Winding along 243 kilometers of Victoria's spectacular southern coastline, the Great Ocean Road is more than just a scenic drive—it's a journey through diverse landscapes, rich history, and natural wonders that ranks among the world's most breathtaking road trips. Built by returning soldiers between 1919 and 1932 as a memorial to those who died in World War I, this heritage-listed road combines dramatic ocean vistas, lush rainforests, charming coastal towns, and iconic rock formations. In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you through everything you need to know to plan the perfect Great Ocean Road adventure.

Planning Your Great Ocean Road Trip

When to Go

The Great Ocean Road can be traveled year-round, with each season offering a different experience:

  • Summer (December-February): Peak tourist season with warm weather (average 25°C/77°F) ideal for beach activities. Expect larger crowds and higher accommodation prices. Pre-booking is essential.
  • Autumn (March-May): Perhaps the ideal time to visit with mild temperatures, fewer tourists, and beautiful golden light for photography. The weather is typically stable with occasional rain.
  • Winter (June-August): The quietest and most affordable time to visit. While cooler (average 14°C/57°F), winter offers dramatic stormy skies and excellent whale watching opportunities from Logan's Beach near Warrnambool (June-September).
  • Spring (September-November): Wildflowers bloom across the hinterland, and the weather begins to warm. Spring can bring unpredictable weather with sudden temperature changes.

Direction: East to West or West to East?

There are two approaches to driving the Great Ocean Road:

  • Traditional (Melbourne to Warrnambool): Following the coast from east to west puts you on the ocean side of the road, offering uninterrupted sea views and easier access to lookout points. This is the most popular direction.
  • Reverse (Warrnambool to Melbourne): Starting from Warrnambool and driving east means you'll hit the major attractions like the Twelve Apostles earlier in the day, potentially avoiding peak crowds. This can be advantageous during busy periods.

How Many Days?

While it's technically possible to drive the Great Ocean Road in a single day from Melbourne (as many tours do), this rushed approach means missing much of what makes this journey special. For a more rewarding experience:

  • 2-3 days: The minimum recommended time to appreciate the major highlights without rushing.
  • 4-5 days: Ideal for a relaxed pace with time to explore inland detours, hiking trails, and coastal towns.
  • 7+ days: Perfect for an immersive experience, including extended stays in favorite locations and deeper exploration of the Otways and beyond.

The Route: Section by Section

Section 1: Melbourne to Torquay (103 km)

The journey begins with a drive from Melbourne to Torquay via Geelong. While not officially part of the Great Ocean Road, this stretch connects you to the starting point.

Highlights:

  • Geelong: Victoria's second-largest city offers a revitalized waterfront precinct with restaurants and the distinctive Bollard Trail of wooden sculptures depicting historical figures.
  • Torquay: The official gateway to the Great Ocean Road and Australia's surfing capital. Visit the Australian National Surfing Museum and iconic Bells Beach, home to the world's longest-running professional surfing competition.

Section 2: Torquay to Lorne (45 km)

This is where the Great Ocean Road officially begins, with the road hugging the coastline and offering spectacular ocean views.

Highlights:

  • Anglesea: A charming coastal town where you can spot kangaroos grazing on the local golf course. The nearby Anglesea Heath is renowned for its wildflower displays in spring.
  • Aireys Inlet: Home to the iconic Split Point Lighthouse (featured in the children's TV show "Round the Twist"). The clifftop walks offer stunning coastal panoramas.
  • Memorial Arch: An important historical marker commemorating the returned soldiers who built the road. The wooden arch makes for a popular photo stop.
  • Fairhaven Beach: Victoria's longest beach at 6 km offers excellent surfing and swimming opportunities.
  • Lorne: A sophisticated seaside resort town with excellent dining options, art galleries, and the picturesque Loutit Bay. Don't miss Teddy's Lookout for panoramic views over the Great Ocean Road winding along the coastline.

Insider Tip: Between Lorne and Apollo Bay, the road clings to the cliff edge in what many consider the most scenic stretch of the entire journey. Allow extra time for frequent stops at lookouts like Mount Defiance and Castle Cove.

Section 3: Lorne to Apollo Bay (47 km)

This section features some of the most dramatic coastal scenery of the entire road.

Highlights:

  • Erskine Falls: Just 10 km from Lorne, this 30-meter waterfall is one of the most popular in the Otways, accessible via a short walk.
  • Kennett River: One of the best places in Australia to spot wild koalas. Drive slowly along Grey River Road to see them sleeping in eucalyptus trees. The area is also home to colorful king parrots and crimson rosellas that may land on your hand if you offer them seeds (available at the local store).
  • Wye River and Separation Creek: Tiny settlements with beautiful beaches and excellent cafes perfect for a coffee break.
  • Apollo Bay: A working fishing port with excellent seafood restaurants and the last major town before the Twelve Apostles. It's an ideal overnight base for exploring the Otways.

Section 4: Apollo Bay to Port Campbell (87 km)

This section transitions from coastal scenery to the lush Otway Ranges before returning to the dramatic limestone coastline that includes the Twelve Apostles.

