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Explore the outdoors, browse local markets, learn to surf or relax in a pub. You can do it all (or nothing if you please) on the Great Ocean Road

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Great Ocean Road Trip

5 Days / 4 Nights Self Guided Tour

Experience One of the World’s Greatest Road Trips With Your New Travel Family

Famous around the world and the 5th most visited place in Australia, The Great Ocean Road is special. Why don’t we include it in our  Welcome to Melbourne  tour? Because a road trip with mates is the  only  way to do it. 

Tour Length

5 Days / 4 Nights

Perfect For

Adding on to your Welcome to Melbourne tour

5 – 22 people

Travel Style

Self Guided

Vehicle hire, accommodation and advised itinerary

Departure Dates

Tuesday or Sunday after your Welcome to Melbourne  tour

Top Experiences

World Famous Surf Beaches

The Great Ocean Road has famous surf beaches as well as surf history. Home to Rip Curl, Billabong and the Australian National Surfing Museum, you have to stop in Torquay.

Beach Meets The Rainforest

Lush rainforest to your right and world-class beaches to your left, you’ll be feeling pretty blessed. For true Australian authenticity, the water is full of surfers and the trees are full of koalas!

The Impressive 12 Apostles

Despite the photos you’ve seen of the 12 Apostles, nothing can prepare you for how spectacular these towering limestone structures along the rugged Victorian coastline really are.

The Grampians National Park

The unsung hero of this road trip, with Aboriginal culture, an abundance of scenic hikes and so many sunset and sunrise viewpoint options. This place really is incredible.

WHERE YOU'LL GO

Leaving Melbourne you will head west to the Grampians National Park which is full of amazing hikes and waterfalls, dropping down to Port Fairy at the very end of the Great Ocean Road. Witness the spectacular 12 Apostles, be dwarfed by trees in the Otway Rainforest, then spend time on the Surf Coast.

WHERE YOU'LL STAY

You don’t want to be worrying about accommodation, you just want to be taking in the road trip of a lifetime. We’ve organised your hostel accommodation in the Grampians National Park, Port Fairy, Apollo Bay and Queenscliff.

GREAT OCEAN ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

Views for days.

What time is it? Road trip time! We’ll give you the details for your car pickup and an advised itinerary and you and the crew are on your way! As long as you have a driving licence* you’re able to drive.

The first stop is the awe-inspiring  Grampians National Park . We guarantee you will lose count of how many  kangaroos  you see here. The Grampians is also a great spot for hikes as well as lookout points, one of which we’ll recommend to you for sunset.

*Your Driving license must say ‘Driving License’ in English. If it doesn’t please bring an International License or a certified translation of your license.

The Best Sunrise in Australia?

Rise and shine, time to experience your first Australian sunrise. You’ll have plenty of time to get some sleep on the drive so make sure you’re out of bed to experience this.

Later that morning you’ll make your way to the end of the  Great Ocean Road , hopefully seeing some emus and koalas on the way to your destination for the night, the quirky town of  Port Fairy .

See the Iconic 12 Apostles

Today is the day you take in the majority of what is known as the Shipwreck Coast. This drive is something else and it is even better if you beat the crowds in the morning. This will also serve you well for when you get to the  12 Apostles , as well as London Bridge, Gibson Steps and Loch Ard Gorge – all iconic landmarks on this spectacular road trip.

Tonight you’ll stay in the liveliest town on the trip,  Apollo Bay  which has one of the most beautiful beaches lining the entire town. 

Waterfalls & Wildlife

You’ve left the Shipwreck Coast behind and now you’re driving along the  Surf Coast , don’t worry, the views are just as special. Not only can you visit cool towns like Lorne, there are inland walks and hikes to waterfalls and a chance to spot  koalas in the wild. 

There’s only one more thing to do that day, send us the photo of you and your group of mates under the famous Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch! 

You’ll wake up in Queenscliff, a small town close to Torquay, a town known for its surf culture due to it hosting the  Rip Curl Pro  (part of the World Surf League) every Easter. We have friends everywhere and can easily organise for you to  hire a board  and wetsuit while you’re in town. 

Post morning surf it’s time to head back to Melbourne to reflect on the best two weeks of your life. You may even want to hit the bar crawl again and join this week’s Welcome to Melbourne group for one last big  Melbourne night  as a group.

Is this tour for you?

You don’t know them now, but you’ll make friends for life on your Welcome to Melbourne tour.

Make sure your time with them doesn’t end early and join them for a road trip you’ll remember forever.

The experiences you have travelling will last forever. It's time for you to start making memories.

Travel Is All About Meeting People

Want to know more about our tours.

We love to hear from you and help you with your travel plans. If you have any questions at all then feel free to get in touch. Not only can you message us, we also offer free travel advice calls meaning you can have a real conversation with a real person that’s been in your shoes.

• [email protected]
• (03) 7065 9970
• 6b 300 King Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3000
• 812B, George Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000

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Subscribe to our travel newsletter, great ocean road trip (add-on).

Please note you can only book this tour if you are also travelling on our Welcome to Melbourne tour.

EXCLUSIVE ADD-ON TOUR

Please note – this add-on tour is exclusive to travellers who are planning to join us on either our Welcome to Sydney or Welcome to Melbourne tours. Don’t miss joining your future travel-fam on this self-guided tour after your Welcome Tour ends!

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The Great Ocean Road: A planning guide and 5-day itinerary

Updated On 12th February, 2024

A road trip down The Great Ocean Road had been on my  Australia Bucket List  for a while and this week I  finally  got to tick the adventure off.

The Great Ocean Road is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the world to take a road trip down and in this blog post, I’m going to take you through our itinerary and all the top tips and tricks to help you when planning your adventure.

There are not many things I love more than a good road trip because of all the freedom and unpredicted chaos that comes with it.  Road trips always make for an interesting adventure.

Let’s just say if you decide to  freedom camp  in the bushes of the national park, there is a chance you’ll come across some wild boars.  I speak from experience.

And so on Monday, it was finally time to head out on one of Australia’s finest routes. My best friend and I grabbed a camper and we set out on the 243km drive from Melbourne toward The Twelve Apostles.

Watch our adventure come to life here…

My guide to planning your Great Ocean Road road trip…

Note: If you drive the Great Ocean Road straight from Melbourne it will take about 4/4.5 hours (without stops) so technically you could do it in a pretty intense day trip if you wanted to. Though after cruising the route over 5 days there was still so much that would have easily occupied us for a longer adventure.

First things first, unless you have a friends you can borrow, you’ll need to…

• Hire a campervan or car

We hired a camper from the absolute legends at  Ratpack Travel  and got ourselves a 3 birth adventure mobile from Travellers Autobarn.

It was pretty basic in design and had clocked nearly 600,000 miles but it got us safely from A to B and came equipped with a bed come dining table, a fridge, a microwave, a double hob and extra storage.

