The Great Ocean Road is more than just a road. It’s a journey of discovery, where you can explore stunning natural wonders, encounter amazing wildlife, enjoy the surf and sun, and indulge in the food and culture of Victoria, Australia. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, an adrenaline rush, or a family-friendly vacation, the Great Ocean Road has something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll show you how to experience the Great Ocean Road, from the best things to do and see, to the must-stop places and day trips, to the practical tips and advice for planning your trip. We’ll also share some insider secrets and stories that will make your trip even more memorable. So, buckle up and get ready for the ride of your life!
Top Things to Do on the Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road stretches for 243 kilometers (151 miles) along the south-eastern coast of Australia, from Torquay to Allansford. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of attractions and activities to suit your interests and budget. Here are some of the top things to do on the Great Ocean Road:
Marvel at the 12 Apostles and Other Natural Wonders
The 12 Apostles are the iconic landmarks of the Great Ocean Road, and for a good reason. These towering limestone formations, rising from the turquoise waters of the Southern Ocean, are a sight to behold. You can admire them from the viewing platforms, or take a helicopter tour for a bird’s eye view. But don’t stop there, as there are many other natural wonders to explore along the coast, such as:
Loch Ard Gorge: This dramatic gorge, named after a shipwreck that occurred here in 1878, is a place of beauty and history. You can walk along the beach, visit the nearby caves and blowholes, or learn about the tragic story of the two survivors of the wreck.
London Bridge: This natural arch, once connected to the mainland, collapsed in 1990, leaving two tourists stranded on the island. Luckily, they were rescued by a helicopter, but the incident made headlines around the world. You can still see the remains of the bridge, and watch the seabirds nesting on the rocks.
Bay of Islands: This scenic spot, located near the end of the Great Ocean Road, features a series of limestone stacks and cliffs, carved by the waves and wind over millions of years. You can enjoy the panoramic views from the lookout, or walk along the coastal trail for a closer look.
The Grotto: This enchanting rock formation, resembling a natural archway, is filled with water that reflects the sky and the sea. You can descend the steps to the lower viewing platform, or admire it from above. The best time to visit is at sunset, when the colors are more vivid.
The Arch: This natural bridge, formed by the erosion of the limestone, is another impressive sight along the coast. You can watch the waves crashing through the arch, creating a spectacular spray. The Arch is also a popular spot for whale watching, especially between June and October, when the humpback and southern right whales migrate along the coast.
Encounter Amazing Wildlife and Nature
The Great Ocean Road is not only a paradise for nature lovers, but also for wildlife enthusiasts. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to see and interact with some of Australia’s most iconic animals, such as:
Wildlife Wonders: This eco-tourism attraction, located near Apollo Bay, offers a guided walk through a native habitat, where you can see kangaroos, koalas, wallabies, echidnas, and more. You’ll also learn about the conservation efforts and the local indigenous culture, while supporting the restoration of the environment.
Great Otway National Park: This vast park, covering more than 100,000 hectares, is home to a diverse range of ecosystems, from rainforests and waterfalls, to heathlands and beaches. You can hike, bike, or drive through the park, and discover its flora and fauna, such as ferns, fungi, glow worms, platypus, and more.
Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve: This unique reserve, located inside an extinct volcano, is a haven for wildlife, such as emus, koalas, kangaroos, and birds. You can join a guided tour, or explore the park on your own, and learn about the history and geology of the area. You can also visit the Worn Gundidj Visitor Centre, where you can see and buy authentic Aboriginal art and crafts.
Kennett River Koala Walk: This easy and enjoyable walk, located along the Grey River Road, is one of the best places to spot koalas in the wild. You can also see other animals, such as parrots, kookaburras, and cockatoos, along the way. The walk is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, and takes about an hour to complete.
Cape Otway Lightstation: This historic lighthouse, built in 1848, is the oldest surviving lighthouse in mainland Australia. You can climb to the top of the tower, and enjoy the stunning views of the coast and the ocean. You can also visit the museum, the telegraph station, and the Aboriginal cultural site, and learn about the history and heritage of the area. On your way to the lighthouse, you might also see some koalas hanging from the trees.
Enjoy the Surf, Sand, and Sun
The Great Ocean Road is also a surfer’s paradise, with some of the best waves and beaches in the world. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, you’ll find a spot that suits your level and style. Here are some of the best places to catch some waves, or just relax on the sand:
Bells Beach: This legendary beach, located near Torquay, is the home of the Rip Curl Pro, the world’s longest-running surfing competition. You can watch the pros in action, or join them if you’re up for the challenge. The beach is also known for its scenic cliffs and rock formations, and its rich surfing culture and history.
