must visit in great ocean road

The Great Ocean Road Collective

The Top 20 Great Ocean Road Attractions You Must See

The Great Ocean Road is among the most spectacular coastal routes in the world. It covers 243 kilometres and can be found along the southeastern coast of Australia from Torquay to Warrnambool. It is a hotspot for both local and international tourists who come to explore the top Great Ocean Road attractions and everything else this scenic stretch has to offer.

Whether you like laid back coastal living, hiking, history, culture or something in between – there are Great Ocean Road attractions and activities to meet your needs.

Table of Contents

Top 20 Tourist Attractions Along The Great Ocean Road

You’ll find a map of Great Ocean Road attractions is filled with awe-inspiring sights that will make you want to pack your bags and move to the area’s charming coastal towns. If you are taking a Great Ocean Roadtrip don’t miss these 20 attractions.

Bells Beach

Located in Torquay, this stunning beach is among the most famous surf beaches in the world and one of the top Great Ocean Road attractions. If you are an avid surfer or just like to watch, you’ll love “Bells.”

Bells Beach experiences a powerful swell that rolls in over the shallow reef which is featured in the famous movie “Point Break”. The best surf conditions are from March to October and during the Easter period, Bells Beach hosts the Rip Curl Pro Surfing Competition where the best surfers in the world come to compete for the title of the Rip Curl Competition.

If you want to get in the water, this Great Ocean Road must-see attraction is suitable for intermediate and advanced surfers who aim to conquer the two right-hand point breaks out front of Bells Beach. However, for beginners there are numerous Great Ocean Road beaches nearby with gentler waves like Torquay Front Beach and Jan Juc Beach. Surf lessons aren’t hard to find in the area either.

Read Next: The Ultimate List of Things To Do in Torquay, Australia

Memorial Arch at Eastern View

The Great Ocean Road Memorial Archway is one of top attractions along the Southern Ocean. It is a popular place to stop to get a photo with the Great Ocean Road sign and tends to mark the beginning of the Great Ocean Road on map drawings. However, it was built as much more than a tourist attraction. It was constructed to commemorate the soldiers that built the Great Ocean Road after WW1.

It features a bronze sculpture that depicts some of the returned servicemen and also houses interpretive signage that gives more information about the history of the Great Ocean Road. You will find this arch just 5km west of Aireys Inlet, the cars that tend to line this section of the Great Ocean Road will let you know you’re near.

Teddys Lookout

Teddys Lookout offers visitors the chance to enjoy sweeping views of the Southern Ocean, Saint George River and Hinterland converging into one. The lookout is known to have some of the most beautiful scenery along the Great Ocean Road and is a great place to stretch your legs.

You can find the multi-tiered lookout just minutes from the Great Ocean Road and the town of Lorne. From the Teddy’s Lookout car park it is a short walk along the newly-constructed walkway to the lookout. However, keep your eyes peeled as you go and you might just spot a sleeping Koala along the way.

Read Next: The Absolute Best Things to do in Lorne Australia

Kennett River Koala Walk

Kennett River can be found halfway between Lorne and Apollo Bay. Although tiny, it is one of the most popular stops on Great Ocean Road drives due to its large population of koalas which can often be seen slumbering in the trees.

Park just outside of the Kafe Koala or Grey River Picnic Area then walk along Grey River Road. It often won’t be long before you’ll spot these furballs sleeping in the trees. Vast eucalyptus forests dot Grey River Road and their leaves are a favourite food of koalas.

Although Kennett River is popularly known for its resident koalas, you can also see a significant population of colourful King Parrots and other native birds near the cafe. They hang out there because visitors like to feed them seed from the cafe. However, for the health of the birds, we urge you to simply look and not feed them or touch them.

Read Next: Guide to Kennett River

Aireys Inlet Lighthouse

Aireys Inlet is an enchanting little seaside town that you must visit while in Australia. It has a relaxed vibe with lovely beaches and caves to explore. It also houses one of the Great Ocean Road’s must-see attractions – the Split Point Lighthouse. The lighthouse is a Great Ocean Road highlight and popularly known as the White Queen. It was built in 1891 and is still in operation today. It has also been featured in programs like Round the Twist, an Australian children’s show.

Guided tours to the top of Aireys Inlet Lighthouse give guests the opportunity to learn more about the history of the Great Ocean Road icon and to enjoy mesmerizing views of the Southern Ocean, it’s beaches and coastline.

Read Next: Aireys Inlet Australia

Erskine Falls

Erskine Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in the Great Otway National Park. It features a 30-metre drop and two lookout points where you can enjoy the mesmerizing views of the waterfall. You’ll find the upper lookout just a 5-minute walk from the car park. However to reach the lower lookout you’ll have to walk down about 240 steps to the base of the falls.

On a Great Ocean Road map of attractions, Erskine Falls is just a 9km drive from Lorne. However, if you are an adventure enthusiast and enjoy a river or ocean walk, you can take the 7.5km Erskine River Track from the town of Lorne. On this track, you will also pass by Splitter Falls and Straw Falls.

Read Next: The Top 10 Best Waterfalls Along the Great Ocean Road

Cape Otway Cape Station

Cape Otway Lighthouse is regarded as the oldest surviving lighthouse on mainland Australia and among the top places to visit on a Great Ocean Road trip. The lighthouse was constructed in 1848, and it is called the Beacon of Hope. It raises about 90m above the Bass Strait and has a fascinating history. If you have enough time, you can stay in the old lighthouse keeper’s house, too.

Also onsite of the Cape Otway Cape Station is a cafe, meeting hut, and other fascinating historical buildings such as the old telegraph station and World War 2 bunker. During the summer months the Cape Station offers a full schedule of programs that delve into Aboriginal culture, history, and more. If you visit during the winter you can offer spot whales just offshore of this Great Ocean Road attraction.

Californian Redwoods

The Californian Redwoods are located along Aire Valley Road just off of the Great Ocean Road. If you fancy a packed lunch, they are one of the Great Ocean Road stops with picnic facilities.

The forest of giant trees was planted in 1939, on the banks of the Aire River and are unlike any other forested patch in the Great Otway National Park or along the Great Ocean Road. It offers enchanting scenery that will linger in your mind long after you have gone.

Especially since you can see the difference from the native wet forest located on the opposite bank of the Aire River. When it comes to Great Ocean Road attractions, the redwoods are not far from Hopetoun Falls and Beauchamp Falls, which you can also visit while in the area.

Mariners Lookout

One of the top things to do along the Great Ocean Road while in Apollo Bay is to go on a short trek to Mariners Lookout. The lookout can be found on private property, but it is open to the public by a Great Ocean Road couple that made the route accessible. The lookout point is just 5 minutes from the car park and offers mind-blowing views of Apollo Bay and the Southern sea and her beaches.

To get to the lookout, you will drive about 10 minutes north from Apollo Bay along the Great Ocean Road and then turn into the Mariners Lookout Road. Don’t miss it at sunset!

Read Next: Attractions in Apollo Bay Australia

Otway Treetop Walk

You’ll find the Otway Treetop Walk hidden in a canopy of temperate rain forest just north of the Great Ocean Road. The walk can be found about 47km from the town of Apollo Bay and consists of a series of suspended bridges dangling 25 metres up in the treetops. It is one of the most thrilling Great Ocean Road attractions there is!

Nature and adventure enthusiasts walk around the leafy crowns of the mountain ash, blackwood, and myrtle beech trees. One of the highlights of the whole Great Ocean Road experience is the spiral staircase which offers a 47m high lookout. From the lookout, you’ll enjoy picturesque views of the forest. Want to get your blood pumping even more? Join the Zipline Tour.

Gibson Steps

Gibson Steps are situated along the same beautiful stretch of Great Ocean Road coastline as the 12 Apostles, However, what makes them extra special is that, unlike at the 12 Apostles, you can descend to the beach via a narrow stairway. It has been carved into the cliffside.

Visiting the beach is among the top things to do on the Great Ocean Road since it gives you a unique perspective of the immensity of the monolith cliffs the highway is known for. It is not advisable to swim here because the beach has choppy waves but it is great for fishing, so you’ll often see Great Ocean Road locals on the beach with a rod in hand.

The parking lot is really small at Gibson Steps so we recommend you park your car at the 12 Apostles and the walk coastline to Gibson Steps via the 1 km section of the Great Ocean Walk which connects the two Great Ocean Road attractions.

Read Next: Everything You Need to Know About The Great Ocean Walk Australia

The 12 Apostles

The 12 Apostles is one of the most well known Great Ocean Road attractions and the highlight of most road trips. Located within Port Campbell National Park, just minutes from the town of Port Campbell, the 12 Apostles are a series of limestone stacks that rise out of the ocean. They are mesmerizing to watch.

Despite the name of this Great Ocean Road attraction there are only 9 “apostles” left but they are beautiful nonetheless. Our favourite time of day at the 12 Apostles when the sunsets behind the rock formations. But for a really special view take a helicopter tour.

Read Next: Your Guide to Visiting the Twelve Apostles Australia

Loch Ard Gorge

Loch Ard Gorge is one of the most picturesque places to visit along the Great Ocean Road. Located within Port Campbell National Park, not far from the Twelve Apostles, Loch and Gorge looks like something out of a storybook. It houses a smooth, pearlescent bay with an inlet of turquoise blue waves. Two yellow-washed cliff faces surround the gorge.

Loch Ard Gorge was the site of a shipwreck which you can read about at the plaques surrounding this Great Ocean Road site. However, we urge you to descend to the beach and not just take in the views from the lookout. You’re bound to feel small amongst the towering cliffs of the beach.

Read Next: Where to Visit in Port Campbell,Australia

London Bridge

London Bridge is a magnificent offshore rock formation located close to Port Campbell. In 1990, the rock “bridge” fell away leaving a couple of tourists stranded atop but luckily no one was hurt.

As you might have guessed you can’t climb atop London Bridge any longer but it is an interesting stop nonetheless. You can head to the upper, western, or lower viewing platforms at London Bridge to enjoy scenic views of the Great Ocean Road area. If you visit at dusk, you’ll likely see little penguins coming ashore from a day at sea.

The Arch is located on the Great Ocean Road map of attractions, 6km west of Port Campbell. It is a naturally sculptured limestone arch that stands at 8m height.

It features two viewing platforms where you can hear the waves crashing into the rock formation, sculpting it further. It is best to come to this Great Ocean Road attraction in the afternoon when you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the formations as it is bathed in warm golden light.

The dramatic formation of the Grotto makes it one of the top things to do along the Great Ocean Road. It is also a serene area where you can enjoy the sea views and take in the natural landscapes.

You’ll have to take the wooded staircase down to the Grotto to see it up close. There you can find smooth boulders and serene rock pools inside the Grotto.

Childers Cove

Childers Cove, along with Murnane’s Beach and Sandy Cove, are among the most beautiful hidden gems along the Great Ocean Road. If you are searching for what to see on the Great Ocean Road without the crowds, these clusters of beaches are the perfect place to go.

They offer tourists and Great Ocean Road locals mind-blowing seaside views and great swimming and hiking without the crowds.

Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands is some of the first scenery you’ll be treated to along Great Ocean Road if you are travelling the non-traditional route from Adelaide to Melbourne. The Bay of Islands looks like a miniature 12 Apostles, which features smaller limestone stacks in sheltered bays.

There are great walking tracks along the beaches and lots of places to pull off the Great Ocean Road highway.

Logan Beach Whale Watching Platform

Warrnambool is considered the main commercial center for the western end of the Great Ocean Road. It is a tourist hotspot during the summertime due to its sheltered beaches, excellent hiking and the nearby Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve. However, what makes it extra special is its status as a hub for migrating whales in winter.

If you are lucky to visit the Logan Beach Whale Watching Platform from June to September, you will have a good chance to spotting mother whales with their calves just 200 metres from the coastline. Without a doubt watching these stunning gentle giants cavort in the sea from the Logan Beach viewing platforms is one of the best free things to do along the Great Ocean Road!

Read Next: Attractions in Warrnambool Australia

Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum

The Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village is located in the scenic seaside city of Warrnambool along the Great Ocean Road. This museum is a living museum that gives insights into the maritime history of the Great Ocean Road region and is a great place to go with kids.

It is filled with an extensive collection of shipwrecks, stretched out over 10 hectares, and dotted with more than 40 buildings and vessels that you can explore. After sunset, the village comes alive to the sights and sounds of the dramatic Maritime Museum Sound and Laser Show.

The Great Ocean Road is considered to be one of the most beautiful stretches of highway in the world. It consistently tops bucket lists for road trip enthusiasts and travellers around the world – and for good reason. The Great Ocean Road attractions are varied but equally spectacular! Although the drive does not cover the popular cities in the country, you will fall in love with the open spaces of the Otway National Park, majestic coastline views, rugged countryside, and friendly locals.

What are your favourite Great Ocean Road attractions?

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Great Ocean Road, Victoria © Visit Victoria

10 secret must-stop places on the Great Ocean Road

Step off the beaten track and unearth the lesser-known gems of the Great Ocean Road.

By Amy Fraser and Ute Junker

The Great Ocean Road is an adventurers’ perfect medley; expect breathtaking natural wonders, charming restaurants serving oh-so-delicious fare and vast wilderness dotted with native wildlife and jaw-dropping vistas. Stretching over 243km (150mi), among this dramatic coastline's iconic attractions there's a mecca of bucket-list-worthy experiences. Read on to discover the Great Ocean Road’s hidden gems.

Kennett River

Koala, Kennett River, Victoria © Darren Donlen

If seeing a koala in the wild is high on your wishlist, you've come to the right place. From Lorne, keep following the Great Ocean Road southwest, and in around 30 minutes you will come to the township of Kennett River . This has become known as one of Australia’s koala-spotting capitals, thanks to the large numbers of these native animals that make their home in the blue gums that line the main road. Take a stroll around the Koala Walk and keep your eyes peeled for our furry friends sleeping in the trees. 

Beech forest

Californian Redwoods, Beech Forest, Victoria © Great Ocean Road Tourism

A drive down the Great Ocean Road might be all about coasts and cliffs, but take a 40-minute detour inland from Skenes Creek – 15 minutes past Wongarra – and you'll find yourself within an enchanting forest of giant Californian Redwood trees, also known as Beech Forest . Stroll through the towering trees or simply sit for a picnic and soak in the otherworldly landscape. 

Hopetoun Falls

Hopetoun Falls, The Otways, Victoria © Visit Victoria

Among the Great Ocean Road’s vivid green forests are a collection of flowing falls, each with its own charm. One of the most photogenic is the Hopetoun Falls , just a 15-minute drive from Beech Forest. Marvel at it from the viewpoint above or stroll through the forest ferns to see – and hear – the full force of the 30-metre falls plummeting into the stream below. 

Childers Cove

Childers Cove, Great Ocean Road, Victoria © Great Ocean Road Tourism

If you loved the 12 Apostles,  Childers Cove  is another one to add to your list. Perched metres away from the white-sand beach are an assortment of limestone craggy cliffs standing up to 70 metres (229.6 feet) high above the ocean. With a junior 12 Apostles essence – minus the crowds – Childers Cove might just be the crown jewel of the Great Ocean Road’s secret gems. Visit at low tide and be sure to pack your camera. 

Sky Pod, Great Ocean Road, Victoria © Sky Pod

To support the regeneration of the land, Sky Pods encourage guests to plant a tree on the property. To date there’s been over 65,000 planted!

A road trip along the Great Ocean Road oozes tranquillity, adventure and freedom – all the more reason to bed down underneath the stars at one of regional Victoria’s serene Sky Pods . These secluded eco-cabins combine nature and luxury, using only solar power to fuel your stay. Spend your evening’s cosying up by the fireplace before watching the sunset paint the sky pink. Just a few nights here and you’ll no doubt feel a wave of relaxation wash over you.  

Nestled in Connewarre’s wetlands, just 10 minutes from Torquay, lies Moonah ; a boutique fine dining restaurant located at the picturesque Minya Winery. The restaurant offers sweeping views of the billabong, and with only 12 guests seated at one time, you’re guaranteed a top-quality panorama with the service to match. Tuck into their multi-course menu comprised of fresh fruits and vegetables from the kitchen garden, and bio-dynamic regional wines to match. We’re not sure what’s more beautiful, Chef Tobin’s decorative plates or the enchanting landscape they're served upon.   

Flagstaff hill

Flagstaff Hill, Warrnambool, Victoria © Tourism Australia

The Great Ocean Road’s Warrnambool is well-known for its wildlife wonders, from the native animals at Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve to the thousands of whales that pass by Logan’s Beach every winter. But wildlife’s not the only drawcard to this beachside town. The region’s also known as the Shipwreck Coast, and at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village you can find out why. Witness shipwrecks beneath the depths of the ocean, immerse yourself in 1900s life in the village and lay your eyes on age-old artefacts.

Thunder Cave

Along the Great Ocean Road, you’ll find beguiling natural attractions from the 12 Apostles to the ocean portal of  the Grotto , not to mention the endless coast of breathtaking beaches. Among the lesser-known spectacles, just a few minutes walk away from Loch Ard Gorge  is Thunder Cave; formed over 20 million years, it’s certainly another of Mother Nature’s artworks worth visiting. If you’re wondering why it’s called ‘Thunder Cave’, listen out and you’ll soon discover why.

A La Grecque

A La Grecque, Aireys Inlet, Victoria © Luis Ferreiro

If the crisp ocean air has put you in the mood for seafood, stop in at  Airey's Inlet . About 25 minutes from Torquay, this tiny township hides a big secret: the charming  A La Grecque  restaurant, which serves up delicious Greek-Australian dishes and some of the best seafood on the coast. On a sunny day, a plate of their tender fried calamari or freshly grilled fish, eaten at an outside table, is heaven.

Melbourne to Adelaide: A 5-day road trip

Point Addis Marine National Park 

Point Addis, Fleurieu Peninsula, South Australia © Tourism Australia

The Great Ocean Road’s not short of an epic vista, but one of the ultimate seascapes has to be Point Addis National Marine Park . Climb to the top of the Jurassic-like rugged cliffs on the Koori Cultural Walk and look out over the sweeping panoramic views. If you haven’t felt the relieving sense of freedom from the open road yet, you certainly will here. The best bit is, you’ll probably have the horizon to yourself – minus the odd kangaroo and a couple of surfers in the waves below.

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22 amazing things to do on the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is a 243-kilometre stretch of road that hugs the southern coast of Victoria, Australia. It is a stunning, natural beauty that locals and tourists alike flock to experience. The winding road was built by soldiers returning from World War I and was officially opened in 1932.

Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum

As time has gone on it this road hugging the Southern Ocean has become one of Australia’s top tourist destinations. There are so many wonderful things to do on the Great Ocean Road, from Surfing at Bells Beach to exploring the twelve apostles and admiring the natural rock formations.

A Great Ocean Road trip offers the chance to explore the entire region from Torquay through to Nelson and inland towns, with various overnight stays highlighting the 12 Apostles as a must-visit spot.

From people making a day trip from Melbourne or driving themselves and stopping at all the seaside destinations, foodie towns, epic waterfalls, finding stunning local wildlife and taking time to recharge, there is something for everyone on the Great Ocean Road.

Here are some of the best things to do on the Great Ocean Road. The south-west coast offers scenic beauty and attractions along this stunning coastal route.

Things to do on the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road’s main attractions include the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and the stunning coastal landscapes. Many people have the Great Ocean Road or the GOR on their bucket list when they visit Melbourne, Australia. The rugged Victorian coastline graces numerous tourism brochures and commercials and inspires people to travel to Australia.

Once people are travelling the GOR, they realise that there are so many more things to do on the Great Ocean Road than just the 12 Apostles. There are great views, treetop adventures, hiking trails and towering trees.

Great Ocean Road places to visit – Port Campbell National Park.

At the far end of the Great Ocean Road is where you will find the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge and Gibson Steps and more. These are the top tourist attractions on the GOR that most people come to the Great Ocean Road for.

This rugged and unforgiving shipwreck coast is picturesque and memorable for its above and at-beach-level views. The Apostles are best seen from a viewing platform, while Loch Ard Gorge and Gibsons Step s on the Great Ocean Road have access to beach level.

The Bay of Islands – The best things to see on the Great Ocean Road

Bay of Islands Coastal Park is between Peterborough and Warrnamboola and stretches 32 kilometres along the Great Ocean Road. Lookout areas with parking and Peterborough and Warrnambool help day trippers access the Bay of Martyrs, the Bay of Islands, Three Mile Beach and Childers Cove.

Surfing lesson on the Great Ocean Road

We are looking for a unique way to experience things to do on the Great Ocean Road. Why not try a surfing lesson? Learning to surf is an action-packed adventure that provides a fun and exciting experience for anyone.

Even if you have never surfed, a surf lesson with an instructor can help you start on the right foot. A surfing lesson will teach you basic skills such as lying and balancing on a surfboard, safety tips, and reading the ocean conditions.

For many, there is no greater joy than being one with the ocean and enjoying the thrill of surfing. There are plenty of places to take lessons, but some of the best spots for surf lessons on the Great Ocean Road are in Anglesea, Lorne, and Torquay, part of the famous surf coast.

These towns are on the coast, so you can enjoy stunning views while learning. So what are you waiting for? Grab your board and hit the waves with this fantastic activity on the Great Ocean Road!

Australian National Surfing Museum

The Australian National Surfing Museum is located in Torquay. The museum showcases the history and culture of surfing in Australia. It features exhibits on the evolution of surfboards, surf fashion, surf culture, and the impact of surfing on Australian society.

It also holds a collection of surf memorabilia, photographs, and historical artifacts related to the sport. The museum aims to educate visitors on Australia’s rich surfing history and preserve its cultural heritage. It should be a part of any Great Ocean Road Itinerary.

Just around the corner in Baines Cresent, you will find several factory outlets for surf brands such as Rip Curl and Billabong.

Great Ocean Road Waterfalls

The Great Ocean Road is one of the most scenic drives in the world. Beech Forest, located in the heart of the Otway National Park, is a location with numerous waterfalls such as Triplet Falls, Hopetoun Falls, Redwood Forest, and Beauchamp Falls.

Winding along the southern coast of Australia, it offers stunning views of the ocean and lush green landscapes. One of the Great Ocean Road attractions on the drive is the series of waterfalls that can be seen along the way.

Some of the best waterfalls on the Great Ocean Road are Hopetoun Falls, Lower Kalimna Falls, Stevenson Falls, Beauchamp Falls and Erskine Falls.

Hopetoun Falls is located in the Great Otway National Park and plummets 30 metres into the Aire River. This Great Ocean Road waterfall has an excellent viewing platform that is easily accessible from the car park.

Stevenson Falls is a great place to visit if you are looking for a quiet spot to relax and take in the area’s natural beauty. The falls are an easy 700-metre walk to one of Victoria’s best waterfalls. The striking Stevenson Falls plummet 15 meters into the Gellibrand River.

Erskine Falls is located 9 kilometres from Lorne. The viewing platform is only 100 meters from the car park, making it one of the most accessible waterfalls on the Great Ocean Road. Finding waterfalls is one of the best things to do on the Great Ocean Road.

Lower Kalimna Falls is a waterfall located in Lorne and is a popular tourist destination. It is known for its scenic beauty. Visitors can access the falls via a walking track and enjoy picnicking, swimming, and hiking in the surrounding area.

Is Regional Victoria on your list?   Here are 8 spectacular places for a summer holiday in Victoria

Things to see on the Great Ocean Road – lighthouses

Australia’s Great Ocean Road is world-famous for its stunning coastal scenery. The road winds along the continent’s edge, providing views of rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, and lush rainforests.

One of the most popular attractions on the Great Ocean Road is the series of lighthouses that dot the coastline. These historic structures have been guiding ships since the late 19th century, and today, they are popular tourist destinations on the GOR.

Plan a stop at Cape Otway Lighstation and Split Point Lighthouses on the Australian Great Ocean Road. Book a tour of Split Point Lighthouse today.

Things to do along the Great Ocean Road – Go skydiving

On any given day, the Great Ocean Road Victoria is filled with tourists driving along the scenic coastline. However, few know that just beyond the waves lies an opportunity for a different kind of adventure.

Skydiving is quickly gaining in popularity as a way to see the world from a new perspective, and Victoria’s south coast provides ample opportunity to take the plunge. This has to be one of the most unique things to do on the Great Ocean Road.

Whether you’re a first-time jumper or an experienced thrill seeker, there’s no shortage of drop zones. Several different tandem jump opportunities range from 12,000 feet to 15,000 feet. Search Great Ocean Road skydiving options for your next western Victoria trip .

Great Ocean Road attractions – Eat chocolates

The Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie is a must-see for sweet tooths on Victoria’s stunning Great Ocean Road. This family-owned and operated business out of Torquay had perfected the art of chocolate making with their hand-crafted delights.

The Chocolaterie offers chocolate tastings where you can try 12 chocolates for $3. The onsite cafe offers kid-friendly food all day with high chairs, a children’s menu and activity sheets. Be sure to stop by and indulge in some of the best chocolate and homemade ice cream you’ll ever taste.

Always pack wet weather clothes as the west coast of Victoria is now for its wet weather.

Breweries and distilleries on the Great Ocean Road

Craft beer and spirits are hugely popular in Australia, and the Great Ocean Road has no shortage of options. You will find breweries in most major towns along the Great Ocean Road.

Torquay is home to the Blackmans Brewery, while Salt Brewing Company is at Aireys Inlet. The Forrest Brewing Company, Prickly Moses Brewery, and Sow and Piglets Brewery are in Forrest.

Traditional beers, seasonal beers, and specialty beers will keep every type of beer drinker happy. Distilleries making Whisky in Tinboom and Gin in Apollo Bay are great places to stop and taste the flavours of the Great Ocean Road.

You can even stay at the Great Ocean Road Brewhouse in Apollo Bay. Apollo Bay could be the best town to stay on the Great Ocean Road.

Planning to explore Victoria more?  Here are the best things to do in Halls Gap, the gateway to the Grampians!

Great Ocean Road things to do – Otway tree top

The Great Ocean Road highlights for young adults include some tree-top fun. The Otway Fly is a multi-attraction venue just off the Great Ocean Road in the Otway Ranges around the halfway point of the Great Ocean Road. The Otway Fly offers eco-lining adventures 30 metres above the forest floor, spanning nine cloud stations and two swing bridges.

The zipline adventure is 2.5 hours of fun on the Great Ocean Road. The Treetop Forest Adventure Walk covers a 1.9km rainforest experience as you walk through cool, temperate old-world rainforests.

The walk features a 600m long and 30m high steel structure that allows you to access the treetop canopy walkway. Panels dotted along the walk provide information about the rainforest ecosystem you are experiencing.

For young adventures in Victoria , the magical-enchanted forest features fairies, dragons and more! The Otway Fly is a premier Great Ocean Road attraction for families.

Book a Zipline tour ↗

Book the treetop adventure ↗, wildlife guided tour on great ocean road.

Experience a short 1.4-kilometre walk over 75 minutes with a conservationist guide on the outskirts of Apollo Bay. The all-abilities pathway takes participants through grassland, forests, bushland, and tree fern gullies. You’ll learn about the diverse and unique ecology of the Great Otway National Park area on the Great Ocean Road, including its native wildlife.

Grey River Road is a popular spot to see koalas in the wild along the Great Ocean Road. Along the way, Great Ocean Road experiences include the flora and fauna of the area, with the chance to encounter animals such as kangaroos, koalas, emus, and kookaburras.

All people doing the guided Great Ocean Road tour are provided with binoculars to enhance the viewing possibilities. Book your spot today on this unique wildlife tour .

Relax, rekindle and recharge on the Great Ocean Road Australia

Being in one of the world’s most scenic areas, it is the perfect place to relax, rekindle and recharge. Nothing is better than some time to relax, recharge or rekindle that relationship, and a visit to the Great Ocean Road is perfect.

You can stay in top Great Ocean Road accommodation or a beach in a glamping tent. Whatever you need to relax, recharge or rekindle, the Great Ocean Road has it all. Find your amazing place to stay on The Great Ocean Road .

The Great Ocean Walk

The Great Ocean Road winds its way along the southeastern coast of Victoria, but did you know that you can also walk along much of this route as part of a scenic road trip? The Great Ocean Walk is a 110-kilometre walking track from Apollo Bay to the 12 Apostles.

It passes through some of the most beautiful and remote sections of the Great Ocean Road, including cool temperate rainforest, eucalyptus forest, and rugged coastline.

The track can be walked in either direction, but most people do it from Apollo Bay to the 12 Apostles. This allows for a more gradual ascent and descent. The best way to travel the Great Ocean Road might be by foot if you have the time.

Walk with giants – tourist attractions Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road activities include scenic drives along the spectacular Great Ocean Road, wildlife spotting, and visiting iconic landmarks. The Redwoods are one of the most beautiful things to do on the Great Ocean Road. Walk through these amazing giants and be amazed at how they tower over you. Although not native to the area, they are one of the biggest Great Ocean Road tourist attractions.

Fall in love with a seaside town.

Sitting on a deck watching the waves roll in on a sunny day would be one of the perfect things to do on the Great Ocean Road, and luckily, there are abundant towns to experience this in. It’s easy to fall in love with a seaside town along this epic road. You find some great accommodation options and some of Victoria’s best caravan parks .

