Great Ocean Road Guide 2026: 15+ Best Things to Do & Ultimate Itinerary

Q: How long does it take to drive the Great Ocean Road?

The full Great Ocean Road drive from Torquay to Allansford is 243km and takes approximately 3.5-4 hours of straight driving. However, to fully experience the attractions, beaches, and towns, allow 2-3 days minimum.

Q: What is the best time of year to visit the Great Ocean Road?

Summer (December-February) offers the best beach weather, while autumn (March-May) provides fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures. Winter can be dramatic with powerful ocean swells, and spring brings wildflowers.

Q: Can you do the Great Ocean Road in one day from Melbourne?

Yes, a day trip is possible, but it requires early departure (6-7am) and focuses on key highlights like the Twelve Apostles. You'll spend 7-8 hours in the car. For a more relaxed experience, plan for 2-3 days.

Q: Is the Great Ocean Road free to visit?

Yes, the Great Ocean Road itself and most viewpoints including the Twelve Apostles are free to access. You'll only pay for fuel, food, accommodation, and optional paid attractions like the Otway Fly Treetop Walk.

Your Ultimate Coastal Adventure Awaits

The Great Ocean Road stretches 243 kilometres along Victoria's stunning southwestern coastline from Torquay to Allansford, near Warrnambool. Built by returned soldiers between 1919 and 1932 and dedicated to soldiers killed during World War I, it's the world's largest war memorial and one of Australia's most iconic touring routes.

This spectacular coastal highway winds past dramatic ocean views, pristine beaches, towering limestone cliffs, ancient rainforests, and charming seaside towns. The crown jewel is the Twelve Apostles, but countless other natural wonders await discovery along the way.

Whether you're planning a day trip from Melbourne or a multi-day adventure, this comprehensive guide will help you experience the best of the Great Ocean Road. For official information and current road conditions, visit Visit Victoria's Great Ocean Road page.

Must-See Attractions & Experiences

From world-famous rock formations to hidden coastal gems

Twelve Apostles limestone stacks rising from the Southern Ocean at sunset

The Twelve Apostles

📍 275km from Melbourne (3.5 hours) • Port Campbell National Park

These magnificent 45-metre high limestone stacks rising majestically from the Southern Ocean are Australia's most photographed natural attraction. Despite the name, there are currently eight main stacks visible, with nature constantly reshaping this dramatic coastline.

Best viewed at sunrise (golden light, fewer crowds) or sunset (dramatic colors)
Multiple viewing platforms along the clifftop boardwalk
Visit nearby Gibson Steps for beach-level views and closer perspectives
Free entry, parking, and facilities including visitor center
Helicopter tours available from 12 Apostles Helicopters for aerial views

More info at Parks Victoria →

Loch Ard Gorge

📍 280km from Melbourne (3.5 hours) • Port Campbell National Park

This stunning beach cove, framed by 70-metre towering limestone cliffs, tells the tragic tale of the clipper ship Loch Ard that wrecked here in 1878. Only two of the 54 people aboard survived in this very gorge.

Walk down stairs to the secluded beach between dramatic cliffs
Explore multiple formations: Island Archway, Razorback, Thunder Cave
Learn the fascinating shipwreck story at interpretive displays
Cemetery trail leads to graves of Loch Ard victims
Photography paradise, especially in afternoon light

Plan your visit →

Great Otway National Park

📍 165km from Melbourne (2.5 hours)

Step into ancient cool-temperate rainforests where towering 300-year-old mountain ash trees reach skyward and lush fern gullies create a prehistoric atmosphere. This diverse park spans from coast to hinterland.

Otway Fly Treetop Walk - 600m elevated walkway through the canopy (25m high)
Multiple spectacular waterfalls: Triplet Falls, Hopetoun Falls, Beauchamp Falls
Spot koalas, kangaroos, platypus, and hundreds of bird species
Cape Otway Lightstation - Australia's oldest surviving lighthouse (1848)
Dozens of walking trails from 20 minutes to full-day hikes

Explore the park →

Bells Beach

📍 100km from Melbourne (1.5 hours) • Torquay

World-renowned surf break and home to the legendary Rip Curl Pro, the world's longest-running professional surfing competition. Even non-surfers will be mesmerized by the powerful swells and rugged coastal scenery.

