The weather is improving and we are having some sunny days that provide an opportnity for a favourite Aussie pastime - going to the beach.

Geelong has some great beaches for swimming, surfing, walking or simply enjoying the scenery.

Point Lonsdale has a protected bay beach, ideal for families as well as a back surf beach. On the bluffs above Point Lonsdale are picnic areas and lookouts to view The Rip and passing ships.

Ocean Grove has a great ocean swimming and surfing beach with a café and restaurant.

Barwon Heads has various, sandy, river estuary beaches that are excellent for swimming and windsurfing. There are also picnic and barbecue facilities.

Nearby is 13th Beach with a wide stretch of sand, tall dunes and several entry/exit staircases making it a suitable location for jogging or walking.

The Eastern beach swimming promenade in the heart of Geelong has a children's pool, enclosed sea baths, diving platforms and cafe, backed by the grassy slopes of Eastern Beach Reserve. It has been a favourite destination since opening in the late 1930's.

Regardless of which beach you choose, you should always check that it is patrolled by lifeguards and swim between the flags.

Water safety is a very important part of enjoying your time at the beach.

Insider Guides have six reasons you should learn to swim, not only so that you can be safe as we head into the warmer months, but so that you can enjoy yourself confidently too.

 Read more about why you should learn to swim on the Insider Guide website here.