You can also wander the little boutique stores and pick some souvenirs to take home to remember your time on the GOR.

Be amazed:   Follow 2 of the most epic Silo Art Trails in Victoria

Sunrise or sunset on the Great Ocean Road?

Many memorable moments are cemented in your memory, including a stunning sky. You can have more memorable moments at sunrise or sunset with the epic sunrises and sunsets the GOR is known for.

Things to do on the Great Ocean Road – Whale watch on the Great Ocean Road

While this is a seasonal experience on the Great Ocean Road, it is one of the best things to do on the Great Ocean Road. As the whales migrate through the ‘whale corridor’ between May and September, you can choose to either make a day trip out into the water on a guided tour or you can pick one of the best towns on the Great Ocean Road for whale watching to see if you can see them.

For those who love native Aussie wildlife, the Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve is a must-visit. The reserve is home to free-roaming emu, kangaroo, wallabies, and koalas, and is located approximately halfway between Warrnambool and Port Fairy.

Follow the whale trail between Warrnambool, Port Fairy and Portland to see Blue Whales, Southern Right Whales, and Humpback Whales, and if you are very lucky, you can occasionally see an Orca. Book the best places to stay in Warrnambool before you arrive.

Point Addis Koorie Cultural Walk – The Great Ocean Road top attractions.

Point Addis sits in Wathaurong Country . The First Nations People have lived on this land for millennia and used what the land could provide them to live. Along the walk, you will see native fauna and flora that the Wathaurong people used.

Get the sand between your toes – things to do on the Great Ocean Road

Walking along a secluded, pristine beach any day is one of the best things to do on the Great Ocean Road. The sand between your toes is a magnificent way to connect with nature and make the most of your trip to the GOR.

Some beaches will have sand dunes to explore, rock pools with an underwater world to discover, and large stretches where you are the only one in sight.

Sample some of the best seafood on the Great Ocean Road

Being so close to the ocean, eating seafood is a must if you can. Fresh seafood is easy to get from either local fishmongers or a co-op that you can cook yourself back at your GOR accommodation.

If you prefer, there are so many wonderful cafes, restaurants and chippies that will cook you a magnificent seafood feast of your choice. These are the most delicious things to do on the Great Ocean Road.

Some great places are Apollo Bay Fisherman Co-op, The Salty Dog Fish and Chippery in Lorne, Frying Nemo in Port Cambell and Aireys Inlet Fish n Chips.

Views on views of the Great Ocean Road

Tourists from all over the world enjoy great ocean road sightseeing. There are some places where you can spend time on the lookout for some of the best views of the seaside towns on the Great Ocean Road, as well as the stunning coastline.

Marriners Lookout at Apollo Bay gives excellent panoramic views of the coast and the beach. Port Addis also has a great vantage point for views after a stunning walk.

Explore Victoria:   13 amazing places to experience autumn in Victoria

While not technically on the Great Ocean Road, Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum is in Warrnambool. Warrnambool is the southern gateway at the western end of the Great Ocean Road, which starts just a few kilometres out of town.

Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum is located in Warrnambool, Victoria, Australia . It is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the maritime history of the region, particularly the famous shipwrecks that have occurred along the local coastline.

The museum features interactive exhibits, including a sound and light show, that tell the story of the shipwrecks and the lives of those who lived and worked at sea.

Visitors can also view restored shipwrecks and learn about the technology and techniques used in shipbuilding and navigation. The museum aims to educate visitors about the region’s rich maritime history and its role in shaping the local community.

Should you visit the Great Ocean Road?

In conclusion, the Great Ocean Road is a must-see for anyone visiting Australia. There are plenty of things to do and see on the Great Ocean Road, so be sure to plan your trip accordingly.

Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, the Great Ocean Road drive has something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your places to visit on the Great Ocean Road today.

We hope this article from us here at Explore Victoria has inspired you to embark on your adventure in Victoria, Australia, from popular  caravan parks  and  pristine beaches  to drives along the  Great Ocean Road . Enjoy weekends away on the Mornington Peninsula and discover the cosmopolitan charm of  Melbourne, Victoria ,  with a range of experiences for every traveller who wants to visit Victoria.

Whether you’re drawn to the rugged beauty of the Grampians, the cultural richness of Ballarat , or the autumn colours of  Bright  and  Northern Victoria , there’s no shortage of hidden gems waiting to be discovered in Victoria.

Even if you love  exploring Gippsland  or driving the  Great Alpine Road , Victoria has something special for you, and there is so much more for you to discover. If you are looking for more incredible and best places to  visit in Melbourne  or more travel in Victoria destinations,  Explore Victoria  has some more articles below for you to check out. Expand your horizons and get out and about in Victoria, Australia, for an unforgettable experience. 

If you have an idea, attraction, or top spot in Victoria, please comment or email us at  [email protected] .

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Mark Wyld is a passionate writer and explorer, weaving tales inspired by a deep love for his home state of Victoria. With local knowledge, Mark seeks to share insights and experiences that captivate and inspire readers. When not immersed in writing, you can find him working in Disability Support or spending time with family and friends. Follow Mark for a journey through Victoria’s best sights, tastes and attractions.

22 Best Stops on the Great Ocean Road Drive, Australia (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: April 23, 2024

Planning on visiting the famous Great Ocean Road in Australia and wondering what are the best places to visit along the way? In this guide, we share the best stops on the Great Ocean Road and a map of the Great Ocean Road drive from Melbourne, as well as tips for your visit. Find out!

Great Ocean Road (GOR) in Southern Victoria is one of the most impressive coastal destinations in Australia. It’s also one of the most beautiful scenic roads in the world !

Stretching for 243 km (150 miles) between Torquay to Warrnambool, the Great Ocean Road has a lot to offer: rugged cliffs, beautiful rock formations, scenic viewpoints, stunning beaches, but also charming little towns, wild surf, and wildlife…

With so many amazing places along the Great Ocean Road, it might be overwhelming to decide where to stop and what to see. Especially if you only have very little time and are doing the drive from Melbourne as a day trip.

In this article, you can find all the best stops on the Great Ocean Road ( + map ), starting with Torquay (the first stop when driving from Melbourne) and going westwards. At the bottom of the article, you can find our tips on how to best visit the Great Ocean Road , depending on how much time you have.

For each recommended stop, we also include advice on why visit, what to see, and how much time you need. We also share tips and some lesser-known suggestions by a local who’s visited the Great Ocean Road countless times, as well as recommendations based on our personal experience on a self-drive Great Ocean Road tour.

In addition, we indicate which of the Great Ocean Road stops are MUST-SEE . That way, you know what to focus on if you are doing the Great Ocean Road drive from Melbourne and only have limited time. Find out!

To help you plan your time, we also indicated which stops are NICE TO SEE, which ones are HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, and which ones are MUST-SEE and are really not to be missed.

PLANNING TIP:

• Day trip from Melbourne: If you only have a day for the Great Ocean Road and are driving from Melbourne, concentrate on the stops that we indicated as ‘must-see’ and add a few of the ‘highly recommended’ stops. Or simply take an organized tour . We recommend this highly-rated tour as one of the best ways to see the Great Ocean Road in just a day.
• 1 full day: If you have an entire day for the Great Ocean Road (without driving from/to Melbourne), in addition to the must-sees, visit the places that we indicate as ‘highly recommended’ as well.
• 2-3 days: With several days on the Great Ocean Road, you should be able to visit most of the stops indicated in our guide below.

We also created a map indicating all the best places to visit on the Great Ocean Road and some useful tips for each stop along the GOR.

Good to know: Our map below indicates all the best stops on the Great Ocean Road mentioned in this article. Places indicated in purple are the must-sees, red – highly recommended places, and orange – places that are nice to see if you have several days in the area.

Take a look!

How to use this map: Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the left top corner for the index. Click the star next to the title of the map to add this map to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu button, and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’.

These are the best stops along the Great Ocean Road (listed in order of the way you pass them if driving from Melbourne):

NICE TO SEE. You could spend an hour here or a few days.

Torquay is the first recommended stop if you are driving to the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne (about 100 km, 1h20 drive from the city). It’s a popular vacation town and has become increasingly busy with young families moving into the area in recent years. You could easily spend a few days here, but it’s not a must if you only have a day for the GOR.

Torquay is a lovely seaside town with nice beaches, good shopping and dining, and it’s also a very popular surf spot. In fact, Torquay is considered to be the birthplace of Australian surfing and the town is home to some of the biggest surf brands in Victoria, including Rip Curl and Billabong.

If you want to learn more about surfing, check out the Australian National Surfing Museum . In town, you’ll also find surf brand outlets, but they tend to be quite busy and can take up too much of your time. And this is also one of the best places on the Great Ocean Road where you can take a surfing lesson (even if you only have a few hours).

If surfing is not for you, there are some incredible local restaurants with fresh seafood and produce. Wander along The Esplanade in Torquay, check out the beautiful Sundial, and discover cafés and modern restaurants. With more time, you could also venture out to some of the family-owned wineries or breweries in the greater area of Torquay.

TIP: If you only have a day and decide to drive the Great Ocean Road starting in Warrnambool and back towards Melbourne, you could stop here for dinner on your way back to the city. Fishos Torquay on The Esplanade serves some of the best fresh seafood in town.

2. Bells Beach

NICE TO SEE. You could just make a quick photo stop at a lookout. It can be a nice place to stretch your legs after a long drive.

South of Torquay is Australia’s most popular surf beach, Bells Beach . It hosts the annual Rip Curl Pro surf contest each Easter. You may have also heard of Bells Beach in the original Point Break film.

If you decide to surf at Bells or any of the nearby surf breaks, ensure to understand the rip tides before you get in the water. Bells can be deceptive with swell increasing over the reef. Also, be aware of peak seasons and busy crowds when surfing.

The nearby area of Jan Juc also hosts a handful of world-renowned surf breaks, popular with both locals and visiting tourists.

Good to know: The drive to Bells from Torquay takes just 10 minutes. If you are only driving the Great Ocean Drive in a day or two, this is not a musts stop (or you can just stop for a picture). Otherwise, you could easily spend a couple of hours here if you go surfing.

3. Anglesea

NICE TO SEE. Good place for a coffee stop and – potentially – to see kangaroos.

My third recommended stop along the spectacular coastline of the Great Ocean Drive is the fishing town of Anglesea . This seaside town is not usually a standout on Great Ocean Road guides, but it’s one of my personal favorites. Anglesea has a lovely family atmosphere and is a perfect place for a food refuel when driving from Melbourne (it’s 1 hour 30 from Melbourne, via Torquay). In fact, some GOR tours (like this one ) also stop here for a morning coffee.

The most notable attractions in Anglesea are the kangaroos at the Anglesea Golf Club . They even host tours to see the Eastern Grey Kangaroo who have inhabited this area for thousands of years. These tours take just half an hour and run daily during peak season, but if you want to do it, book in advance. Using motorized tour carts, volunteers of the golf club take you to see kangaroos while also sharing information on the kangaroo’s habits needs, and welfare.

If you have more time in this area and want to experience the Great Ocean Road as locals do, you could also opt for a surfing lesson .

Good to know: Be aware of busyness in peak periods for car parking in the main street of Anglesea. If you are just stopping here for a coffee, 4 Kings Coffee & Food is a good place in the center of town.

4. Aireys Inlet

NICE TO SEE. You can stop for a short walk at the lighthouse (15-20 min).

Aireys Inlet is a popular holiday destination for families over the Australian summer and it’s easy to see why. Aireys (1 hour 45 from Melbourne) and the nearby small communities of Moggs Creek, Eastern View, and Fairhaven all have accessibility to the wide-open beaches, with most holiday homes perched up on the hill facing the beach with stunning views.

Stop here to take the Lighthouse Precinct Walk (15min), or take a guided tour to the Split Point Lighthouse (30min) and discover the historic buildings and wild maritime stories of the area.

There are also some quality cafes in ‘Aireys’. If you need a coffee stop, a fresh produce stock-up, or a takeaway lunch, I recommend the Aireys Inlet Foodstore and Café for the best coffee and food.

TIP: Drive slowly in these areas as there are a lot of families and kids crossing the Great Ocean Road to access the beach.

5. Memorial Arch at Eastern View

MUST SEE. 2-minute photo stop.

Memorial Arch at Eastern View is a wooden arch that commemorates the WWI soldiers who built Great Ocean Road. This simple arch has a sign indicating ‘Great Ocean Road’, there’s also a statue to the people who built this road, and a few informational panels.

Many people consider this as a must-see photo stop at the start of the Great Ocean Road and we recommend it as well. It’s a quick photo stop that takes just a few minutes, so even if you are only visiting the GOR for a day, be sure to stop here for a picture.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED , definitely if you have more than 1 day on the GOR.

Lorne (2 hours drive from Melbourne) is one of the busiest beach towns along the coast. It’s a very popular place for a longer vacation on the Great Ocean Road, but also a good town to stay for those who do the Great Ocean Road drive in two days.

Lorne is a perfect vacation destination on the Great Ocean Road. It’s ideal for those who like to spend some time on the beach (long walks, swimming, surfing), but also for boutique shopping, and great food and coffee. It also has lots of fine dining options and a wide range of accommodations , although it tends to be pricier than other smaller towns on the GOR.

Strolling down the main street (30 min with minimal stops) will take you to many cafes and restaurants, and there are plenty of kid-friendly options including playgrounds and the calm beachfront. If you’re looking for a nice place to eat in Lorne, IPSOS restaurant has fresh, delicious Greek food.

TIP: Lorne is known as home to cockatoos , and you’ll likely see plenty of them even if you only stop for a quick visit. If you head down the pier to the right of the bay (20 min stroll from the main street), you may even spot a seal or two!

Good to know: Lorne is located pretty much in the middle of the Great Ocean Road. It’s, therefore, one of the best areas to stay if you are driving this road in 2-3 days. We stayed in Lorne ( Cumberland Resort ) for 2 nights on our 5-week Australia road trip and it was an excellent choice. Staying here allowed us to explore the Great Ocean Road a bit deeper than just by rushing through all the sites in a day.

7. Erskine Falls

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED . Count 1 hour for a detour from the main road including a walk to the bottom of the falls. Erskine Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in the Great Otway National Park . It takes just 15 minutes to drive from Lorne to get to these popular falls on the Great Ocean Road.

Erskine Falls is a spectacular 30-meter-high waterfall set amongst a lush forest. There is a lookout just a short walk from the car parking, but for the best view, be sure to take the staircase all the way to the bottom of the falls. If you do both, count about half an hour for a visit here. Keep in mind that there are about 250 stairs to tackle each way.

TIP: If you’re a hiker and have plenty of time in the area, you could also hike here from Lorne town; about 8 km, 3 hours one way.

8. Teddy’s Lookout

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED . Photo stop; count 10-20 minutes.

Teddy’s lookout just south of Lorne town provides a beautiful view over the winding Great Ocean Road and the coastline. Because it’s located up the hill, you get a different perspective here than from most other places along the coast.

To get to the viewpoint, you’ll have to take a small detour from the main road, but it only takes a few minutes and the lookout is very close to the car parking.

With more time, you could also do more hiking here – there are trails leading to different lookouts, providing closer views of the beautiful coastal landscape. There are also picnic tables here.

9. Kennet River Koala Walk

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED . Count at least 30 minutes.

Kennet River is another popular stop on the Great Ocean Road. It’s located just next to the main road, about half an hour’s drive Lorne, and is one of the best places to see wild koalas and colorful birds . It’s also a popular vacation spot for camping, surfing, and walking.

If you are interested in spotting wild koalas at Kennet River, you can walk or drive on the Grey River Road (aka Kennet River Koala Walk). This is a dirt road lined with eucalyptus trees and a great place to spot koalas in their natural habitat. Often, you can see lots of colorful birds and a few koalas at the start of the road (park your car at Kafe Koala), without having to walk or drive much further.

TIP: Kennet River Famly Caravan Park is a lovely holiday spot, located opposite the beach, and featuring beautiful and well-equipped air-conditioned cabins. It’s a great base for exploring the area, but it’s also a good place to spend a night if driving the Great Ocean Road in 2 days. Just be sure to book ahead if you are interested in staying here, especially in peak season!

LEARN MORE: Kennet River Koala Walk – where & how to see wild koalas

10. Apollo Bay

NICE TO SEE. Good place for lunch on a day trip on the Great Ocean Road.

Apollo Bay is another lovely town to stop in for lunch, for a night, or even spend a longer vacation more.

The town of Apollo Bay draws busy crowds over summer, but it is noticeably less busy than places like Lorne, due to the further distance from Melbourne. If you are heading this far (2 hours 40 from Melbourne, inland), Apollo Bay is an ideal alternative place to stay for a summer holiday on the Great Ocean Road.

If you’re a wildlife lover, stop at Lake Elizabeth or take a canoe tour to spot the local Platypus early in the day, but you need 3- 4 hours for the entire experience. With more time, you can choose from the calm beaches to the wilder surf spots at the edge of town.

But if you are just sightseeing, Apollo Bay is usually not more than a quick stop for lunch or coffee. In fact, many organized tours stop here for lunch giving you some time to explore the town as well.

TIP: Just outside of town, visit the hilltop viewpoint Marriner’s Lookout for outstanding views of Apollo Bay and the southern ocean. The drive into Apollo Bay also has also incredible beach views, and if you have time it’s worth stopping for photos or a short walk along the coast.

11. Maits Rest Rainforest Walk

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. Easy 30 minutes walk.

For a change of scenery from all the coastal stops along the Great Ocean Road, we highly recommend a short stop at Maits Rest Rainforest Walk .

This part of the road goes more inland, through the rainforest of the Great Otway National Park, and Maits Rest is one of the easiest-accessible places where you can take a walk through the lush rainforest .

The area is well-maintained and there’s a boardwalk that makes it easy to explore the forest. The loop trail is less than 1 km long and only takes about 30-minutes, but it gives you so many amazing photo opportunities. Along the way, there are some informational panels and you can learn more about the interesting rainforest habitat. Well worth a short stop!

12. Cape Otway Lightstation

NICE TO SEE. 1-2 hrs.

Cape Otway requires a short detour from the Great Ocean Road (about 15 minutes drive off the main road), so most day visitors don’t come here. But if you have at least two days along the coast, this is one of the stops to consider.

Cape Otway Lightstation is a nice area where you can enjoy beautiful coastal landscapes and visit Australia’s oldest surviving lighthouse ‘Beacon of Hope’ built in 1848. This is the southernmost point of the Great Ocean Road, with the lighthouse towering 90 meters on the cliffs above the ocean, offering beautiful views.

You can opt for a tower climb tour (but you’ll have to time your visit accordingly), or simply walk around the area and enjoy the scenery. In addition to the lighthouse, there’s also a WWII radar bunker and several other interesting sites including ‘Trace the Ancestors’ walk at Aboriginal Cultural Site.

This is also a good area to see koalas in the wild.

TIP: If you are looking for a unique place to stay on the Great Ocean Road, there are several lodges at Cape Otway Lightstation. You can check the availability here .

13. Johanna Beach

NICE TO SEE. Only if you have several days in the area.

Johanna Beach is predominantly a surf destination, and not really suitable for swimming. But it’s also just a really beautiful beach , for a photo stop or a longer walk.

The beach is located a bit off the Great Ocean Road, about 10 minutes drive one way. There are hardly any facilities here (just a very basic campground) and the beach isn’t widely known, so it’s usually very quiet. But if you love pristine nature, it’s a great place to visit!

If you’re not a surfer, there are hiking options like the Johanna to Castle Cove hike, which takes up to 2.5 hours. Just keep an eye on tide times, to avoid getting stranded on the beach.

14. Twelve Apostles

MUST SEE . Count half an hour for a visit to the viewpoint, taking pictures, etc.

The most iconic image of the Great Ocean Road, Twelve Apostles is one place that you absolutely must see when touring the area.

Located in the heart of Port Campbell National Park, 12 Apostles is the most popular stop on the Great Ocean Road . Despite the name, there have never never been 12 rocks here, but 8. Nowadays only 7 of them are still standing (one collapsed in 2005), and there are some more rock formations located west in the national park.

This group of stunning limestone rock stacks just off the shore is the most photographed spot in southern Australia. And no matter when you visit, it’s picture-perfect indeed. These rocks surrounded by the wild ocean, provide gorgeous colors and ever-changing scenery at different times of the day.

Good to know: There are always busloads of crowds here, especially during the day. If you’d like to visit with fewer people (and have better light for photography), come here very early in the morning or at sunset. Sunset offers nice light, sunrise – beautiful light and hardly any people.

TIP: If you have more time, you can also walk down to the beach (best at low tide). For that, take Gibson Steps south of the Twelve Apostles lookout. There’s a small car parking at the steps, or you can walk here from the larger car parking at the main viewpoint.

15. Loch Ard Gorge

MUST SEE . Count at least half an hour for a visit.

Just a few minutes drive from twelve Apostles, you will find another incredibly beautiful coastal landscape at Loch Ard Gorge . It’s another of the ‘must’ stops on the Great Ocean Road.

It’s also part of the Port Campbell National Park, but the scenery here is quite different. In addition to smaller rock stacks, here you’ll find a small inlet and sand beach surrounded by tall limestone cliffs all around it. It looks quite similar to some of the most beautiful beaches in Algarve (Portugal) .

Interesting to know: Loch Ard Gorge gets its name from the Loch Ard that crashed into Mutton Bird Island here in 1878. It’s the most famous shipwreck on the Shipwreck Coast and was the talk of the entire English-speaking world at that time, mainly because two people ( Tom Pearce and Eva Carmichael) survived it. Their shipmates are buried at a small cemetery here.

You can get some amazing photos at Loch Ard Gorge from the main viewing platform or walk down on the beach. In season – you can also go swimming here (although it’s not recommended since currents can be very strong). There are also walking trails with several other lookouts and informational panels where you can learn more about the area.

Loch Ard Gorge beach is one of the few places in this part of the Great Ocean Road where you are able to access the beach and actually put your feet in the water. The coastline here is breathtaking, but the beaches are hardly ever crowded (most people only stop here for a picture and don’t have much time). Even if you only have limited time, you’ll be happy you made the walk down!

16. Port Campbell

NICE TO SEE. This is the best place to stay in if you want to visit the most popular places on the Great Ocean Road without the crowds of day visitors.

Port Campbell is a beautiful seaside town with a lovely little beach. A central summer beach town, which draws many locals from surrounding areas as well as day tourists visiting the nearby Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, London Arch, The Grotto, and Bay of Martyrs.

It’s a friendly and relaxed town and a nice place to rest when driving between the most popular tourist attractions of the Great Ocean Road. You’ll find many local cafes, boutiques, and restaurants in the main street of Port Campbell (20 min stroll).

TIP: If you want to visit the most popular sights of the Great Ocean Road early morning or late in the evening, consider staying here. There are quite some good accommodation options in town and a few more in the surrounding areas. Check out Sea Foam Villas – one of the most popular and highly-rated places to stay in Port Campbell.

17. London Bridge

MUST SEE . Short photo stop.

London Bridge (aka London Arch since its collapse in 1990) is another must-see place on the Great Ocean Road. It’s a natural arch shaped by erosion and a powerful ocean, that used to be connected to the mainland via a natural ‘bridge’ that had two arches and looked like a stone bridge indeed.

In the past, you could even walk on it, and then, one day London Bridge has fallen down. In fact, two tourists got stranded here when the bridge collapsed and had to be rescued by a helicopter. Nowadays, you can see the arch from the lookout.

It’s a popular stop on the Great Ocean Drive and is usually quite busy. But you only need a few minutes if you are stopping here for a photo. For the best photos and fewer people, visit the London Arch early in the day or later in the afternoon.

TIP: At dusk, you can sometimes spot Little Penguins that come to the protected beach below the lookout. In the winter months, you might also be able to see Humpback whales from the shore.

18. The Grotto

MUST SEE . 30-60 minutes.

The Grotto is another incredible rock formation and probably one of the most interesting sights on the Great Ocean Road. This blowhole/archway/cave offers lovely sea views, and you’ll have many picturesque photo opportunities as you walk to it.

A short stroll takes you to the viewing platform (wheelchair accessible) from where you can see the Grotto. But for the best view, be sure to also take a stairway down to it.

Keep in mind that you aren’t allowed to walk in the grotto itself. Stay safe and be respectful – too many people seem to ignore the signs (or common sense) here.

TIP: Visit The Grotto at sunset or sunrise in summer for the golden pink colors reflecting on the inside rock pools.

19. Peterborough Beach

NICE TO SEE. Photo stop at the beach.

Peterborough is an even quieter seaside town with a stunning beach . It’s often overlooked by tourists driving the Great Ocean Road, simply because there is usually not enough time for all the beautiful stops. But if you have a few minutes to spare, Peterborough Beach is worth a quick stop with hardly any people around.

In addition, there’s a beautiful golf course on the coastline and an antique store in town.

Peterborough isn’t too fancy but it makes for a nice weekend getaway in Victoria. The drawcard in this town is the low-key vibe and untouched, gorgeous stretch of beach. This is also a good starting point for exploring the Great Ocean Road coast since the nicest areas are just nearby.

20. Bay of Martyrs

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED . 10-20 minutes.

The Bay of Martyrs is a 2.5 kilometers long bay, which encompasses two smaller bays; Massacre Bay and Crofts Bay. It’s part of the Bay of Islands Coastal Park.

The views at the Bay of Martyrs are incredible, showcasing huge cliffs of rocks and shimmering beaches. This area is a lot more rugged and vast than the more popular stops of the Great Ocean Road. There are usually hardly any tourists on this stretch of coastline and that makes it even more enjoyable.

This is also a great place to see various birds.

Interesting to know: The name of this area comes from a violent encounter between European settlers and local Aboriginal tribes around 1840. Massacre Bay is where the settlers are believed to have pushed a big group of Aboriginals down the cliffs, and this is just part of this cruel story…

21. Bay of Islands

MUST SEE . 15-30 minutes.

Part of Bay of Islands Coastal Park, Bay of Islands is another really nice photo stop on the far western end of the Great Ocean Road. This is also one of the few places along the Great Ocean Road where dogs are allowed (on a leash).

There’s a small car parking here and a few tracks on top of the cliffs from where you can enjoy stunning views of the rugged coastline.

A bigger car parking further west offers easy access to the Bay of Islands Beach .

22. Warrnambool

NICE TO SEE. You can spend a few hours here or a few days.

The last stop on the Great Ocean Road is Warrnambool . It’s about 3 hours drive from Melbourne if taking the inland road.

This is a big seaside town with 30,000 residents, lots of schools, major chain stores, cafes, pubs, and markets. There are also a few big holiday parks here that are super popular with the locals, especially in summer, with kids on bikes, BBQs, etc. And, of course, there are plenty of hotels and vacation rentals in this popular seaside town.

One of the must-sees is the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village , a sort of open-air museum that gives you a good idea of what life used to be here before. If you are traveling on the Great Ocean Road with kids, don’t miss it!

The foreshore carnival, markets, and summertime activities make Warrnambool a popular family-friendly destination right next to the Great Ocean Road. In addition, there’s fishing, spas and wellness, mini-golf, and various tours of the surrounding area.

TIP: If you have half a day to spare, consider the Shipwreck Coast Tour , which takes you to the most stunning secret places along the beautiful coastline where the locals go, without the crowds of the Great Ocean Road.

If you’re visiting the Great Ocean Road in winter (+-June to September), head to Logans Beach Whale Watching Platform . It has the perfect vantage point from where you can see huge whales jumping and blowing water as they migrate to this warmer area from Antarctica.

Practical info & tips for driving the Great Ocean Road

How much time do you need.

Driving the Great Ocean Road takes just 4 hours (without stops) and most tourists just visit here with a day tour from Melbourne. But to really appreciate the scenery and the sights, you should plan 2-3 days for a self-drive trip on the Great Ocean Road. Add a few days extra if you also want to surf, swim, and enjoy the beaches.

Can you see the best places of the Great Ocean Road on a day trip from Melbourne?

While it’s a long drive, it’s definitely possible to see the best sights of the Great Ocean Road on a day trip from Melbourne. In that case, we recommend heading straight to Port Campbell National Park and making the drive along the coast starting from there.

That way you start with the ‘musts’ (the 12 Apostles, The Grotto, Loch Ard Gorge, and London Bridge,..) and can – time permitting – add a few extra stops along the coast when you drive back to Melbourne.

Which direction is best?

Most tours and day tourists drive the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne westwards and then take the A1 road back. If you want to avoid the biggest crowds, do the trip in the other direction as described above (start around Port Campbell and drive towards Melbourne). Just be sure to start very early in the morning!

There’s also an organized tour from Melbourne that does this (driving in the opposite direction). So if you are visiting Melbourne and plan on taking a day tour of the Great Ocean Road , it might be worth looking into this tour over the others. It’s a long day on the bus, but at least you can rest while someone else does all the driving.

TIP: If you have one full day for the Great Ocean Road, ideally, you would spend a night in the Peterborough area and then do the GOR drive starting from there. That way, you could be at the most popular places along the Great Ocean Road long before the big crowds arrive.

