Photo: Marcus Wong Wongm / CC BY-SA 3.0
Apollo Bay is a charming coastal town on the Great Ocean Road, known for its stunning beaches, lush hinterland, and relaxed seaside vibe. It's the perfect base for exploring the Otways and the Shipwreck Coast, with a lively fishing harbour and excellent local produce.
Highlights & What to See
- Great Ocean Road – Drive the iconic route with breathtaking ocean views, cliffs, and rainforest stops.
- Apollo Bay Beach – A long, sweeping golden beach ideal for swimming, surfing, or simply strolling.
- Marriner's Lookout – A short walk rewards you with panoramic views over the bay and coastline.
- Otway National Park – Explore ancient rainforests, waterfalls like Triplet Falls, and the Otway Fly treetop walk.
- Cape Otway Lightstation – Australia's oldest surviving lighthouse, offering history and stunning coastal vistas.
- Apollo Bay Fishermen's Co-op – Sample the freshest local seafood, including crayfish and abalone.
Suggested Time to Spend
Apollo Bay is best enjoyed over two to three days. Spend your first day exploring the town and beach, then dedicate a full day to the Otway National Park's walks and waterfalls. A third day allows for a leisurely drive west to the Twelve Apostles or east to the surf coast. The pace is relaxed, so factor in time for seaside cafes and sunset walks.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Twelve Apostles & Port Campbell – The star attraction of the Shipwreck Coast, about 90 minutes west.
- Lorne – A stylish coastal town with great cafes and the Erskine Falls, an hour east.
- Great Otway National Park – Directly inland, with rainforest hikes and glow-worm tours.
- Torquay – The surf capital, starting point of the Great Ocean Road, two hours east.
- Colac & Lake Corangamite – For a hinterland detour to volcanic lakes and birdlife.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Twelve Apostles — Michael J Fromholtz / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Port Campbell — Whinging Pom / CC BY-SA 2.0
- Lorne — Hagai Agmon-Snir حچاي اچمون-سنير חגי אגמון-שניר / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Great Otway National Park — Biatch at English Wikipedia / Public domain
- Torquay — Ameins at English Wikipedia / Public domain
- Colac — Mattinbgn / CC BY-SA 3.0