Of course you don’t have to go with a camper.  You can also rent a car and stay in hotels or hostels along the way.

It totally depends what adventure level you’re ready for and whether you’re ready to embrace all that van life has to offer.

How much can you expect to pay for a camper van?

For our 3 birth van for we paid the basic rate of  $89 per day.

On top of that (I assume most companies operate in a similar manner) we were charged for:

• gas (to operate the cooker)
• camping chairs ($15 each)
• a kitchen and dining package
• an extra driver ($3 dollars a day)
• extra insurance cover ($15 a day)

If you’re looking to get a quote and hire a car or camper yourself, I would definitely recommend dropping my friend  Sammy from  Ratpack Travel  a message to discuss your options.  He will definitely get you a better price than anywhere else.

Top tip:  Get 10% off any booking with  RatPack Travel  using  MOLLIE10.

What other expenses do you need to account for?

These were the other outgoings on our road trip:

• Petrol  –  $140 in total between us (had to return the camper full)
• Campsite fees –  $60 (2 nights at Bells Backpackers) + $39 (Port Campbell) + $0 (Gypsy night) = $99 AUD
• Groceries for 5 days   –  $35 shop between us
• Additional coffees and snacks –  $10 a day

Top tips…

• Torquay is pretty hot on people sleeping in their vans. We spoke to a few people that got fines here, so be careful. I’d suggest booking a site.
• Most campsites and holiday parks close their reception at around 7pm and most of them were gated, so if you show up past 7pm you won’t be getting in!
• As you venture down the coast it gets easier to find off road spots to park up and ‘gypsy’ it for the night, if ya know what I mean (national parks for example!)

The ultimate Great Ocean Road itinerary…

In this itinerary I’m going to note both the places we went on the Great Ocean Road but also the places we heard about along the way. We didn’t have time to do it all, but I’ll lay it all out on a plate for you and let you make your choices.

You can locate all that is mentioned in this blog post on the Google map that I have created for you below…

Top tip:  Download Google maps and open this up on your phone to navigate on the road.

Assuming you’ll be staying in Melbourne or choosing this destination as the nearest to fly into, Day 1 will have you venturing to the pick up spot of your vehicle. For us that was Travellers Autobarn located out in an industrial estate near Melbourne (Tullamarine) airport.

If you’re picking up from here too, catch train to Flinders Street and then take the tram (59) to Hawker Street. Travellers Autobarn is 10 minute walk from there.

Top tip:  Buy a sim card. Not only will you be able to use Citymapper to navigate across the city but you’ll have access to maps for routes, research and campsite locations. It will be cheaper than paying the hire company the daily rate for a GPS device.

• Melbourne to Torquay main surf beach

Drive time : 1 hour 18 minutes (110km)

This was our first taste of beach life on the Great Ocean Road and it was beautiful. We cooked dinner out the back of the van by the beach as the sun set and the surfers went in to catch their last wave.

From here we hadn’t booked accommodation and had been told it’s a bit risky to park up in the Torquay area. The council are hot on the fines. Add in the fact our van was extremely obvious it was a camper, and we would have been silly to risk it. Campsites were closed by this point but we found Bells Beach Backpackers on the main road which is a hostel with space out the back for campers to park up. Operating on a cash only basis, we handed over $30 and secured our van in the back of the property with access to the hostel kitchen showers and bathrooms. Perfect!

• Overnight in Torquay at Bells Backpackers

Notes:  Free WiFi

• Drive via Bells Beach to Point Roadknight Beach (near Anglesea) and cook up breakfast

Coffee recommendations:

• There’s a cute little coffee on Point Roadknight beach called ‘Point Roadknight Kiosk’ – you won’t miss it. It’s got gorgeous pink doors and wooden decor – super instagrammable and unreal coffee!
• Otherwise, 10 minutes down in the direction of the Great Ocean Road, hop out at Laneway 73 and get your fix of amazing Ozzie coffee!

Next up it’s the infamous Memorial arch which is only 20 minutes (15.8km) down the road from Anglesea.  It’s time to get that shot.

Afternoon adventure options…

• Erskine Falls
• Teddy’s Lookout
• Kennet River (prime spot for koalas)

This next stretch (which you will have witnessed from a near birds eye view at  Teddy’s Lookout ) was by far my favourite to drive on the Great Ocean Road with the road hugging tightly against the rugged coastline for miles and boasting insane views across the blues of the ocean.

The weather (as you can see) was insane which definitely added to the wow factor, but regardless I’m always blown away when roads allow you to drive this close to the ocean.

We continued to drive on through Lorne where we picked up groceries, cooked up dinner in Apollo Bay and decided to gypsy a parking spot to sleep for the night in a layby within Otway National Park.

Top tip:  Check your types and fill up at the petrol station in Apollo Bay. We wasted 40 minutes driving back and forth before realising it was the most convenient.

Try and make it into Great Otway National Park for sunset and drive down to the lighthouse. The Light Station is gated and shuts by 5pm, but the road down there is beautiful.

There are some pretty striking landscapes to witness.

After waking in the rainforest we dipped back 15 minutes into Apollo Bay to use the shower and kitchen facilities at  Skenes Creek caravan park.  At $4 per person it’s a great shout after a night in a camper. Alternatively if you’re camping or looking for a spot to park up it’s a great ocean front location.

We were then due a coffee and checked into Waves in Apollo bay great for a soy flat white a and a dose of internet.Waves is a perfect internet spot with plugs on the beach front to get some work done! They also serve yummy crepes!

Today’s start location is the perfect base for a few adventures in the National Park, all of which are in close proximity to each other.

Adventure options to check out:

• Maits Rest rainforest walk
• Triplet Falls
• Hopetoun Falls

Top tip:  Having that sim card with internet also comes in handy as you can check the weather on the go and adjust your itinerary accordingly.

We noticed that the days following were due to be a wash out and so we decided to head north a little earlier than planned to catch Gibson’s steps at sunset, as this may have been the only good light to catch the Apostles in.

Even though the light was still poor (from a photographers POV anyway), it ended up being the only one of the Apostles we witnessed.

Next we headed to a teeny tiny town on the coast with a few coffee shops, a small supermarket, a couple of restaurants and a couple of holiday parks. A real tourist town, thriving off the great ocean road tourism: Port Campbell.

We spent the evening in Port Campbell where we paid $39 ($20 each) for a powered site. This was the only night we plugged the van in and it allowed us to use the microwave and charge up all of our cameras!

On day 4 we woke up, grabbed a takeaway coffee in town (nothing worth writing home about but still, great) and continued straight onto the morning’s adventures.

Choices include:

• London Bridge

We were then super unfortunate with the timing of the Twelve Apostles lookout on our itinerary. The heavens opened and the visibility dropped. We hung around in the car park for about 40 minutes before making an executive decision to drive on.