Best Great Ocean Road tours

There are lots of Great Ocean Road tours. Most of them depart from Melbourne and visit the main landmarks of the Great Ocean Road in just a day. There are also several multi-day tours, and if you have time, this is definitely a more relaxing way to see this stunning coast (and explore the area deeper).

Here are some of the best Great Ocean Road tours from Melbourne:

• Best-rated standard 1-day tour .
• 1-day tour in the reverse direction .
• 1-day SMALL GROUP tour in the reverse direction, starting with 12 Apostles (our recommendation for a day tour).
• 2-day tour of the GOR + the Grampians (best 2-day tour).
• 3-day tour of the GOR + the Grampians (best 3-day tour).

Where to stay

There’s no one best place to stay on the Great Ocean Road and so much depends on your overall itinerary and how much time you have . You can make a road trip staying at different towns along the GOR, pick one central location and explore from there, or a combination of the two.

Our experience: We were making a road trip and traveling from Adelaide, followed by Kangaroo Island , and then on to the Grampians for a few nights. We then drove to Warrnambool where we spent the first night before exploring the Great Ocean Road, followed by 2 nights in Lorne and on to Melbourne .

In Warrnambool, we stayed at the Deep Blue Hotel & Hot Springs , and in Lorne – at Cumberland Resort .

So, this is our guide to the best places to see on the Great Ocean Road in Australia.

There are, of course, countless other nice stops, viewpoints, and stunning beaches in Victoria that you’ll come across when driving the Great Ocean Road. But if you’re looking for the top sights and most memorable experiences, concentrate on this list and you’ll have seen the best that this area has to offer.

Great Ocean Road is one of the best road trips you can do in Australia! The beaches along this coastline are especially memorable and impressive, with their sometimes wild waves, sometimes calm bays, and always clean water with epic views. If you love beaches, stunning coastal scenery, history, and seaside towns, you won’t be disappointed taking a trip along the Great Ocean Road.

Have a great time!

READ ALSO: How to see the best of Melbourne in 1 day

More tips for your trip to Australia:

• Before you go: Tips for Planning a Trip to Australia
• Where to go: Australia Itinerary
• Sydney: One Day Itinerary for the Best of Sydney
• Red Center: Alice Springs to Uluru Itinerary & West MacDonnell Ranges & Kata Tjuta
• Kangaroo Island: Kangaroo Island Itinerary
• Tasmania: Best Things to Do in Hobart
• North Australia: Darwin Itinerary
• For families: Australia with Kids

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Linda Blackerby

Friday 21st of July 2023

Hi Jurga, I LOVE LOVE LOVE your writing style and all your helpful insights and tips. Thank you so much!! I'm stuck on the route and anything to see between Mount Gambier and the ferry to Kangaroo Island. We are interested in wildlife, and that section seems to be a bit of a blank, and even lodging. Just a long drive. Following that we are taking your advice and flying to Alice Springs.😊 Thanks again, Linda

Saturday 22nd of July 2023

I know what you mean for sure. I was just asking, because it's along that barren strip of travel along the Princess Hwy. I can check it out and let you know.😉

Thank you Jurga, I've just been researching Coorong Natl Park. Did you explore that at all??

Hi Linda, if I recall well, we also hardly stopped anywhere on the way from Kangaroo Island toward this part of the coast. It's a long drive. We spent the night in Robe just to break the drive a bit. Take a look at this tour near Robe - it could be nice and something a bit different to fill a few hours. Hope this helps. Good luck with the planning and have a great trip!

15 Must-See Stops For Your Great Ocean Road Itinerary

It’s no wonder that the Great Ocean Road is considered one of Australia’s most scenic drives. Beginning just over an hour from Melbourne, this winding road runs alongside rugged cliffs and boasts spectacular ocean views. If you’re thinking of doing this famous road trip, we’ve put together this useful guide listing the best stops to add to your Great Ocean Road itinerary.

Tick off some of Australia’s most iconic landmarks on this road trip of a lifetime such as the Twelve Apostles, charming seaside towns, stunning beaches, plenty of cute wildlife and some of the best waterfalls in Victoria!

This detailed guide will provide you with all of the information you need to plan the very best Great Ocean Road self-drive itinerary. Rather than a precise itinerary, we’ve compiled a list all of the best stops that can’t be missed along the drive. Whether you only have a weekend or longer, read on to discover the best attractions on the Great Ocean Road!

Teddy’s Lookout, Lorne

Table of Contents

How Much Time Do You Need To Drive The Great Ocean Road?

The entire drive stretches out over 664km and takes around 9.5 hours return from Melbourne. The best way to plan your journey is stretching it out over a few days. If you’re in a rush then take a look at the recommended day tour below.

The good thing about driving the Great Ocean Road is that you can do it in as little or as much time as you want. You can easily see the stops listed below on a 2 day Great Ocean Road itinerary or you could stretch it out to 3 or 4 days.

This drive is truly stunning with so many unique things to see and do along the route. My recommendation would be to slow down and take as much time as you need. We included the Great Ocean Road on our lap around Australia and spent over a week completing this drive and camping in some of the most beautiful locations.

The Best Great Ocean Road Tours

Perhaps you are visiting Melbourne and short on time but still want to see some of the Great Ocean Road’s highlights. This will make for a very long day trip with many hours of driving, but it is still a popular way to see the Great Ocean Road. I would suggest booking an organized tour which means you’ll leave the long drives to someone else.

Great Ocean Road Day Tour From Melbourne – Get picked up from your accommodation in Melbourne first thing in the morning before beginning the drive toward the Great Ocean Road. This small group tour aims to show you the very best highlights of this famous drive in a 13 hour day trip.

The tour includes a stop at Kennett River to see koalas and parrots in their natural habitats followed by a scenic rainforest walk in the Great Otway National Park. You’ll also have the option to add on a 15 minute helicopter ride over the Shipwreck Coast.

Some of the highlights of your day will be stopping in Apollo Bay for lunch, walking the iconic Gibson Steps, taking photos at the Twelve Apostles, and marvelling at the rock formations at Loch Ard Gorge.

➤Find more information about tour prices and availability here.

The Great Ocean Road lives up to it’s name

2-Day Great Ocean Road & Grampians Tour – If you still want to join a tour but prefer not to squeeze everything into one long day, this option will suit you better. After departing Melbourne on day one, enjoy the scenic drive along the Great Ocean Road stopping at all the most famous points of interest.

Take a walk through the stunning rainforests of Great Otways National Park and then spend the first night in Halls Gap. The second day of the tour will show you the sweeping mountain views and amazing waterfalls of Grampians National Park.

Enjoy two full days surrounded by nature and wildlife before returning to Melbourne by 5:30pm on day two. This tour includes entry to National Parks, one night of accommodation, tour guide/driver, breakfast and lunch.

When is The Best Time of Year To Drive the Great Ocean Road?

For good weather and minimal crowds, a drive along the Great Ocean Road is ideal during spring (September – November) or autumn (March – May).

Summer (December – February) is the most popular time of year to visit, with longer days and plenty of sunshine. This also means that there will be significantly more people doing the same road trip. Accommodation will also be more expensive and harder to find during this time of year.

Find a Car Rental in Melbourne Before Setting Off

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Great Ocean Road Trip Tips

• This is a very popular driving route for tourists visiting Australia, it’s essential to plan your route in advance. This means you should decide where you want to spend the night and book your accommodation online before you go. This is especially important when it’s busy during high season.
• Plan for every kind of weather! When driving the Great Ocean Road you should keep in mind that the weather can change quite quickly, even during summer. In this part of Australia, it’s pretty common to see all 4 seasons in a single day so don’t forget your umbrella and rain gear even if it’s sunny when you leave Melbourne.

Watch for kangaroos crossing!

Where to Stay on the Great Ocean Road

The following are some of the best towns and accommodation options to stop for the night and break up your Great Ocean Road driving itinerary.

If you’re planning a 2 day Great Ocean Road itinerary, Apollo Bay is a great place to base yourself for the night. With plenty of restaurant choices and accommodation options, this is a popular town to stop in for travellers driving on the Great Ocean Road.

Big4 Apollo Bay – If you’re camping or travelling by caravan, this holiday park will be your best choice. Featuring a heated outdoor pool and great views of the main beach, you can’t go wrong with this location! You’ll have the option of booking a campsite or choose from a selection of cabins .

The Apollo – Conveniently located only 1 minute from the beach, this highly reviewed property features comfortable rooms with fully equipped kitchens. It’s an easy 5 minute walk from the main street in town where you’ll find all the shops and restaurants located.

→Find more accommodation options in Apollo Bay←

Port Campbell

Plan to stay in Port Campbell on the second night if you’re going to be doing a 3 day Great Ocean Road itinerary.

This is the best place to stay for easy access to the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and the Gibson Steps. If you’re keen to catch a sunrise or sunset at the Twelve Apostles, Port Campbell is the perfect location to base yourself.

NRMA Port Campbell Holiday Park – Only 10 minutes from the Twelve Apostles, this popular holiday park offers the option to book a campsite or a cabin/villa.

Campbell Parkview Motel & Apartments – If you’re looking to stay in a self-contained apartment, this one is perfectly located just off of the Great Ocean Road. Get up early and beat the crowds with only a 10 minute drive to the Twelve Apostles!

→Find more accommodation options in Port Campbell←

Beauchamp Falls Reserve is a great free campsite

Otways National Park

If you’re like us and not in a rush to complete your Great Ocean Road trip, I would recommend spending some extra time exploring the stunning Otways National Park. There are so many beautiful walking trails and amazing waterfalls to discover here, we were glad that we chose to spend 2 nights in the Otways instead of rushing through it!

Beauchamp Falls Reserve – A beautiful free campground located in the national park with stunning forest views and toilet facilities. It is perfectly located near the walking trail that leads to the incredible Beauchamp Falls.

This campground is unpowered and located at the end of a steep, winding road so it’s not suitable for large caravans. We really enjoyed staying here for 2 nights on our road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide !

Bimbi Park – This campground in Cape Otway offers the unique experience to camp surrounded by trees full of wild koalas. It’s also well positioned for exploring the National Park. Choose from a selection of cottages or book a campsite .

Best Places to Stop On Your Great Ocean Road Itinerary

The seaside town of Torquay is known as the gateway to Great Ocean Road. It’s the perfect place to stop for a break to stretch your legs after the 1.5 hr drive from Melbourne. It’s also where you’ll find some of Australia’s most famous surfing beaches and a few other highlights to see while you’re there.

Torquay is home to some of the country’s most iconic surfing history, hosting the annual Rip Curl Pro surfing competition over Easter. To gain some insight into Australia’s surfing culture and history, pop into the Australian National Surfing Museum which is located in Torquay’s town centre.

The museum is full of fascinating history and showcases the evolution of the surf board over the decades. It also happens to be the largest surfing museum in the world! One of the highlights of your visit will be seeing the Australian Surfing Hall of Fame.

If surfing is something you’ve always wanted to try, there truly is no better place for it. If you have enough time on your Great Ocean Road itinerary, why not book in a 2-hour surfing lesson while you’re in the surfing capital of Australia!

Bells Beach

You can’t drive passed Bells Beach without stopping at one of the most famous surf beaches in all of Australia! Once you leave Torquay, it’s only a 10 minute drive away. Take in the amazing coastal views from the clifftop boardwalk or stay a little longer and watch the surfers catching a wave below.

If you want to get closer to the action, follow the steep wooden steps that lead down to the beach. Feel like catching a wave yourself? Bells Beach is more suitable for experienced surfers. For beginners, it’s best to book a surfing lesson at one of the more protected beaches nearby.

You can’t pass up this iconic photo op on the Great Ocean Road!

Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch

A Great Ocean Road trip itinerary simply isn’t complete without stopping to snap a photo at the official sign! After driving for 30 minutes from Torquay, you’ll arrive at the famous Memorial Arch.

There is a parking area to the side where you can pull in and stop to pose for a memorable photo under the arch. This is one of the most popular stops on the Great Ocean Road so don’t be surprised to find a ton of other people doing the exact same thing!

The Memorial Arch was originally constructed in 1939 to commemorate the 3,000 soldiers who built the Great Ocean Road during WWI. You’ll notice a statue next to it which shows 2 soldiers working on the arch. This was commissioned to mark the 75th anniversary of the Great Ocean Road.

It’s also worth mentioning that the entire Great Ocean Road was built as a memorial for the soldiers who lost their lives fighting in the war. This makes it the largest war memorial in the world!

By the time you reach Lorne, you will be ready to stop for a lunch break. Lorne is a small town on the Great Ocean Road, not too far from the Memorial Arch. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants to choose from in town as well as a super market if you need to stock up on groceries.

Before moving on to Apollo Bay, there are a few key highlights that you don’t want to miss near Lorne.

Teddy’s Lookout – Take a short drive up to this lookout for a spectacular view over the winding Great Ocean Road below. This is an easy and quick detour that you shouldn’t miss.

Erskine Falls – A 15 minute drive inland from Lorne will take you to the most impressive waterfall you’ve ever seen. Erskine Falls were a huge highlight of our Great Ocean Road itinerary. I’d even go as far as saying that they were my favourite waterfalls in Victoria !

There is a viewing platform at the top and also a steep staircase that leads to the base of the falls. It doesn’t take long to reach the bottom and you won’t regret making the effort to do so.

Erskine Falls

Kennet River Koala Walk

For those who would like the opportunity to see wild koalas in the trees, you’ll have the option to include the Kennet River Koala Walk on your road trip itinerary. This stop is optional because if you’ve already seen koalas, you may just want to continue the drive to Apollo Bay.

With large numbers of koalas living in the eucalyptus trees, this is one of the best places in Australia to see them in the wild. Just over a 30 minute drive from Lorne will bring you to the start of the koala walk. The best way to get there is to make your way to Kafe Koala and leave your car nearby.

Not far from the cafe, you’ll find the beginning of the koala walk on Grey River Road . Take a leisurely stroll keeping your eyes focused upward in the trees for koalas. You’ll see a variety of other native wildlife in this area such as wallabies, cockatoos and kookaburras.

If you want to catch the koalas while they’re most active, the best time of day for this is early morning or late afternoon. You will still have a good chance to see them during the day but they will probably be asleep.

Spot wild koalas on the Kennet River Koala Walk

As I mentioned above, Apollo Bay is the ideal place to stop for the night if you’re driving the Great Ocean Road in 2 days. The town is located roughly on the halfway point on the Great Ocean Road and it also marks the beginning of the Great Otway National Park.

Before continuing your road trip, take a drive up to the Marriner’s Lookout for a panoramic view of the town and coastline. From the Marriner’s Lookout carpark, follow a steep trail for 10 minutes to arrive at the viewpoint.

If you’re lucky enough to have a clear day, you’ll be blown away by this stunning view!

Great Otway National Park

Next up on your Great Ocean Road itinerary is the beautiful Great Otway National Park. This fantastic national park offers a lovely contrast to the coastal scenery of the Great Ocean Road.

As you make your way inland through the lush forests of the Otways, you’ll discover the prettiest waterfalls, fern lined walking trails and magical rainforests filled with towering trees.

The Otways were an unexpected highlight of our Great Ocean Road trip so we decided to spend a bit longer there soaking up the peaceful atmosphere of the forest. If you have the time to spare, I would highly recommend taking your time to explore this special place.

If you don’t have more than a day to spend here, check out the main highlights listed below.

Walking amongst the giant redwoods is magical

Californian Redwood Forest/Beech Forest

Enjoy a relaxing walk surrounded by the massive Californian Redwood trees of Beech Forest. This is an unusual gem you wouldn’t expect to find in the rainforests of Victoria. The Redwood forest started as a trial back in the 1930’s when seedlings were planted and left to grow over the decades.

As you will see on your walk, this forest is now thriving and creates a unique and beautiful place for all to enjoy. There is a also little creek nearby adding to the magical atmosphere. With plenty of picnic tables, this is a nice spot to have some lunch before or after your walk.

Hopetoun Falls

After finishing up at the Redwoods, make your way less than 5 minutes down the road to reach the start of the trail that leads to the enchanting Hopetoun Falls. Tucked away in a particularly scenic part of the National Park, these falls are not to be missed.

For the best view, follow a 1km return trail from the carpark that leads you to the base of the falls. The trail descends quite steep in areas, for those who prefer an easier option, you can also see the falls from the upper platform which is an easy 20m walk from the car park.

Hopetoun Falls in the Otways  

Beauchamp Falls 

Surrounded by ferns and moss covered rocks, this epic 20m waterfall is a breathtaking sight. To reach Beauchamp Falls, follow a 3km return trail from the carpark which is mostly downhill. The hike isn’t challenging and takes around 1.5hrs to complete.

Once you reach the bottom of the falls you can either take in the view from the designated platform or continue down a steep path to the creek to get closer. We couldn’t resist getting up close to capture the magical scene of the waterfall and forest surrounding it.

The mesmerising Beauchamp Falls

Triplet Falls

A scenic trail leading to an equally beautiful set of waterfalls. The Triplet Falls are some of the most popular falls to see in the Otways and can be reached by following a 1.8km path that winds through the dense rainforest.

The trail is fairly easy with a few steep sections and eventually opens up to a series of viewing platforms where you’ll find the best views of the three cascading falls. Allow for an hour to complete the walk and spend time viewing the falls.

The Otway Fly Treetop Adventures

A short drive from Triplet Falls will bring you to The Otway Fly Treetop Adventures. You’ll have the choice of swinging through the trees on a zipline tour or exploring the rainforest canopy on the treetop walk.

We decided to do the treetop walk which took just over an hour to complete and gives you an epic view of the treetops and rainforest below. At 25 metres high, this is the world’s tallest treetop walk and definitely the best one that we’ve ever done!

If you have time, the zipline tour is an exhilarating way to experience the beauty of this rainforest. The tour lasts for 2.5 hours and also includes admission to the treetop walk. Make sure to get a discounted ticket by booking ahead online.

Treetop Walk – $23.40

Zipline Tours – $108

Opening Times – 10am – 5pm

The Otway Fly Treetop Walk

Twelve Apostles

One of Australia’s most well-known landmarks and the most famous stop on the Great Ocean Road, the Twelve Apostles is a spectacular sight no matter the time of day. Seeing as it’s the most poplar stop on everyone’s Great Ocean Road itinerary, you will likely find tour buses and crowds when you visit.

The best time of day to see them without crowds is during sunrise or early morning hours. Visiting during sunset is a particularly impressive time to capture the rock formations lit up in a beautiful sunset glow. However, sunset is also a busy time at the Twelve Apostles viewing platform.

One thing you might notice is that there are only 8 remaining limestone stacks. Once upon a time, 12 Apostles did exist here however due to crashing waves and saltwater erosion over the years, only 8 can be seen today. At one point in history, all 12 of them were once connected to the mainland.

Starting off at the Port Campbell Visitor Centre, follow an easy 5 minute path to reach the Twelve Apostles viewing platforms. Take your time on the walk stopping to read the informative signposts as you go.

For those who want the chance to get a bird’s eye view over this incredible coastline, check out this Twelve Apostles Helicopter Tour . This tour also flies over some of the other famous spots on the Great Ocean Road such as the Bay of Islands, London Bridge, Loch Ard Gorge and more.

The iconic 12 Apostles at sunrise

Gibson Steps

You can’t visit the Twelve Apostles without stopping at the Gibson Steps for a scenic walk along the beach. You’ll find this stop less than 5 minutes down the road from the Twelve Apostles. You might even choose to walk the 1km clifftop path that connects the Twelve Apostles to the Gibson Steps.

This is where you can follow 86 steep steps down the side of a vertical 70m cliff to arrive at Gibson Beach. This section of beach is truly an amazing place to walk and gives you a different perspective of the towering cliffs and limestone stacks rising up from the ocean.

Exploring the amazing Gibson Beach

Loch Ard Gorge

Another absolute must-see on the Great Ocean Road, Loch Ard Gorge is only a short drive from the Twelve Apostles. Named after a shipwreck from the 19th century, these dramatic cliffs open up to the ocean from a sheltered bay which can be accessed from a walkway leading down to the beach.

Take in the views of this awe-inspiring rock formation from one of lookouts in the area. If you feel up for a walk, there are a number of coastal walking trails to choose from. When you arrive at the Loch Ard Gorge carpark, you’ll see a map featuring all of the walks. If you don’t have the time, simply strolling down to the beach is the perfect way to experience this natural wonder.

Loch Ard Gorge is a must on your Great Ocean Road trip itinerary

This lovely seaside town is a great place to base yourself for a night while travelling along the Great Ocean Road. Staying here provides easy access to all of the famous cliffs and rock formations. There is a great selection of restaurants and cafes in town and even a wildlife park.

The Great Ocean Road Wildlife Park is a small family run park which allows you to get up close to some Australian icons. If you’re visiting from overseas, this might be a great addition to your Great Ocean Road itinerary.

The wildlife park is home to kangaroos, wombats, dingoes, emus, cockatoos and much more. You’ll get the unique opportunity to pet and feed some of the animals.

Opening Hours: Sunday – Friday 10am – 5pm

Tickets: $25 Adult/$13 Child/$20 Concession

London Bridge

The highlights of the Great Ocean Road don’t stop once you reach Port Campbell, just 8km west of the town is yet another impressive formation. London Bridge is a natural rock arch that was shaped by the force of the ocean over centuries.

It was once completely attached to the mainland giving it the appearance of the actual London Bridge. Unfortunately, a large piece of the structure collapsed into the ocean in 1990. It’s still an impressive sight and worthy of a quick stop to enjoy the scenery and snap a photo.

Continue driving for 5 minutes from London Bridge and you’ll come across The Grotto which is another unique landmark. This fascinating formation combines a cave, sink hole, rock arch all in one and is surrounded by limestone cliffs.

You can either take the wooden pathway and stairs from the carpark to the see The Grotto up close or enjoy the view from the upper platforms. Either way, this is yet another amazing Great Ocean Road stop that you shouldn’t miss!

London Bridge, Great Ocean Road

Bay of Islands

Hop back in the car for another short drive to finally arrive at the Bay of Islands. Similar to the Twelve Apostles, this collection of limestone stacks rising from the water makes for an awesome photo opportunity.

For some, this may be the final stop on your Great Ocean Road itinerary before returning to Melbourne. A great way to end the trip is by visiting the Bay of Islands at sunset. Take in the spectacular coastal scenery from two lookouts which are easy to reach from the carpark.

If you’re looking for somewhere to grab a meal in this area, Peterborough is a small town with a choice of restaurants and pubs to dine in. Conveniently located between The Grotto and Bay of Islands, you can easily stop here to break up the sightseeing.

Warrnambool

At this point in the road trip, some people might choose to begin the drive back to Melbourne. If you’re planning to continue the trip to Warrnambool, there are still some great sights to be seen.

We spent a few days in Warrnambool and found it to be a great way to begin or end the drive across the Great Ocean Road. The city has several attractions worthy of checking out.

The Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village is a fun and interactive way to learn the history behind the Shipwreck Coast. Wander through the re-created village to experience history first hand by exploring the little shops and learning the fascinating stories. You’ll even see volunteers dressed up in costume which makes this a great experience for the kids.

The Deep Blue Hot Springs provide a beautiful and relaxing place to unwind at the end of your Great Ocean Road trip. Find more things to do in Warrnambool here .

The fun and informative Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village

We hope you have found this Great Ocean Road Trip guide useful while planning your own epic road trip itinerary. Whether you plan to continue the drive to Adelaide or return to Melbourne, make sure to check out more of our Australian road trips and travel guides below!

Finished Your Great Ocean Road Trip, What’s Next?

• 4 Day Melbourne to Grampians Road Trip Itinerary
• 30 Essential Australian Road Trip Tips
• 8 Day Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Itinerary
• Best Stops for Your Perth to Adelaide Road Trip
• An Epic 10 Day Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary
• The Best Waterfalls in Victoria

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Hello and welcome to my blog!

I’m Ann, a free-spirited Canadian adventurer who quit my 9-5 to hike mountains, chase waterfalls and live life to the fullest!

A lover of road trips, good wine and off the beaten path destinations – you will find these topics covered in depth on my blog.

Travel has changed my life for the better and I want to show you how it can do the same for you!

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14 Top Attractions & Things to Do on the Great Ocean Road

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Jan 3, 2022

Great Ocean Road is one of the world's most spectacular road trips. Hugging Victoria's dramatic coastline from Torquay to Allansford , near Warrnambool, Great Ocean Road stretches for 243 kilometers . Sheer cliffs plunge to wild beaches dotted with towering rock spires. Lush forests line the hinterland, and the Great Ocean Road's towns reflect the rich history of the area.

Built in the 1930s to help provide employment for returning servicemen during the Depression, the road is not only a remarkable engineering feat, it's a memorial to those who lost their lives during World War I.

Great Ocean Road is only 100 kilometers from Melbourne, making it possible to visit the region on a day trip from the city . But to really appreciate all the scenery and attractions, and to discover some of the Great Ocean Road's hidden secrets, try to set aside several days to explore the coast.

Popular things to do along the Great Ocean Road include surfing some of the world's best breaks, wandering along windswept beaches , helicopter rides over the rugged coast, viewing Aussie wildlife in the parks and reserves, and exploring the picturesque seaside towns .

Discover the best places to visit along this dramatic coast with our list of the top attractions and things to do on the Great Ocean Road.

1. Visit Port Campbell National Park

2. take a helicopter tour, 3. soak up aussie beach culture at torquay, 4. wander the trails at great otway national park, 5. surf the swells at bells beach, 6. soar through the forest at otway fly treetop adventures, 7. hike the great ocean walk, 8. linger in lorne, 9. see aussie animals at tower hill wildlife reserve, 10. australian national surfing museum, 11. whale watch at warrnambool, 12. golf with kangaroos at anglesea, 13. port fairy and the folk festival, 14. admire portland's historic buildings, visiting the great ocean road from melbourne.

Standing atop the sea cliffs in Port Campbell National Park, it's hard to believe wind and water sculpted this rugged, rock-strewn coast, which is punctuated by giant pinnacles. The most photographed attractions are the Twelve Apostles . These seven majestic rock spires jut from the pounding surf, and you can enjoy panoramic views from vantage points along the sea cliffs. If you're wondering about Great Ocean Road recommended stops, this is the absolute must-see.

This stretch of coastline is called the "Shipwreck Coast" due to the many vessels that met their fate along these rugged shores. Memorials at Loch Ard Gorge tell the story of how two young people survived the wreck of the namesake ship.

Also here are two rock formations named London Bridge and the Island Archway , living testaments to the constant erosion of the area. In 1990, part of London Bridge bridge collapsed spectacularly into the sea, leaving the two ends, but no middle. In 2009, the Island Archway crumbled away, leaving two pillars at either end.

A short drive from London Arch is The Grotto , a naturally formed cave and blowhole, where the water glows golden in the setting sun. Short hikes such as the Port Campbell Discovery Walk allow you to explore more of the scenery and history of this famous coast.

Want to escape the tourist throngs? You can also photograph similar limestone sea spires at Bay of Islands Coastal Park , between Peterborough and Warrnambool. The rock formations here are part of an Aboriginal cultural landscape, and they aren't as big as the Twelve Apostles, but the area is usually more peaceful, with less crowds.

Official site: http://parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/port-campbell-national-park

Hovering over the weather-battered coast on a helicopter tour offers an unforgettable perspective of nature's sheer power. It also ranks as one of the top outdoor adventures in Australia , and it's a fantastic opportunity for photographers.

From the air, the steep cliffs seem to snake their way endlessly along the edges of this great continent, and the limestone sea stacks look like giant jigsaw puzzle pieces adrift amid the thrashing surf.

Flights range in time from 15 minutes to as long as an hour and usually start with the Twelve Apostles , with optional extensions to see the Bay of Islands and continue to Cape Otway .

The official start of the Great Ocean Road, Torquay is an excellent place to get your bearings and soak up some classic Aussie beach culture at the same time. First stop should be the helpful Torquay Visitor Information Center . This is a great place to pick up a map of Great Ocean Road, gifts for your friends, and tips for your Great Ocean Road itinerary.

In the same building, you'll find the popular Australian National Surfing Museum , where you can learn about the history and evolution of one of the country's favorite water sports. In fact, Torquay is known as Australia's surfing headquarters, and it's an excellent place to hit the waves at one of the many beaches. Are you an expert surfer? You might want to ride the mighty swells at Bells Beach .

Torquay is also home to two major surf brand giants: Rip Curl and Quicksilver. If you're up for a little shopping, you can visit their stores here and stock up on Aussie surf gear. Other popular things to do in Torquay include enjoying a picnic on the grassy foreshores and exploring the main street of town with its eclectic galleries and cafés.

For a great vantage point of the coast, head to Point Danger Lookout , and bring your camera.

Great Otway National Park offers a rich tapestry of ecosystems for nature lovers to explore. It stretches along the coast from Torquay to Princeton and into the hinterland. Wild beaches, waterfalls, rocky coastline, fern-filled gullies, lakes, and dense rainforests are some of the park's features, and you can explore all these habitats on well-maintained hiking trails.