Watch professional surfers tackle 2-4 meter swells (winter storms bring even bigger waves)
Rip Curl Pro held every Easter (since 1961)
Clifftop walking trails with panoramic ocean views
Perfect spot for surf photography
Visit nearby Torquay - Australia's surf capital with Surf World Museum

Discover Torquay's surf culture →

Wild koalas sleeping in eucalyptus trees at Kennett River

Kennett River Koala Spotting

📍 155km from Melbourne (2.5 hours)

One of the best places in Australia to see wild koalas in their natural habitat. These adorable marsupials are often found in eucalyptus trees right along the roadside, making viewing incredibly easy.

Near-guaranteed koala sightings - look up in the eucalyptus trees
Colorful king parrots and crimson rosellas feed from your hand
Bring binoculars for better viewing of sleeping koalas
Grey Creek picnic area has the highest concentration
Best viewing: early morning or late afternoon when koalas are most active

Apollo Bay

📍 190km from Melbourne (2.5 hours)

Charming fishing village nestled between the Otway Ranges and the sea. Perfect for a lunch stop or overnight stay, Apollo Bay offers excellent dining, beautiful beaches, and serves as a gateway to the Otways.

Fresh seafood at the harbor - try the fish and chips
Saturday morning markets (8am-12:30pm) with local produce and crafts
Patrolled swimming beach safe for families
Great Ocean Road Brewhouse for craft beers
Base for exploring Great Otway National Park waterfalls

See more Apollo Bay activities →

London Arch natural rock formation standing in the ocean

London Arch (London Bridge)

📍 285km from Melbourne (3.5 hours) • Port Campbell National Park

This dramatic natural arch was once a double-span bridge connected to the mainland. In January 1990, the bridge dramatically collapsed, stranding two tourists on the outer span who had to be rescued by helicopter.

Witness the power of coastal erosion - nature constantly reshaping the coastline
Learn about the dramatic 1990 collapse at viewing platforms
Excellent photo opportunities of the remaining arch
Short walk from car park to multiple viewpoints

The Grotto

📍 290km from Melbourne (3.5 hours) • Port Campbell National Park

A unique sinkhole formation where a natural arch creates a perfect frame for the turquoise waters below. The interplay of light, rock, and water creates magical photo opportunities.

Descend stairs to view the grotto from multiple angles
Best photographed around midday when sun illuminates the pool
Watch waves crash through the natural archway
Smaller crowds than Twelve Apostles

Planning Your Great Ocean Road Adventure

Getting There & Getting Around

The Great Ocean Road officially begins in Torquay (100km from Melbourne) and ends in Allansford (280km from Melbourne). Most visitors start from Melbourne:

Self-Drive: The most popular option, allowing you to stop wherever and whenever you wish. Rental cars available from Melbourne Airport and city locations.
Guided Tours: Full-day or multi-day tours departing Melbourne - ideal if you don't want to drive. Check available tours.
Public Transport: V/Line bus services connect Melbourne to Geelong, then limited services to coastal towns, but not practical for sightseeing.

Which Direction Should You Drive?

Melbourne to Warrnambool (west): This is the most popular direction as you drive on the ocean side of the road, making it easier to stop at lookouts. Attractions build in drama, culminating at the Twelve Apostles.

Warrnambool to Melbourne (east): Less common but allows you to "save the best for last" if starting from western Victoria or South Australia.

Suggested Itineraries

One Day Trip (Rushed)

Depart: 6:00am from Melbourne

Route: M1 to Geelong → Torquay → Bells Beach → Apollo Bay (lunch) → Twelve Apostles → Return via inland route (Colac)

Return: 8:00pm (14-hour day)

Note: This is doable but exhausting with 7-8 hours driving. Better for those short on time.

Two Days (Recommended)

Day 1: Melbourne → Torquay → Bells Beach → Lorne (lunch) → Apollo Bay → Cape Otway Lighthouse → Stay overnight in Port Campbell

Day 2: Twelve Apostles sunrise → Loch Ard Gorge → London Arch → The Grotto → Return via inland route or explore Warrnambool

Note: Perfect balance of attractions without rushing.

Three Days (Ideal)

Day 1: Melbourne → Surf Coast (Bells Beach, Torquay) → Lorne → Stay in Apollo Bay

Day 2: Otway Rainforest waterfalls → Cape Otway → Kennett River koalas → Twelve Apostles sunset → Stay Port Campbell

Day 3: Port Campbell formations (Loch Ard, London Arch, The Grotto) → Warrnambool → Return Melbourne via Colac

Note: Leisurely pace with time for walks, wildlife, and photography.

When to Visit

Summer (December-February): Peak season with warm weather perfect for beaches. Expect crowds and higher accommodation prices. Book well ahead.

Autumn (March-May): Ideal visiting time with pleasant temperatures (15-22°C), fewer tourists, and beautiful light for photography.