So if any of you guys go… show me your epic pictures!!!

There is no actual official end to the Great Ocean Road, but the Twelve Apostles is considered the big finale. If we had had another day, we would have driven up to Port Fairy and also adventured inland to check out the cheese factories and wineries!

Anyway, we decided to use the bad weather day to make the majority of our way back to Melbourne. That way we could relax with the driving and enjoy the sunshine due the next day.

Suggestions for afternoon activities en route back to Torquay:

• Sheaoak Falls
• Park up overnight at Bells Beach Backpackers.

We started the last day of our roadtrip with a  coffee from our favourite cafe Laneway 73  before cooking up some eggs and rye in the gorgeous Point Roadknight beach car park. It’s a really gorgeous spot and it only had a couple of other locals occupying it. It felt super special.

We soaked up the sunshine and shared our English tea obsession with some local surfers that had come to check out the waves. One of those moments you couldn’t write or buy.

Pure bliss.

Just before we hopped on the M1 for the final hour drive back to Melbourne we diverted onto the two most beautiful of roads down to Bells Beach Lookout and Southside beach lookout. The roads were Jarosite road and Bells Boulevard. This was the straightest and most epic of drives that led you right out to the ocean on both occasions…

Cameras at the ready for these ones!

And that was our absolutely stunning 5-day Great Ocean Road trip!  I hope my itinerary has assisted you in mapping out your adventure!

Have you done a Great Ocean Road trip?

What were your favourite spots? I’d love to know!

Love as always and happy adventuring,

Did you find this post helpful? I’d love you to share it for me.

I can’t do this without you.

Pin and save this blog post for later…

IT’S LOVELY TO MEET YOU

I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE. 

I’D LOVE TO SHARE THE JOURNEY WITH YOU, WE’VE GROWN A LOT SINCE THEN!

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Travel the Great Ocean Road and beyond for one of the world's most scenic coastal drives. Experience a diverse array of things to see and do in the region, from outdoor activities such as surfing, scuba diving and sea kayaking to arts, cultural and heritage attractions. Admire the stunning coastline on the Great Ocean Walk and enjoy fine dining, local winemakers and fresh produce along the way.

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Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the Great Ocean Road region the Wadawurrung, Eastern Maar & Gunditjmara. We pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging. We recognise and respect their unique cultural heritage and the connection to their traditional lands. We commit to building genuine and lasting partnerships that recognise, embrace and support the spirit of reconciliation, working towards self-determination, equity of outcomes and an equal voice for Australia’s first people.

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Great Ocean Road Travel Guide

A budget-friendly Great Ocean Road travel guide , including the best stops and helpful travel tips based on my personal experience!

Australia has so many bucket-list-worthy attractions: watch the sunrise over Uluru, snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef, visit Sydney harbor, pet kangaroos in Western Australia, and the list goes on and on. 

The Great Ocean Road almost always has a place on that list, with its rugged cliffs, charming coastal towns, green national parks, and abundance of Australian wildlife . 

Driving along the Great Ocean Road, taking in the gorgeous views, and watching koalas laze away in Eucalyptus trees, is definitely one of the best things to do in Australia. 

For any first-time visitors, here is some useful information to help you plan your trip to this beautiful strip of the Australian coastline. 

Enjoy this Great Ocean Road travel guide!

How To Visit The Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is very easy to get to, and all sights are clearly marked with signs. 

The road stretches from Torquay in the east all the way to Allansford in the west, covering a total of 243 Kilometers . 

For the most flexibility, you’ll want to drive yourself . 

If you don’t have your own car, you can rent one in Torquay at the start of your trip. If you are flying into Melbourne , you can hire one there but it might be more expensive. 

Great Ocean Road Tours

Or if you’re just traveling and would prefer to book a tour , you can do so through Get Your Guide . 

There are plenty of highly-rated tours that leave from Melbourne, and you can easily see all the best sights in one day or stretch it out to a few days and include more sights.

• Great Ocean Road Day Trip from Melbourne  
• Two Day Great Ocean Road & Grampians Mountains Trip from Melbourne

Click here to browse through all the best Great Ocean Road Tours on Get Your Guide!

The 14 Best Sights To See Along the Great Ocean Road

This will take up the bulk of the Great Ocean Road travel guide.

Because, of course, the sights are the whole point! Here are all my favorite sights and places to stop.

1. Bells Beach

Right at the start of the Great Ocean Road near Torquay is Bells Beach.

This is a world-famous surfing beach, so you can watch the amazing surfers shred the waves or get out there yourself if you’re brave enough!

About 45 minutes down the road from Bells Beach is Lorne, a charming and quaint town.

Lorne’s town center has a few nice cafes, an art gallery and a sculpture park.

Around Lorne you can also find great surfing beaches, forest walking trails, lookout points, and waterfalls.

3. Sheoak Falls

Just after leaving Lorne you’ll see signs for Sheoak Falls off the right side of the road.

Pull over, hike about 20 minutes through the forest, and you’ll find a beautiful waterfall.

If you want, you can continue following the woodland path to see some cool rock formations and more waterfalls.

4. Kennett River

Everyone wants to see koalas on the Great Ocean Road, and Kennett River is the best place to go to ensure you see at least a few.

Koalas pop up unexpectedly throughout Victoria, but there are almost always some in the tall trees in Kennett River.

You can park your car anywhere and walk or drive slowly up Grey River Road . Keep your eyes peeled for the fuzzy gray bodies of koalas that might be sleeping or eating in the trees.

5. Apollo Bay

Apollo Bay is one of the most popular stops along the Great Ocean Road.

It has a long and gorgeous beach, a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, and it is surrounded by scenic, rolling green hills.

Mariner’s Lookout offers a stunning view over the entire bay, and it is open from 6 am to 10 pm.

6. Great Otway National Park

This is one of the few sections of the Great Ocean Road where the road curves away from the ocean.

Here, the road heads inland for a bit, cutting through the lush forest of Great Otway National Park.

To see some of the thriving and almost tropical jungle, take a few detours off the road to absorb the greenery.

Drive towards the coast on Lighthouse Road and stop at Cape Otway Lighthouse, or drive inland towards Beech Forest along Binns Road and admire all the massive palms and towering trees.

Or to get the legs moving you can do the 30-minute boardwalk loop called Maits Rest Rainforest Walk .

7. Castle Cove Lookout

After passing the rainforest when the road starts to lean back toward the ocean, make sure to stop at Castle Cove Lookout.

You’ll see the sign for the lookout on the left side of the road, and there is a small area to park your car.

It’s just a short walk to a viewing platform, but the view overlooking the cliffs, golden sand and the turquoise ocean is breathtaking.