Highlights of Great Otway National Park include the mossy Melba Gully , one of the wettest places in the state, where you can look for glow worms at night. Wreck Beach is littered with the skeletons of shipwrecks, and if you take the Maits Rest Rainforest Walk , you'll be immersed in a majestic forest of giant myrtle beech trees and Californian redwoods.

Waterfalls are also a big drawcard in Great Otway National Park. Triplet Falls , Erskine Falls , Beauchamp Falls, and Hopetoun Falls are among the park's most beautiful cascades.

You can also visit the 1848 Cape Otway Lightstation , the oldest remaining lighthouse on the Australian mainland. Part of the Great Ocean Walk also passes through this beautiful park.

Official site: http://parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/great-otway-national-park

Bells Beach in Torquay is one of the most famous surf beaches in Australia. Powerful Southern Ocean swells roll in over the shallow reef here, forming the waves that draw so many tourists from around the world.

Every Easter, the world's best surfers descend here to compete in the Rip Curl Pro Surfing Competition , but you can watch experienced surfers at any time of year from the cliffside vantage points. Conditions are usually best from March to October.

If you're an intermediate or advanced surfer, you can sample the swells at two right-hand point breaks. Beginners will find plenty of other beaches nearby with gentler swells, including Jan Juc Beach , Torquay Front Beach , and Torquay Back Beach .

Looking for an adrenaline rush? Otway Fly Treetop Adventures is an exciting way to experience the lush hinterland of the Great Ocean Road. Hidden from the world in the canopy of a temperate rainforest, this adventure-packed tourist attraction is located about 47 kilometers from the beautiful town of Apollo Bay.

You have two choices for fun here. Suspended 25 meters high and 600 meters long, the Treetop Walk takes you high amid the leafy crowns of magnificent mountain ash, myrtle beech, and blackwood trees. The highlight is ascending a spiral staircase to the 47-meter-high lookout, where you can enjoy panoramic views over the forest.

For an extra adrenaline rush, a Zipline Tour takes thrill seekers zooming through the air for two and a half hours, stopping at a series of "cloud stations."

Address: 360 Phillips Track Beech Forest, Weeaproinah, Victoria

Official site: http://www.otwayfly.com/

The Great Ocean Walk is one of the top hikes in Australia . It starts at Apollo Bay and stretches for 100 kilometers along the most spectacular coastal area of the Great Ocean Road.

You can enjoy the beauty of this designated trail in several ways. The most challenging involves carrying gear, pitching a tent, and cooking over a campfire. But you can opt for an easier way. Several walking companies, both local and international, offer fully or semi-guided three- to seven-day itineraries inclusive of food, accommodation, and luggage transportation.

Alternatively, you can plan a day trip from Apollo Bay or Port Campbell to cover the track's sightseeing highlights.

For more than a century, Lorne has been one of Australia's most popular seaside resorts. Sheltered by the Otway Ranges , this Mediterranean-style village has the best of everything: the sea, river, and rainforest.

Lorne is surrounded by nature. The Cumberland River hiking trails contrast with the rugged coastline and sparkling beaches. Erskine Falls , set amid an ancient fern and eucalyptus forest, is a must-visit for nature lovers, as is Lower Kalimna Falls . Wander down the three-kilometer track, and stand under the rock ledge behind the falls to enjoy a unique perspective looking out through the curtain of water.

To find out more about the fascinating history of the Great Ocean Road and its construction, stop by the Lorne Visitor Information Centre and view the Great Ocean Road Story exhibit in the heritage center here. If you're wondering about Great Ocean Road directions, the friendly staff here can help you out.

Lorne is also known for its vibrant community of artists, and you can view changing exhibits and an outdoor sculpture park at Qdos Arts Gallery , tucked in bushland a short drive from town.

About 18 kilometers west of Warrnambool, Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve is a must-do experience for nature lovers. Steeped in history, this inactive volcano erupted 30,000 years ago, unearthing Aboriginal artifacts.

Today, it's possible to drive down the inside of the crater where an abundance of Australian animals live, including koalas, kangaroos, emus, echidnas, and many native bird species.

Hiking trails are the best way to appreciate the reserve. Five themed self-guided walks take you into the wilderness to explore the volcano's crater, old lava flow, wetlands, and wildlife.

To learn more about the park's Aboriginal heritage and wildlife, you can also book guided tours of the park. Stop by the excellent visitor center to learn more about the park and purchase Aboriginal arts and crafts.

Official site: https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/tower-hill-wildlife-reserve

Australian National Surfing Museum is the largest museum dedicated to the sport in the world. More than just a rainy day distraction, this excellent museum is a must-see for the whole family, even if you're not an avid surfer. Not only will you learn about the history of this popular sport, the evolution of surfboards, and the country's surfing legends, you can also hang ten at the museum's green screen surf spots and send the pics to your friends.

Vintage surf memorabilia, live surfboard shaping, and the Australian Surfing Hall of Fame round out the excellent exhibits here. Save time to watch the video about monster waves with tips on how to ride them, and read the surfboard storyboards for a chuckle. Little ones can keep busy digging in the sandpit.

Address: 77 Beach Road, Torquay, Victoria

Official site: https://australiannationalsurfingmuseum.com.au/

Warrnambool is the main commercial center for the western end of the Great Ocean Road. It's a popular summertime destination, with sheltered beaches and excellent scuba diving opportunities. However, the biggest attraction happens during winter: whale watching.

From June through September, southern right whales give birth and raise their calves in the waters off Logan's Beach , and you can perch atop the viewing platforms here for a front row seat. Watching these gentle giants cavorting in the sea, often just meters from the shore, is one of the best free things to do along the Great Ocean Road.

Other worthwhile attractions in Warrnambool include Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village , a living museum that tells the story of the region's seafaring past with a large collection of shipwrecks and a recreated maritime village. And the Thunder Point Coastal Reserve is a lovely spot to stroll along the beach, peer into rock pools, and watch the sunset.

About a 10-minute drive west of Torquay, Anglesea is a beautiful seaside village with a difference. Golfers at the town's Anglesea Golf Course have the chance to share one of Australia's most picturesque greens with the local residents: hundreds of kangaroos.

Nestled into native bushland, the 18-hole golf course is a great place to spot these friendly marsupials. Lazing under the eucalyptus trees and over the fairways, they certainly bring another dimension to a game of golf. The kangaroos are particularly active in the early morning and late afternoon, and the course is open to tourists. Special kangaroo tours are also available for non-golfers.

If you're looking for other things to do in Anglesea, take the Koorie Cultural Walk at Point Addis. This one-kilometer trail threads along windswept beaches and steep sea cliffs to Addis Point lookout, with spectacular views of the rugged coastline and Point Addis Marine National Park below. Along the way, you can learn about the Indigenous way of life through the interpretative signs, and look for birds and other wildlife.

Address: Golf Links Road, Anglesea, Victoria

Official site: http://www.angleseagolfclub.com.au/

Home of the Port Fairy Folk Festival held in March each year, this pretty fishing village is a center for the arts. Historic, whitewashed cottages have been transformed into galleries and artists' studios. An abundance of elegant restaurants and bed and breakfasts line the main street, and the busy fishing port is a photographer's dream.

Nature lovers should take time to wander around the one-hour loop trail on Griffiths Island . Here, you can spot nesting shearwaters between late September and mid-April, and visit an 1859 lighthouse built by Scottish stonemasons.

Official site: http://www.portfairyfolkfestival.com/

At the western end of the Great Ocean Road , Portland was founded in 1834 and was Victoria's first European settlement. For visitors interested in historic buildings, Portland boasts more than 200 National Trust-classified properties. A self-guided Historical Buildings Walk tour brochure is available from the local tourist information center.

Another great way to explore this historic town is aboard a Portland Cable Tram . The 7.4-kilometer scenic route threads along the foreshore of Portland Bay, connecting many of the town's top tourist attractions, including the Portland Botanical Gardens , the Powerhouse Vintage Car Museum , and the WWII Memorial Lookout Tower .

As a major deep sea port with a flourishing fishing industry, you'll find an abundance of seafood straight from the boats here, and anglers can hook a fish from the pier.

Hikers will want to tackle some of the Great South West Walk, a scenic 250-kilometer trail.

Less than a three-hour drive from Melbourne, Great Ocean Road is a popular day trip from the city. But with so many things to see and do along this famous driving route, consider taking an organized tour. The tours below range from one to two days and typically include transportation, some meals, and an expert guide.

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Marvelous Melbourne: Famous for its fabulous restaurants, cultural attractions, and gardens, the state capital of Melbourne is frequently voted one of the world's most livable cities. You'll also find plenty of rewarding day trips a short hop from the city, including the peaceful wilderness areas of the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges and the beautiful beaches and quaint country towns of the Mornington Peninsula.

Outdoor Adventures in Victoria: If touring the Great Ocean Road whets your appetite for more outdoor experiences in this diverse state, consider exploring the region on foot. Stretching for 104 kilometers, Great Ocean Walk is one of Australia's top hikes . This multi-day trek weaves through wildlife-rich wilderness areas and along the sheer cliffs of the Great Ocean Road. A few hours' drive east of Melbourne, Gippsland is one of the best fishing destinations in Australia thanks to its rich diversity of habitats, including lakes, rivers, estuaries, and beaches. Victoria is also home to some of Australia's top ski resorts . Falls Creek typically has the best snow conditions of all the country's resorts, and Mount Buller is only a three-hour drive from Melbourne.

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24 “Must-See” Stops on the Great Ocean Road & Map!

Are you visiting the state of Victoria and researching your best stops on the Great Ocean Road? Then, you have come to the right place. It’s been voted one of the top ten places to visit in the world, and for a good reason.

The winding road hugs the coast, providing stunning ocean views and plenty of opportunities to stop and explore the area’s many rock formations. In this post, we take a look at what you can expect from a visit, and whether this trip is for you!

So, lets get started below!

This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. Please read my disclaimer, T&C’s & privacy policy here .

Things to do on the Great Ocean Road & Map!

Officially, The Great Ocean Road stretches 244 kilometres from a “Memorial Arch” (near Aireys Inlet), to Allansford near Warnambool. This is along Australia south-eastern coast in Victoria.

It provides all kinds of different attractions, opportunities for exploration and adventure. This includes swimming and surfing to stunning cliff-side views, from rainforest hikes to unbelievable rock formations. So, what are the best things to see, keep reading to find out!

(Please click here for my specially curated attraction map to open or apply directions from your location)

Most tourists will either day trip from Melbourne, join an organised tour to see part of it, or spend a few days road-tripping along it. Although, I would recommend the good ol’ road trip, since it’s flexible in time and you can get to a lot more places than tours!

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1. The 12 Apostles

The 12 Apostles are undoubtedly one of the more popular attractions on this stretch of road. Regrettably, there are only 8 out of the 12 Apostles left standing (with the last one falling over in 2005).

You’ll park at the visitor information centre and walk through an underground pathway (under the main highway). This will eventually lead out onto the platform for viewing these marvels.

Unfortunately, from this viewpoint, you won’t see all of them in one shot, with 2 Apostles on one side, and 6 on the other. Despite that, the limestone coast is stunning and you just have to see it first hand.

Each piece of stone has been battered and worn away by the elements over hundreds of years, leaving a unique and stunning display that will leave each traveller feeling truly humbled and inspired by Mother Nature’s power.

If you’re visiting around Sunrise or Sunset, then you’ll often find an avid photographer or two at this lookout point. I’ve even seen some phenomenal Astro photography shots – If you want to try that!

2. Gibson Steps

Walking down the Gibson Steps and viewing Victoria’s 12 Apostles from the beach is the absolute best viewpoint and photo opportunity. However, keep in mind that adventure seekers should check the tides before heading down, which will vary from day to day.

More than likely, the area will not be accessible during high tide, and there is a lockable gate to stop you.

Once the tide is low enough, I’m presuming the National Park rangers open the gate, and you can take a scenic stroll of 86 steps down the flat limestone staircase to the beach.

It’s from here that you’ll be rewarded with impressive views of 2 iconic Apostles (named the “Gog” and “Magog” sea stacks) stretching across the horizon. The white-capped outline of their distant Southern Ocean swims makes each formation more dramatic.

3. Port Campbell

Visiting the small town of Port Campbell is perfect for this road trip experience. It’s located close to the main sections of the path and great for staying a night (or two) while exploring the surrounding coastline.

With a population of only 500 people, this tiny town bursts with life. As well as welcoming anything up to 10,000 Day trippers or overnighters per week, so you can imagine it will get quite busy. Obviously, this gives Port Campbell that small-town feel with a big-city vibe.

4. Loch Ard Gorge

A visit to Loch Ard Gorge is equal parts majestic and thrilling! It was named after the ship “Loch Ard,” which shipwrecked nearby in 1978. There were 54 people on board, and sadly, only 2 survived by swimming to shore on this beach.

Your first look at the beach is from the top of the cliffs, with the gorge below. Not only that but having the ability to meander through the scrub to several viewpoints. The rugged cliffs span over two centuries, with an old wooden staircase leading down to the bottom.

It is possible to swim here, but notoriously known for its undertow and rough seas, so it’s not advisable. Not to mention the fact that the waters are very cold, but always nice to dip your feet in!

The past weather conditions are what formed this wonderful coastline, along with the gorge in front of you. The dense forest also offers a nice dose of wildlife, adding to the area’s beauty. Overall, visiting Loch Ard Gorge makes for an exciting adventure and journey back in time.

Do we have any 80’s movie fans out there? A tiny bit of trivia for you as there was a film set in Loch Ard Gorge called  “The Pirate Movie.”

I was fortunate to spend a lot of time here as a child. Over the years, it has grown in popularity, attracting just as many tourists as the 12 Apostles. 

5. Thunder Cave

Thunder Cave is an incredible natural blow hole that produces intense sounds and powerful swells with each passing wave. Exploring this cave from atop the cliffs will leave you in awe of its greatness. See immense waves crashing against the blow hole below, to look down at the churning sea that fills the cave with its powerful swells.

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6. London Arch/Bridge

London Arc would have to be your third more popular sites to see. Did you know it was once named London Bridge before it collapsed in 1990. It’s interesting that this occurred back in the days when people could walk out and over the Bridge – which left two tourists stranded for hours after the rock fell into the ocean.

Spending time here provides visitors with a couple of viewpoints from which to soak up the vibrancy and depth of London’s Arch and its majestic beauty. Along with the rough seas crashing into the cliffs and slowly eroding away.

7. Helicopter Flight

Taking a Great Ocean Raod helicopter flight over the coastline is an  Australian Bucketlist  experience like no other. From the 12 Apostles to London Arc and Loch Ard Gorge, you get incredible aerial views that cannot be seen from the ground.

From this angle, the 12 Apostles are visible thanks to the perfect composition, standing proudly out of the sea. London Arc is just as impressive when viewed from above – you can practically feel the power of nature in all its beauty. Lastly, Loch Ard Gorge shows off its curves and colours along with a mesmerizing beach.

8. The Arch

The Arch is only 300 metres return from the car park, and the name says it all. The eroding systems created an Arch formation in the rock, into what you see today. The large swells cascade through the hole and up the cliffs, and I believe it has changed slightly with my visit over the years.

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9. Razorback

The Razorback is an amazing rock formation whose name arises from its sharp, thin look. As one of the most remarkable natural wonders in the Port Campbell National Park, the Razorback can be easily reached within a small distance from the car park.

10. The Grotto

The Grotto is a cove area along the road and is often overlooked when adding sites to your list. Firstly, for not as well known, but secondly, high tides and rough seas might make it inaccessible. But there are so many photo-worthy moments waiting to be captured, so make sure you give this one a go!

An easy stair entry will have you in an area similar to a blowhole. At low tide, you’ll often find a rock pool, which I have seen people swimming, but once again, not advisable. Waves can quickly come crashing over, and the water is, again, chilly!

11. Bay of Martyrs

The Bay of Martyrs is a 2.5 kilometre long stretch of water with two smaller bays within it, Crofts Bay and Massacre Bay. If you’re looking to take a dip, there’s a beach on the east side of the bay with shallow reefs that’s also suitable for fishing.

This beach is far less crowded than Port Campbell but still offers stunning views, making it popular among locals who know about it. And even more spectacular during sunrise and sunset hours.

There are many lookout areas to take in the sunset along this coastline, with the rocks said to be the area’s guardians. The limestone pillars can reach up to 10 metres high.

12. The Bay of Islands.

The 12 Apostles is consistently filling up with tourists. You’ll find comparably fewer tourists at the Bay of Islands Coastal Park, than at Port Campbell National Park– perfect for those looking to avoid large crowds!

It’s on Boat Bay Road and one of the best spots along the coastline to easily launch a sea kayak and explore the park. While still providing plenty of opportunities to see wildlife and take in stunning views.

13. The Redwoods in the Great Otway National Park

The Great Otway National Park is a site on its own and further inland from the road trip itself. However, it’s still a major stop along the road trip for many reasons.

Firstly you have the Redwoods, a beautiful array of Californian Redwood trees located in the heart of the Otway Forest near Apollo Bay. Although they’re not originally from the area, they certainly add to its allure.

14. Cape Otway Light station

Visiting the Cape Otway Light station is like going on a journey through Australia’s past. Built-in 1848, it is the oldest surviving lighthouse on the Australian mainland – and its location atop towering cliffs presents an experience you’ll remember for years to come.

Expect sweeping views of Bass Strait and coastal rainforest as you explore this historic site, taking in all its quirks along the way – from an old keeper’s cottage to features like a signal cannon and World War II bunker.

Note: It’s also included in the 100klm Great Ocean Road Walking Trail.

15. Marriners Lookout at Apollo Bay

Tucked into the seaside village of Apollo Bay, Marriners Lookout gives visitors a stunning bay view of the small township. Just a short drive from town, Marriners Lookout offers a delightful glimpse of the beach along the coastline.

This provides an ideal place for romantic picnics or for nature lovers to simply enjoy and marvel at its beauty. With unspoiled and phenomenal views that never fail to surprise, this seaside point is definitely a highlight!

16. Kalimna Falls near Lorne.

The upper and lower Kalimna Falls, near Lorne in the Otway Forest Park, will take your breath away. The entire hike for the upper and lower falls measure 9.5km, with a journey time of 3 hours, but you could visit the Lower falls at half that time.

If you’re up for an adventure, then give it a try! Both the upper and lower cascades boast unforgettable waterfalls. So, remember your camera to capture those golden moments!

17. Great Otway National Park

The spectacular Great Otway National Park spans over 1000 square kilometres of incredible ecosystems, the Park is a magical place where soft beaches meet lush rainforests and crystal clear waterfalls.

There are so many unique species of plants in the park, ranging from ocean-facing shrubbery to tall ferns on the forest floor. And that’s not even mentioning the wide variety of birds, marsupials, and other animals that call this paradise home!

Some of your highlights include Melba Gully, Wreck Beach, Maits Rainforest Walk, Triplet Falls, Erskine Falls, Beauchamp Falls, and Hopetown Falls.

18. Otway Fly Tree Top Walk

Located in the hinterland region of Victoria, Australia, The Otway Fly Treetop walk is an interesting experience. Its located about 50 kilometres inland from Apollo Bay, and visitors can take a leisurely stroll on its 600m steel structure. Not only that, but it is suspended up to 25m above the lush rainforests below.

But, that’s only half the fun! Along the way are several lookout platforms offering views of this unique area surrounded by native eucalyptus trees and fern gullies. With swing bridges connecting them, this treetop walk really is something to behold!

19. Great Ocean Walking Trail.

The GOR Walking Trail is an ultimate hiking adventure like no other, boasting more than 100 Klm’s of stunningly diverse coastal scenery. It’s renowned as one of the top hikes in Australia and takes anywhere from a few days to two weeks(while Bush Camping), depending on how much time you have spare.

This epic journey allows you to explore all the picturesque shorelines Victoria has to offer or specific areas of interest. Some sections run through ancient rainforests, its remote beaches are often populated with many Aussie kangaroos or koalas, and its open grasslands.

20. Stay a night or two in Lorne.

Lorne is a charming resort town offers beach views, serene seaside walks, and breath-taking sunsets. Located on the Eastern shore in Victoria of Otway’s sandy beaches, it’s known as the luxury stay and prices could be a little higher than other areas on the Great Ocean Road.

Visitors to Lorne will find plenty to keep them busy. This includes swimming and surfing at any of the wonderful beaches and hiking in the majestic Otway Ranges. As well as enjoying the retail offerings along George Street or simply unwinding with a seaside picnic at one of Lorne’s many scenic spots.

Tip: Remember to check out Teddy’s lookout.

21. Kennett River Koala Walk

Spotting a koala on the Kennett River Koala Walk is top of the list for anyone looking to experience nature in Australia. Tourists can find these beloved, cuddly-looking Aussies in the trees along the walk in the small community of Kennett River.

Taking your time while walking makes it easy to spot them in the wild, so don’t forget your camera so you can capture those special memories and share them with your friends back home!

22. Beach Culture at Torquay

Torquay is the perfect place to familiarize yourself with Aussie beach culture, along with seeing the Australian National Surfing Museum. It’s located at 77 Beach Road, in Torquay, Victoria, and is often considered the Start of the GOR.

Surfing is one of Australia’s favourite water sports, and from here, you can see how it’s evolved and learn its history. Not only that, but it’s your brilliant place to hit the waves!

If you’re coming from Melbourne, then an ideal stop should be the Torquay Visitor Information Centre. This is where you can grab a map of GOR, gifts for friends, and tips for your road trip itinerary.

23. Whale Watching

Visiting the coast near Warnambool is the ideal opportunity to observe humpback whales in their natural habitat. For a truly unique experience, join one of the daily whale-watching tours, guiding visitors to the Whale Watching Platform and picturesque coastline.

You’ll have a chance to witness an array of humpback whales breaching and splashing about, creating memories that will last a lifetime. It also provides an incredible educational opportunity to learn interesting facts about these majestic creatures and sure to please both kids and adults alike!

24. Surf or relax at Bells Beach.

Bells Beach is famous worldwide for some of the best surf on the planet. Every year, devoted surfers flock to this stunning beach to catch southern ocean swells and experience world-class riding.

The Bells Beach Rip Curl Surfing Competition has been held at this spot every Easter, making it one of the longest-running surfing competitions in history! It’s no wonder so many people around the world have fallen in love with Bells Beach – from seasoned veterans and beginners alike!

Fun Fact: The end of the blockbuster movie “Point Break” with Keanu Reeves & Patrick Swayze was filmed here!

How many days do you need?

If you’re after a quick trip, you can easily visit the Great Ocean Road highlights in 2 days if you plan it right out of Port Campbell. Although, 3 days is better if you’re looking for more time and not being rushed, especially if you’re starting from Melbourne.

However, if you’re hoping to explore both inland Otway’s and along the coastline. In that case, I would recommend 5 days , so you can catch almost all of the attractions listed above.

However, If you have the time – extending your road trip to Adelaide will increase the fun and add a whole lot more things to see to your list!

Where to Stay?

There’s no shortage of overnight stops for anyone wanting to explore the wonders of the area. Over several different trips, I’ve made stops at Torquay, Apollo Bay, Lorne, Port Campbell and Warnambool. Therefore, after to you marked out all the things you want to see and do along the track, you can work out which lovely spots you want to stay in.

➡  Compare these Port Campbell Hotel Deals HERE on Booking.com, or search for other towns along the GOR

Apollo Bay and Port Campbell are two pit-stop options that offer close proximity to nature reserves and are within touching distance of the Southern Ocean.

Can you do it on a day trip?

Yes, it is possible to do the GOR on a day trip, including from Melbourne. While day trips are not enough to explore everything along the famed road, it’s possible to glimpse a couple of the stunning sites.

Many day tour companies in Melbourne offer different packages covering different parts of the road trip . Depending on which tour you pick, you can see one or two incredible landmarks, such as the lively Port Campbell National Park, perfect for wildlife spotting and beach pics, or in particular the legendary Twelve Apostles rock formation.

When is the best time to visit?

This road trip is at its most spectacular through the summertime , which is also when you’ll see the most amount of tourists. Although, ideally, between March and April will still be warmer, but fewer people.

Of course, a visit any time of year can still be unforgettable and different seasons will create diverse environments. The climate here is on the cooler side most of the year round. However, it can get really cold during the winter months, and thick winter jackets are required for the high windy days.

Frequently Asked Question’s

Is is hard to drive.

This road trip is not that difficult to navigate. However, you won’t be able to move too fast, and it will take you longer to get from A to B.

Keep an eye out for animals wandering across the road too! It’s probably best to drive slowly and be mindful of conditions such as slippery surfaces or high winds so you can truly appreciate this incredible journey.

Do you need a 4WD?

If you’re planning a road trip along the Great Ocean Road, there is no need to invest in a 4WD! Instead, a regular 2-wheel drive vehicle is perfectly suitable for this particular journey.

It can be easily enjoyed no matter what type of car you have, as long as it’s well-serviced and reliable. This includes Motorbikes and smaller vehicles.

Can you swim?

The Great Ocean Road is located on the dramatic coastline of Victoria, Australia, and yes, you can swim in some regions of this beautiful ocean highway. Although it might seem inviting, there are areas in the Port Campbell National Park that are not safe for swimming. This is due to the swells, cold waters, wild waves, and surrounding rocky outcrops.

Please remember this when you’re the only one around trying to swim, and there is no lifeguard.

Wrap up – Things to do on the Great Ocean Road?

So, which of these extraordinary attractions will you be checking out along the Great Ocean road? In the end, I hope I’ve helped you make up your mind and that you get to experience this beautiful part of the world for yourself soon!

Thanks for reading today’s blog, and I hope you will explore more Victoria information and Blogs here on my site.

“Hi, travel enthusiasts! I’m Chris Fry, The Aquarius Traveller Blogger. I’ve been exploring the world since 2007, documenting my journeys through the lens of my camera. Having visited over 37 countries, I’ve gained first-hand experiences that help you plan your adventures."

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Great Ocean Road Guide

Unofficial Guide to Australia's favourite Coast Road

100+ INCREDIBLE Great Ocean Road Attractions

Australia’s Great Ocean Road is more than just a road trip – and whilst it is true that there are some well known hot spots and must see’s that immediately spring to mind when Victoria’s famous coast road is mentioned – The Twelve Apostles, Bells Beach, Cape Otway National Park to name a few – there are actually so many more Great Ocean Road Attractions that it would take weeks (if not months!) to discover and experience them all properly!

To help you out, we’ve listed the most popular Great Ocean Road attractions and things to do first, before breaking it down into the easy to manage sections to help you tick everything off one by one – or least start planning how long it will take you! There are over 100 Things to do on the Great Ocean Road in this post, so there is absolutely no shame in picking out your favourites and planning your trip from there. And we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Table of Contents

12 Apostles

Bells beach, loch ard gorge, london arch (formerly london bridge), cape otway national park, teddy’s lookout, chase waterfalls, kennett river koalas, lorne, anglesea & apollo bay, bay of islands coastal park, cape otway lighthouse, great ocean road memorial arch, port campbell national park, spas on the great ocean road, foodie finds on the great ocean road, best surf spots on the great ocean road, golf courses on the great ocean road, craft breweries, pubs and distilleries on the great ocean road, 15 must-see great ocean road attractions.

The name, however, is deceptive, as there are now only 8, (the other 4 have been claimed by the sea); and the ‘Apostles’ are actually limestone stacks which were once attached to the mainland, eroded and shaped by the crashing waves and gusty winds of the Southern Ocean, first into arches before they themselves collapsed to leave the monoliths you see today.

They are an impressive sight at any time of the day, but spectacular at sunset as the sun disappears into the distance behind them lighting up the sky in beautiful colours ( if you are lucky! ). And for an absolutely jaw-dropping experience, splurge on one of the helicopter tours available from the nearby airfield. You won’t be disappointed!

Locals love this break year-round, but if you really want to get in on the action but don’t fancy the icy cold water, the Australian National Surfing Museum is a dry and warm alternative, or plan to be here around Easter each year to see the professionals on the Surf League World Tour competing.

And if on land adventures are more your things, the Surf Coast Walk passes above Bells Beach (and others) and is a great way to embrace the coastline and by watching the waves understand why it is known as the Surf Coast.

The Loch Ard Gorge is a favourite Great Ocean Road attraction and a popular place for visitors to feel the sand between their toes or go for a picturesque paddle in the chilly Southern Ocean after a long drive.

This stack, like all the others along the shipwreck coast, was formed by a gradual process of erosion, and until it’s collapse in 1990 formed a complete double-span natural bridge that visitors could walk over. (There were in fact two people stood on the ‘bridge’ – which is now the gap we see above – when it disappeared into the ocean, and had to be rescued by helicopter ).

Maits Rest Rainforest Walk offers a newly refurbished (2020) 800-metre self-guided circuit walk at ground level through the cool temperate rainforest of the Otway Ranges near Apollo Bay, taking guests through beautiful fern gardens and past 300-year-old trees; while the Otway Fly Treetop Adventure allows people to walk amongst the treetops on elevated platforms, or soar through the trees on their eco-zipline course.

Wildlife enthusiasts should keep their eyes peeled for swamp wallabies, koalas, ring-tailed possums and grey kangaroos that call the rainforest home, and for those who seek waterfalls, scroll down and read our top tips on where to find them!

