Alister Porter, owner of The Whalers Hotel, said he expected to have about 150 people in the downstairs area of his venue.

He said he had received a number of messages from customers excited to get out and enjoy a drink or two with their mates on Friday night.

"We're pumped," Mr Porter said. "It's very exciting."

Mr Porter said it had been difficult turning dozens of people away on the weekend, with a limit of 30 patrons inside. "It's a big jump - we should be able to have about 150 people downstairs," he said.

Mr Porter said he would open the Highline Bar upstairs when the state hit the 90 per cent double vaccination rate and patron limits were lifted. He said he was seeking more staff for the busy summer period.

"Staff are pretty hard to find at the moment," Mr Porter said.

He said patrons had generally been accepting of the requirement to be double vaccinated, but reminded people to ensure they had proof ready when entering.

The Seanchai is also expecting its biggest night since the May Races.

Owner Matt McMahon said he would also be allowed to have about 150 people at the popular venue on Friday night. "It's fantastic and what's probably even better news is that once we get to 90 per cent there will be no restrictions at all (on patron limits)," he said.

Mr McMahon said he was also looking for more staff to work over the busy summer period. He said he had heard from a number of people they were excited to be allowed to get out and about.

Mr McMahon said the last time he reopened, there were a few people who were heavily intoxicated.

He urged people to enjoy themselves in a responsible manner.

Meanwhile, Melbourne residents are allowed to travel to the south-west after Friday night.

Warrnambool Holiday Park owner Steve Moore said his phone was ringing non-stop on Sunday after Premier Daniel Andrews made the announcement.

"We're almost booked out for the Melbourne Cup weekend," Mr Moore said.

He said he had also received a number of bookings for the busy Christmas period.

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