Read next: Sydney To Melbourne Road Trip Guide

8. Twelve Apostles

As the most famous stop along the Great Ocean Road, the Twelve Apostles is definitely the most crowded and touristy place on this trip.

But you can’t miss it; the Twelve Apostles truly are beautiful and there are lots of amazing lookout spots and photo opportunities in the area.

Just follow the walking track as it curves around the headland and you’ll see lots of different viewpoints.

Word of advice: We showed up at the Twelve Apostles around 4pm, and the sun was directly overhead and we could barely see/photograph the famous scene. The other viewpoints, where the sun was behind us, looked gorgeous.

We actually went back to the Twelve Apostles at sunset to see it better, so I recommend visiting this spot in the morning or in the evening for better views.

9. Loch Ard Gorge

This was definitely my favorite stop along the Great Ocean Road.

The Loch Ard Gorge consists of two massive cliffs that curve around a small bay where you can swim in the cold, refreshing water.

There were quite a few tourists, but most of them weren’t actually swimming so Matt and I felt like we had the bay to ourselves when we swam out.

There are also stalactites hanging around the edges of the gorge and there are a few viewpoints atop the cliffs where you can see the gorge from above.

10. The Razorback

In the same car park as Loch Ard Gorge, there is another pathway leading to the Razorback.

This is an interesting collection of rugged cliffs and rocks in the ocean, one of which is long and sharp like a razorback.

11. Port Campell

This charming town is a lovely place to eat, refuel, and even camp overnight while traveling along the Great Ocean Road.

There is a nice beach, lots of cafes and shops, and an affordable campground with a kitchen and hot showers.

It is conveniently located near the best sights of the Great Ocean Road, so it’s an ideal place to stop and take a break from driving.

12. The Arch

For yet another incredible photo opportunity, pull over on the left side of the road following signs for The Arch.

Here you’ll find a massive natural rock formation shaped like an arch that juts out into the crashing waves.

13. London Bridge

This stop along the Great Ocean Road is quite similar to the Arch, but the curved rock formation is completely surrounded by the sea.

It is so interesting to see how these independent rocks used to be attached to the cliff face many years ago.

Most of these majestic sights along this section of the Great Ocean Road were created because of erosion, when massive chunks of cliff broke away from the land over time and slowly drifted out to sea.

14. Bay of Islands Coastal Park

Just past the town of Peterborough is the Bay of Islands Coastal Park. where the rugged, wild coastal scenery continues for 32 kilometers.

There are plenty of lookout points where you can marvel at the mingling of crashing waves with sharp, unique cliffs and rocks, and there are a few nice beaches as well including the Three Mile Beach .

The Bay of Martyrs is a highlight of the Bay of Islands Coastal Park and the Great Ocean Road.

Beautiful beaches and more odd rock formations fill your view, and there are significantly fewer tourists here than elsewhere along the road.

Read next: 25 Best Things To Do In Sydney

Great Ocean Road Travel Guide Wrap-Up

Thanks for reading my Great Ocean Road travel guide!

I loved that all the sights are natural, so there are no opening or closing times and you can explore by your own schedule.

We turned around and drove home after the Bay of Islands, but the road does continue quite a ways and there are plenty more things to see.

For a full list of everything along the Great Ocean Road, as well as more tourist information, check out the official website!

If you are  traveling to Australia , you will need a tourist visa! Visit iVisa.com to apply for your visa online.

For more inspiration about places to travel in Australia, check out these articles!

10 Amazing Things To Do In Tropical North Queensland

22 Fun Things To Do In Brisbane

Best Things To Do In The Royal National Park: Sydney, Australia

East Coast Australia Road Trip Guide (Noosa To Sydney)

10 Amazing Day Hikes In The Blue Mountains

This post may contain affiliate links. Read more about this in my About Me page!

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Twelve Apostles, Great Ocean Road, Victoria

Guide to the Great Ocean Road

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• Getting to the Great Ocean Road
• When to visit

Experience the rugged beauty along the south-west coast of Victoria by setting off along one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives.

The spectacular Great Ocean Road hugs the seaside cliffs that snake along the wild and windswept Southern Ocean. The striking vistas along the iconic road evoke awe with craggy cliffs, empty beaches and soaring bluffs flanked by brilliant green countryside. Add epic surf, native wildlife, unforgettable hiking and biking trails and you will find plenty of things to see and do around every curve.

Located just over a one-hour drive from Melbourne is Torquay, The Great Ocean Road’s official starting point. To get to here, fly into Melbourne Airport or Avalon Airport and hire a car for an epic self-drive tour. If you don't feel like driving, there are coaches and tour experiences available to pre-book from Melbourne.

• Melbourne Airport (MEL) is located 110km (68mi) from Torquay; domestic and international arrivals
• Avalon Airport (AVL) is located 49km (30mi) from Torquay; domestic and international arrivals
• Hire car options are available at both airports and in central Melbourne

The Great Ocean Road is a scenic experience all year round. However, the best time to drive is during summer as the skies are clear, and you can see the winding cliff faces along the shoreline. 

• High season: Summer (December to February)
• Low Season: Winter (June to August)

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Get expert help from an aussie specialist who has the knowledge and experience to help you plan and book every detail of your trip., discover australia.

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We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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4 Day Great Ocean Road Itinerary

February 17, 2021 //  by  Mae-Gene //   Leave a Comment

Why, hello there! This post might contain affiliate links, which means I earn a commission (at no extra cost to you!) if you purchase from them. 

As someone who grew up in Melbourne, visiting the Great Ocean Road was a huge part of my childhood travels. This road trip was a favorite of my family’s and we would take family members who were visiting from overseas.

Along the Great Ocean Road, you’ll find the famous 12 Apostles (a collection of limestone rock formations that line the coast) and also endless coastal lookouts and beaches.  

This 4 day Great Ocean Road itinerary highlights the most picturesque parts of this famous road trip. This guide is not only based on my recent visit to the Great Ocean Road, but also on my childhood experiences!

Table of contents

Where is the great ocean road, how to visit the great ocean road, when to visit the great ocean road, where to stay on the great ocean road, the best great ocean road drive itinerary, day 1: lorne and drive to apollo bay, day 2: exploring great otway national park, day 3: the 12 apostles and surrounds, day 4: drive back to melbourne.

Psst: At the time of writing this (February 2021), the Great Ocean Road is a fantastic holiday destination for locals, especially given the drop in international tourist numbers. If you’re in Australia and on the lookout for a local road trip, the Great Ocean Road deserves a top spot – we are likely never going to be able to visit this place with such small crowds!

The Great Ocean Road is a stretch of road along Victoria’s south-west coast, between the towns of Torquay and Allanford. The beginning of the Great Ocean Road is about a 1 hr 20min drive from Melbourne, located just past Geelong. 