The view above is from Teddy’s Lookout near Lorne, but we’d also highly recommend Cape Patton Lookout Point near Apollo Bay and Cinema Point, 8km from Aireys Inlet. Read our guide to the Best Viewpoints on the Great Ocean Road for more.

Chasing them is one of the top outdoor activities on the Great Ocean Road, and our top picks include Kalimna Falls, Hopetoun Falls and Beauchamp Falls – but you can read about all of the waterfalls on the Great Ocean Road Victoria (and how to find them) in our handy guide.

And if you love native Aussie wildlife, be sure to include the Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve on your itinerary. The reserve sits inside an extinct volcano formed some 30,000 years ago and is home to free-roaming emu, kangaroo, wallabies and koalas (to name a few). It was declared Victorias first national park in 1892 and located approximately halfway between Warrnambool and Port Fairy, is a great little add on to the end of a Great Ocean Road adventure.

To help you decide what to do in each we have put together a few guides:

• Things to do in Torquay
• Things to do in Anglesea
• 15+ Things to do in Lorne
• Things to do in Apollo Bay
• Guide to the Stunning Rock Formations of Port Campbell National Park; and beyond the Great Ocean Road:
• Things to do in Port Fairy (inc. Griffiths Island)
• Things to do in Warrnambool (inc. Whale Watching and Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum)
• Things to do on the Mornington Peninsula (inc. wineries, spas and more!)

The land here is traditionally Aboriginal, and the parkland is still owned by the Aboriginal people who have lived here for centuries. They still practice age-old traditions and maintain their strong connection to the land and water and their stories can be read about on boards around the Park.

Notable things to see within the Bay of Islands are the Bay of Martyrs, Massacre Point/Massacre Bay and the wreckage of The Falls of Halladale .

It is open daily and offers self-guided tours, with opportunities to talk to staff around the facility who share the lighthouses’ stories. Fun Fact: in the 19th century, the lighthouse was often the first thing migrants arriving by boat from Europe and Asia saw after weeks at sea.

It was built by approximately 3,000 returned soldiers who worked on the road following their involvement in World War I and was started in 1919 and completed in 1932. Although due to the perilous nature of the work, several workers lost their lives during the road’s construction.

The Great Ocean Road story is featured on boards around the site, and there is also a sculpture of two returned soldiers working on the road that was commissioned to mark the 75th anniversary. As advised, it is one of the most popular spots on the road – be sure to try and avoid it mid-morning when you will have to share the area with the bus tours from Melbourne.

All The Other Great Ocean Road Attractions

Ok, so now you know the basic, standard, must-see attractions on the Great Ocean Road, let us share with you a whole heap more incredible things to see, do and experience, split into sections to help you find what you are most interested in. As you can see from the Map – there’s quite a bit to explore!

Above are the impressive stacks at Gibson Steps , accessible by a steep wooden staircase which hugs the side of the cliff and down onto the beach. The Grotto offers a unique vantage point allowing visitors to stand practically within the cavern created by the waves which continue to crash in; The Arch is a naturally formed rock arch with two viewing platforms offering a vantage point quite close to the water (and sometimes the waves!) and Thunder Cave lives up to its name where the water rushes into the narrow gorge before crashing back out with a resounding ‘boom’!

• A Quick Guide to the 12 Apostles Gourmet Trail
• 12 Delicious Lorne Restaurants
• The Best Cafes & Restaurants in Apollo Bay
• Where to Eat in Torquay – the top restaurants, bars & cafes
• Port Campbell Cafes, Restaurants & Bars
• Top Apollo Bay Restaurants, Cafes & Bars

And that’s a wrap (I think!) I hope we have shown you all the incredible things to do on the Great Ocean Road in addition to the must-see Great Ocean Road Attractions and they along with some handy travel information can help in with getting the most out of your time when visiting the Great Ocean Road. 

We would love to hear from you in the comments below about your favourite place on Australias top road trip and if you know of anyone planning a trip to the Great Ocean Road Victoria, please be sure to share this post with them on social media: Facebook, Flipboard, Twitter or grab the image below for Pinterest. And remember – sharing is charing (and we thank you in advance!)

READY MORE GREAT OCEAN ROAD TRAVEL INSPIRATION? YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN THESE TRAVEL TIPS, TRAVEL ARTICLES, DESTINATION GUIDES AND RELATED POSTS ABOUT OUR AMAZING COAST ROAD:

• Beyond the Great Ocean Road: 100+ Things to do in Australia inc. Sydney & The Blue Mountains in New South Wales, Uluru & Alice Springs in the Northern Territory, Fraser Islands & the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland & Phillip Island and The Yarra Valley in Victoria!
• Accommodation Guides: Wye River (inc Kennett River & Separation Creek) , Airey’s Inlet & Torquay!
• Self Drive Itineraries: 2-3 Day Great Ocean Road Itinerary + 4-5 Day Great Ocean Road Itinerary

Hi There! Thanks for reading our travel guide to the Best Great Ocean Road Attractions – 100+ Things to do on the Great Ocean Road.   I just wanted to let you know that this post may contain affiliate links, which means if you purchase something after clicking a link, I may get a small commission – which is at absolutely no cost to you . If you enjoyed this article and are going to be searching for some of the things I mention anyway, I would love it if you could click through from the links above & thank you in advance! Read my full disclosure here .

1 thought on “100+ INCREDIBLE Great Ocean Road Attractions”

I’ve been dreaming of visiting the Great Ocean Road for years and your guide has been super helpful in planning my trip! I’m excited to see the Twelve Apostles and the London Bridge Rock Formation. The pictures are stunning! Thanks for sharing your insights and tips

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20 Must See Places on the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is one of the best drives in the world with some fantastic places to see along the way.

Easily accessible from Melbourne, it stretches across 243 km starting from the coastal town of Torquay and finishing at Allansford. 

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There is plenty to do and see here, so while Great Ocean Road can be done and driven in a day, we recommend spending at least two days.

From small beach towns, epic coastline views, legendary surf beaches, Australian wildlife, and even an ancient rainforest, it won’t disappoint.

Table of Contents

20 Places to See On Great Ocean Road

Torquay is the start of the Great Ocean Road. There are so many things to see in Great Ocean Road.

It’s known for incredible beaches, and surfing competitions and there are some great brunch options. If you wish, you can base yourself here for the first night and start your Great Ocean Road drive from here, rather than coming down from Melbourne.

And if you get up early, go watch the surfers catch the waves at Back Beach at Rocky Point. We loved our brunch at Bomboras Cafe.

2. Bells Beach

Surf is definitely up here at Bells Beach. The Rip Curl Pro surfing competition is held here every year over Easter for the past 50 years, making it the longest-running surfing competition in the world.

Naturally, it attracts many surfing enthusiasts throughout the year too.

3. Anglesea

Once you leave Torquay and hit the Great Ocean Road, your first small town will be at Anglesea. This is the best place to spot kangaroos, especially if you are here early morning.

They seem to love the golf course, so just drive past it and park up – you are guaranteed to see some.

4. Split Point Lighthouse at Ayers Inlet

Another must-see on the Great Ocean Road is this iconic lighthouse in a spectacular setting. Park up and walk up the hill for the best views.

5. Memorial Arch at Eastern View

Stop here for more information on how Great Ocean Road was built. And of course, get a photo with the arch.

This charming seaside town can not be missed on the Great Ocean Road. You might consider spending less time at previous stops to have time for lunch or coffee and a walk here.

The beach in Lorne is also really suitable for swimming. If you enjoy eating good food, there are some great options here and if you are staying for the night, dine at Movida for some Spanish flavours.

7. Teddy’s lookout

We missed this lookout on our previous trips along the Great Ocean Road and we really don’t know why.

It is a bit of a steep drive, but it offers drone-like views of the St George River and the road.

8. Erskine Falls

Head 10km inland from Lorne to chase some waterfalls. The Erskine Falls are 30m high and make for a nice change of scenery.

The 8 Best Beaches in New South Wales, Australia

9. Wye River

If you would like to slow down, stop here for your lunch/coffee break.

We hear the Wye General Store is one of the best places to eat on the Great Ocean Road. 

10. See Koalas at Kennett River

To tick off another Aussie animal, wander around Kennett River. Just behind the caravan park is a huge eucalyptus tree that seems to be a koalas favourite.

Or walk up the nearby street and look for them high in the trees.

11. Apollo Bay

Another coastal town along the Great Ocean Road. Stop for a break or stretch as the next part of the journey involves a lot more driving.

RELATED POST – 12 Classic Australian foods you need to try

12. Maits Rest

Driving along the coastline and only about 25 minutes from Apollo Bay, you would probably not expect to find a rainforest. Maits Rest is a 20-30 minute walk through the incredible sub-temperature rainforest.

Imagine big ferns, ancient trees and tranquility.

By now you have entered the Otways National Park which offers some great hikes, the oldest light station on mainland Australia and even some adventure. If you prefer more adrenaline-packed activity, then check out the Fly Tree Top Walk in Weeaproinah.

You can zip through the leafy treetops of the magnificent Otway Ranges from one ‘Cloud Station’ to another, suspended up to 30 meters above the forest floor.

14. Gibson steps

Now we are talking! While the Twelve Apostles are the best known of the must-see places on the Great Ocean Road, don’t miss the turn-off for Gibson steps just before it.

The views here are remarkable, so be sure to take a moment to marvel at the surrounding landscape before making your way down the 86 carved steps onto the beach below. The beach itself is wide with cliffs and two jutting rocks.

15. Twelve Apostles

The famous sea stacks, the twelve apostles are the postcard picture of the Great Ocean Road and the must-see place. You can easily spend an hour or two here so build this into your day.

The strong ocean has carved these rock formations over the years, and while there are no longer twelve of them, they are simply breathtaking.

The best time to see them is at sunrise or sunset, but this can be tricky if planning to see more places afterwards. The information centre offers parking, a shop, and facilities.

Simply follow the short path, which will guide you to the Twelve Apostles’ lookout.

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16. Loch Ard Gorge

Only three minutes from the Twelve Apostles you’ll find another mighty rock star and a protected, sandy beach nestled amongst cliffs. Loch Ard Gorge was the scene of the Shipwreck Coast’s most famous shipping disaster.

You can read more about the tragedy at the lookout and imagine how the two survivors felt when making it out of the ocean onto the beach.

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17. London Bridge

A few minutes further you will find the site of London Bridge. Originally a natural arch and tunnel, London Bridge crumpled on 15 January 1990 and became an isolated arch no longer connected to the mainland.

Two tourists stranded on top of the remaining island had to be rescued by helicopter. You can also spot little penguins here at dusk and in the winter season migrating Humpback Whales.

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18. The Grotto

If you think you have seen enough rock formations, the grotto will surprise you. Part blowhole, part archway, part cave it’s easy enough to get to. Just follow the path all the way down to sea level.

This is your final stop in Port Campbell National Park. 

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19. Bay of Islands

Only 10 minutes from the Grotto, the Bay of Islands offer the final view of some epic formations. The wild Southern Ocean has carved a stunning collection of rock stacks and sheltered bays with clifftop walks, scenic lookouts, and a nice beach.

This is where the locals come during the summer to avoid the more touristy parts of the Great Ocean Road. Definitely put this one on your list of things to see in Great Ocean Road.

20. Childers Cove

This lesser-known beach is more off-the-beaten-track. You might get lucky and have it all to yourself.

It’s a great place to swim, and if you are staying in the nearby town of Warrnambool at the end of your Great Ocean Road trip, you might come back here in the morning.

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We have many travel guides and tips for Australia—what a diverse country!

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If you head back to the coast, we recommend that you visit Yeppoon and the Capricorn Coast. Check out the 15 Best Things To Do in Yeppoon, and don’t forget about the food. We’ve got you covered with the best places to eat in Yeppoon.

Our comprehensive itineraries for travelling in Australia include this  Brisbane to Cairns Road Trip – the Best 14-day itinerary, our detailed Guide to Camping in Karijini National Park and the Ultimate Guide to Carnarvon Gorge .

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You’ll need to stay connected while travelling in Australia. We recommend eSIM. It’s easy, reliable and affordable. View options for eSIM in Australia .

If your travels in Australia are part of a much larger global adventure, then a Global eSIM may be the answer. It connects you in 124 countries , offering data-only eSIM and data/call/text eSIM . The Global eSIM has been a game-changer; we couldn’t imagine travelling without it now.

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23 Awesome Things To Do On The Great Ocean Road

Jackson Groves

Posted on Last updated: June 23, 2023

Categories AUSTRALIA , SOUTH AUSTRALIA , VICTORIA

The Great Ocean Road is one of the most famous coastal routes in the world. It spans 243 kilometers along the southeastern coast of Australia from Torquay to Warrnambool. It was built between 1919 – 1932 by soldiers who returned from WWI, who dedicated the drive to their fallen comrades. Nowadays it is somewhat of a pilgrimage for travelers who look to visit all of the best places to visit along the Great Ocean Road that spans the coast from Allansford to Torquay.

In this blog post, I will share with you 23 awesome things to do along the Great Ocean Road and some of the best places to visit. 

Where does the Great Ocean Road start

The Great Ocean Road begins in Torquay and travels all the way through to Allansford. It is a 244km route and it is suggested to do the journey in no less than 3 days to take in all of the sights. Of course, you can start the route at either end. I personally began at Allansford and finished at Torquay because I began my journey down south coming from Adelaide. There is no major benefit either way as you can stop whenever you have a good view.

23 Awesome things to do on the Great Ocean Road

Along the drive are some incredibly popular attractions, small coastal towns and an abundance of wildlife. I drove from Adelaide to Torquay, which is a total of 755 kilometers and experienced the beauty of The Great Ocean Road. Sleeping in the back of my car, eating food I’d brought along, I managed to do it on the cheap. I photographed and recorded the whole journey in the vlog below:

The journey could take you a day, a week or a month. Go at your own pace. These are the 23 best things I did while traveling down the Great Ocean Road.

23 Best things to do on The Great Ocean Road

#1 blue lake, mt gambier.

If you are driving from Adelaide to Melbourne or vice versa you will pass through Mt. Gambier. While it is not technically on The Great Ocean Road it is a natural wonder, which is on the route. During the summer period, the lake is a vibrant blue while during winter and other months of the year it is a pale blue/grey. The Lake is in a large volcanic crater and the color will no doubt take your breath away.

#2 Eastern Ramparts Lookout, Portland

Almost by accident, I stumbled into the Discovery Bay Coastal Park in Portland. I was looking for a decent spot along the coast that would look back at the sunset. All of a sudden I was driving through the Coastal Park, which is laden with giant wind turbines. I found a sign that read ‘Eastern Ramparts Lookout’ and figured why not. It ended up being an amazing little viewpoint. I felt totally alone, in the middle of nowhere and it was a great way to kick off my Great Ocean Road adventure.

#3 Cape Spencer Lighthouse, Portland

Also in the Discovery Bay Coastal Park, the Cape Spencer Lighthouse sits atop some spectacular cliffs with front row seats to the sunset. Kangaroos hopped about as I pulled into the parking lot before jogging down to see if I was in time to watch the sun fade away on another day. Luckily I had just made it and got to enjoy the sky show from the edge of the cliffs.

#4 Griffiths Island, Port Fairy

I awoke to the sound of my sunrise alarm in the back of my car parked in the main street of Port Fairy. I quickly drove towards the sun and ended up at Griffiths Island. The island is the location of a lighthouse and a colony of Shearwater birds. Watching a sunrise here is a must-do Great Ocean Road activity. This little region is an idyllic area to watch the sunrise. I found the morning very peaceful and capped it off by watching two surfers tackle some strong waves as the sun rose behind them. It was one of my favorite mornings and one of the best places to visit on the Great Ocean Road to avoid the crowds.

#5 Bay of Islands

Traveling from Adelaide, this is the first scenery that makes you feel like you have arrived. It is one of the first things to do on The Great Ocean Road. Limestone Stacks litter the ocean, taking the brunt of heavy waves trying their hardest not to collapse like so many before them. On the cliffs, I spent half an hour watching a huge swell pummel the islands while anticipating what the rest of The Great Ocean Road had in store for me.

#6 Bay of Martyrs/ Worm Bay

From this point onwards, beautiful beaches become a commonality rather than a spectacle although I tried my very best to enjoy each beach on it’s own merits. Bay of Martyrs is only a short trip down the road from the Bay of Islands. It is a grand stretch of beach and alongside it is another beauty in Worm Bay. This little bay is about as secluded as it gets and takes a bit of effort to get to. A short coastal cliff walk will lead you down to a bay all to yourself.

#7 The Grotto, Port Campbell National Park

Who would have thought a sinkhole would cause such a stir. A giant arch rock formation bends over a sinkhole caused by acid eating away at the limestone beneath. Winding stairs lead you down to them, which looks like a beautiful tide pool, however, the acidity factor surely is enough to keep most tourists out. This spot in Port Campbell National Park is a high-energy location when considering the ocean. Waves pound into the rocks and my favorite part about the grotto was standing on top of the archway watching the booming swell lambast the cliffs.

#8 The London Bridge, Port Campbell National Park

Another arch rock formation this time much further out in the ocean. The beaches viewable from this lookout are phenomenal with extremely sheer cliffs. I don’t think it is possible to reach the shore of these beaches as I didn’t see any access points. Another one of the best things to do on The Great Ocean Road and an awesome spot to take in the coastline with expansive views in both directions.

#9 The Arch, Port Campbell National Park

The Arch on the Great Ocean Road is, well, what you would expect.. Another arched rock formation. The beauty of this location is that with two viewing platforms you can get quite low to the water and experience the crashing of the waves from much closer than other locations along the Great Ocean Road. It’s billed as one of the must-see things to do along the Great Ocean Road.

#10 Thunder Cave, Port Campbell National Park

This is definitely one of my favorite things to do on The Great Ocean Road. The Thunder Cave is a narrow gorge where water rushes deep into the end of the gorge and then makes a loud boom as it tries to flow back out. Little kids shrieked with excitement each time the force of the water created a small explosion, echoing throughout the gorge.

#11 Broken Head, Port Campbell National Park

After checking out Thunder Cave in Port Campbell National Park, I continued my walk along the coast. I stumbled across a secret little beach. The coolest part about this bay was there were stairs that had been carved into the cliffs, which led you down onto the shore. It was like something out of a movie set as I clambered down the stairs to my own private beach.

#12 Sherbrook River, Port Campbell National Park

The Sherbrook River flows out into the ocean although on this day it was several yards short of quite connecting. The adjacent bay has a dramatic cliffscape backdrop with sea-spray creating mist to add to the eerie atmosphere. There are lots of crowds along this route but this River and beach area was one of the least crowded places to visit on the Great Ocean Road.

#13 Island Arch, Port Campbell National Park

This part of Port Campbell National Park is an area that is one of the most popular things to do on The Great Ocean Road. The Island Arch is one of three huge attractions in the small area. Tour buses are aplenty and you won’t find much peace and quiet here. Lucky you didn’t come for that you came for amazing scenery! The Island Arch is definitely impressive. Two huge limestone stacks stand upright in the middle of a distinct bay. 

#14 Razorback, Port Campbell National Park

I thought the Island Arch Limestone rock formations were massive until I laid eyes on the aptly named Razorback formation. So large it almost seems as if it is a fossilized cruise liner, docked in Port Campbell National Park. The viewing platform faces it head on which is unfortunate but it really is quite thin as you can see on the walk.

#15 Loch Ard Gorge, Port Campbell National Park

Visiting Loch Ard Gorge is one of the most common things to do on The Great Ocean Road. This means the crowds are thick and heavy. I decided to enjoy this one from the viewing platform, while I watched two fathers of Asian descent guarding twenty kids against going too deep in the water. They ran towards the men who threw them back in the waves to be washed up. It looked like a great time and had me reminiscing my childhood. The gorge also has some stalactites and other rock formations at the far end. The beach is just beautiful and if you are committed enough, arriving here at sunset would produce a stunning scene for a photoshoot. It’s probably one of the most picturesque places to visit along the Great Ocean Road and also one of the most popular so expect a crowd. There are actually quite a few other great road trips in Australia, which will have fewer crowds like along the coast in South Australia, Sydney to Cairns, or even a massive Melbourne to Perth road trip .

#16 Gibson’s Steps

I have been to hundreds of beaches all across the world and there are some that you never forget. Gibson’s Step’s lead you down a narrow stairway attached ominously to the side of the cliffs. They guide you on to the shore where you can get up close and personal with some limestone stacks situated out in the water. After a wander, I took an unintentional nap directly beneath a 150ft wall of rock. I awoke an hour later startled but with a great tan.

#17 The Twelve Apostles

While there are no longer twelve, this is by far the most popular of all the things to do on The Great Ocean Road. Formerly 12 limestone stacks shot up from the water created an amazing view down the coast. However, several of them have crumpled leaving their remains scattered where they used to stand so tall. I spent the sunset at the Twelve Apostles and made my best efforts with my ND Filter and Tripod to capture the movement in the sky and the ocean. The sunset was good but not great. No rain can’t complain that’s my motto when in Victoria! The Twelve apostles are by far the most popular thing to do along the Great Ocean Road and really they are a must-see!

#18 Apollo Bay

After the sunset at the Twelve Apostles, I drove to Apollo Bay and found a beach parking lot before crawling to the back of my car for a night sleep. I woke up to the light shining through my car window. I hurriedly rushed out to the nearest beach access and enjoyed the sunrise. Apollo Bay is a small coastal town with a beautiful, long bay the center of attention and definitely a great spot to park for the night or to get out and enjoy the beach.

#19 Mariners Lookout, Apollo Bay

One of the highlights of Apollo Bay was a short little trek up to Mariners Lookout. Here I enjoyed the view over the town just after sunrise. I shared the beautiful lookout with only a few sheep. The lookout is on private property, but open to the public by a local couple who made the route and land available as a contribution to the shire. Heartwarming stuff typical of only a cute little town like Apollo Bay. It’s definitely one of the less popular things to do on the Great Ocean Road.

#20 Apollo Bay to Lorne Scenic Drive

While you might think this is a hard one to miss you may actually do just that. Make sure to pull over at all of the viewing points to enjoy the scenery. Other than that, wind down your window, stick your arm out and enjoy the smell of salt in the air and the wind in your hair. This is living!

#21 Kennett River Koala Walk

If you have never seen a Koala before, you are in for a treat. The Kennett River Koala walk winds along Grey River Road through heavily populated gum trees in the Otway Rainforest.

The hippest coastal town along the route, Lorne has a great vibe about it. A cafe strip to make a hipster drool looks out over an action-packed beach. If you are going to stay anywhere along the route for more than one night I would highly suggest you pick Lorne. Even if it is for nothing else other than to try two breakfast spots!

#23 Bells Beach

And we are so close to the end of the road or the start if you are beginning in Torquay. Bells Beach is a world famous surf beach and home to the Ripcurl Bells Pro each year in March. Huge waves cycle one after the other into a large bay, overlooked by several viewing platforms. The carpark at Bells Beach is almost as cool a the surf itself. Kombi vans, transients, nomads and just your casually cool surfer dudes hang post or pre-surf.

Hope you have a great journey along The Great Ocean Road! If I missed any of the best things to do on The Great Ocean Road add your suggestions in the comments below.

Friday 12th of November 2021

Thank you for sharing! The road in such a beautiful place is really wonderful. I love car rides, especially when you visit such nice places. There is a lot of useful information here http://mysocalledchaos.com/2012/06/roadtrip-matic.html that will help make the trip more enjoyable

Wednesday 6th of January 2021

Thanks so much for sharing your trip. You’ve done an amazing job of capturing the beauty of the Great Ocean Road. Your photography is gorgeous. I’m just about to book a few nights in Lorne. I haven’t visited the GOR for about 20 years. I’m so excited! Thanks for inspiring me.

Thanks for the nice comments. Enjoy!

Wednesday 15th of April 2020

Hi Jackson, they are amazing photos. my only concern is 'cool off in Mackenzie Falls.' These falls are dangerous to swim in due to people being trapped within the falls by swimming too close. they have signs up stating this due to internationals and people who are not familiar with the area dying. can you just change that to dipping your feet in or something. Fish falls is a better spot if people want to swim, it's further along the trail.

Friday 6th of March 2020

Awesome blog and great pictures. I am planning to do Adelaide to Melbourne drive in Nov 2020 via the coastal route. I have little less then 3 days. I can start early from Adelaide on day 1 but i need to be at Melbourne airport by 4 pm on day 3. I would like to cover as much as possible, what route would you recommend with places to stop ? many thanks !!

Sunday 8th of March 2020

Thanks so much. I went from Adelaide and yea you will make it. I would suggest longer but just pick a few things a day so you have enough driving time. You obviously won't see 'IT ALL. Enjoy and drive safe

Tuesday 18th of February 2020

Amazing road trip. We are doing Brisbane to Melbourne in Nov/Dec for 3 weeks and Melbourne to Adelaide in Jan for 3 weeks. Can we freedom camp in beach carpark or near any of your 23 sites. Cheers:)

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After 6 years of long distance, Darren and Lauren quit their day jobs to live the day dream. Far am a gan translates to “where am I going” from the Scot’s language, Doric. A phrase muttered several times a day by this travelling twosome as they avoid adulthood one adventure at a time. Through this blog they document the tales (and fails) from their experiences, offering a refreshing and unfiltered approach to travel in the hope they inspire others to embrace adventure.

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Great Ocean Road Itinerary: 20 Stops, Map & Campsites

Use this guide to plan the ultimate 2 day Great Ocean Road itinerary packed with the highlights as well as hidden gems. With so many stops (and often limited time) planning your itinerary for Great Ocean Road can be overwhelming, so we’ve done the hard work for you.  As well as completing the route three times (in both directions) we’re also fortunate to have a friend who’s lived in the area for over 20 years who shared a wealth of local tips. This means whether you have a weekend or a whole week, we promise a memorable, stress free road trip. 

GREAT OCEAN ROAD ITINERARY

A Great Ocean Road trip is one of the most beautiful drives in the world – stretching 244km from Torquay to Warrnambool with pristine coastline on one side and lush forest on the other. From our experience we recommend 2 days as a minimum, but if time is not on your side, we also share how to drive Great Ocean Road in one day.

We have been fortunate to complete this iconic drive three times: each time in a different season, twice in a car, once while travelling Australia in a campervan and once with our toddler along too! This means regardless of weather, passengers or vehicle we feel confident this is the ultimate two day itinerary for Great Ocean Road.

Great Ocean Road Itinerary: Day One

• Melbourne > Torquay
• Visit Bell’s Beach
• Torquay > Lorne
• Lunch in Lorne
• Visit Erskine Falls
• $ Camp at Princetown Recreation Reserve: Super cheap campsite, only a 10-minute drive to Twelve Apostles so ideal for starting day 2 at sunrise. More info here.
• $$ Kennett River Holiday Park:  Amazing campsite if you want to see koalas in the wild. Cabins & camping spots available, view best prices here . 
• $$$ Apollo Bay: Beautiful seaside town with many hotels, restaurants etc here. Around 1.5 hours to Twelve Apostles to start day 2.  Browse the best accommodation options for Apollo Bay here . 

Great Ocean Road Itinerary: Day Two

• Gibson Steps/Twelve Apostles for sunrise
• Loch Ard Gorge
• Lunch at Port Campbell
• London Bridge
• Bay of Martyrs
• $ Camp at Panmure Campground: Free campsite that is peaceful, clean and quiet. 
• $$$ Warrnambool: We LOVED our stay at the Deep Blue Hotel & Hot Springs . Stone’s throw from a beautiful beach and an incredible spa with hot springs on site too. 

GREAT OCEAN ROAD MAP

Every stop mentioned in this 2 day Great Ocean Road itinerary is marked on this map so you won’t have to plan a thing – just enjoy the epic drive! As a tip, make sure to save the map offline as signal can be scarce at some points in the route.

Taking a campervan? Why not take our cookbook with you?

• Recipes with ideas for breakfast, lunch & dinner
• Digital E-book so you can download instantly
• Use offline on your phone, tablet, laptop or print off
• Recipe ideas without the need for bulky cookbooks or Wi-Fi

Price: £7.99

The ultimate 2 day great ocean road itinerary.

Before we dive in to our Great Ocean Road itinerary, we want to highlight that this route welcomes over 2.5 million visitors A YEAR, so you can imagine the impact this many people have on the road itself, wildlife and surrounding scenery.

Please be a responsible traveller and stick to designated parking spaces, pay attention to all signage and do not leave the designated walking tracks/viewpoints.

GREAT OCEAN ROAD ITINERARY DAY ONE

1. melbourne – torquay.

Drive Time: Melbourne to Torquay 1.5 hours

We recommend leaving Melbourne as early as you can to beat the tour buses. From Melbourne it is around a 1.5 hour drive to the start of the Great Ocean Road. What better way to start your Great Ocean Road itinerary than in the surf capital of Australia – Torquay . It is the birthplace to Rip Curl and Quicksilver, so you can imagine some seriously good surf beaches perfect for beginners to book a first lesson or pros to tackle some insane waves.