Torquay: This seaside town, located at the start of the Great Ocean Road, is the birthplace of some of the world’s most famous surf brands, such as Rip Curl and Quiksilver. You can shop for some surf gear, visit the Australian National Surfing Museum, or take a surf lesson at one of the many surf schools. You can also enjoy the beach, the cafes, and the nightlife of the town.
Lorne: This charming town, located halfway along the Great Ocean Road, is a popular destination for families, couples, and groups. You can swim, surf, or fish at the beach, or stroll along the foreshore and the pier. You can also visit the nearby attractions, such as the Erskine Falls, the Teddy’s Lookout, and the Qdos Arts Gallery.
Apollo Bay: This picturesque town, located at the foot of the Otway Ranges, is a great base for exploring the region. You can surf, kayak, or sail at the bay, or enjoy the views of the hills and the ocean. You can also sample some of the local seafood, such as crayfish, scallops, and abalone, at the restaurants and cafes.
Port Campbell: This small and cozy town, located near the 12 Apostles, is a perfect place to unwind after a long day of sightseeing. You can swim, surf, or snorkel at the beach, or relax at the park and the picnic area. You can also visit the nearby attractions, such as the Port Campbell National Park, the Loch Ard Gorge, and the London Bridge.
Warrnambool: This vibrant city, located at the end of the Great Ocean Road, is a hub of culture and entertainment. You can surf, swim, or whale watch at the beach, or visit the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, a living museum that recreates the life of a 19th-century port town. You can also enjoy the festivals, events, and shows that take place throughout the year, such as the Fun4Kids Festival, the Warrnambool Racing Carnival, and the Port Fairy Folk Festival.
Port Fairy: This historic town, located beyond the Great Ocean Road, is a hidden gem that’s worth a visit. You can surf, fish, or golf at the beach, or explore the heritage buildings, the art galleries, and the boutique shops. You can also join the Port Fairy Walking Tours, and learn about the town’s history, legends, and ghosts.
Indulge in the Food, Wine, and Culture
The Great Ocean Road is not only a feast for the eyes, but also for the taste buds. You’ll find a variety of cuisines and dishes, from fresh seafood and local produce, to international flavors and fine dining. You’ll also find some of the best wineries and breweries in the region, where you can taste and buy some of the finest wines and beers. Here are some of the places to indulge in the food, wine, and culture of the Great Ocean Road:
Brae: This award-winning restaurant, located near Birregurra, is one of the best in Australia, and the world. The chef, Dan Hunter, creates a seasonal menu that showcases the local ingredients, grown on the restaurant’s own farm or sourced from nearby producers. You can enjoy a multi-course degustation, paired with wines from the region or beyond, in a cozy and elegant setting. You can also stay overnight at one of the six luxury suites, and enjoy the views of the countryside and the stars.
Timboon Railway Shed Distillery: This boutique distillery, located in a historic railway shed, produces some of the finest single malt whisky in the country. You can take a tour of the distillery, and learn about the history and process of whisky making. You can also taste and buy some of the products, such as whisky, gin, vodka, liqueurs, and more. You can also enjoy a meal at the restaurant, which serves local and seasonal dishes, such as cheese platters, pizzas, burgers, and salads.
Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery: This sweet spot, located near Anglesea, is a chocolate lover’s dream. You can watch the chocolatiers at work, and sample some of the 250 varieties of chocolate, made from the finest cocoa beans. You can also indulge in some of the ice creams, sorbets, cakes, and pastries, made fresh on site. You can also join a chocolate making class, or visit the chocolate museum, and learn more about the history and culture of chocolate.
Apollo Bay Bakery: This famous bakery, located in the heart of Apollo Bay, is the home of the original scallop pie, a local delicacy that you won’t find anywhere else. You can also try some of the other pies, such as beef, chicken, lamb, or vegetable, or some of the breads, cakes, and pastries, baked daily with fresh ingredients. You can also enjoy a coffee, tea, or juice, and relax at the outdoor seating area, or take away your treats and enjoy them on the beach.
Port Fairy Folk Festival: This annual festival, held in March in Port Fairy, is one of the oldest and most popular folk festivals in Australia. You can enjoy four days of music, art, and culture, featuring local and international artists, performing a variety of genres, such as folk, blues, rock, country, and more. You can also join the workshops, markets, parades, and street performances, and experience the vibrant and friendly atmosphere of the festival.