Don’t let this apparent closeness to Melbourne fool you though – the Great Ocean Road is 243 km long, and if you were to drive it in one go (without stopping) it would take you 3 hrs 40 min. 

The best way to see the Great Ocean Road is via car. While there are many places in this world that don’t need a car rental, this road trip is not one of them! If you can’t drive, you can go on a tour (there are mostly day tours from Melbourne)

This Great Ocean Road itinerary assumes that you have a car as many of the hikes, lookout points and waterfalls are not accessible via public transport.

Alternatively, there are buses that visit this part of Victoria , but I wouldn’t recommend it unless you are very patient or are unable to go on a tour or drive. 

The Great Ocean Road route is a year-round destination, however, I think it is best visited during the warmer months like summer or spring. Autumn would also be a great time to visit! 

Winter in this part of Victoria can be really cold, especially since you’re so exposed on the coast. On clear sunny days, however, I’d imagine it would be really beautiful and quiet. But if you can only visit in winter, don’t let that deter you as “bad” weather can make for dramatic views. 

There are so many places and towns you can stay at along the Great Ocean Road route. Given the long drive, I recommend spending 1 night in Apollo Bay (or nearby Apollo Bay) and 2 nights in Port Campbell. 

Apollo Bay is a convenient tourist town with lots of food and accommodation options. Port Campbell is a bit smaller, but its location is perfect as it’s only a 10-minute drive from the 12 Apostles.

I recommend staying in Port Campbell not only so you can rest after a long drive, but after all the day-trippers have left, you will have this part of the Great Ocean Road all to yourself!

Where to stay in Apollo Bay:

• Budget-friendly: Marengo Beach Studio

Mid-range: Contemporary Hillside Villa

Treat yourself: Little Beach House or Hideaway Cottage

Where to stay in Port Campbell:

• Budget-friendly: 29 on Pitcher

Mid-range: The Lobster Shack Port Campbell

This Great Ocean Road itinerary is based on my own experiences visiting this part of Victoria and is also influenced by my many family holidays I’ve taken here.

I recommend spending at least 3 – 4 days road tripping The Great Ocean Road, any less and you’ll feel too rushed!

Day 1: Explore Lorne and drive to Apollo Bay

Day 2: Explore the Great Otway National Park

Day 3: Visit the 12 Apostles and surrounds

Read on for the best places to visit on the Great Ocean Road 🙂

This day is mainly for driving and visting various spots along the way to Apollo Bay. I’d recommend visiting the coastal town of Lorne (a popular weekend holiday destination for Melbournians) and stopping by the Kennett River Koala Walk to see if you can spot a Koala!

Psst: we weren’t lucky on our visit to Kennett River as we didn’t see any Koalas as the road was closed for road works . But if you manage to see any leave me a comment below and let me know!

There are various lookouts I’d recommend, like the Point Addis Cliffs, Teddy’s Lookout, and the Cape Patton Lookout for incredible coastal views. The Split Point Lighthouse is also worth a visit and many Australians will recognize this lighthouse from the popular kid’s TV show Round the Twist!

Things to do on the drive to Apollo Bay:  

• Enjoy the views at Point Addis Cliffs 
• Visit Split Point Lighthouse (the filming location of Round the Twist)
• Drive through and even photograph the Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch (there’s a car park just to the left of this memorial arch)
• Try to spot a Koala at the Kennett River Koala Walk
• Enjoy the views at Teddys Lookout (my favorite lookout near Lorne)
• Hike down to Erskine Falls
• Enjoy the views at Cape Patton Lookout

Driving time: 2 hr 45 min Melbourne to Apollo Bay

Where to stay: Apollo Bay or surrounds (Marengo, nearby to Apollo Bay is a great option if you want to stay somewhere convenient but slightly cheaper options!)

Budget friendly: Marengo Beach Studio

The Great Otway National Park has some of the highest rainfall in Victoria and is famous for its many waterfalls and rainforests. This makes this national park unique in Victoria and is definitely worth a visit when you’re visiting the Great Ocean Road.

When visiting, I’d recommend visiting the Californian Redwood forest (which feels weird, considering you’re in Australia!), Hopetoun Falls, and Triplet Falls. Triplet Falls also has various picnic/seating areas and is a great place to stop and eat lunch.

Psst: also make sure you bring a pair of hiking boots or shoes you don’t mind getting a bit muddy. Many of the hiking paths can get wet and muddy (the Maits Rest Rainforest walk is a 30min boardwalk loop if you’re looking to avoid this)

Things to do at the Great Otway National Park: 

• Visit the giants at the Californian Redwoods forest
• Hike to Hopetoun Falls
• Hike to Triplet Falls
• Take a leisurely walk at the Maits Rest Rainforest Walk (boardwalk loop walk)

Driving time: 1 hr 40 min Apollo Bay to Port Campbell

Where to stay: Port Campbell (this is only a 10-minute drive to the 12 Apostles)

Budget friendly: 29 on Pitcher

Visiting the 12 Apostles is probably the biggest highlight along the Great Ocean Road route. While the name might lead you to believe that there are 12 stacks, there were only 8, to begin with. Today, 7 remain standing, as one collapsed in 2005.

Around this part of the coast, you’ll find various lookouts and opportunities to see these limestone stacks from the beach.

Some highlights include the 12 Apostles Lookout, the Gibson Steps and the Loch Ard Gorge. I especially loved these places at sunset as they were emptier, quieter and the lighting was magical.

Psst: when visiting in January 2021, the lack of international tourists meant this part of the Great Ocean Road which is normally heaving with tourists became a lot quieter. For my fellow Australians, I’d recommend taking advantage of the smaller crowds while we can!

Things to do at the 12 Apostles:  

• Enjoy the views from the 12 Apostles Lookout
• Walk down the Gibson Steps and enjoy the views from the beach (make sure you visit at low tide only!)
• Enjoy sunset views at the Loch Ard Gorge and see limestone caves while you’re there
• See the cool rock formations at the Razorback
• Enjoy the views from Tom & Eva Lookout
• See the waves crash at Thunder Cave

Driving time: 10 min drive from Port Campbell

Where to stay: Port Campbell

If you have time, there are a couple of quieter spots further along from the 12 Apostles on the Great Ocean Road route. These lookout areas are not as busy but nonetheless have incredible coastal views.

Extra things to do on the Great Ocean Road:

• Enjoy the views at The Arch
• Seeing the London Bridge (now collapsed, but still worth seeing!)
• The Grotto which is a sinkhole
• Seeing the coastal views at Halladale Point
• Seeing the Bay of Islands
• Enjoying the small lagoon at Childers Cove

Psst: you can visit these places on your 3rd day, or if you run out of time, visit them on your 4th day.

Driving time: 30 min from Port Campbell to Childers Cove (furtherest place from Port Campbell on this list above)

Since we’ve come a long way from Melbourne, day 4 is for driving back to Melbourne! I’d recommend driving inland to save time, unless you want to re-visit places along the coast.