2. Admire the Surfers at Bells Beach

Drive Time: Torquay – Bells Beach is around 10 minutes

Bringing us to the second of your Great Ocean Road stops, Bells Beach. Famous for the Rip Curl Pro surf competition which has been hosted in Bells Beach since 1962. It is the world’s longest running surf competition, so if you want to witness this historic event, it takes place at Bells Beach in April. Not travelling in April? Why not start your Great Ocean Road itinerary in style with a surf lesson at this famous spot!

3. Grab A Photo at Memorial Arch

Drive Time: Bells Beach to Memorial Arch is around 30 minutes

Arguably one of the most photographed Great Ocean Road stops is the sign itself welcoming you to the start. It’s surprisingly around 30 minutes from Torquay which is considered the start of the route, but it is in fact a memorial to the workers who constructed the road.

There is a car park to pull up and snap the sign (you can view it from either direction) and the fascinating history of the Great Ocean Road can be read on the signs nearby.

4. Lunch in Lorne

Drive Time: From Memorial Arch to Lorne is 15 minutes

There are so many things to do in Lorne that it’s understandably one of the most popular  day trips from Melbourne as well as a highlight from our 2 day Great Ocean Road itinerary. 

We recommend stopping at the funky  Bottle of Milk for lunch or a take away coffee (don’t forget your Stojo cup ) and then head around the corner to the Bakery Café for a tasty caramel slice, lemon tart or a famous Australian pie!

The views in Lorne are just as amazing as the café culture and if time is on your hands it’s a fabulous spot to stay overnight to explore the surrounding  Lorne waterfalls before continuing your road trip.

5. Visit Erskine Falls

Drive Time: From Lorne to Erskine Falls is 15 minute drive inland

If you have time to drag yourself away from the coast, head inland to explore the numerous  Great Ocean Road Waterfalls   – we counted over 10 around Lorne alone! If you have time for only one or two waterfalls, we recommend Erskine Falls as it was one of our Great Ocean Road highlights. At over 30 metres high there are two viewing platforms to witness it flow into a luscious fern gully.

The walk is steep in parts but not particularly challenging and a fun way to stretch your legs during your jam-packed great Ocean Road Itinerary. As a little tip, it was on the road to Erskine Falls where we saw our first ever koala in the wild, simply drinking from a puddle on the road so keep your eyes peeled. If you want a guaranteed koala sighting head to stop 7 .

6. Photo Stop at Teddy’s Lookout

Drive Time: From Erskine Falls to Teddy’s Lookout is 15 minutes. If you’re skipping out Erskine Falls, it’s only 6 minutes from Lorne to Teddy’s Lookout.

Another advantage if you’re choosing to self-drive Great Ocean Road is that you can stop at places such as Teddy’s Lookout which both times we’ve been (in Winter & Summer) have been surprisingly quiet.

It’s literally a 5 minute walk from the carpark to the viewpoint to grab a photo. From our entire 2 day Great Ocean Road itinerary, this stop offers one of our absolute favourite views so please believe us, it is worth the (very steep) detour! During our Summer visit, it was such a clear day we spotted dolphins and rays in the sea from here. If you have time, there is also a walking track here which takes around 45 minutes to complete.

7. Kennett River Koala Walk & Campground

Drive Time: From Teddy’s Look out to Kennett River it is a 25 minute drive.

It might be surprising but one of the most common things to see on the Great Ocean Road is koalas. The small seaside town of Kennett River is often referred to as the Koala capital of Australia and we can confirm that this was one not just one of our Great Ocean Road highlights but a highlight from our entire time  camping in Australia .

If you head off Grey River Road you will find the Kennett River Koala walk. It’s not an official walkway, simply a road lined with many eucalyptus trees and LOTS of koalas.

During one of our visits, we witnessed around 5 including one crossing the road and one which climbed above our campervan as we stayed in Kennett River Holiday Park . It’s also a great spot to see colourful native birds such as King Parrots and Crimson Rosellas. Please remember to be a responsible traveller  and do not feed the wildlife or try to touch them, no matter how cute they look!

If you are looking to go camping on Great Ocean Road , we cannot recommend Kennett River Holiday Park enough – there were SO many koalas in the actual camping ground as well as the koala walk mere minutes away. The beach out front is also spectacular and surprisingly quiet. A night here was under $35 too which was surprisingly affordable considering the epic location. There are also self catering cabins available if you’re not travelling in a van.

You could either end day one of your Great Ocean Road itinerary here and stay the night at Kennett River, or just visit the koalas and jump back in the car.

8. Visit Apollo Bay

Drive Time: From Kennett River to Apollo Bay is a 25 minute drive.

When we first visited Apollo Bay in Winter, we struggled to even find a fish & chip shop that was open, when we did our second Great Ocean Road trip in Summer it was so busy that we couldn’t park never mind find a café without a queue.

It is a popular spot to fill up fuel, pack supplies and wander along yet another incredible beach front before continuing your Great Ocean Road itinerary. It also happens to be the home to the BEST pie we have ever eaten so if you fancy a delicious snack the lamb, honey & mustard pie from the Apollo Bay Bakery will blow you away. It’s also famous for their scallop pie which is worth the Great Ocean Road drive alone!

The Wild Side of The Great Ocean Road Apollo Bay is a great stop for wildlife fans! A local recommended Marengo Reefs Marine Sanctuary to us because of the amazing fur seal colony or why not enjoy a guided dusk discovery tour where you can witness Australia's amazing wildlife as it emerges at dusk in a stunning landscape overlooking the ocean. Topped off with a delicious mezze plate and beer or wine after your tour. 

9. Visit Cape Otway

Drive Time: From Apollo Bay to Cape Otway light house is a 35 minute drive.

It’s not just the beaches that will blow you away during your Great Ocean Road trip but the trees. Yup, trees. From Apollo Bay, Great Otway National Park is a worthwhile detour to not only explore the fascinating rainforest (which even has a tree tops walk way, 25 metres above ground ) but to also see some of the coolest trees we’ve ever seen.

You will also come to Cape Otway lightstation – the oldest light house in Australia which is one of the most popular things to do on Great Ocean Road because at 90metres high it offers incredible views. However, it does come with a A$20.00 entrance fee and being backpackers short of cash and time we skipped this and continued our drive, admiring the unusual trees from the car.

10. Wreck Beach

Drive Time: From Cape Otway light house to Wreck beach it is a 1 hour and 10 minute drive.

This stretch of your Great Ocean Road itinerary is arguably one of the most beautiful and is referred to as the Shipwreck Coast . It is estimated that over 700 ships have been lost along this stretch of coast and at low tide you can even witness one of the shipwrecks yourself at Wreck Beach .

Be warned, there are over 300 steps down to the beach, so it is not a stop for the faint hearted. Make sure it is low tide, otherwise you could make that treck down for no reason!

Camp at Princetown Recreation Reserve

This is where you have a choice on how to end day one of your 2 day Great Ocean Road itinerary. You could either visit the famous Twelve Apostles for sunset then camp at Princetown Recreation Reserve , or save them for sunrise the next morning. Either way, it’s only a 10-minute drive from this campsite to The Twelve Apostles.

Affordable camping on Great Ocean Road is hard to find but this was a hidden gem at only $25 for a powered site with hot showers (cash on arrival). As we were staying here on a Saturday there was a cricket match on at the oval which we watched from the back of our van and was a favourite memory from our time campervanning in Australia . The site is also frequented by many kangaroos at dusk, so another excellent Great Ocean Road stop for wildlife.

GREAT OCEAN ROAD ITINERARY DAY TWO

11. princetown reserve to gibson steps.

Drive Time: From the campsite at Princetown Reserve to Gibson Steps is 7 minute drive.

We recommend getting up early for day two of your Great Ocean Road itinerary. We left Princetown Reserve campsite around 6am thinking another advantage of doing a Great Ocean Road self-drive tour is that you can beat the crowds (more on this shortly).

You can view the Twelve Apostles from ground level by climbing down the 86 Gibson Steps to the shore. A stunning spot regardless of the time of day and surprisingly quiet – both times we have been we’ve been we were the only ones there.

Perhaps over shadowed by the 12 Apostles next door, or perhaps very few can be bothered with the steep climb back up the steps. The photo of Loz was taken in Winter and the photo of Daz was from our Summer visit, regardless of the weather Gibson Steps are a must-see during your 2 day Great Ocean Road itinerary.

12. Sunrise at The Twelve Apostles

Drive Time: From the Gibson Steps to The Twelve Apostles is only 2 minutes!

Unquestionably the most famous of all Great Ocean Road stops is the Twelve Apostles. When we visited in Winter we were blessed with an empty car park and only around a dozen other visitors.

In February however we arrived at 6:30am to quite a crowd and were lucky to secure one of the last few sunrise spots. Despite only 7 of the Twelve Apostles still standing it is incredible to witness these giant (45 metre high) limestone formations in real life and for many sunrise here is the highlight of their Great Ocean Road itinerary.

Update March 2024: Twelve Apostle Visitor Access

When we returned to the Twelve Apostles in 2023, the viewpoint had been completely refurbished which did wonders for crowd control. Renovation plans are due to continue in 2024 (and complete by 2025) which include a new Visitor Centre, walking trails as well as new park-and-ride facilities, new access roads, and improved parking at Secret Apostles Lookout. 

13. Go for a paddle at Loch Ard Gorge

Drive Time: From the Twelve Apostles to Loch Ard Gorge is only 5 minute drive

A mere 5 minute drive later, you will come to another unmissable photo opportnity – Loch Ard Gorge . Although the Twelve Apostles are arguably the most famous stop, Loch Ard Gorge is our favourite and one not to be missed from your 2 day Great Ocean Road itinerary. You could easily spend an hour or two here.

It is named after one of the most famous ships from the Shipwreck Coast (Loch Ard) which was travelling from England to Melbourne in 1878. There is a fascinating story about the 2 survivors of the shipwreck which you can read on a board at the gorge.

We were shocked along this drive at the addition of crowd control style barriers which had been put up in the Summer months to prevent people parking illegally. These not only spoiled the natural landscape and tarnished photos but it angered us that money and time needs to be spent on fencing because of tourists who won’t obey the signage.

Instead they stop for photo opportunities where they fancy. Please do not be this person, stick to the road and designated stops to avoid further erosion and potential accidents.

Update March 2024: Access to Loch Ard Gorge 

14. Lunch at Port Campbell

Drive Time: From Loch Ard Gorge to Port Campbell is only 10 minute drive

Port Campbell is a sleepy seaside village home to beautiful boutique accommodation and some fabulous foodie spots. We recommend Grassroots Deli Cafe not only because our lunch was delicious and staff attentive but it was very child-friendly with plenty space inside and out for high chairs, push chairs etc.

They also stock stock a range of Australian-made and locally sourced products if you fancy purchasing a gift or two before hopping back in the car to continue your Great Ocean Road itinerary.

15. The Arch

Drive Time: From Port Campbell to The Arch is 6 minutes

You won’t be back in the car for long as it’s under 10 minutes until your next Great Ocean Road stop – The Arch . As the name describes it is an arch naturally sculpted by the stunning swell that has worn away the rock.

It is particularly beautiful in the afternoon as the rocks turn a warm golden colour. There is a walkway leading to a viewpoint which also offers a unique perspective looking back on to the Twelve Apostles.

16. London Bridge

Drive Time: From The Arch to London Bridge is 3 minutes

You will barely have time to switch songs on your road trip playlist before it’s time for the next stop in your 2 day Great Ocean Road itinerary. At just a 3 minute drive away is London Bridge.

Originally named after the British equivalent because it was an actual natural bridge, until 1990 when the arch connecting it to the mainland fell away leaving two tourists stranded on the remaining sea stack (later rescued by helicopter).

Although no longer a bridge as such, it is sometimes referred to as London Arch and is one of the best Great Ocean Road stops nonetheless, with two viewing platforms offering spectacular views.

17. The Grotto

Drive Time: From London Bridge to The Grotto is a 5 minute drive

Can you believe we nearly missed out The Grotto from our Great Ocean Road itinerary but we are so glad we didn’t. Do not be fooled into thinking it is just yet another rock formation, this unique natural phenomenon is actually part blowhole, archway AND cave all in one stop.

You can view the fascinating reflections below or from above at the lookout. Just don’t climb over the wall and aid the erosion further for an insta-snap, which we witnessed tourists do during our road trip.

18. Bay of Martyrs

Drive Time: From The Grotto to Bay of Martyrs is 8 minute drive

Despite the breath taking views and beautiful beach at The Bay of Martyrs , there is a horrific history that surrounds this area of Victoria.

Although deemed folklore as there is no written evidence, it is believed the name and surrounding look outs such as Massacre Bay and Massacre Point are titled after the devastating events that occurred here.

Local stories spanning generations claim that Europeans killed a large group of Karrae-Wurrong Aboriginal men here, proving a thought provoking stop on the Great Ocean Road.

19. Bay of Islands

Drive Time: From The Bay of Martyrs to Bay of Islands is a 5 minute drive

If you want to skip the last few stops, you can head from Loch Ard Gorge to The Bay Of Islands in around 30 minutes. Otherwise it’s just 5 minutes from the Bay of Martyrs. Once there, you will be forgiven for mixing images of The Bay of Islands with the Twelve Apostles – to us, they are remarkably similar.

The Bay of Islands also boasts striking limestone sea stacks and is a stunning spot for sunset. The main difference being however, that it is considerably less crowded here than Twelve Apostles so is a perfectly peaceful way to end your 2 day Great Ocean Road itinerary.

• Panmure Campground

Drive Time: From The Bay of Islands to Panmure campground is 28 minutes inland

The finishing line is mere minutes away but if you have time to spare in your Great Ocean Road itinerary we have a fabulous FREE campsite that we cannot recommend enough.

Free camping on Great Ocean Road  can be difficult as spaces are limited however this is one of the few designated sites which was peaceful, clean and surprisingly quiet. We recommend arriving early (around 4/5pm) to secure a good spot. Best of all, there are FLUSH TOILETS which was a welcome change to the drop toilets we encountered while free camping in Australia .

20. Warrnambool

Drive Time: From Panmure campground to Warrnambool 20 minnutes.

It is officially the final stretch of your Great Ocean Road itinerary! Just 20 minutes from the Panmure camping ground is Warrnambool. Alternatively, it is 40 minutes from Bay of Islands to Warrnambool.

If you have enjoyed the fascinating stories of shipwrecks so far, you can learn much more at the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village .

If your Great Ocean Road itinerary permits and you are visiting between May and October, Logan Beach in Warrnambool is the perfect whale watching spot and a memorable way to end your 2 day Great Ocean Road itinerary.

Returning to Melbourne

Now your 2 day Great Ocean Road itinerary is over, it is time to head from Warrnambool to Melbourne which is 257km. In total it takes 3 hours to drive back to Melbourne, but along the Highway not Great Ocean Road.

If you’d prefer to see those epic attractions again, then driving from Warrnambool to Melbourne along the Great Ocean Road will take 5 hours and 30 minutes.

TOP TIPS FOR YOUR GREAT OCEAN ROAD ITINERARY

When is the best time to self drive great ocean road.

The first time we did a Great Ocean Road trip was from Melbourne to Warrnambool in Winter and it was incredible – no tourists, stormy grey skies and empty towns.

The second time we drove the opposite direction, Adelaide to Melbourne and in the height of Summer – glorious sunshine, crowds of people and the bluest sea we have ever seen.

Our third experience was in  Autumn so was the perfect balance of good weather, less crowds and affordable accommodation.

Although we couldn’t choose a time we prefer, do keep in mind most tour buses run all year round and start in Melbourne so it’s often a race against the crowds to each of these Great Ocean Road stops. The joy of a Great Ocean Road self-drive tour is you can leave as early as you like and pick and choose which stops to stay longer at and which to skip completely. 

As a Tip: If you can, time your Great Ocean Road itinerary between May and October as you’ll see whales migrating along the way!

What to pack for your Great Ocean Road trip

Don’t be fooled by the stunning backdrop, the road at times involves dangerous corners, crazy heat in Summer and limited water & fuel stops.

First & foremost you should always have travel insurance, enough petrol & water supplies.

Secondly, you should have a banging playlist, enough snacks and a road trip partner to snap those desired insta snaps at The 12 Apostles (if you need to whip your travel partner into shape, our  couple travel tips  might help!)

We then recommend reading our  road trip packing list  for the essentials we take with us every drive, and for a safe Great Ocean Road trip.

Finally, if you plan on camping along the way, our guide to  camping on Great Ocean Road covers the essentials you’ll need for a stress free sleep under the stars.

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Where is best to go camping on the Great Ocean Road?

Understandably Great Ocean Road accommodation can be expensive due to the popularity of this drive. During our first visit we stayed in a motel in Apollo Bay , which despite being in the height of Winter and the town being completely dead still cost us A$100.00. 

We LOVED camping on Great Ocean Road as it is not only super affordable but you wake up to some of the best views in the country or if you’re lucky, even a koala or two! If your 2 day Great Ocean Road itinerary is on a budget we can recommend over 10 free campsites  on Great Ocean Road which means you won’t need to pay a penny on accommodation.

As we were in a campervan, we had to plug in occasionally to charge so needed to stay at paid campsites too. Our favourite paid campsites are below, all of which offered power & home comforts such as hot showers and camp kitchens as well as excellent wildlife (more on that later.)

• Kennett River Campground
• Princetown Recreation Reserve

Remember to book in advance as understandably  camping in Australia is incredibly popular and near impossible during school holidays – some campsites even introduce a ballot system a year in advance. We booked our campsites the day before but we were not travelling in peak season (we planned our our Great Ocean Road itinerary in February, then did it again in May.)

If your Great Ocean Road trip is on a budget, we also suggest cooking up a storm on route to save money. From  vegetarian camping recipes  to  one pot camping meals , we LOVE cooking as we camp as nothing beats a heart-warming meal under the stars (especially if it avoids tourist trap restaurants!)

Camping on Great Ocean Road is one of the best ways to get closer to the beautiful landscape and wildlife, but always remember to take only photos, leave only footsteps and only camp where permitted. For more tips, take a peek at our  Australia camping guide .

The Best Hidden Gems on The Great Ocean Road

Although everyone wants to drive this epic route to catch a glimpse of the world famous icons such as The 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and Gibson Steps, very few people know that if you head a little inland you will find some of the best waterfalls in Australia!

If you have some spare time during your Great Ocean Road itinerary or you simply prefer to travel off the beaten track, take some time to explore the endless  Great Ocean Road waterfalls .

With some just a 15 minute hike and others nestled deep in the Otways National Park these waterfalls are often overshadowed by the Great Ocean Road so you’ll be treated to a crowd-free photo opportunity. Not to mention the endless wildlife and total serenity these waterfalls offer.

As a tip, the  waterfalls on Great Ocean Road are best enjoyed during Winter, when they are in full flow. During the Summer months, rain is in short supply so understandably the waterfalls are only a trickle and not near as impressive. Regardless, we’d highly recommend the detour for a relaxing escape from the tour buses and selfie sticks.

ONE DAY GREAT OCEAN ROAD ITINERARY

It would be difficult but not impossible to squeeze the highlights of our 2 day Great Ocean Road itinerary into just one day. To do the full route, it would take a minimum of 9 hours (approx.) of constant driving from Melbourne to Warrnambool, going via the Great Ocean Road one way and the main highway the opposite way.

Therefor, if you have just one day we would recommend only driving as far as Port Campbell which is a slightly shorter 7.5 hours round-trip. Only visit the main Great Ocean Road stops mentioned below – many of which are mere minutes apart anyway and you should make it home by bed time.

We’d recommend leaving Melbourne as early as possible and be prepared for a long day to ensure you won’t be too rushed and to beat the tour buses.

• Great Ocean Road Sign
• Teddy’s Lookout
• Kennett River Koala Walk
• Gibson Steps
• Twelve Apostles
• Port Campbell

To return, take the inland route instead of the Great Ocean Road route. Although this will still take around 3 hours, it is far quicker than being stuck behind motorhomes, tour buses or being distracted by the scenery and stopping some more.

If you do plan on driving the Great Ocean Road in one day, be careful when driving in the dark in Australia especially around dusk as this is prime kangaroo time. Although beautiful to witness they can cause devastating damage to your car!

We hope this guide has given you endless inspiration for planning your itinerary for Great Ocean Road. Whether you only have a day and want to just tick off the icons or you plan on making it a week long affair and discovering some hidden gems, we are sure you’ll have an epic Great Ocean Road trip regardless. Let us know in the comments if we’ve missed your favourite campsite or stop from our guide, we’re always looking for excuses to return!

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This Post Has 26 Comments

Great post! I am doing a road trip in Australia in 2020 and this is so helpful! I have been looking for a more in-depth Oceans road itinerary so this is a dream come true. Definitely check out these 20 must-see stops along Ocean road!

So excited for you to visit next year, you will have the best time!

Was literally just reading about the Twelve Apostles and the Great Ocean Road in s Lonely Planet 500 best places book. These photos look even more enticing!

It’s now one of our best places, hopefully one day it will be yours too 😉

Your pictures are stunning! I did a road trip in Australia from Gold Coast to Sydney. But I would love to drive to Melbourne like you guys. Looks gorgeous!

Our full trip was Brisbane to Adelaide but this was definitely our favourite part!

This looks like the ultimate road trip! I can’t believe how gorgeous the coast is there, which is why I need to get my butt to Australia ASAP! I think renting an RV would be my ultimate getaway

It’s one of the best trips we’ve ever done. Renting a campervan is definitely the best way to see it so you can camp along the way!

Great tips. Thanks! Even though I actually live in Australia, I still have done the drive.

We couldn’t believe how big Australia is once we were there – we spent a year travelling and barely scratched the surface!

Such road trips are stuff of dream. It is amazing and definitely something on my bucketlist. Thank you for the beautiful pictures. They are incredible.

It was definitely a dream come true to see it for ourselves 🙂

Loved it!! Planning to go here for my bday in april. Was looking for ideas.

Such a fun way to spend a birthday – have an amazing time!

I love a good road trip. Saved this post for when I ever make it to Australia (soon hopefully, haha)!

Road trips are our favourite too – so much freedom!

Omg those koalas are so adorable! This is such a great and thorough guide to the Great Ocean Road — you have me wanting to buy plane tickets to Australia right now :).

Koalas by our campervan were definitely a highlight, not just from Great Ocean road but our whole Australia trip!

I did the great ocean road in 2013 on a Top Deck tour. I had such a great time but I have always wanted to drive it myself. Your post has totally inspired me to go back. xx

A self drive tour is definitely the best way – no crowds and you can take as long (or as little) time as you like!

Awesome post- a lot of great sights! I hope to get out to Australia- the Apostles site is the one I want to see most, but you’ve covered so much more for me to see!

They are definitely one of the highlights!

Hey Guys! I finally got round to reading this post a week before we set off for the Great Ocean Road – so excited! I’ve made sure we’ve got all of these stops in our itinerary! Thank you for the tips about the Koala Walk- my mum is with us on this road trip and praying to see some Koalas in the wild so hopefully, we can see some there!

Hi, love your post. So I have to do a tour and I only have one day. Some tours recommend doing it in reverse from Melbourne, is that really going to give me the best experience by getting to the 12 apostles before 9.30am to miss the hoards. And miss Sunset. I also realise one wont be driving on the ocean side of the road and wonder how important that is given how many stops there are. Your advice greatly appreciated as Im arriving this week.

Sorry, we have just seen this as we were moving house. Hope your trip went well! Let us know if you’re looking for more Australia recommendations!

Hi, great article. I’ll be in Melbourne in October and definitely want to see and explore the Great Ocean Road. I’m travelling solo after a work trip. Do you have recommendations for group tours that have more or less the same itinerary? Thanks so much!

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Beyond Wild Places

Your guide to the wilder side of life

The Great Ocean Road: A Guide to the Ultimate Road Trip

The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most popular road trips. The winding coastal drive goes for 243km from Torquay to Allansford along the southwest coast of Victoria. The combination of spectacular coastal scenery and dense rainforests of the Great Otway National Park make it one of the most beautiful regions in Australia. 

I’ve spent weeks exploring this part of Victoria in my van. I’ve driven up and down the Great Ocean Road numerous times stopping at both the popular attractions and lesser-known spots on the way. It’s such a great solo adventure and is the perfect place to get out and enjoy some nature, whether you’re on your own or with a group of friends.

There’s plenty of information out there for planning your road trip along the Great Ocean Road, but I’ve compiled this guide from my own experience camping and driving along the famous coastal road. This guide is aimed at people who are planning a self-drive trip, with plenty of tips and information on the best places to stop and things to see along the way. 

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links which means I get a commission if you buy a product through my link at no extra cost to you. By doing so, I can keep this blog going and continue to create helpful guides for you. Read more:  Privacy Policy

Self-Driving the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is best explored in your own vehicle or a hired one . The freedom of self-driving the Great Ocean Road means that you can stop whenever you like and visit whichever sights and attractions you want to see.

If you need to hire a car or want to hire a campervan, basic rates can start at $49 per day, but you’ll also have to factor in insurance coverage and fuel.

When planning a trip along the Great Ocean Road, keep in mind that there are many sights off the main road and side trips are often required to get the best out of your trip. Not all of the best things to do on the Great Ocean Road are actually on the coast either, with plenty of inland attractions and beautiful spots in the Great Otway National Park too.

Great Ocean Road Itinerary

The Great Ocean Road spans more than 240km and begins in Torquay, which is located just 90 minutes southwest of Melbourne. With this in mind, you can easily tackle a road trip down the Great Ocean Road and back to the city over a  two-day weekend . However, the longer you have the more you can see, so it’s best to think about all the things you want to do rather than just look at the distance on a map. There’s plenty of things to see to keep you busy for days.

An ideal Great Ocean Road itinerary is over  four to five days , but you could easily spend much longer than that if you have the time. Travelling west from the city, some of the popular overnight stops are Torquay, Lorne, Apollo Bay and Port Campbell. If you plan an overnight stay in or around each of those towns, you would be able to check out all of the highlights and even some of the less-visited spots too. Here’s how you could break your Great Ocean Road trip down into sections (from east/right to west/left):

Of course, you can also stay in some of the smaller towns on the road including Aireys Inlet, Kennett River and Wye River. At the same time, many of the free bush camps are inland further and require a bit of a detour.

Great Ocean Road Accommodation

If you’re hiring a campervan or packing camping gear into your car, the Great Ocean Road is a great place to go camping along the way. There is everything from free camps in the bush to paid public campgrounds and caravan parks for those looking for more comfortable amenities. If you’re interested in camping along the Great Ocean Road, check out my post on  15 of the best campsites on the Great Ocean Road .

If camping isn’t your ‘thing’ then there are literally hundreds (maybe even thousands!?) of places to stay in the pretty coastal towns. You can find hostels and B&Bs to waterfront guesthouses and luxury hotels with something to suit every budget. You can find some of my recommendations in my post on the 12 most unique places to stay on the Great Ocean Road , or have a browse on  booking.com  for the latest deals.

Budget Travel on the Great Ocean Road

Keep in mind that the Great Ocean Road is  not  the cheapest place to spend time. Being one of the most popular tourist destinations in Victoria, you can expect high prices, especially in the warmer summer months (literally prices can be ridiculous in summer). Even if you opt for camping, it’s not the easiest place to stay overnight on a budget, with strict laws against overnight parking unless in designated camping areas. There are a few  free camps , which you can find in my post on camping on the Great Ocean Road  here .

Cafes, shops, supermarkets and fuel stations are also a little expensive along the Great Ocean Road. However, you can still save some money by  self-catering  with supermarkets and finding cheaper fuel in larger towns. You can certainly still travel on a budget if you plan accordingly and by avoiding the busy Christmas and New Year period, if you can.

Don’t have your own vehicle for the Great Ocean Road?

Self Driving and Camping Tips for the Great Ocean Road

• Cheaper  fuel  stops include Torquay, Apollo Bay and Warrnambool (avoid Lorne and Port Campbell).
• Recreation Reserves  offer the best value for overnight camping spots. You can get powered sites for as little as $20 outside of the Christmas-New Year holiday period and most are located right in town.
• Some  caravan parks  have limited reception hours and gates at the entrance so it’s best to pre-book by calling through or booking online  here .
• The Great Ocean Road and other roads in the Otway National Park are very windy and skinny in places with a  high risk  of wildlife crossing, so be aware of other cars and animals on the road. For this reason, it’s best not to drive at night. 
• The section from  Aireys Inlet to Apollo Bay  is the most spectacular section of the Great Ocean Road and is when the road hugs the edge of the coast.
• All the  free camps  are in the bush of the Otways and require a detour off the Great Ocean Road. If you want to stay near the ocean, it’s best to opt for paid public campgrounds and caravan parks.
• You need to  book ahead  for accommodation and campsites in summer and on long weekends throughout the year. Otherwise, mid-week for most of the year and weekends in the cooler months are quiet and easy to book on the day of travel.
• Use the  WikiCamps app  to search for a variety of campsites and caravan parks with reviews, amenities and prices to help you decide where to stay.

