The Great Ocean Road is not just a highway—it's an Australian national treasure and one of the world's most scenic coastal drives. Stretching 243 kilometers (151 miles) along Victoria's rugged southwestern coast, this heritage-listed road winds its way through diverse landscapes of dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and charming seaside towns.
As someone who has driven the Great Ocean Road more than a dozen times in different seasons, leading photography tours and exploring its hidden gems, I'm excited to share my comprehensive guide to experiencing everything this iconic route has to offer—from the famous Twelve Apostles to lesser-known highlights that many tourists miss.
Understanding the Great Ocean Road
Built between 1919 and 1932 by returned soldiers from World War I, the Great Ocean Road was constructed not only as a transport link but as a memorial to those who lost their lives in the war. It remains the world's largest war memorial and represents an extraordinary feat of engineering given the challenging terrain.
The road officially runs from Torquay to Allansford near Warrnambool, though many travelers begin their journey in Melbourne and may continue west to the South Australian border. Driving the entire length one-way takes approximately 3 hours without stops—but rushing through would be missing the point entirely. To truly appreciate this spectacular route, I recommend at least 2-3 days, though a week would allow for a more leisurely experience.
Planning Your Great Ocean Road Trip
Best Time to Visit
The Great Ocean Road can be driven year-round, but each season offers a different experience:
- Summer (December-February): Peak tourist season with warm weather (20-25°C/68-77°F) ideal for beach activities. Expect crowded attractions and higher accommodation prices.
- Autumn (March-May): My personal favorite time, with fewer crowds, mild temperatures, and beautiful changing colors in the Otway Ranges.
- Winter (June-August): The quietest season, with cooler temperatures (10-15°C/50-59°F) but dramatic ocean views as powerful Southern Ocean waves crash against the coastline. Whale watching is best during this period.
- Spring (September-November): Wildflowers bloom along the route, and the weather begins to warm while crowds are still moderate.
If possible, I recommend avoiding Australian school holidays (particularly the summer break in December/January) when attractions can be extremely busy.
Direction of Travel
While the Great Ocean Road can be driven in either direction, I strongly recommend traveling from east to west (Melbourne to Warrnambool) for several reasons:
- You'll be on the ocean side of the road, making it easier to pull over at viewpoints.
- The major attractions like the Twelve Apostles are best viewed in the afternoon light.
- Starting with the more populated sections allows you to gradually progress to the quieter, more remote sections as you become more familiar with the road.
Getting There and Vehicle Recommendations
Most travelers begin their Great Ocean Road adventure in Melbourne, Victoria's capital city. From Melbourne's CBD, it's approximately a 1.5-hour drive to Torquay, the official starting point.
While a standard car is sufficient for navigating the Great Ocean Road, I recommend:
- A vehicle with good visibility and comfortable seating, as you'll be spending significant time driving and stopping to admire views.
- Considering a convertible in good weather for the ultimate coastal driving experience.
- A campervan or motorhome if you plan to camp along the way (there are numerous caravan parks and campgrounds).
Rental cars are readily available in Melbourne, with major companies located at the airport and throughout the city. Book well in advance during peak season.
Safety Considerations
The Great Ocean Road is generally well-maintained, but it features numerous curves, occasional steep sections, and can be narrow in places. Safety tips include:
- Drive on the left side of the road (this is Australia!).
- Observe speed limits—typically 80-100 km/h on open stretches and 50-60 km/h in towns.
- Be cautious of wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk when kangaroos and wallabies are most active.
- Use designated lookout points rather than stopping on the road.
- Check weather conditions, particularly in winter when heavy rain can affect driving conditions.
- Maintain at least a quarter tank of fuel, as service stations become more sparse in the western sections.
A Perfect 3-Day Great Ocean Road Itinerary
While you could technically drive the entire route in a single long day, I've found that a 3-day itinerary allows for the best balance of major highlights and hidden gems without feeling rushed. Here's my recommended plan:
Day 1: Melbourne to Apollo Bay (180 km)
Begin your journey by departing Melbourne early, heading southwest toward Torquay, the official starting point of the Great Ocean Road and the surfing capital of Australia.
Morning: Surf Coast
Your first stop should be Bells Beach, Australia's most famous surfing beach and home to the annual Rip Curl Pro competition. Even if you're not a surfer, the sweeping views from the clifftop lookouts are spectacular.
Continue to Point Addis Marine National Park, where a short walk leads to stunning views of the ochre-colored cliffs contrasting with the turquoise waters below. If time permits, the 2.5 km Koori Cultural Walk provides insights into indigenous heritage.
Proceed to Anglesea, where you can often spot kangaroos grazing on the local golf course, before continuing to the charming seaside town of Aireys Inlet. Here, visit the iconic Split Point Lighthouse, known to Australians as the "Round the Twist" lighthouse from the popular children's TV show.
Afternoon: Dramatic Coastline
As you continue west, the road hugs increasingly dramatic coastal cliffs. Stop at the Memorial Arch, a tribute to the World War I veterans who built the road, for the classic Great Ocean Road photo opportunity.