If you have time, Warrnambool (which is just past the “official” end of the Great Ocean Road) is a town worth visiting. During winter you can go even go whale watching from the coast!

Driving time: 2 hr 45 min from Port Campbell to Melbourne (via the inland Hwy route direct from Port Campbell)

There you have it – my Great Ocean Road itinerary! I hope this was helpful in planning your future trip.

About Mae-Gene Yew

I'm obsessed with eating copious amounts of sushi and hiking in New Zealand. But on most days you can find me in my home city of Melbourne dreaming of my next adventure, working my lil' corner of the internet (this blog!) or gettin' ready to strap on my hiking boots. Read more...

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Beyond Wild Places

Your guide to the wilder side of life

The Great Ocean Road: A Guide to the Ultimate Road Trip

The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most popular road trips. The winding coastal drive goes for 243km from Torquay to Allansford along the southwest coast of Victoria. The combination of spectacular coastal scenery and dense rainforests of the Great Otway National Park make it one of the most beautiful regions in Australia. 

I’ve spent weeks exploring this part of Victoria in my van. I’ve driven up and down the Great Ocean Road numerous times stopping at both the popular attractions and lesser-known spots on the way. It’s such a great solo adventure and is the perfect place to get out and enjoy some nature, whether you’re on your own or with a group of friends.

There’s plenty of information out there for planning your road trip along the Great Ocean Road, but I’ve compiled this guide from my own experience camping and driving along the famous coastal road. This guide is aimed at people who are planning a self-drive trip, with plenty of tips and information on the best places to stop and things to see along the way. 

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links which means I get a commission if you buy a product through my link at no extra cost to you. By doing so, I can keep this blog going and continue to create helpful guides for you. Read more:  Privacy Policy

Self-Driving the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is best explored in your own vehicle or a hired one . The freedom of self-driving the Great Ocean Road means that you can stop whenever you like and visit whichever sights and attractions you want to see.

If you need to hire a car or want to hire a campervan, basic rates can start at $49 per day, but you’ll also have to factor in insurance coverage and fuel.

When planning a trip along the Great Ocean Road, keep in mind that there are many sights off the main road and side trips are often required to get the best out of your trip. Not all of the best things to do on the Great Ocean Road are actually on the coast either, with plenty of inland attractions and beautiful spots in the Great Otway National Park too.

Great Ocean Road Itinerary

The Great Ocean Road spans more than 240km and begins in Torquay, which is located just 90 minutes southwest of Melbourne. With this in mind, you can easily tackle a road trip down the Great Ocean Road and back to the city over a  two-day weekend . However, the longer you have the more you can see, so it’s best to think about all the things you want to do rather than just look at the distance on a map. There’s plenty of things to see to keep you busy for days.

An ideal Great Ocean Road itinerary is over  four to five days , but you could easily spend much longer than that if you have the time. Travelling west from the city, some of the popular overnight stops are Torquay, Lorne, Apollo Bay and Port Campbell. If you plan an overnight stay in or around each of those towns, you would be able to check out all of the highlights and even some of the less-visited spots too. Here’s how you could break your Great Ocean Road trip down into sections (from east/right to west/left):

Of course, you can also stay in some of the smaller towns on the road including Aireys Inlet, Kennett River and Wye River. At the same time, many of the free bush camps are inland further and require a bit of a detour.

Great Ocean Road Accommodation

If you’re hiring a campervan or packing camping gear into your car, the Great Ocean Road is a great place to go camping along the way. There is everything from free camps in the bush to paid public campgrounds and caravan parks for those looking for more comfortable amenities. If you’re interested in camping along the Great Ocean Road, check out my post on  15 of the best campsites on the Great Ocean Road .

If camping isn’t your ‘thing’ then there are literally hundreds (maybe even thousands!?) of places to stay in the pretty coastal towns. You can find hostels and B&Bs to waterfront guesthouses and luxury hotels with something to suit every budget. You can find some of my recommendations in my post on the 12 most unique places to stay on the Great Ocean Road , or have a browse on  booking.com  for the latest deals.

Budget Travel on the Great Ocean Road

Keep in mind that the Great Ocean Road is  not  the cheapest place to spend time. Being one of the most popular tourist destinations in Victoria, you can expect high prices, especially in the warmer summer months (literally prices can be ridiculous in summer). Even if you opt for camping, it’s not the easiest place to stay overnight on a budget, with strict laws against overnight parking unless in designated camping areas. There are a few  free camps , which you can find in my post on camping on the Great Ocean Road  here .

Cafes, shops, supermarkets and fuel stations are also a little expensive along the Great Ocean Road. However, you can still save some money by  self-catering  with supermarkets and finding cheaper fuel in larger towns. You can certainly still travel on a budget if you plan accordingly and by avoiding the busy Christmas and New Year period, if you can.

Don’t have your own vehicle for the Great Ocean Road?

Self Driving and Camping Tips for the Great Ocean Road

• Cheaper  fuel  stops include Torquay, Apollo Bay and Warrnambool (avoid Lorne and Port Campbell).
• Recreation Reserves  offer the best value for overnight camping spots. You can get powered sites for as little as $20 outside of the Christmas-New Year holiday period and most are located right in town.
• Some  caravan parks  have limited reception hours and gates at the entrance so it’s best to pre-book by calling through or booking online  here .
• The Great Ocean Road and other roads in the Otway National Park are very windy and skinny in places with a  high risk  of wildlife crossing, so be aware of other cars and animals on the road. For this reason, it’s best not to drive at night. 
• The section from  Aireys Inlet to Apollo Bay  is the most spectacular section of the Great Ocean Road and is when the road hugs the edge of the coast.
• All the  free camps  are in the bush of the Otways and require a detour off the Great Ocean Road. If you want to stay near the ocean, it’s best to opt for paid public campgrounds and caravan parks.
• You need to  book ahead  for accommodation and campsites in summer and on long weekends throughout the year. Otherwise, mid-week for most of the year and weekends in the cooler months are quiet and easy to book on the day of travel.
• Use the  WikiCamps app  to search for a variety of campsites and caravan parks with reviews, amenities and prices to help you decide where to stay.

Must See Places on the Great Ocean Road

There are plenty of things to do on the Great Ocean Road. When you first start looking at the list of attractions and things to see in the region, it can seem a bit overwhelming with everything from waterfalls to surf beaches to lighthouses. However, you can easily stop by many of the highlights in just a few days, with some of them not too far away from each other. 

Driving from east to west, here are the must-see towns and best things to do on the Great Ocean Road to help you plan your trip.