Must See Places on the Great Ocean Road

There are plenty of things to do on the Great Ocean Road. When you first start looking at the list of attractions and things to see in the region, it can seem a bit overwhelming with everything from waterfalls to surf beaches to lighthouses. However, you can easily stop by many of the highlights in just a few days, with some of them not too far away from each other. 

Driving from east to west, here are the must-see towns and best things to do on the Great Ocean Road to help you plan your trip.

Distance from Melbourne:  104km or 90 minute drive

The official start of the Great Ocean Road is in Torquay, just 22km south of Geelong. This trendy surf village with great shops and cafes has expanded over the last couple of decades into a major town. It’s certainly a more bustling place than the smaller coastal towns further west, but it’s considered the home of Australian surfing making it a must-see stop.

One of the most popular things to do in Torquay is to hit the shops at  Surf City Plaza . This precinct on the Surf Coast Highway is home to major stores of many of Australia’s iconic surfing brands including Rip Curl, Roxy and Oakley. The real appeal lies down the side street beside the plaza where you can find the factory outlets and spend hours rummaging through seconds and last season’s clothes at discounted prices. 

If you want to hit the water and  learn to surf , Torquay is one of the best places to do it in Victoria. You can check out this two-hour group surf lesson  here  which is perfect for beginners.

Read next: A Weekend Guide to Torquay

Where to stay in Torquay

Desa Retreat Ecovillas | Located in Jan Juc, just a few kilometres away from Torquay centre, these self-catering eco villas are the perfect luxury escape. You can even walk to Bells Beach from the property. Check the latest prices  here .

Bells Beach

Distance from Torquay:  7km or 10 minute drive

Considered the home of surfing in Australia, Bells Beach has a spot in the heart of most Victorians, even non-surfers. The  famous surf beach  outside of Torquay is one of the most popular spots on the surf coast and is a must-see for any visitor. 

You can find surfers out catching some breaks year-round. The long strip of surf is actually home to a number of breaks including Winki Pop, Southside and Steps. There are some great lookouts along the cliffs and even the main car park offers a vantage point from where you can watch local surfers for hours. 

If you visit on the Easter long weekend, the world-famous  Rip Curl Pro surf comp  takes place at Bells and draws pro surfers from all over the world. This is when Torquay is at its busiest and you need to plan your time here months in advance if you want to catch a glimpse of the competition. 

Point Addis Marine National Park

Distance from Torquay:  14km or 20 minute drive

Point Addis National Park is known for its spectacular sandstone cliffs and sandy beaches with epic surfing spots. It’s located between Torquay and Anglesea on the Great Ocean Road. To get the best view of the surf coast, the  Point Addis Boardwalk  offers an incredible panorama in both directions and is best enjoyed at sunset. 

Near the boardwalk, you can also get access down to  Point Addis Beach , which is extremely popular on warm summer days. You’ll often find the limited car parking on the point overflowing with people parking just about anywhere down the road.

Aireys Inlet

Distance from Torquay:  28km or 25 minute drive

Aireys Inlet is a popular seaside getaway between Anglesea and Lorne. It’s a great spot for budding surfers with plenty of great beaches nearby including the well-known  Fairhaven Beach . 

It’s also home to the iconic  Split Point Lighthouse , which was the filming location for the 90s kid’s TV show ‘Round the Twist’ (if you’re an Aussie millennial you’ll know it!). The lighthouse offers an incredible view across the coast and is a great spot to catch the sunset if you’re staying nearby. Or enjoy a 30 minute tour of the lighthouse, if you want to go inside and learn more about its history.

Memorial Arch

Distance from Aireys Inlet:  5.5km or 6 minute drive

If you want to prove to your social media following that you’ve been to the Great Ocean Road, this is a must-see stop. The Memorial Arch is dedicated to the soldiers who built the road after WWI and has become a favourite photo spot for visitors. There’s a dedicated parking area to the left of the wooden arch and plenty of room around it but be careful when taking photos as the Great Ocean Road runs right under it with traffic passing all year round.

Distance from Aireys Inlet:  18km or 20 minute drive

Lorne is certainly the most popular and coolest spot on the Great Ocean Road. The trendy coastal town has plenty of boutique shops and fancy cafes along the main street. The beach in front of town is often packed with visitors on weekends and accommodation can be expensive and hard to come by in summer. But, a stop here for lunch is still an essential thing to do on the Great Ocean Road and there are plenty of things to do nearby.

Read more: 12 Best Things to Do in Lorne

Things to Do in Lorne

Erskine Falls  | By far the most visited waterfall in the Otway National Park, Erskine Falls is a 30-metre cascade which is widely considered one of the most picture-perfect waterfalls in Australia. The car park is just 9km from Lorne and a short walk will take you to the first lookout spot across the falls. If you continue down the steps, you can reach the bottom viewpoint which is the best vantage point for a photo. 

Lower Kalimna Falls  | This unique waterfall does not have a spectacular amount of water but its a pretty little waterfall that spills over a rock ledge that you can walk behind. The trail also continues up to Upper Kalimna Falls which is a 15m cascade of water. It’s an 8km return hike through beautiful forest from the Sheoak Picnic Area.

Teddy’s Lookout  | A short drive out of Lorne town and to the end of George Street, you can find Teddy’s Lookout. A short walk from the car park offers a beautiful panorama across where the St George River meets the ocean with the Great Ocean Road snaking around the coastline. It’s easily one of the best and most popular viewpoints in the region.

Sheoak Falls | One of the best waterfalls near Lorne, it’s located just off the Great Ocean Road 6km from Lorne. You can do the short 1km return trail from the main car park, or try the longer walk from Sheoak Picnic Area for a 7km return walk. It’s an impressive 15m high tumble of water over a rocky escarpment.

Henderson Falls | This hidden gem near Lorne is accessed via a 3.6km return walk. Along the way you’ll also pass Won Wondah Falls and you can even continue further onto Phantom Falls, for a longer walk via The Canyon.

Phantom Falls | This impressive waterfall is a peaceful spot to sit next to the river and listen to the thundering water. This can be accessed via a 3.5km return trail from Allenvale Campground.

Read more: Best Walks on the Great Ocean Road

Where to Stay in Lorne

Lorne Bush House Cottages and Eco Retreats | A great property just 3km out of Lorne which has a range of self-catering cottages and safari-style glamping tents for a more unique stay. Check the latest prices  here .

Kennett River

Distance from Lorne:  23k or 30 minute drive

The Great Ocean Road is home to plenty of native wildlife, but one of the real highlights is the chance of encountering a  koala  in the wild. The region has one of the largest koala populations left in Australia and Kennett River is considered one of the best places to spot one.

Kennett River is a small town on the Great Ocean Road between Lorne and Apollo Bay. The most popular spot to see koalas is  Grey River Road , which is often crowded with cars, buses and tourists on foot, so it’s not hard to miss. I actually had more luck spotting koalas outside of Lorne near Sharps Campground, and they’re also common along the Cape Otway road. 

Reminder:  Do  not  feed, touch, pester or harass any of the animals that you see along the Great Ocean Road. Their environment is already fragile enough from visitors and overdevelopment.

Distance from Lorne:  46km or 1 hour drive

Apollo Bay is a laidback coastal town on the Great Ocean Road. In my opinion, it is one of the best towns to spend the night and is ideally located as a base for seeing some of the highlights of the region. The town itself is situated on a sandy bay with a long stretch of beach that is perfect for swimming and sunbaking. You also have access to a fuel station, supermarkets and plenty of choices of accommodation in town.

You should head up to  Marriner’s Lookout , a short drive from town and a five-minute walk up from the car park. From there you can enjoy views right across Apollo Bay. It’s most popular at sunset time.

The town is also the starting point of the  Great Ocean Walk , a 104km long-distance walk that takes you all the way to the Twelve Apostles. Read my guide to the Great Ocean Walk  here .

Where to stay in Apollo Bay

Marengo Holiday Park | One of the best caravan parks on the Great Ocean Road, this ideally located park is right on the edge of the bay in Marengo. They have cabins as well as powered and unpowered sites for camping. Check the latest prices  here .

Apollo Bay Eco YHA | This great eco-hostel is just a two-minute walk from the town centre. They have great hostel amenities and offer double rooms, family rooms and dorm rooms. Check the latest prices  here .

Read next: Best Sunset Spots on the Great Ocean Road

Distance from Apollo Bay:  17km or 15 minute drive

A self-guided rainforest walk at Maits Rest is often high on any list of things to do on the Great Ocean Road. At first I had low expectations for the short 800m boardwalk through the dense rainforest, however, I was incredibly surprised. The beautiful rainforest in this part of the Otways includes lush ferns and giant trees that are up to 300 years old.  

The trail is a gentle 800m walk with plenty of parking at the car park, just 15 minutes outside of Apollo Bay.

Beech Forest

Distance from Apollo Bay:  38km or 50 minute drive

You could easily spend your entire time on the Great Ocean Road chasing waterfalls. Inland from the coast and in the heart of the Otway National Park, you can find numerous waterfalls to visit. The most popular and picturesque ones can be found around Beech Forest, which is a decent detour off the Great Ocean Road, 19km from Lavers Hill.

If you’re heading to the waterfalls from Apollo Bay, you’ll likely head back to Skenes Creek and along the skinny yet spectacular drive of C159 Turtons Track. In parts it’s only wide enough for a single car, but the towering forest is incredible.

Things to Do Near Beech Forest

Triplet Falls  | A 2km loop trail takes you through the Otways to various viewpoints of the stunning three cascades of Triplet Falls. It’s one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the region and the car park is accessed via Phillips Track. 

Hopetoun Falls  | A plummeting waterfall in a serene forest setting, Hopetoun is often considered people’s favourite falls in the Otways. It’s located off Binns Road, not far from the Redwood Forest and requires a 20-minute return walk to get to the bottom viewing area.

Redwood Forest  | This beautiful spot was once a hidden gem in the Otways but has since become a popular place to visit. It’s conveniently a few minutes down the road from Hopetoun Falls. You can wander through the tall trees, which make you feel like you’re on the set of a fairytale.

Beauchamp Falls  | A pretty 20m high waterfall in the Otways, Beauchamp is in the middle of surrounding mountain ash forest. You can access a viewing platform for the falls via a 2.6km return path from the car park that is located off Binns Road.

Otway Fly Treetop Adventures | This is a popular place to visit for families, which includes an awesome 2km treetop walk and zip line tour. It’s conveniently down Phillips Track on the way to Triplet Falls.

Read more: Best Waterfalls on the Great Ocean Road

Distance from Apollo Bay:  33km or 35 minute drive

The Cape Otway Light Station is considered the oldest working lighthouse in Victoria. It has guided ships along the Southern Ocean coastline since 1848 and is open to visitors. You can explore the lighthouse precinct from 10am until 5pm with an entry ticket. There’s also a café on-site and souvenir shop. For a completely unique experience, you can stay at the lighthouse with accommodation available at the lightkeeper’s cottage and lodge. 

Cape Otway is also on the  Great Ocean Walk  trail. If you don’t plan on doing the full 104km thru-hike, you can opt for day hikes with popular options including the section from Cape Otway to Blanket Bay.

Johanna Beach

Distance from Apollo Bay:  44km or 45 minute drive

An underrated spot on the Great Ocean Road is Johanna Beach. This  surf beach  is popular with experienced surfers who come for its powerful swells that can be even better than Bells at certain times. It’s also on the Great Ocean Walk trail and is the best campsite of the whole 104km walk. 

Although there’s not actually a whole lot of appeal if you’re not a surfer or walker, the  public campground  at the beach is still a great spot to spend the night. It offers a great place to enjoy a more secluded section of the coast, although you’ll always find other campers there. You can find the beach via Red Johanna Road off the Great Ocean Road. There are also some great accommodation options around Johanna Beach for those looking for a relaxing and comfortable stay.

Where to stay near Johanna Beach

Johanna River Farm and Cottages | Just a five-minute drive from Johanna Beach, this working farm has a couple of self-catering cottages suitable for couples and families. Check the latest prices  here .

Glen Tara Cottage | For ultimate luxury, this stunning, two-bedroom cottage overlooks the surrounding valley and is just a short walk from the beach. Check the latest prices  here .

Port Campbell

Distance from Apollo Bay:  97km or 80 minute drive

Port Campbell National Park  is the world-famous section of the Great Ocean Road that includes the wind and wave-sculpted rock formations of the Twelve Apostles. The national park stretches from Princetown to Peterborough for 33km of the Great Ocean Road and has numerous stops and lookouts along the way. The small coastal town of Port Campbell is the central base for exploring this part of the road and is also a delightful town to stay in for the night. 

Port Campbell has a calm beach in town and a small strip of shops with plenty of nice cafes and a general store. There’s also a  Port Campbell Discovery Walk  which starts in town and heads up to a beautiful lookout and beyond for 4.5km return. 

Where to Stay in Port Campbell

Port Campbell Recreation Reserve | This campground is a great budget option for those with camping setups or campervans. They have a number of powered and unpowered sites with good communal cooking and bathroom facilities available. Check their website  here .

Sea Foam Villas | For a bit more comfort and luxury, these villas are located right in town looking over Port Campbell beach. They have a range of options from standard villas up to three-bedroom apartments. Check the latest prices  here .

Things to Do in Port Campbell National Park

Gibson Steps and Gibson Beach  | Gibson Steps is a popular scenic lookout above Gibson Beach which has beautiful views across the dramatic cliffs towards the Twelve Apostles. From the car park, you can also head down to the beach for a different perspective.

Twelve Apostles  | The most famous sight on the Great Ocean Road and often the poster child for Victoria’s tourism industry, the 12 Apostles are limestone stacks that are stranded off the coast. There aren’t 12, but it’s still worth a stop to take a walk along the boardwalk to various viewpoints. There is a huge visitor centre and car park there to cater to all the visitors. It’s busy most of the year, so sunrise or sunset is ideal if you want to avoid the day trip crowds and the colours of the sky make this the best time to view the sea stacks.

Loch Ard Gorge  | This has emerged as the second most popular stop after the 12 Apostles. This incredibly beautiful gorge of crumbling cliffs has become an Insta-famous photo stop. You can simply view the gorge and small sandy beach from above or head down to the beach itself. Don’t make the mistake of just heading straight for the main gorge though, with a few other viewpoints accessible via short boardwalks from the car park. 

The Arch  | Just west of Port Campbell town, this natural rock arch has impressive waves crashing below and is worth a quick stop.

London Bridge  | Just down the road, you’ll find the London Bridge. This is a limestone archway that was once connected to the mainland, but has been stranded out to sea due to erosion. The large, boarded viewpoint area has beautiful views of the coastline in both directions.

The Grotto  | A unique sinkhole and hollowed-out cave which has created a window out to sea. It’s just a short walk down some stairs to see the view through the cave. Do not cross the barrier and try to enter the rockpools (this can be dangerous and yes, I saw a couple doing this!). 

Bay of Martyrs  | If you’re willing to keep driving a bit further than most people, then you’ll come to the Bay of Martyrs inside the Bay of Islands Coastal Park near Peterborough. From the footpath that traces the bay, you can get incredible views across the group of stacked rocks out to sea. It’s particularly beautiful at sunset.

Childers Cove | One of my favourite hidden gems on the Great Ocean Road, further on from Bay of Islands is Murnane Bay and Childers Cove. These stunning coves offer a relaxing beach to enjoy without the crowds. It’s very similar to Loch Ard Gorge but with far less people.

Where to Next?

If you make it to Peterborough or even the official end of the Great Ocean Road in Allansford, where do you go next? 

CONTINUE ALONG THE COAST | If you keep heading through Warrnambool, you’ll find plenty more beautiful beaches and seaside towns. Port Fairy, west of Warrnambool, is a beautiful town where you can spend a few days away from the crowds of Lorne and Apollo Bay. Check out my weekend guide to Port Fairy here .

HEAD INLAND | If you have plenty of time and are keen to keep road tripping through Victoria, then another option is to head north to the  Grampians . From Allansford at the western end of the Great Ocean Road, you’re only 105km or 75 minutes away from Dunkeld, the main town at the southern end of the Grampians National Park.  Read my guide to the Grampians   here .

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22 comments.

[…] A Guide to the Ultimate Road Trip on the Great Ocean Road […]

[…] in one of the state’s most visited areas. The trail takes you past some of the highlights of the Great Ocean Road, and through some of the more remote parts of the Otway National […]

[…] somewhere amongst nature to enjoy a night under the stars. The famous scenic drive known as the Great Ocean Road offers plenty of places to stop and spend the night either next to the ocean or in the dense Great […]

[…] didn’t make it to South Australia until the start of May, as I enjoyed the coastal life along the Great Ocean Road for far longer than expected. I then spent all of May and half of June in the Flinders Ranges […]

[…] However, Mt Gambier is also known for its own unique attractions, including sinkholes, caves and crater lakes. The town is right at the centre of an ancient volcanic landscape with plenty of things to see and do that you won’t find anywhere else in Australia. It’s the perfect place to spend a few days on your journey between Melbourne and Adelaide, which is exactly why I stopped here after exploring the Great Ocean Road. […]

[…] the best beaches in Victoria, including the iconic Bells Beach. It also marks the beginning of the Great Ocean Road, making it a popular destination for surfers, tourists and all round beach […]

[…] farming towns in the Wimmera Mallee region and these painted silos have done the trick. While the Great Ocean Road gets the crowds, the Silo Art Trail is the perfect excuse for a road trip into Victoria’s much […]

[…] just beyond the Great Ocean Road drive, it’s a convenient weekend escape from the city. This guide will help you discover all […]

[…] doing five trips down the Great Ocean Road in the last two years, I’ve slowly worked my way to most of the falls and cascades around […]

[…] the sunset somewhere on the Great Ocean Road is a must for any road trip enthusiast in Victoria. The incredible coastal drive has some stunning […]

[…] Did you know? There’s also a Redwood Forest down the Great Ocean Road, find out where here. […]

[…] in a couple more trips in the Hiace between lockdowns in Victoria, including to Wilsons Prom and Great Ocean Road. In 2021, I didn’t want to get stuck home any longer, so I took the Hiace and left in March for […]

[…] From the Great Ocean Road | The Grampians are located directly north of the Great Ocean Road. The park can be reached by a two-hour drive from the Twelve Apostles lookout to Dunkeld in the Southern Grampians. It’s common to combine a road trip to the Grampians with the Great Ocean Road. Read my guide to road tripping the Great Ocean Road here. […]

[…] Ultimate Road Trip on the Great Ocean Road […]

[…] Read more: Ultimate Road Trip Guide to the Great Ocean Road […]

[…] Great Ocean Road is Australia’s most famous road trip. The 243 km stretch of road traces along the […]

[…] Read more: Ultimate Guide to a Great Ocean Road Trip […]

[…] trip is arguably one of the best coastal drives in Australia. If you take the longer route via the Great Ocean Road in Victoria and Limestone Coast in South Australia, you’ll be treated to dramatic sea cliffs, […]

A great read. We want to walk Apollo to Port Campbell in November, though we only want to carry a day bag and have our main packs taxied/ubered to our accommodation. Is this doable? We are happy to uber in and out of the start/stop point to get to our accommodation. Thank you, Alanagh

Yes, it’s definitely doable. There are a few options. There are companies that will arrange it all for you as a self-guided walk and they transport your luggage along for you to each accommodation, Walk91 does this and I’ve heard really good things about them. Another option is to have a base somewhere in the middle of the trail and then use a taxi service to take you in and out each day, Bimbi Caravan Park on Cape Otway will help you with that, or some nicer accommodations at Johanna Beach can also help with this, including Southern Anchorage Retreat who can shuttle you out each day. Hope that helps!

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Backpacking in Australia , Road Trips

12 best great ocean road stops: spectacular scenery & hidden gems.

If you’re looking for the ultimate road trip experience down the Great Ocean Road, look no further. This world-famous stretch of coastline between Melbourne and Adelaide is packed full of incredible natural scenery and attractions that are well worth the journey! We’ve put together a list of the top 12 best Great Ocean Road stops to help you plan your Australian road trip!

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Planning a road trip can be incredibly overwhelming. Having a list of the best places to stop on the Great Ocean Road is a great way to kickstart your planning and help you put together the perfect itinerary that includes the things you actually want to see and do.  

This is a guest post by Holly from Four Around The World, with edits and additions by Claire

A Great Ocean Road Tour vs Driving Yourself

This article is designed for people driving the Great Ocean Road themselves, so you have a list of where to stop off to see the best places on the Great Ocean Road.  Driving from Melbourne, you could do this in one day (with an early start) but it is a very long day, so I wouldn’t recommend it if you want to drive back to Melbourne on the same day.

As well as being a long and tiring day, you want to be able to make the most of it, and especially if you are the one driving you’ll want lots of stops on the Great Ocean Road to appreciate the beautiful scenery.  If you are short on time and only have one day, then taking a Great Ocean Road day tour from Melbourne might be the best option for you.

Tours of the Great Ocean Road will stop off at some of these places, so you won’t be able to see everything but the best part is someone else does the driving so all you have to do is look out of the window end enjoy! 

Here are some of the best Great Ocean Road Tours to choose from:

From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road Full-Day Trip (I (Claire) took this tour and LOVED it!)

From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road, 12 Apostles, Wildlife Tour

From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road Full-Day Guided Trip

Pro Tip: Sit on the left hand side of the bus for the best views of the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne!

Planning Your Great Ocean Road Trip

These Great Ocean Road stops will give you some ideas for where to stop along the way, but take your time and decide exactly what you want to see, and when you will be going.  Make sure you give yourself enough time to drive between stops safely, and include plenty of breaks for food, toilet stops and to have a rest from driving.

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If you’re wondering what to pack for a road trip then check out this road trip essentials post with a printable road trip checklist!

The 10 Best Great Ocean Road Stops

These Great Ocean Road attractions are not to be missed. Whether you are looking for the absolute must-see sights for a quick drive along the famous coastline or planning to spend a few days exploring the southern Victoria region during your Great Ocean Road itinerary , make sure these stops are on your must-see list.

We’ve listed them in order of location, assuming you’re coming from Melbourne.  If you are driving the Great Ocean Road from Adelaide, start at the bottom and work your way up!

Bells Beach – Torquay

When it comes to beautiful beaches in Victoria , Bells Beach certainly makes the list! This stunning stretch of the Australian coastline in the small coastal town of Torquay offers a stunning view of the ocean from the lookout points.

It is most well-known for its surfing significance, being host to the world-famous annual surfing competition, The Rip Curl Pro. If you love surfing, you can visit the Australian National Surfing Museum while you’re in Torquay too!

Bells Beach is also a popular spot for hang gliders. You will likely see a few of them gliding through the air from the lookout points and below from the beach too.

Split Point Lighthouse – Aireys Inlet

If you happen to be an Aussie who grew up in the 90s, you might recognise this lighthouse from the Australian children’s television show, ‘Round The Twist’, based on the Paul Jennings book series. Seeing it in person instantly had the theme song stuck in my head!

Even if you’ve never heard of it, a stop at Split Point Lighthouse is a must.

This beautiful historic lighthouse is perched atop a cliff overlooking the ocean and it is an iconic landmark of the Great Ocean Road. The lighthouse offers magnificent views out to sea, with daily self-guided tours. If you visit at the right time of year, you might even spot dolphins or whales migrating.

There are some walking tracks and lookouts beyond the lighthouse and a staircase leading down to the beach as well.

Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch

When it comes to iconic attractions on the Great Ocean Road, you can’t get much more iconic than this! Often mistaken as being the starting point of the Great Ocean Road, the memorial arch is just beyond Aireys Inlet.

This isn’t the original archway. It has been rebuilt a few times over the years, however, it was constructed in memory of Australian troops who lost their lives during the first world war.

There is a parking area just before the arch where you can pull over and get some great snaps, without halting traffic. There are also signs telling more of the history of the memorial as well.

Teddys Lookout – Lorne

Now for the best view along the Great Ocean Road, you can’t go past Teddys Lookout! This elevated viewing platform is a short drive from the centre of Lorne and you will be glad you made the time to visit.

This is certainly one of the hidden gems of the Great Ocean Road that many people don’t know about.

If you have more time to spend here, there are some walking trails and picnic tables too.

Erskine Falls – Lorne

Around 9km outside of the township of Lorne is Erskine Falls. This is one of the most beautiful waterfalls on the Great Ocean Road trip and the track to the base of the waterfall is relatively easy to do.

Yes, there are quite a few steps but you can take your time going back up and stop for a break if needed. Okay, there are 240 stairs. Trust me though, the view from the bottom is well worth it. And in the summer months, you can take a dip in the streams below.

Even if you don’t plan to walk down the stairs, there is a viewing platform just a few metres from the start of the track. This view isn’t quite as impressive but still beautiful.

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Apollo Bay is a good place to stop for lunch on a Great Ocean Road day trip or for overnight accommodation on the Great Ocean Road if you’re spending a few days on the route.  Apollo Bay Bakery serves excellent pies (the Scallop Pie is their most popular) and the ice cream from Dooley’s was delicious too.  There is a car park with toilets here if you’re just passing through. 

Maits Rest Rainforest Walk

For something completely different, Maits Rest Rainforest Walk is a trail through temperate rainforest.  The walk is only about 30 minutes, and you can see ancient Myrtle Beech trees and giant ferns and possibly spot a carnivorous Otway Black Snail.  Watch where you’re walking so you don’t accidentally stand on one!

Maits Rest is just over 15 minutes drive after Apollo Bay, and definitely worth a stop on the Great Ocean Road as it is so different from all of the other places to visit. 

Gibson Steps – Port Campbell National Park

Easily one of the most beautiful spots on the Great Ocean Road, the Gibson Steps are located in the Port Campbell National Park and it’s a great place to watch the waves crashing over Gibsons Steps Beach.

The steps lead down to 2 of the most stunning rock formations, often mistaken for being part of the Twelve Apostles. They actually aren’t, but unlike the Apostles, you can actually get right up close to these impressive rock structures, tides and weather permitting.

The mammoth cliffs that surround the area will remind you of just how impressive Mother Nature is too! This is truly a beautiful spot.

And if you’re feeling energetic (after walking down another set of stairs), there is a walking track that will lead all the way to the Twelve Apostles car park. The track is approximately 1km long.  Or jump back in the car for a minute until your next stop.

The Twelve Apostles – Port Campbell National Park

While there are no longer 12 formations remaining of the original Twelve Apostles, there is no possible way you can do the Great Ocean Road without making this famous stop! These natural limestone formations have been sculpted over millions of years by the ocean.

This is one of the most photographed sites along the Great Ocean Road and often the most crowded too if you are visiting in the peak season of summer school holidays, but still worth it as it is certainly one of the best Ocean Road stops.

There is no beach access here as the Southern Ocean has already worn away so much of the landscape so to preserve what remains you can only view from the platforms.  There is also a helicopter company offering 15-minute rides over the Twelve Apostles if you want a bird’s eye view.

Loch Ard Gorge

Another favourite Great Ocean Road stop is Loch Ard Gorge. These dramatic cliffs have been crafted by the Southern Ocean and it is quite an amazing site. You can take the stairs down to the beach area within the gorge.

The turquoise water is a stunning contrast to the golden sand and rocky gorge.

Loch Ard Gorge beach is a beautiful spot to enjoy a family picnic, and a play in the sand if you have kids. Although depending on the time of day, there is not a lot of shade and the sun can be brutal in summer, so make sure you bring your sunscreen and maybe even a shelter!

Many people do swim here, although take care as that current is very strong!

There are also a few walks in the area, including the Shipwreck Walk, a memorial to the ill-fated namesake, the Loch Ard Shipwreck , which left only 2 survivors who managed to swim to the safety of the beach within Loch Ard Gorge. The walk has some lovely views and is well worth the time.

London Bridge – Port Campbell National Park

The London Bridge, also referred to as the London Arch these days, once connected to the mainland like a giant rock bridge. Visitors to Port Campbell National Park were able to walk out onto the platform for a closer view of the surrounding ocean.

Back in 1990, the section connecting to the mainland collapsed into the ocean, leaving two people stranded at the end. Thankfully unharmed, the pair were rescued. No longer did the London Bridge resemble a bridge!

Regardless, this is still an essential stop on your Great Ocean Road itinerary! The landscape is beautiful from the viewing platform and if you visit at the right time of day, you might even spot Little Penguins on the beach below as they come back to their burrows.

The Grotto – Port Campbell National Park

The final must-visit Great Ocean Road stop for your road trip is The Grotto. This unique rock formation is essentially a shallow cave with an opening at the top, with a window to the sea.

The Grotto is fenced off by a barrier for safety these days but you can still get some epic photos through the ‘window’. Especially if you visit later in the day and the sun is setting.

To get down to the Grotto, there are once again a few stairs, but it’s an easy climb!

Keep an eye out for echidnas on the walking track to the Grotto stairs. They love the scrub area alongside the pathways and you might be lucky enough to spot one on the hunt for some ants to eat!

Great Ocean Road FAQ

Where does the great ocean road start and finish.

The Great Ocean Road starts in Torquay and ends at Allansford, near the western Victorian town of Warrnambool.

The entire route covers about 243 kilometres (151 miles) taking you along some of the most beautiful coastline in Victoria, Australia.

How Long Do I Need For The Great Ocean Road?