Lorne makes an ideal lunch stop, with numerous cafés and restaurants. After lunch, take a short detour to Teddy's Lookout for a spectacular elevated view of the Great Ocean Road winding along the coastline.
Between Lorne and Apollo Bay lies perhaps the most scenic stretch of the journey. Make stops at Cathedral Rock, Sentinel Rock, and Sheoak Falls. The Kennett River area is one of the best places in Australia to spot koalas in the wild—look up into the eucalyptus trees along Grey River Road.
Evening
Arrive in Apollo Bay by late afternoon. This fishing village offers a range of accommodation options from budget to luxury. After checking in, stroll along the beach at sunset before enjoying fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants. I particularly recommend trying the local abalone or crayfish if they're in season.
Day 2: Apollo Bay to Port Campbell (120 km)
Morning: Rainforest Experience
Start your day with a visit to the Great Otway National Park, where the road turns inland through ancient temperate rainforest. Take a detour to Maits Rest, a 30-minute boardwalk through fern gardens and 300-year-old trees.
For the more adventurous, the Otway Fly Treetop Adventures offers a 600-meter-long, 25-meter-high elevated walkway through the forest canopy, as well as a thrilling zipline experience.
Continue to Cape Otway Lightstation, Australia's oldest surviving lighthouse. The drive there along Lighthouse Road is another excellent spot for koala sightings.
Afternoon: Iconic Rock Formations
Rejoin the Great Ocean Road as it returns to the coast, entering the Port Campbell National Park—home to the most photographed section of the route. While the Twelve Apostles are the most famous attraction, I recommend visiting them later in the day and first stopping at some of the equally impressive but less crowded formations:
- Gibson Steps: Descend the 86 steps to the beach for a ground-level view of the massive limestone stacks.
- Loch Ard Gorge: Named after an 1878 shipwreck, this sheltered inlet with its dramatic cliffs and pristine beach tells a fascinating story of survival. Take all three walking trails to fully appreciate the area.
- The Arch: A natural rock arch carved by the relentless Southern Ocean.
- London Bridge: Once connected to the mainland until its middle section collapsed in 1990, stranding two tourists who had to be rescued by helicopter.
- The Grotto: My personal favorite—a sinkhole formation that creates a window framing the ocean beyond.
Time your visit to the Twelve Apostles (of which only eight remain standing) for late afternoon when the golden light enhances the yellow limestone. The visitor center provides access to viewing platforms offering spectacular panoramas of these majestic sea stacks. Consider booking a helicopter tour for a truly unforgettable aerial perspective.
Evening
Stay in Port Campbell, a small coastal town with several dining options and accommodation choices. For a special experience, book well in advance at Alkina Lodge or Southern Ocean Villas, both offering luxury accommodation with spectacular ocean views.
Day 3: Port Campbell to Warrnambool and Beyond (100+ km)
Morning: Continued Coastal Exploration
For the truly dedicated, returning to the Twelve Apostles at sunrise offers a magical experience with fewer crowds. Alternatively, continue west to explore the Bay of Islands, Bay of Martyrs, and Halladale Point—equally spectacular coastal formations that receive far fewer visitors than their eastern counterparts.
Visit the charming fishing village of Peterborough, where you can explore the nearby Childers Cove, a secluded beach surrounded by limestone cliffs that few tourists discover.
Afternoon: Maritime Heritage
Continue to Warrnambool, a substantial regional city and the traditional end point of the Great Ocean Road. Visit Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, an open-air museum showcasing the region's rich maritime heritage, including artifacts from numerous shipwrecks that occurred along this treacherous coastline, once known as the "Shipwreck Coast."
Between June and September, head to Logan's Beach Whale Nursery, where Southern Right Whales return annually to calve in the protected waters.
Evening and Beyond
You have several options for concluding your Great Ocean Road adventure:
- Stay overnight in Warrnambool before returning to Melbourne the next day (approximately 3.5 hours via the inland Princes Highway).
- Continue west to Port Fairy, a charming historic fishing village with well-preserved 19th-century buildings and cottages.
- For those with more time, extend your journey to the Grampians National Park (2 hours inland) for hiking and Aboriginal rock art, or continue into South Australia to visit Mount Gambier and the Coonawarra wine region.
Beyond the Highlights: Hidden Gems
While the above itinerary covers the major attractions, here are some lesser-known spots that will take your Great Ocean Road experience to the next level:
Secluded Beaches
- Johanna Beach: Spectacular, wild surfing beach with dramatic cliffs and often few visitors.
- Wreck Beach near Moonlight Head: Accessible via a challenging 350-step descent, this remote beach features the anchors of two shipwrecks visible at low tide.
- Childers Cove: Mentioned above, this secluded cove near Peterborough offers a peaceful alternative to more famous sites.
Inland Detours
- Hopetoun Falls: A 30-meter waterfall in the Otways that plunges into a lush fern-filled gully—less visited than nearby Triplet Falls.
