Just a short journey from Melbourne, Hastings is an historic fishing village that’s become a hub of vintage emporiums where forgotten treasures lie in wait to be unearthed by those with a keen eye.

Tiny Tyabb is where to go for collectible finds. The Vintage Shed is a whole world of pre-loved treasure, with over 60 individual stalls to browse and exclaim over. Vintage clothing and accessories are across from the shed in the Vintage Emporium and emerging without a whole new wardrobe is unlikely. The historic Tyabb Packing House comprises two acres of old wares, antiques and vintage specialties, with a licensed cafe to aid the fossicking.

Hastings is situated on an inlet on Westernport Bay. When the shopping is spent it’s time to relax on the foreshore and watch the great birds assemble. Dine on the day’s catch and sip regional wine, or stretch out the muscles strained by lugging shopping bags and furniture with a swim at the Pelican Park Aquatic Centre.

Catch the fishing bug from watching the working fishing boats in the multiple marinas and join a fishing trip or cruise around Westernport Bay. Jump in and cool off at nearby swimming and surf beaches.

Meet local characters, including the nocturnal bettongs, quolls, and pademelons at the Moonlit Sanctuary, and the koalas on French Island (catch the ferry from nearby Stony Point).