While you can do the Great Ocean Road drive in a single day, we recommend you spend at least 3 days exploring one of the most beautiful places in Victoria . This gives you time to really enjoy the sights, beyond a quick photo opportunity.

If you are planning to visit the Cape Otway National Park, there are some incredible attractions and lots of native wildlife spotting opportunities in this area. You will need at least an extra day or two, depending on how thoroughly you want to explore this ancient rainforest area.

This is one of the best places to visit on the Great Ocean Road if you want beautiful walking trails and waterfalls galore.

Where Are The Best Places To Stay On The Great Ocean Road?

There are many great stops on the Great Ocean Road if you're looking for somewhere to stay overnight. We recommend planning your accommodation around the places you wish to visit so that you can ensure you have enough time to see and do everything you want in the area before moving on.

Some great overnight stops include Torquay, Anglesea, Apollo Bay, Lorne, Wye River, Port Campbell and Warrnambool.

The Great Ocean Road is full of natural beauty, history, and ocean views. Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for an epic road trip to cross off your bucket list, this iconic Australian route will leave you with unforgettable memories. Pack your bags, hit the road, and explore the best stops on the Great Ocean Road!

About the Author

Holly is a family travel blogger from Four Around The World. Together with her husband and two kids, they explore the world one adventure at a time, sharing their experiences and tips for travelling with kids. Follow their journey on Instagram , Facebook and YouTube .

Hi! I'm Claire Sturzaker, a 30-something foodie traveller who loves to enjoy the best of a destination without breaking the bank. I'm here to help you and all women backpackers to plan their best budget travel adventure. I am an avid supporter of female solo travel, and took my first solo trip 20 years ago! I love to write about travel, hostels, backpacking and van life.

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Ultimate Great Ocean Road Itinerary & Interactive Map 2024

Looking for the best Great Ocean Road Itinerary?

You’ve come to the right article as I’m going to give you a Great Ocean Road itinerary like no other.

Driving along the Great Ocean Road is a once-in-a-lifetime experience , and it would be a shame to visit this part of the world without seeing all of the incredible stops.

That being said, it can be hard to find an itinerary which visits all of the best sights, while still being a viable itinerary that actually makes sense.

Lucky for you, that’s what I’ve created. I had this problem myself and I had to create my own itinerary to drive the Great Ocean Road, and I decided to share it here on my blog.

So without further ado, let’s get into the itinerary.

How long does it take to do the Great Ocean Road?

Before I get into the Great Ocean Road itinerary, it’s important that you know how long to allow for the drive.

The actual distance of the Great Ocean Road is approximately 664km (413 miles) and would take around 9 and a half hours to drive it in one go.

But it would be a waste to drive it all in one go.

The whole point of driving the Great Ocean Road is not only the drive itself but all of the stops along the way.

Most people choose to split it into 3 days with 3 hours of actual driving each day, allowing for plenty of time to stop and admire the incredible natural beauty of the most famous route in Australia.

Of course, you can do it quicker, but I personally feel like you would miss some amazing stops. Or, you may choose to go even slower and spend more days on the road. If you do, good for you! You’ll have an extraordinary time.

But to answer the question of “ how long? “, I would say to allow 3 days for the best Great Ocean Road itinerary.

Great Ocean Road Stops

I have a complete Great Ocean Road itinerary coming in just a second, but if you would like a checklist of all of the main sites that you need to see, here they are. These are what I consider the “must-sees” along the Great Ocean Road. In order from Melbourne:

• Bells Beach
• Aireys Inlet
• Split Point Lighthouse
• Great Otway National Park
• Maits Rest Rainforest Walk
• Otway Fly Treetop Adventures
• The Twelve Apostles
• Loch Ard Gorge
• London Bridge
• Bay of Islands
• Bay of Martyrs
• Warrnambool

To make life easier for you, I have created a Google Map route that has all of the stops added to it. You can simply go onto the map and get directions to each of the stops. But to be honest, it’s not a hard route to follow, it’s pretty easy. Nonetheless, here’s my map.

Great Ocean Road Itinerary

If you want to just check places off as you go along, the above checklist is designed exactly for that. But, if you’d prefer an itinerary which takes you from place to place, I’ve outlined a rough one below.

But as I always say with my itineraries, I don’t actually recommend following it to a tee. Everyone travels differently and everyone likes different things. So take it as a base, but customise it to suit you and what you want out of the Great Ocean Road.

Or if you’d like to have all of the hard work done for you, consider taking a Great Ocean Road tour instead.

Day 1: Melbourne to Apollo Bay

Start in melbourne.

Most people choose to start their Great Ocean Road itinerary in Melbourne. Backpacking Melbourne is incredibly popular and means that travelling along the Great Ocean Road on a budget is really easy.

Melbourne makes for the perfect place to start as there are plenty of places to rent a car and it’s not too far out from the first stop.

Geelong (1 hour)

Many people skip over this stop and head straight to Torquay, but I find Geelong amazing and it makes for an amazing first stop along the Great Ocean Road. It takes about an hour to reach Geelong from Melbourne and the drive is pretty straightforward along a motorway.

Geelong is a city with a lot of history and a big sporting culture, being home to one of the oldest AFL teams, the Geelong Cats .

It’s a great starting stop to get a good look at the coastline too, as you can see some true natural beauty. Australia is famous for its coastlines, and the view won’t disappoint.

Torquay (25 mins)

Next up after Geelong is the more conventional first stop along the Great Ocean Road. It’s not too far, only 20-25 minutes down the road.

And the drive is a nice one too, and you can enjoy scenic views along the way as you transition from urban areas to coastal landscapes.

There are almost 12,000 beaches in Australia and one of the best is found in Torquay. Torquay’s Front Beach is also perfect for a swim or surf lesson.

Torquay is also home to world-renowned surf shops and outlets, like Rip Curl and Quiksilver. You can take some time to explore Surf World, a museum dedicated to the history of surfing , showcasing vintage surfboards and memorabilia.

Torquay is a great place to immerse yourself in Australia’s surf culture. After all, it’s such an important thing to the country.

Bells Beach (20 mins)

Bells Beach is a quick 20-minute drive from Torquay. The road is well-maintained, as most of the roads along the route are. Once again, you’ll have glimpses of the coastline as you approach.

This iconic surf break is a pilgrimage site for surfers worldwide. The towering cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop, and if you’re lucky, you might witness surfers riding the famous Bells Beach waves.

The Bells Beach Surfing Reserve is an internationally recognised site and a key location for annual surfing competitions.

Simply sitting and watching people surfing is actually pretty therapeutic – but it’s also a great place to learn to surf, fresh off your surfing knowledge from Torquay.

Aireys Inlet & Split Point Lighthouse (15 mins)

This is one of the most stop-dense parts of the Great Ocean Road as Aireys Inlet is just 15 minutes away from Bells Beach. As always, the drive offers coastal views and a relaxed atmosphere.

Aireys Inlet is known for its stunning Split Point Lighthouse , one of many lighthouses along this coastline. You can take a guided tour to learn about its history and like any good lighthouse, take in panoramic coastal views from the top.

The nearby Painkalac Creek is also a nice spot to kill some time, as it offers a serene nature walk. Or, Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary is a snorkeler’s paradise , with vibrant marine life. But make sure the conditions are suitable, as it can sometimes be dangerous .

Anglesea (10 mins)

The quick stops continue and the short 10-minute drive to Anglesea continues to provide coastal views along the way.

Anglesea is a charming coastal town known for its relaxing atmosphere . Anglesea Heath is a nature lover’s paradise, with walking trails and birdwatching opportunities, which is the epitome of relaxation.

Other popular spots are the Anglesea Golf Club which is famous for its challenging course and breathtaking views of the coastline and the Anglesea River which is ideal for kayaking and fishing.

Anglesea is the perfect place to relax, and if you want to extend your Great Ocean Road itinerary to longer than 3 days, I would recommend spending the extra night here.

Great Otway National Park (45 mins)

As you venture into the national park, you should expect winding roads and lush forest scenery , but the drive from Anglesea to the park’s entrance takes approximately 45 minutes.

Great Otway National Park is home to a huge range of diverse flora and fauna and an abundance of routes and trails.

The Maits Rest Rainforest Walk is a short, accessible trail that takes you through ancient rainforests (I actually recommend doing the Maits Rest Rainforest Walk on day two), but you can also explore longer hikes, like the Great Ocean Walk . Some people extend this to be a multi-day hike.

It’s a great idea if you want to get a really in-depth feel of this part of Australia.

Make sure to keep an eye out for wildlife like koalas, kangaroos, and wallabies. It’s the perfect place for seeing the typical Australian animals.

Apollo Bay (20-30 minutes)

The final leg for your first day along the Great Ocean Road is to Apollo Bay which is around 20 to 30 minutes. Once again, you’ll catch glimpses of the ocean and stunning countryside as you approach the quaint seaside town.

As the name suggests, Appolo Bay has an extraordinary bay as the heart of the town. Apollo Bay’s stunning beachfront is perfect for swimming and is incredibly picturesque

The town itself offers a range of dining options, from seafood to cafes. You can also head to the Apollo Bay Harbor to watch local fishermen at work or embark on a fishing adventure yourself.

There’s also a huge selection of places to stay in Apollo Bay. I personally recommend the Beachcomber Motel & Apartments which offers amazing stays for an affordable price. I can’t recommend it enough! You also have a beautiful view of the beach.

📍 Accommodation- When staying in Apollo Bay, I recommend Beachcomber Motel & Apartments . It is the place to be in Apollo Bay, with a stunning view of the sea and really great rooms for reasonable prices. Book now!

Day 2: Apollo Bay to Port Campbell

Your second day begins in Apollo Bay, of course, where you spent your first night. I recommend setting off early in the morning , on this day especially as day two is when you get to see the Twelve Apostles. And those extra few hours lying on your phone in bed, trust me, you’ll regret them if you run out of time at the end of the day.

Cape Otway (30 mins)

The drive from Apollo Bay to Cape Otway takes about 30 to 35 minutes. The road is winding, with dense forest on both sides, it’s like something out of a movie.

When you reach Cape Otway, the views are incredible and there is a fair bit to see and do too. Cape Otway Lighthouse is a must-visit. It’s the oldest lighthouse in Australia and offers guided tours. You can’t complete the Great Ocean Road without stopping here.

The Telegraph Station and Radar Bunker in particular are fascinating, as they provide insight into the lighthouse’s role during wartime.

Maits Rest Rainforest Walk (15 mins)

The drive from Cape Otway is pretty quick only taking 15 minutes or so. The contrast from the dramatic coastline to the stunning rainforest is so unique and it’s incredible to see the sudden transition .

Maits Rest Rainforest Walk takes you through ancient Myrtle Beech trees draped in moss. As I’ve said about so many things along the way, it’s like something from a movie. The whole 3-day trip is.

It’s a really peaceful experience and you can spot native birds while enjoying the tranquil sounds of nature.

Otway Fly Treetop Adventures (45 mins)

Otway Fly is a bit of a longer drive from Maits Rest Rainforest Walk. It takes about 45 minutes but it’s a beautiful trip through Great Otway National Park . Stunning roads to say the least.

Otway Fly is like the rainforest walk but a bit more extreme . As the name suggests, Otway Fly Treetop Adventures offers thrilling treetop adventures. It’s essentially a walkway high up in the rainforest canopy. It’s pretty unique and very exciting.

And there’s an opportunity to add even more excitement with zip lines also going through the forest canopy. It makes for a really fun hour or two.

Twelve Apostles (55 mins)

Next up is the main attraction , the Twelve Apostles. For many people, the reason they want to do the Great Ocean Road.

The drive from the Treetop Adventures to the Twelve Apostles takes approximately 55 minutes to 1 hour. Along the way, you’ll catch views of the ocean, and as you approach the Twelve Apostles, the coastline becomes more dramatic, as you would expect.

These limestone stacks are one of Australia’s most iconic natural attractions and seeing them in real life is a true pinch-yourself moment . Visiting the Twelve Apostles had been on my bucket list for years so it was really special for me to see them.

So much so that I decided to take a helicopter tour . It was indescribable. One of the best experiences I have ever had, and even though it’s expensive, I would recommend it to anyone. Millions of people have seen the Twelve Apostles, but how many have flown over them?

But if you don’t opt for a helicopter tour, there are still some amazing places where you can get a great view over the Apostles . The most popular is the Twelve Apostle Lookout.

Another great place is the Gibson Steps which offers a view of the Apostles from sea level, it’s one of the only places you can see them from sea level, but this brings popularity and it’s usually quite busy. But worth it.

Heads up, there are only actually nine “apostles” left, despite the name. So don’t try counting and finding the missing 3 haha!

Loch Ard Gorge (5-10 mins)

After taking in the highlight of the Great Ocean Road (I recommend spending an hour or two but some people spend much less time), take the short 5-10 minute drive from the Twelve Apostles to Loch Ard Gorge.

Loch Ard Gorge is known for its towering cliffs and sandy beach. It’s a postcard-worthy view. I would consider it one of the most famous spots along the route.

The story of the shipwrecked vessel “ Loch Ard ” is a significant part of Australian maritime history and is detailed on informative plaques at the loch.

London Bridge (15 mins)

And speaking of famous spots, London Bridge is another. Not to be confused with the London Bridge, of course, but funnily enough, this one has also fallen down 😂.

Just 10-15 minutes from Loch Ard Gorge, the drive to London Bridge is quick, easy and picturesque.

The arch is officially known as London Arch, but most people still refer to the archway as London Bridge, its name prior to 1990 when it collapsed .

You used to be able to walk over the natural bridge, but now you simply have to admire it. But it’s still worthwhile seeing, it’s beautiful and having such recent history makes it all the more interesting.

It’s a great spot for photography , and you can learn about its geological history through some signs they have, detailing how it’s changed over the centuries.

Port Campbell (10 mins)

The last stop of the day is to Port Campbell which is the town closest to the Twelve Apostles and the other sights along this part of the Australian coast. And it also marks the spot where you are spending your second and last night on this Great Ocean Road itinerary.

It’s a great place to spend the night and you should definitely take advantage of the local dining scene. It’s amazing! You can enjoy fresh seafood at affordable prices . Afterwards, I recommend taking a stroll along the beach to relax and soak in the coastal atmosphere.

In terms of places to stay, my personal recommendation is the Loch Ard Motor Inn . It’s right in the heart of the town and has amazing views of the south coast. There are also some really nice viewpoints just a short walk away. And like all of my recommendations, it’s reasonably priced.

📍 Accommodation- When staying in Port Campbell, I recommend the Loch Ard Motor Inn . The rooms are incredible value for money, and there’s nothing better than waking up with a view of the ocean. Book now!

Day 3: Port Campbell to Warrnambool

The third and final day of this Great Ocean Road itinerary begins in Port Campbell. This is the day with the least stops, but with the most driving as the final part of the Great Ocean Road is to drive back to Melbourne.

The Grotto (15 mins)

The Grotto is around a 10-15 minute drive from Port Campbell.

The Grotto is yet another unique geological formation- the whole of the southern coastline is like no other, it’s marvellous. I would describe the spot as a “photographer’s dream”, but to be honest, pretty much every stop is!

It’s essentially like the London Arch but on land, and it’s like a doorway into the cove which lies behind. It’s beautiful.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Viviana Hernández (@vivianahl)

Bay of Islands (20 mins)

The drive from The Grotto to Bay of Islands is roughly 20 minutes or so. By this point, you’ll either be fascinated by the landscapes and unique rock shapes, or fed up with seeing similar landscapes and unique rock shapes.

If you’re the latter, don’t worry, it’s very common and many people choose to skip this stop for that exact reason.

But if you do choose to head to the Bay of Islands, you also won’t regret it.

This stretch of coastline offers some of the most photogenic landscapes along the Great Ocean Road. It’s like a miniature version of the Twelve Apostles, it’s pretty cool.

What I’d suggest doing is Googling all of these locations and planning your own itinerary. As I said at the start, some things will interest you, some won’t. Pick and choose the ones you want to see in real life based on images.

Bay of Martyrs (10 mins)

From one bay to another, the Bay of Martyrs offers a very similar experience to the Bay of Islands. To be honest, I’d choose between one or the other , if you visit both you’ll probably find whichever you visit second a bit lacklustre because you’ve already seen the same thing pretty much.

It’s just down the road, 5-10 minutes at most, so you’re more or less having the same view. Both are great, but there’s no need to visit both.

Bay Of Martyrs is slightly less popular so with fewer crowds than some of the more famous stops, it’s a bit more relaxing. Which is welcome after a jam-packed three days.

Warrnambool (30 mins)

My penultimate stop on this itinerary is at Warrnambool, which is a good 45-50 minutes worth of driving from either of the two bays.

Warrnambool is one of the most underrated cities in Australia in my opinion. I just really like the vibe there, not sure how else to explain it but I think it’s a really nice way to begin to end such a wonderful route.

One of the best things to do is to head to Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, an immersive open-air museum-like experience that transports you to the 19th century in Australia. It includes a maritime museum, recreated historic buildings, and a nightly sound and light show that brings history to life.

Speaking of night, Warrnambool is also a really good place for stargazing. I found the skies to be very clear.

Most Great Ocean Road Itineraries will end at Warrnambool, I recommend taking the extra step to Port Fairy, but if you want to stop here, it’s a good place to spend a night too if you want to relax before heading back to Melbourne.

Port Fairy (20 mins)

Port Fairy is just 20-25 minutes further on from Warrnambool and I think it’s worth the extra journey.

It’s just your typical quaint seaside town , but I think it’s the best way to end because it sums up the entire route perfectly.

By the sea, with gorgeous views of odd rock formations, in a quirky little town with coloured houses, a nice atmosphere, and surrounded by good places to eat. And of course, there’s a lighthouse too.

After spending some time in Port Fairy, it’s time to head back to Melbourne, which is actually only 3.5 hours of driving along the motorway. The Great Ocean Road is a prime example of “taking the scenic route” rather than the most direct!

But it’s so worth it. The drive back to Melbourne usually has a mixture of emotions . I remember being relieved to be finished because the days were pretty full-on and I wanted to relax, happy because I’d had a great time and ticked off bucket list experiences, but sad because it was over.

I suppose that’s just travelling in a nutshell.

Things to Do along the Great Ocean Road

And of course, there are so, so many things to do along the Great Ocean Road. It’s a place filled with endless adventure! It would be impossible to list all of the best things to do as part of your Great Ocean Road itinerary, but I’ve condensed it down into must-dos.

There are some very specific things which I consider must-dos like walking through the rainforest canopy at Otway Fly Treetop Adventures or walking down the Gibson Steps to see the Twelve Apostles. But it would be impossible to list every single thing to do. So these are more general ideas for what to expect along the way.

1. Visit the Twelve Apostles

Okay, I know I said I wouldn’t include specific things, but it would be impossible to include things to do along the Great Ocean Road without mentioning the Twelve Apostles. They’re the main attraction and a big reason people choose to take on the 3-day trip.

As I said in the itinerary, it’s unreal seeing them for yourself. It’s a proper case of “ pictures don’t do it justice “. And I used to think the pictures looked amazing- so imagine how spectacular it really is! All in all, you can’t mention the “Great Ocean Road” without thinking about the Twelve Apostles.

2. Go surfing

There are endless opportunities to go surfing along the Great Ocean Road. Being along the coastline and being in Australia, the two go hand in hand and pretty much every beach will have the opportunity for you to surf .

Surfing in this part of the world is amazing – there’s nowhere better than in Australia – and it’s a great way to get active which is welcomed after long journeys in a car. Aside from all of that, surfing’s just super fun and deserves a spot on your plans.

3. Head up into the sky

As I said earlier, taking a helicopter tour over the Twelve Apostles is amazing. It’s such a unique perspective getting a birds-eye view over the rock formation, and so few people. get to experience it.

But if that’s not for you, you might prefer taking a hot air balloon ride from Melbourne at the beginning or end of your route. There are also lots of other great helicopter and hot air balloon tours along the route, and I would encourage everyone to do at least one of them.

4. Go snorkelling

It would be a sin to visit this part of Australia without going snorkelling at least once. Or like me, at every possible opportunity.

The coral reefs, the fish, the other marine life, the water temperature, it all comes together to create the perfect snorkelling opportunity. Just be careful as the conditions can be pretty dangerous sometimes, but if there are other people out there snorkelling…go for it!

5. Look out for wildlife

And a final thing you need to do the whole way throughout your Great Ocean Road itinerary is to look out for wildlife.

Australia has so many special animals, and nothing compares to spotting one in the wild . Kangaroos are the easiest and you’ll likely see lots, but if you spot a koala or maybe even a platypus (very rare to spot), then you’ll have a memory to last a lifetime.

Keep your eyes peeled at all times, you never know what you’ll see!

Josh’s Great Ocean Road Top Tips

Of course, when taking any route anywhere in the world, there are some things which are useful to know in advance. After spending 3 days completing the Great Ocean Road, here are my 5 top tips to help your experience go that little bit more smoothly and make your experience that little bit more enjoyable.

• Download maps: Before setting off, download this part of Australia on Google Maps . It will come in useful when your mobile signal isn’t as great and will save you from having to try and navigate for yourself.
• Be aware of your fuel: Although this route doesn’t quite go as remote as the Outback, there are some occasions where you’re pretty far from a gas station. If your tank is half empty and you pass a station, you may as well fill up.
• Book accommodation in advance: I’m a big fan of spontaneity but it’s not really possible along the Great Ocean Road. The best accommodation in terms of value for money books up well ahead of time. Plan where you’re going to stop and book your stays.
• Don’t drive too fast: Not just for your safety, but to take in the views. You don’t want to rush through the drives without admiring the breathtaking surroundings you have along the way. Drive slower and appreciate where you are.
• Start early and finish early: The best way to go about your days, in my opinion, is to start early in the morning to beat the crowds at the 12 Apostles, for example, and stop early in the day so you can enjoy your evening and see some amazing sunsets.

Bonus tip: If you hadn’t already figured by the time you left the car rental company, they drive on the left in Australia, like the UK and Ireland. To clarify, do NOT try and drive on the right, unless you want a head-on-head collision.

Great Ocean Road Itinerary: FAQ

Below are some questions related to my Great Ocean Road itinerary along with my answers.

Yes, it is possible to do the Great Ocean Road in 2 days but it will feel rushed. Most people allow 3 days to complete the route.

Yes, the Great Ocean Road is safe both in terms of driving conditions and personal safety. It’s a very common route so there are thousands of people in the same position as you and you are never alone.

Most people spend an hour or two admiring the Apostles from different viewpoints. Of course, if you plan to complete a hike, then allow more time at the landmark.

Most people start the Great Ocean Road in Melbourne with the most common first stop being Geelong or Torquay.

Yes, the Great Ocean Road is absolutely worth doing. It’s the best way to see this phenomenally beautiful part of Australia. It’s guaranteed to give you priceless memories.

No, it doesn’t matter which way you drive the Great Ocean Road, but most people choose to go from West to East.

Great Ocean Road Itinerary: Conclusion

And there you have it, a complete and in-depth Great Ocean Road Itinerary .

There are so many great stops and amazing things to do along the Great Ocean Road.

It’s genuinely a once-in-a-lifetime experience and will leave you with memories to last a lifetime .

Enjoy your trip to Melbourne, and most importantly, enjoy your time making your way through my Great Ocean Road Itinerary. 🙂

Josh Band is the founder of A Backpacker's World. He is a full-time traveller currently on a mission to visit every country in the world. As a full-time traveller, Josh knows exactly how to make the most of any trip and shares these tips with his readers. Josh mostly travels as a backpacker on a budget, so he is also an expert when it comes to getting the most of your money while travelling.

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8 Pizzas of the Great Ocean Road region

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Did you know that when asked what it would be if you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life, most people say ‘pizza’*.  And only 2% of people don’t like pizza*.  

If you’re in the 98%, you’ll love our recommendations for the best pizzas in the Great Ocean Road Region.  

1. The Captain of Aireys

Wood-fired, hand-stretched, family-run business – this Aireys Inlet favourite serves up traditional flavours with locally sourced ingredients giving the pizza’s a delicious regional twist.  We love the Pepe – a traditional pepperoni with hot chilli honey, or for the vego’s the Sweet Tate, with its sprinkling of Meredith Goats cheese and walnuts. A delight to dine in, with a some of the best local wines on the list, or takeaway and grab a tub of Timboon Ice-cream or a six-pack Salt Brewing co. (made a few hundred metres up the road) to make it a meal.  

2. REAL Pizza, Pasta, Salads 

If you wan’t to know where your food comes from, a visit to REAL in Port Campbell will give you a taste of lovingly selected ingredients, transformed into stand-out meals . Working closely with a range of regional suppliers and The Place of Wonder garden, at REAL you’ll be dining on seasonal, fresh, minimally-packaged and low-food-mile ingredients – which are no doubt, the tastiest. This is where to eat if you care about your impact on the environment.  

3. Apollo Bay Distillery

Delicious wood-fired pizza at a gin-distillery?  Is this a match made in heaven?  Possibly … Catch the vibes at this modern venue, located right on the Great Ocean Road. Sip away at their gins while soaking it up with a slice or two of the seasonally changing pizzas.  If you don’t want to dine out, you can order on line and pick up your pizza in the nifty drive-thru out the back.  

4. Apollo Bay Hotel

The Apollo Bay Hotel is a ‘vibey’ venue, where you can dine in the public bar, the bistro, the popular back beer garden, or the deck overlooking the Apollo Bay foreshore.  Seven pizza toppings to choose from means everyone will be satisfied.  Book a spot online, or order on the website for take-away.  

5. The Cally 

A crowd pleaser for families, The Cally in Warrnambool has all the things you would expect from a great pub – live music, special events, games for the kids, and great service.  The traditional menu has a selection of pizza’s which are ideal to satisfy the hungry hoards, while you sit back and relax (you can find a cosy couch in the corner) in this popular local venue.  

6. Sow and Piglets Brew Pub

Adding pizza when you’re settling in for a session is always a safe bet.  Sow and Piglets is an artisan Port Campbell microbrewery located on site with a guesthouse (so you can stay where you play!). Enjoy sampling their range of beers with your pizza. Fun fact: the 12 Apostles were originally named the Sow and Piglets presumably because there’s one very big one and lots of little ones.  

7. Otway Estate

Bring the whole family and the dog to this incredible venue in Barongarook , just 20 minutes from Colac.  While Otway Estate is the cellar door for the Prickly Moses range of beers, Forbidden Fruit cider and Redwood Distillery, the large pizza oven taking centre stage on the sprawling deck tells us pizza-lovers another story.    

8. Peterborough General Store and Takeaway

Peterborough is the ideal relaxed beach town located on the iconic 12 Apostles Coastline – close to the Bay of Martyrs, Bay of Islands and London Bridge, with access to countless secluded beaches plus an expansive grassy foreshore.  If taking away and heading out into nature to eat is your thing, the Peterborough General Store and Take-away is your pit-stop for supplies – including family friendly pizzas.  Our tip – pick up a pizza before heading to the Bay of Islands – the region’s best location for sunset  

*Pizza data quoted is sourced from the internet  

Get ready for a memorable culinary experience with Taste Great Ocean Road; your go-to guide for all things foodie in the Great Ocean Road region. Don’t forget to bring your appetite!

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PSA: The Great Ocean Road is set to be impacted by traffic delays for the whole of this summer

Roadworks will cause delays along the famous route during the upcoming peak season

Whether it's your annual summer spot or you're planning a trip to visit the Great Ocean Road for the first time: listen up, because we've got some info that you'll want to know. 

The famous coastal attraction is set to be impacted by road works for at least the next eight months, due to construction on a bridge that makes up part of the road. Spout Creek Bridge, located about halfway between Anglesea and Lorne, is being completely replaced. The roadworks will mean that 200 metres of the Great Ocean Road will be reduced to a single lane, with temporary traffic lights put in place. When you consider that 6 million tourists visit the are each year, it's essentially a recipe for potentially major traffic delays. 

If you've driven into Lorne on a sunny day, chances are you know how hectic the traffic can get on this section of the road, especially in summer. The construction is planned to finish around April 2025 – but it could take longer depending on weather conditions. Either way, it'll be happening throughout the entire peak season, so if you're planning a visit you should definitely allow for extra travel time. 

But the construction taking place – which kicked off this month – is worthwhile. Spout Creek Bridge was originally built in 1954 and renovated in 1973, but has remained untouched since, and its structural integrity has been damaged by decades of wear and tear. So it's certainly due for a replacement. The $6 million project will increase the load capacity of the bridge and add higher barriers, to improve safety. 

There's quite a bit happening around the Great Ocean Road at the moment, with several exciting new upgrades and developments underway. The harbour of the tiny town of Apollo Bay is getting a massive revamp , and the route's most famous landmark, the 12 Apostles , will get a huge glow up from a spate of new additions. A new lookout just opened at the site , and the attraction is getting a makeover with a new visitor centre and much more. Oh, and a new hot springs is opening just down the road. 

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Save your tears the weeknd has reconfirmed his melbourne shows , an extra 20 freshly-built trains are being rolled out across regional victoria, an extended rail trail in regional victoria is now ready to ride, stretching a whopping 180km.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

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