How to Plan Your Trip to the Great Ocean Road
Now that you know what to do and see on the Great Ocean Road, you might be wondering how to plan your trip, where to stay, and what to pack. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here are some of the practical tips and advice for planning your trip to the Great Ocean Road:
How to Get There and Around
The Great Ocean Road is easily accessible from Melbourne, the capital city of Victoria, and the second-largest city in Australia. You can get there and around by:
Driving: Driving is the best way to experience the Great Ocean Road, as you can enjoy the scenic views, stop at any place you like, and travel at your own pace. You can rent a car from Melbourne, or join a carpooling service, such as Car Next Door or GoGet. You can also hire a campervan, and combine your transport and accommodation. The drive from Melbourne to the Great Ocean Road takes about an hour and a half, and the whole road takes about five hours to complete, without stops. However, we recommend taking at least two or three days to explore the region, as there is so much to see and do along the way. You can also extend your trip by driving further to Adelaide, the capital city of South Australia, via the Limestone Coast and the Coonawarra wine region, which takes about eight hours from the end of the Great Ocean Road.
Public transport: Public transport is another option to get to and around the Great Ocean Road, although it is less convenient and flexible than driving. You can take a train or a bus from Melbourne to Geelong, the largest city on the Bellarine Peninsula, and then take a bus to Torquay, the start of the Great Ocean Road. You can also take a train or a bus from Melbourne to Warrnambool, the end of the Great Ocean Road, and then take a bus to Port Campbell, the nearest town to the 12 Apostles. You can then take a bus along the Great Ocean Road, stopping at some of the major towns and attractions, such as Lorne, Apollo Bay, and Cape Otway. However, the buses are not very frequent, and some of the places are not accessible by public transport, so you might miss out on some of the sights and experiences. You can also take a ferry from Melbourne to Queenscliff, a historic town on the Bellarine Peninsula, and then take a bus to the Great Ocean Road, or vice versa. The ferry takes about an hour and a half, and offers scenic views of the bay and the city skyline.
Tours:
Tours are another option to get to and around the Great Ocean Road, especially if you don’t want to drive or use public transport. You can join a group tour, or book a private tour, from Melbourne or other nearby cities, such as Geelong, Ballarat, or Bendigo. You can choose from a variety of tours, depending on your interests, budget, and time. Some of the tours include:
One-day tours: These tours are ideal for those who have limited time, or want to get a taste of the Great Ocean Road. You can visit some of the highlights, such as the 12 Apostles, the Loch Ard Gorge, the London Bridge, and the Great Otway National Park, and enjoy some of the activities, such as surfing, wildlife watching, or hiking. You can also combine your tour with other attractions, such as the Phillip Island, the Grampians National Park, or the Yarra Valley.
Multi-day tours: These tours are perfect for those who want to explore the Great Ocean Road in depth, and experience more of the region. You can stay overnight at some of the towns, such as Torquay, Lorne, Apollo Bay, Port Campbell, or Port Fairy, and enjoy the local hospitality and culture. You can also visit some of the lesser-known places, such as the Bay of Islands, the Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve, or the Timboon Railway Shed Distillery, and discover some of the hidden gems of the region. You can also extend your tour to Adelaide, via the Limestone Coast and the Coonawarra wine region, and enjoy more of the scenery and the history of the area.
Adventure tours: These tours are great for those who are looking for some thrill and excitement on the Great Ocean Road. You can join some of the adventure activities, such as skydiving, zip-lining, mountain biking, kayaking, or scuba diving, and get your adrenaline pumping. You can also camp in the wilderness, and enjoy the nature and the stars. You can also customize your tour, and choose your own itinerary and activities, according to your preferences and skills.
Where to Stay and How Long
The Great Ocean Road offers a range of accommodation options, from hotels and motels, to hostels and campsites, to suit your needs and budget. You can stay at some of the towns along the road, such as Torquay, Lorne, Apollo Bay, Port Campbell, or Port Fairy, and enjoy the amenities and the atmosphere of the place. You can also stay at some of the secluded and scenic spots, such as the Cape Otway Lightstation, the Wildlife Wonders, or the Brae, and enjoy the views and the tranquility of the location. You can also stay at some of the unique and quirky places, such as the Otway Fly Treetop Adventures, the Great Ocean Road Brewhouse, or the Chocolate Gannets, and enjoy the fun and the flavor of the place.
The length of your stay depends on how much time you have, and how much you want to see and do on the Great Ocean Road. As we mentioned before, the road takes about five hours to drive, without stops, but we recommend taking at least two or three days to explore the region, as there is so much to see and do along the way. You can also extend your stay by visiting some of the nearby attractions, such as Melbourne, the Phillip Island, the Grampians National Park, or the Yarra Valley, or by driving further to Adelaide, via the Limestone Coast and the Coonawarra wine region. Here is a suggested itinerary for a three-day trip to the Great Ocean Road, from Melbourne to Port Fairy:
Day 1: Drive from Melbourne to Torquay, the start of the Great Ocean Road. Visit the Australian National Surfing Museum, and learn about the history and culture of surfing in Australia. Surf or swim at Bells Beach, one of the best surf spots in the world. Drive to Lorne, a charming seaside town, and enjoy the beach, the cafes, and the nightlife. Stay overnight at Lorne.