Distance from Melbourne:  104km or 90 minute drive

The official start of the Great Ocean Road is in Torquay, just 22km south of Geelong. This trendy surf village with great shops and cafes has expanded over the last couple of decades into a major town. It’s certainly a more bustling place than the smaller coastal towns further west, but it’s considered the home of Australian surfing making it a must-see stop.

One of the most popular things to do in Torquay is to hit the shops at  Surf City Plaza . This precinct on the Surf Coast Highway is home to major stores of many of Australia’s iconic surfing brands including Rip Curl, Roxy and Oakley. The real appeal lies down the side street beside the plaza where you can find the factory outlets and spend hours rummaging through seconds and last season’s clothes at discounted prices. 

If you want to hit the water and  learn to surf , Torquay is one of the best places to do it in Victoria. You can check out this two-hour group surf lesson  here  which is perfect for beginners.

Read next: A Weekend Guide to Torquay

Where to stay in Torquay

Desa Retreat Ecovillas | Located in Jan Juc, just a few kilometres away from Torquay centre, these self-catering eco villas are the perfect luxury escape. You can even walk to Bells Beach from the property. Check the latest prices  here .

Bells Beach

Distance from Torquay:  7km or 10 minute drive

Considered the home of surfing in Australia, Bells Beach has a spot in the heart of most Victorians, even non-surfers. The  famous surf beach  outside of Torquay is one of the most popular spots on the surf coast and is a must-see for any visitor. 

You can find surfers out catching some breaks year-round. The long strip of surf is actually home to a number of breaks including Winki Pop, Southside and Steps. There are some great lookouts along the cliffs and even the main car park offers a vantage point from where you can watch local surfers for hours. 

If you visit on the Easter long weekend, the world-famous  Rip Curl Pro surf comp  takes place at Bells and draws pro surfers from all over the world. This is when Torquay is at its busiest and you need to plan your time here months in advance if you want to catch a glimpse of the competition. 

Point Addis Marine National Park

Distance from Torquay:  14km or 20 minute drive

Point Addis National Park is known for its spectacular sandstone cliffs and sandy beaches with epic surfing spots. It’s located between Torquay and Anglesea on the Great Ocean Road. To get the best view of the surf coast, the  Point Addis Boardwalk  offers an incredible panorama in both directions and is best enjoyed at sunset. 

Near the boardwalk, you can also get access down to  Point Addis Beach , which is extremely popular on warm summer days. You’ll often find the limited car parking on the point overflowing with people parking just about anywhere down the road.

Aireys Inlet

Distance from Torquay:  28km or 25 minute drive

Aireys Inlet is a popular seaside getaway between Anglesea and Lorne. It’s a great spot for budding surfers with plenty of great beaches nearby including the well-known  Fairhaven Beach . 

It’s also home to the iconic  Split Point Lighthouse , which was the filming location for the 90s kid’s TV show ‘Round the Twist’ (if you’re an Aussie millennial you’ll know it!). The lighthouse offers an incredible view across the coast and is a great spot to catch the sunset if you’re staying nearby. Or enjoy a 30 minute tour of the lighthouse, if you want to go inside and learn more about its history.

Memorial Arch

Distance from Aireys Inlet:  5.5km or 6 minute drive

If you want to prove to your social media following that you’ve been to the Great Ocean Road, this is a must-see stop. The Memorial Arch is dedicated to the soldiers who built the road after WWI and has become a favourite photo spot for visitors. There’s a dedicated parking area to the left of the wooden arch and plenty of room around it but be careful when taking photos as the Great Ocean Road runs right under it with traffic passing all year round.

Distance from Aireys Inlet:  18km or 20 minute drive

Lorne is certainly the most popular and coolest spot on the Great Ocean Road. The trendy coastal town has plenty of boutique shops and fancy cafes along the main street. The beach in front of town is often packed with visitors on weekends and accommodation can be expensive and hard to come by in summer. But, a stop here for lunch is still an essential thing to do on the Great Ocean Road and there are plenty of things to do nearby.

Things to Do in Lorne

Erskine Falls  | By far the most visited waterfall in the Otway National Park, Erskine Falls is a 30-metre cascade which is widely considered one of the most picture-perfect waterfalls in Australia. The car park is just 9km from Lorne and a short walk will take you to the first lookout spot across the falls. If you continue down the steps, you can reach the bottom viewpoint which is the best vantage point for a photo. 

Lower Kalimna Falls  | This unique waterfall does not have a spectacular amount of water but its a pretty little waterfall that spills over a rock ledge that you can walk behind. The trail also continues up to Upper Kalimna Falls which is a 15m cascade of water. It’s an 8km return hike through beautiful forest from the Sheoak Picnic Area.

Teddy’s Lookout  | A short drive out of Lorne town and to the end of George Street, you can find Teddy’s Lookout. A short walk from the car park offers a beautiful panorama across where the St George River meets the ocean with the Great Ocean Road snaking around the coastline. It’s easily one of the best and most popular viewpoints in the region.

Sheoak Falls | One of the best waterfalls near Lorne, it’s located just off the Great Ocean Road 6km from Lorne. You can do the short 1km return trail from the main car park, or try the longer walk from Sheoak Picnic Area for a 7km return walk. It’s an impressive 15m high tumble of water over a rocky escarpment.

Henderson Falls | This hidden gem near Lorne is accessed via a 3.6km return walk. Along the way you’ll also pass Won Wondah Falls and you can even continue further onto Phantom Falls, for a longer walk via The Canyon.

Phantom Falls | This impressive waterfall is a peaceful spot to sit next to the river and listen to the thundering water. This can be accessed via a 3.5km return trail from Allenvale Campground.

Read more: Best Walks on the Great Ocean Road

Where to Stay in Lorne

Lorne Bush House Cottages and Eco Retreats | A great property just 3km out of Lorne which has a range of self-catering cottages and safari-style glamping tents for a more unique stay. Check the latest prices  here .

Kennett River

Distance from Lorne:  23k or 30 minute drive

The Great Ocean Road is home to plenty of native wildlife, but one of the real highlights is the chance of encountering a  koala  in the wild. The region has one of the largest koala populations left in Australia and Kennett River is considered one of the best places to spot one.

Kennett River is a small town on the Great Ocean Road between Lorne and Apollo Bay. The most popular spot to see koalas is  Grey River Road , which is often crowded with cars, buses and tourists on foot, so it’s not hard to miss. I actually had more luck spotting koalas outside of Lorne near Sharps Campground, and they’re also common along the Cape Otway road. 

Reminder:  Do  not  feed, touch, pester or harass any of the animals that you see along the Great Ocean Road. Their environment is already fragile enough from visitors and overdevelopment.

Distance from Lorne:  46km or 1 hour drive

Apollo Bay is a laidback coastal town on the Great Ocean Road. In my opinion, it is one of the best towns to spend the night and is ideally located as a base for seeing some of the highlights of the region. The town itself is situated on a sandy bay with a long stretch of beach that is perfect for swimming and sunbaking. You also have access to a fuel station, supermarkets and plenty of choices of accommodation in town.

