Great Ocean Road

Stretching 243 kilometres along Victoria's rugged south-west coast, the Great Ocean Road is one of Australia's most spectacular coastal drives. Carved by returned soldiers after World War I, this winding road offers jaw-dropping views of the Southern Ocean, ancient rainforests, and iconic rock formations. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie, this route delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn.

Highlights & What to See

• Twelve Apostles – The star attraction: limestone stacks rising dramatically from the ocean at sunrise or sunset. Don't miss the nearby Gibson Steps for a beach-level perspective.
• Loch Ard Gorge – A stunning gorge with a tragic shipwreck story. Walk down to the beach and explore the surrounding cliffs and caves.
• Great Otway National Park – Venture inland to see towering mountain ash trees, cascading waterfalls like Triplet Falls, and the historic Cape Otway Lighthouse.
• Port Campbell National Park – Home to the Apostles, plus other formations like London Bridge (now an arch) and the Razorback. The coastal walks here are superb.
• Bells Beach – Australia's most famous surf break, just south of Torquay. Even if you don't surf, watching the waves from the clifftop is mesmerising.
• Apollo Bay – A charming seaside town with a great food scene – try the local seafood and stop at the community market for artisan produce.
• Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch – A poignant reminder of the road's history, located near Eastern View. Perfect for a quick photo stop.

Suggested Time to Spend

To truly appreciate the Great Ocean Road, plan at least 2–3 days. A rushed day trip from Melbourne is possible but means you'll miss the coastal walks, wildlife (koalas in the wild near Kennett River), and the magical light at dawn or dusk. Spend the first day driving from Torquay to Apollo Bay, exploring the Otways and waterfalls. Day two: continue from Apollo Bay to Port Campbell, taking in the Twelve Apostles at sunset. If you have a third day, head inland to the Grampians National Park or return via the scenic inland route through Colac.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Torquay – The official start of the Great Ocean Road, known for its surf beaches and the Australian National Surfing Museum.
• Port Fairy – A historic whaling port with well-preserved 19th-century buildings, a lovely harbour, and excellent seafood.
• Grampians National Park – About 2.5 hours north of Port Campbell, this park offers dramatic sandstone ranges, Aboriginal rock art sites, and great hiking.
• Warrnambool – A regional city with a whale-watching platform (southern right whales in winter), the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, and a lively café scene.
• Otway Fly Treetop Walk – A thrilling elevated walkway through the rainforest canopy in the Otways – especially good on a rainy day.

Please check official sources for current details.