- Melba Gully: Take a night walk to see the magical glow worms illuminating this patch of rainforest.
- Forrest: An inland town known for mountain biking trails and the excellent Forrest Brewing Company.
Wildlife Encounters
- Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve near Warrnambool: An extinct volcano crater teeming with native wildlife including koalas, emus, and kangaroos.
- Lake Elizabeth: Take a dawn or dusk canoe tour for a chance to spot the elusive platypus in the wild.
Accommodation Options
The Great Ocean Road offers accommodation for every budget and preference:
Budget
- Caravan Parks and Campgrounds: Numerous options along the route, including the excellent Bimbi Park near Cape Otway (koalas often in the trees above your tent).
- Hostels: Available in larger towns like Torquay, Lorne, Apollo Bay, and Warrnambool.
Mid-Range
- Motels and B&Bs: Plentiful throughout the region, with options like Captains at the Bay in Apollo Bay or Port Campbell Parkview Motel.
- Self-Contained Apartments: Great for families, with fully equipped kitchens for self-catering.
Luxury
- Boutique Hotels: Such as the Great Ocean Ecolodge in Cape Otway or Chocolate Gannets in Apollo Bay.
- Luxury Villas: Like Southern Ocean Villas or Alkina Lodge near Port Campbell, offering spectacular ocean views and high-end amenities.
"The Great Ocean Road is not just a journey through space but through time—geological time in the ancient rock formations, historical time in the shipwreck coast stories, and personal time as you create your own memories along this magnificent coastline."
Dining Highlights
The Great Ocean Road region is renowned for its fresh seafood, local produce, and excellent dining options:
- La Bimba (Apollo Bay): Farm and ocean-to-table philosophy with spectacular ocean views.
- Brae (near Birregurra): One of Australia's most celebrated restaurants, featuring seasonal, organic produce from their own farm.
- Movida (Lorne): Seaside outpost of Melbourne's famous Spanish tapas restaurant.
- Nico's Pizza and Pasta (Port Campbell): Casual dining with surprisingly excellent wood-fired pizzas.
- Pavilion Café (Warrnambool): Great for breakfast with views over Lady Bay.
Don't miss trying local specialties like southern rock lobster (locally called crayfish), abalone, and award-winning cheeses from small producers like Apostle Whey Cheese and Timboon Fine Ice Cream.
Practical Tips for an Unforgettable Journey
Photography Tips
As a travel photographer, the Great Ocean Road is one of my favorite locations to shoot. For the best results:
- The Twelve Apostles are most photogenic at sunrise (soft light and fewer people) and late afternoon (golden light on the rock faces).
- Bring a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the ocean and enhance the blues and greens.
- For coastal shots, I recommend a wide-angle lens (16-35mm equivalent) to capture the sweeping landscapes.
- A telephoto lens (70-200mm) is useful for compressing the rock formations and creating dramatic compositions.
- Always have your camera ready for unexpected wildlife sightings!
What to Pack
- Weather Protection: The Great Ocean Road's weather can change rapidly. Pack layers, a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, and a hat.
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes for exploring viewpoints and hiking trails.
- Binoculars: Useful for spotting wildlife and whale watching in season.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
- Car Charger: Keep your devices charged for navigation and photography.
- Snacks: While towns are generally well-spaced, having some provisions is useful for impromptu picnics at scenic spots.
Mobile Coverage
Mobile reception can be patchy along some sections of the Great Ocean Road, particularly in the Otway Ranges and some coastal sections. I recommend:
- Downloading offline maps before your trip.
- Telstra generally offers the best coverage in rural Australia.
- Let someone know your itinerary if you're traveling to more remote sections.
Sustainable Travel Along the Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road traverses fragile ecosystems and communities that depend on sustainable tourism. To be a responsible visitor:
- Stay on designated paths to protect vegetation and prevent erosion.
- Take all rubbish with you, especially at beaches and lookouts.
- Observe wildlife from a distance and never feed native animals.
- Support local businesses and producers.
- Consider carbon offsetting your journey.
- Visit popular sites during off-peak times to reduce overcrowding.
- Respect indigenous cultural sites.
Conclusion: More Than Just a Drive
The Great Ocean Road is far more than just a scenic drive—it's a journey through diverse landscapes and ecosystems, a window into Australia's maritime history, and an opportunity to connect with both nature and local communities. Every time I drive this route, I discover something new, whether it's a hidden viewpoint, a local food producer, or a perfect spot to watch the sunset.
Take your time, venture beyond the famous sights, and allow yourself to be surprised by the little moments—a koala spotting, a perfect flat white in a seaside café, or the changing light on ancient rock formations. These are the experiences that transform a simple road trip into a lifelong memory.
Whether you're a first-time visitor to Australia or a local seeking a weekend escape, the Great Ocean Road offers a perfect blend of natural wonders, adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. The road may have been built as a memorial to the past, but it continues to create new stories and memories for all who travel its winding path.