Highlights:

  • Great Otway National Park: Turn inland at Apollo Bay to explore this rainforest wonderland. Don't miss Maits Rest, an accessible boardwalk through ancient cool temperate rainforest featuring giant ferns and 300-year-old trees.
  • Cape Otway Lightstation: Australia's oldest surviving lighthouse (1848) sits on dramatic cliffs at the point where Bass Strait and the Southern Ocean meet. The area around the lighthouse road is another excellent koala spotting location.
  • Twelve Apostles: The undisputed highlight of the Great Ocean Road, these limestone stacks rise majestically from the Southern Ocean. For the best experience, arrive early morning or late afternoon when the light is golden and crowds are thinner. Only eight "apostles" remain standing today due to ongoing erosion.
  • Loch Ard Gorge: Named after an 1878 shipwreck, this sheltered inlet with towering limestone cliffs and a pristine beach tells a dramatic survival story. The site includes several walking tracks with information about the geology and history.
  • Port Campbell: A picturesque fishing village nestled in a natural harbor, offering a good range of accommodation and dining options. It makes an ideal base for exploring the limestone coast attractions.

Photography Tip: For iconic sunrise shots of the Twelve Apostles, arrive at least 30 minutes before dawn to secure a good viewing position on the platform. For sunset, consider Gibson Steps beach for a different perspective with the apostles looming above you.

Section 5: Port Campbell to Warrnambool (61 km)

The final stretch of the Great Ocean Road continues past more remarkable coastal formations before reaching Warrnambool.

Highlights:

  • The Arch: A naturally formed rock arch sculpted by waves that's particularly impressive during rough seas.
  • London Bridge: Formerly a double-span natural bridge until its partial collapse in 1990, stranding two tourists who had to be rescued by helicopter (they were having an affair and were suddenly exposed to the world's media).
  • The Grotto: A sinkhole formation that combines elements of a blowhole, cave, and archway. Accessible via a staircase, it frames a beautiful view of the ocean through its opening.
  • Bay of Islands: Often overlooked in favor of the Twelve Apostles but equally beautiful, with offshore rock stacks scattered through a turquoise bay.
  • Bay of Martyrs: Offering sweeping views of the rugged coastline and clear waters.
  • Warrnambool: The largest city in the region marks the official end of the Great Ocean Road. Visit Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village for insights into the area's shipwreck history or watch southern right whales from Logan's Beach between June and September.

Optional Extension: Warrnambool to Port Fairy (30 km)

While technically beyond the Great Ocean Road, many travelers continue to this charming fishing village with its well-preserved colonial buildings and vibrant arts scene.

Highlights:

  • Port Fairy: Named one of the world's most livable small communities, this historic town features over 50 buildings classified by the National Trust. Take a walking tour of the charming cottages along Wishart Street or visit Griffiths Island to see the lighthouse and resident colony of short-tailed shearwaters (mutton birds).
  • Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve: Located between Warrnambool and Port Fairy, this extinct volcano crater is home to koalas, emus, kangaroos, and waterbirds. Indigenous guided tours offer insights into traditional food and culture.

Inland Detours Worth Taking

While the coastal route is the main attraction, several inland detours add depth to your Great Ocean Road experience:

The Otway Fly Treetop Adventures

Located in the heart of the Otways, this attraction features a 600-meter-long, 25-meter-high elevated walkway through the treetop canopy. For adventure seekers, the zipline tour offers an even more exhilarating perspective of the rainforest.

Forrest

This former timber town has reinvented itself as a mountain biking hub with excellent trails for all skill levels. It's also home to the celebrated Forrest Brewing Company where you can enjoy craft beers and hearty meals after a day of riding.

Timboon

A charming inland village with a growing reputation for gourmet produce. Visit the Timboon Railway Shed Distillery for whisky tastings, sample local ice cream at Timboon Fine Ice Cream, and follow the 12 Apostles Gourmet Trail linking local producers of cheese, berries, chocolate, and more.

Volcanic Plains and Crater Lakes

North of Port Fairy and Warrnambool, the Western District Volcanic Plains feature numerous extinct volcanoes and crater lakes. Lake Purrumbete and Lake Bullen Merri offer excellent fishing and water sports opportunities.

Where to Stay

Accommodation along the Great Ocean Road ranges from luxury retreats to simple campgrounds. Here are recommended bases for different sections:

Eastern Section

  • Luxury: Lorne - Cumberland Lorne Resort offers spacious apartments with ocean views.
  • Mid-range: Anglesea - RACV Anglesea Resort is family-friendly with excellent facilities.
  • Budget: Torquay - Bells Beach Backpackers offers affordable dormitory and private rooms near the famous surf break.

Central Section

  • Luxury: Apollo Bay - Chris's Beacon Point Restaurant and Villas perched on a hillside with stunning ocean views.
  • Mid-range: Apollo Bay - Seafarers Getaway offers contemporary accommodation on a hillside overlooking the ocean.
  • Budget: Cape Otway - Bimbi Park Camping Under Koalas offers a unique chance to camp among eucalyptus trees inhabited by wild koalas.