Winter (June-August): Dramatic ocean swells attract storm watchers and photographers. Cooler (10-15°C) and wetter, but rarely freezing. Best for viewing rough seas.

Spring (September-November): Wildflowers bloom, weather warms up, and whale migration season (June-September) may still be active early in spring.

Accommodation

Key towns for overnight stays:

Torquay/Anglesea: Closest to Melbourne, great for surf culture
Lorne: Upscale resort town with excellent restaurants
Apollo Bay: Popular mid-point with good range of options
Port Campbell: Closest to Twelve Apostles, smaller village with limited options
Warrnambool: Larger regional city with most accommodation choices

Book accommodation at least 2-3 months ahead for summer and holidays, 1 month ahead for shoulder season.

Essential Travel Tips

Fuel Strategy: Fill up in major towns (Torquay, Lorne, Apollo Bay, Port Campbell). Petrol stations are limited along some stretches and prices increase as you travel west.
Safety First: Always stay behind barriers at lookouts - cliff edges are unstable and waves unpredictable. Rogue waves can sweep people off rocks.
Drive Carefully: The road has hundreds of curves, narrow sections, and sheer drop-offs. Take your time, pull over to let faster traffic pass, and avoid driving tired.
Weather Preparedness: Coastal weather changes rapidly. Bring layers, a waterproof jacket, and sun protection even in summer.
Mobile Reception: Coverage is patchy in some areas. Download offline maps before departing and carry a physical map as backup.
Photography Timing: Twelve Apostles - sunrise (6:00-7:30am in summer) or sunset (7:00-8:30pm). Loch Ard Gorge - afternoon light is best.
Food & Water: Carry snacks and water as dining options can be limited between towns. Many lookouts have no facilities.
Wildlife Viewing: Dawn and dusk are best for koalas and kangaroos. Drive carefully at night as wildlife is active on roads.
Park Entry: Most lookouts and beaches are free, but some national park areas may require parking fees (usually $10-15).
Time Management: Allow more time than GPS suggests - you'll want to stop frequently for photos and walks.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to drive the Great Ocean Road?

The full 243km from Torquay to Allansford takes approximately 3.5-4 hours of straight driving without stops. However, to properly experience the attractions, beaches, walks, and towns, you should allow a minimum of one full day (12-14 hours including stops). Most visitors find 2-3 days ideal for a relaxed experience that doesn't involve constant rushing.

What is the best time of year to visit the Great Ocean Road?

Autumn (March-May) offers the best balance of pleasant weather (15-22°C), fewer crowds, and lower accommodation prices. Summer (December-February) is best for beach activities but expect peak crowds and prices. Winter (June-August) brings dramatic ocean swells perfect for storm watching, though weather is cooler and wetter. Spring (September-November) features wildflowers and warming weather.

Can you do the Great Ocean Road in one day from Melbourne?

Yes, a day trip is possible but requires an early start (6-7am departure) and long day (return around 8-9pm). You'll focus on key highlights like the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and perhaps Apollo Bay for lunch. Expect 7-8 hours of total driving time. While doable, two days allows for a much more enjoyable and less exhausting experience.

Is the Great Ocean Road free to visit?

Yes, driving the Great Ocean Road itself is free, as are most major viewpoints including the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and London Arch. You'll pay for fuel, food, and accommodation. Some attractions charge entry fees: Otway Fly Treetop Walk ($32 adults), Cape Otway Lightstation ($20 adults), and some car parks charge $10-15 for national park access.

Where should I stay along the Great Ocean Road?

For a 2-day trip, stay overnight in Port Campbell (closest to Twelve Apostles) or Apollo Bay (more dining and accommodation options). For a 3-day trip, consider Apollo Bay for night one and Port Campbell for night two. Lorne offers upscale resort options, while Warrnambool has the most accommodation choices and is good for longer stays exploring the western end.

What should I pack for the Great Ocean Road?

Essential items: layers of clothing (weather changes rapidly), waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, camera with extra batteries, binoculars for wildlife, water bottle, snacks, and a physical map or downloaded offline maps. In summer, bring swimwear and beach towel. In winter, add warm fleece and beanie.

Can I see whales along the Great Ocean Road?

Yes! Southern right whales migrate past the Great Ocean Road from June to September, with peak viewing in July-August. Best viewing locations include Warrnambool's Logan's Beach (purpose-built whale watching platform), Port Fairy, and various clifftop lookouts. Mothers with calves often come close to shore. Visit Parks Victoria for current whale sightings.