things to do in Marlo!
Accommodation In Marlo
First things first, you’ll need to get your accommodation in Marlo sorted.
We stayed in Marlo Hideaway which I highly recommend. There are just 5 apartments here and they feel like a Swedish log cabin inside, it was so cosy and perfect!
Marlo Hideaway is in a convenient location and run by a lovely couple. The husband is actually an artist and his animal paintings are featured in all the rooms. They are absolutely stunning and he also has some for sale!
Here are a couple more options for accommodation in Marlo, both also located very centrally in Marlo:
The Marlo Hotel – The Marlo Hotel is a very popular choice, offering comfortable rooms and in the perfect location. They also have a restaurant, bar, and beer garden downstairs at The Marlo, which is the main place to go in the evenings for a bite to eat in Marlo.
The Marlo Caravan Park & Motel has self-contained studios, villas and apartments at very reasonable prices.
Best Things To Do In Marlo:
1. Do The Snowy River Estuary Walk
As Marlo sits on a headland at the mouth of the Snowy River, it overlooks the estuary and so you can get really fantastic elevated views from the Snowy River Estuary Walk.
The Estuary Walk starts at Marine Parade in Marlo and heads away from the township towards Mots Beach, eventually finishing at French Narrows. It is 5km one way and should take around 1 hour 45 minutes.
The views and environment here are really unique as the river runs parallel to the sea, separated by a long thin stretch of sand dunes, which is really incredible to see.
As you are elevated you can see the sweeping coastline, river mouth and estuary clearly.
The great thing is that you can join the walk at several points along the Marlo-Conran Road as there are several small car parks on the side of the road.
The walking track is very good and it’s definitely worth doing this if you have the time, as you follow the Snowy River all the way along the path.
2. Admire The Views From The Lookouts
If you don’t have time to do the Estuary Walk or have mobility issues, there are several great vantage points along the Estuary Walk on the side of the Marlo-Conran Road where you can take in the gorgeous views.
Sampsons Lookout in particular has lovely views of the river, the sandbar and Mots Beach. There are a few parking spots to pull over in and some benches where you can sit and take in the views.
3. French Narrows Coastal Walk & Mots Beach
Mots Beach is an absolutely stunning unspoilt beach in Marlo, and the great thing is that you’ll probably have it all to yourself! It lies on the sandbar that separates the Snowy River from the ocean.
It’s great to do the French Narrows Coastal Walk if you don’t have time to do the whole 5km Estuary Walk. To reach Mots Beach, head down the French Narrows Coastal Walk path which is off the main Estuary Walk.
You’ll need to walk through the wooded area and then you’ll find a lot of steps to go down. You’ll then cross over the river on a boardwalk and then you’ll be on beautiful Mots Beach!
Walk along the white sandy beach, relax, dip your toes in the clear water and take in the fabulous views! You can also walk across to Point Ricardo Beach from here, another stunning beach, or walk the opposite way to the mouth of the Snowy River.
The entrance to the Snowy River has actually become a popular place to go surfing, so grab your board if you’re an avid surfer!
4. Watch The Sun Sun Over The Snowy River
Sunsets are absolutely spectacular in Marlo. Head down to Marlo jetty or the Marlo Riverfront Reserve and relax on the grass to see the sun go down.
Watching the sun reflecting in the river is amazing – it was probably one of the best sunsets I’ve ever seen!
5. Go Fishing In The Snowy River
Marlo is a fantastic place to go fishing. Go fishing in the Snowy River estuary or in one of the many streams or lakes nearby. The sheltered waters in the estuary means you can get some great catches of bream or perch year-round.
In addition, if you head over to the historic Corringle Slips opposite Marlo on the opposite side of the river. There are also camping facilities here.
6. Enjoy Dinner At The Marlo
The historic Marlo Hotel definitely deserves a mention as it is the most popular place in town for an evening meal.
In addition to it being a hotel, there is a bar and restaurant at The Marlo, and the seafood is absolutely excellent. The food is very good here and very reasonably priced. There’s also a great outdoor terrace which also makes a popular spot to watch the sunset.
This popular local pub full of character dates back to 1886 and is full especially at the weekends – there’s a great vibe here!
7. Cape Conran Coastal Park
A 15 minute (18km) drive east will take you to the hidden gem of Cape Conran, a lovely town that is perfect for anyone who loves a surf!
The town lies next to Cape Conran Coastal Park, which is known as one of Australia’s most beautiful parks. It is absolutely worth a visit when you’re in the area, especially if you enjoy walking as there are plenty of walks.
The most popular walk is the 2.5km clifftop walk you can do over the rocky peninsula, plus you can admire the unspoilt Jacksons Beach and Salmon Rocks.
If you prefer to stay overnight here than in Marlo, you can camp overnight at the Cape Conran Coastal Park, where you are just moments from the beach!
Orbost
On your way in and out of Marlo you’ll probably go past the nearby town of Orbost, 16km from Marlo. Orbost is located in the Snowy River National Park and is known for its natural beauty.
I hope you enjoy your time in Marlo!