Day 2: Drive from Lorne to Apollo Bay, a picturesque town at the foot of the Otway Ranges. Visit the Great Otway National Park, and explore the rainforest, the waterfalls, and the wildlife. Drive to Cape Otway Lightstation, the oldest surviving lighthouse in mainland Australia, and enjoy the views of the coast and the ocean. Drive to Port Campbell, a cozy town near the 12 Apostles, and enjoy the beach, the park, and the picnic area. Stay overnight at Port Campbell.
Day 3: Drive from Port Campbell to the 12 Apostles, the iconic landmarks of the Great Ocean Road. Admire the towering limestone formations, rising from the turquoise waters of the Southern Ocean. Visit the other natural wonders along the coast, such as the Loch Ard Gorge, the London Bridge, the Bay of Islands, the Grotto, and the Arch. Drive to Warrnambool, a vibrant city at the end of the Great Ocean Road. Visit the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, a living museum that recreates the life of a 19th-century port town. Drive to Port Fairy, a historic town beyond the Great Ocean Road. Visit the heritage buildings, the art galleries, and the boutique shops. Enjoy the festivals, events, and shows that take place throughout the year, such as the Port Fairy Folk Festival. Stay overnight at Port Fairy, or drive back to Melbourne, via the Princes Highway.
What to Pack and Prepare
The Great Ocean Road is a year-round destination, with different seasons and weather conditions. You’ll need to pack and prepare accordingly, depending on when and where you’re going, and what you’re planning to do. Here are some of the things to pack and prepare for your trip to the Great Ocean Road:
Clothing: The Great Ocean Road has a temperate climate, with warm summers and cool winters. However, the weather can be unpredictable and changeable, especially along the coast, where it can be windy and rainy. You’ll need to pack layers of clothing, such as t-shirts, sweaters, jackets, and pants, that you can mix and match, and adjust to the temperature and the activity. You’ll also need to pack some swimwear, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, if you’re planning to swim, surf, or sunbathe at the beach. You’ll also need to pack some comfortable shoes, such as sneakers, sandals, or boots, depending on the terrain and the activity. You’ll also need to pack some rain gear, such as a raincoat, an umbrella, or a poncho, in case of showers or storms.
Footwear: The Great Ocean Road has a variety of landscapes and activities, from sandy beaches and rocky cliffs, to lush forests and waterfalls, to urban streets and rural roads. You’ll need to pack some comfortable shoes, such as sneakers, sandals, or boots, depending on the terrain and the activity. You’ll also need to pack some flip-flops, thongs, or slippers, if you’re planning to swim, surf, or relax at the beach. You’ll also need to pack some hiking shoes, if you’re planning to walk, hike, or bike through the park or the trails.
Accessories: The Great Ocean Road has a lot of attractions and activities, that you’ll want to capture and remember. You’ll need to pack some accessories, such as a camera, a phone, a charger, a power bank, a memory card, and a tripod, to take photos and videos of the scenery and the wildlife. You’ll also need to pack some binoculars, a telescope, or a magnifying glass, if you’re planning to watch the birds, the whales, or the stars. You’ll also need to pack some books, magazines, or games, if you’re planning to relax and unwind at the hotel or the campsite.
Documents: The Great Ocean Road is a safe and easy destination, with no visa or vaccination requirements for most visitors. However, you’ll still need to pack some documents, such as your passport, your driver’s license, your insurance, your booking confirmation, and your emergency contacts, to travel and stay in the region. You’ll also need to pack some cash, cards, or traveler’s checks, to pay for your expenses and purchases. You’ll also need to pack some maps, guides, or apps, to plan your itinerary and navigate your way.
The Great Ocean Road is one of the most amazing and rewarding trips you can take in Australia, and the world. You’ll experience the beauty and diversity of the region, from the stunning natural wonders and the amazing wildlife, to the surf and sun and the food and culture. You’ll also create some unforgettable memories and stories, that you’ll cherish and share for a lifetime.
We hope this article has inspired and helped you to plan your trip to the Great Ocean Road. If you have any questions, comments, or feedback, please feel free to leave them below. We’d love to hear from you.
And if you’re ready to book your trip, or learn more, please visit our website, or contact us. We’re here to help you make your dream trip come true.
Thank you for reading, and happy travels!