Western Section

  • Luxury: Port Fairy - Drift House offers design-focused luxury accommodation in a heritage building.
  • Mid-range: Port Campbell - Southern Ocean Villas provides self-contained accommodation within walking distance of restaurants and the beach.
  • Budget: Warrnambool - Surfside Holiday Park offers cabins and campsites with direct beach access.

Booking Tip: During peak season (December-January and Easter), accommodation should be booked at least 3-6 months in advance. Even in shoulder seasons, weekend bookings are recommended 1-2 months ahead.

Dining Highlights

The Great Ocean Road region offers excellent dining options showcasing local produce:

Eastern Section

  • Torquay: Fishos serves fresh local seafood in a casual setting.
  • Aireys Inlet: A La Grecque offers refined Mediterranean cuisine using local ingredients.
  • Lorne: MoVida Lorne brings Spanish fine dining excellence to the coast.

Central Section

  • Apollo Bay: La Bimba focuses on sustainable local seafood and farm-to-table dining.
  • Lavers Hill: The Roadhouse offers hearty meals and excellent coffee at this inland crossroads.

Western Section

  • Port Campbell: Forage on the Foreshore specializes in local ingredients with creative preparations.
  • Warrnambool: Piccolo Coffee Roasters serves outstanding coffee and breakfast.
  • Port Fairy: Merrijig Kitchen offers sophisticated dishes showcasing regional produce.

Practical Tips for Your Journey

Driving Safety

  • The Great Ocean Road has many curves and can be narrow in sections. Drive cautiously and be aware that some tourists may stop suddenly for views.
  • Wildlife is often active at dawn and dusk – reduce speed during these times.
  • Use designated lookout points rather than stopping on the roadside.
  • Fill your fuel tank whenever convenient as service stations can be distant in some sections.
  • Mobile phone coverage can be patchy, particularly in the Otways – download offline maps before traveling.

What to Pack

  • Layered clothing – coastal weather can change rapidly, and temperature differences between coast and inland areas can be significant.
  • Good walking shoes for exploring tracks and beaches.
  • Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses – the Australian sun is intense, even on cloudy days.
  • Insect repellent, particularly if visiting forests or staying near water.
  • Binoculars for wildlife spotting.
  • Reusable water bottle and snacks for sections with limited services.

Day Tour or Self-Drive?

While organized day tours from Melbourne are popular, they typically focus only on the Twelve Apostles and nearby formations, spending many hours on the road with limited stops. For a truly immersive experience, self-driving with overnight stays is highly recommended. If you're uncomfortable driving on the left side of the road, consider hiring a private guide or joining a multi-day small group tour.

Beyond the Road: Activities and Experiences

For Adventure Seekers

  • Surfing: Lessons are available at Torquay, Anglesea, and Apollo Bay for beginners.
  • Mountain Biking: Forrest's network of trails caters to all abilities.
  • Kayaking: Paddle among the limestone formations at the Bay of Islands or explore the Glenelg River near Nelson.
  • Helicopter Tours: For a spectacular aerial perspective of the Twelve Apostles and coastline, 15-30 minute scenic flights operate from the Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre.

For Nature Lovers

  • Birdwatching: Tower Hill Reserve, Lake Pertobe in Warrnambool, and the Otways are rich in bird life.
  • Whale Watching: Southern right whales visit Logan's Beach in Warrnambool from June to September.
  • Glow Worms: Visit Melba Gully in the Otways after dark to see these magical creatures lighting up the forest.
  • Great Ocean Walk: This 104 km walking trail from Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles can be experienced in sections for day hikers.

For History Buffs

  • Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village: This living museum in Warrnambool recreates a 19th-century coastal port.
  • Cape Otway Lightstation: Learn about the area's maritime history at Australia's oldest surviving lighthouse.
  • Budj Bim Cultural Landscape: Recently UNESCO World Heritage listed, this site near Portland showcases one of the world's oldest aquaculture systems created by the Gunditjmara people over 6,000 years ago.

Sustainable Travel Along the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road traverses fragile coastal and forest ecosystems that face increasing pressure from tourism. To minimize your impact:

  • Stay on designated paths and respect barriers at natural attractions.
  • Take all rubbish with you and consider picking up any litter you see.
  • Support businesses with eco-certification or demonstrated sustainability practices.
  • Consider carbon offsetting your journey.
  • Travel in the off-peak season if possible to reduce pressure on infrastructure and natural areas.
  • Don't feed wildlife or approach animals too closely.

The Great Ocean Road offers one of Australia's most memorable travel experiences. By taking your time to explore beyond the famous limestone formations, you'll discover charming towns, ancient rainforests, local culinary delights, and diverse wildlife that make this journey truly unforgettable. Whether you're chasing dramatic ocean vistas, seeking adventure activities, or simply wanting to unwind in beautiful coastal settings, this iconic road trip delivers experiences that will remain with you long after your journey ends.

About the Author

Michael Johnson is a travel writer and photographer specializing in Australian road trips. Having driven the Great Ocean Road more than 20 times in all seasons, he continues to discover new highlights on each journey. Michael's travel guides have been featured in National Geographic Traveler and Lonely Planet publications.

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