You should head up to  Marriner’s Lookout , a short drive from town and a five-minute walk up from the car park. From there you can enjoy views right across Apollo Bay. It’s most popular at sunset time.

The town is also the starting point of the  Great Ocean Walk , a 104km long-distance walk that takes you all the way to the Twelve Apostles. Read my guide to the Great Ocean Walk  here .

Where to stay in Apollo Bay

Marengo Holiday Park | One of the best caravan parks on the Great Ocean Road, this ideally located park is right on the edge of the bay in Marengo. They have cabins as well as powered and unpowered sites for camping. Check the latest prices  here .

Apollo Bay Eco YHA | This great eco-hostel is just a two-minute walk from the town centre. They have great hostel amenities and offer double rooms, family rooms and dorm rooms. Check the latest prices  here .

Read next: Best Sunset Spots on the Great Ocean Road

Distance from Apollo Bay:  17km or 15 minute drive

A self-guided rainforest walk at Maits Rest is often high on any list of things to do on the Great Ocean Road. At first I had low expectations for the short 800m boardwalk through the dense rainforest, however, I was incredibly surprised. The beautiful rainforest in this part of the Otways includes lush ferns and giant trees that are up to 300 years old.  

The trail is a gentle 800m walk with plenty of parking at the car park, just 15 minutes outside of Apollo Bay.

Beech Forest

Distance from Apollo Bay:  38km or 50 minute drive

You could easily spend your entire time on the Great Ocean Road chasing waterfalls. Inland from the coast and in the heart of the Otway National Park, you can find numerous waterfalls to visit. The most popular and picturesque ones can be found around Beech Forest, which is a decent detour off the Great Ocean Road, 19km from Lavers Hill.

If you’re heading to the waterfalls from Apollo Bay, you’ll likely head back to Skenes Creek and along the skinny yet spectacular drive of C159 Turtons Track. In parts it’s only wide enough for a single car, but the towering forest is incredible.

Things to Do Near Beech Forest

Triplet Falls  | A 2km loop trail takes you through the Otways to various viewpoints of the stunning three cascades of Triplet Falls. It’s one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the region and the car park is accessed via Phillips Track. 

Hopetoun Falls  | A plummeting waterfall in a serene forest setting, Hopetoun is often considered people’s favourite falls in the Otways. It’s located off Binns Road, not far from the Redwood Forest and requires a 20-minute return walk to get to the bottom viewing area.

Redwood Forest  | This beautiful spot was once a hidden gem in the Otways but has since become a popular place to visit. It’s conveniently a few minutes down the road from Hopetoun Falls. You can wander through the tall trees, which make you feel like you’re on the set of a fairytale.

Beauchamp Falls  | A pretty 20m high waterfall in the Otways, Beauchamp is in the middle of surrounding mountain ash forest. You can access a viewing platform for the falls via a 2.6km return path from the car park that is located off Binns Road.

Otway Fly Treetop Adventures | This is a popular place to visit for families, which includes an awesome 2km treetop walk and zip line tour. It’s conveniently down Phillips Track on the way to Triplet Falls.

Read more: Best Waterfalls on the Great Ocean Road

Distance from Apollo Bay:  33km or 35 minute drive

The Cape Otway Light Station is considered the oldest working lighthouse in Victoria. It has guided ships along the Southern Ocean coastline since 1848 and is open to visitors. You can explore the lighthouse precinct from 10am until 5pm with an entry ticket. There’s also a café on-site and souvenir shop. For a completely unique experience, you can stay at the lighthouse with accommodation available at the lightkeeper’s cottage and lodge. 

Cape Otway is also on the  Great Ocean Walk  trail. If you don’t plan on doing the full 104km thru-hike, you can opt for day hikes with popular options including the section from Cape Otway to Blanket Bay.

Johanna Beach

Distance from Apollo Bay:  44km or 45 minute drive

An underrated spot on the Great Ocean Road is Johanna Beach. This  surf beach  is popular with experienced surfers who come for its powerful swells that can be even better than Bells at certain times. It’s also on the Great Ocean Walk trail and is the best campsite of the whole 104km walk. 

Although there’s not actually a whole lot of appeal if you’re not a surfer or walker, the  public campground  at the beach is still a great spot to spend the night. It offers a great place to enjoy a more secluded section of the coast, although you’ll always find other campers there. You can find the beach via Red Johanna Road off the Great Ocean Road. There are also some great accommodation options around Johanna Beach for those looking for a relaxing and comfortable stay.

Where to stay near Johanna Beach

Johanna River Farm and Cottages | Just a five-minute drive from Johanna Beach, this working farm has a couple of self-catering cottages suitable for couples and families. Check the latest prices  here .

Glen Tara Cottage | For ultimate luxury, this stunning, two-bedroom cottage overlooks the surrounding valley and is just a short walk from the beach. Check the latest prices  here .

Port Campbell

Distance from Apollo Bay:  97km or 80 minute drive

Port Campbell National Park  is the world-famous section of the Great Ocean Road that includes the wind and wave-sculpted rock formations of the Twelve Apostles. The national park stretches from Princetown to Peterborough for 33km of the Great Ocean Road and has numerous stops and lookouts along the way. The small coastal town of Port Campbell is the central base for exploring this part of the road and is also a delightful town to stay in for the night. 

Port Campbell has a calm beach in town and a small strip of shops with plenty of nice cafes and a general store. There’s also a  Port Campbell Discovery Walk  which starts in town and heads up to a beautiful lookout and beyond for 4.5km return. 

Where to Stay in Port Campbell

Port Campbell Recreation Reserve | This campground is a great budget option for those with camping setups or campervans. They have a number of powered and unpowered sites with good communal cooking and bathroom facilities available. Check their website  here .

Sea Foam Villas | For a bit more comfort and luxury, these villas are located right in town looking over Port Campbell beach. They have a range of options from standard villas up to three-bedroom apartments. Check the latest prices  here .

Things to Do in Port Campbell National Park

Gibson Steps and Gibson Beach  | Gibson Steps is a popular scenic lookout above Gibson Beach which has beautiful views across the dramatic cliffs towards the Twelve Apostles. From the car park, you can also head down to the beach for a different perspective.

Twelve Apostles  | The most famous sight on the Great Ocean Road and often the poster child for Victoria’s tourism industry, the 12 Apostles are limestone stacks that are stranded off the coast. There aren’t 12, but it’s still worth a stop to take a walk along the boardwalk to various viewpoints. There is a huge visitor centre and car park there to cater to all the visitors. It’s busy most of the year, so sunrise or sunset is ideal if you want to avoid the day trip crowds and the colours of the sky make this the best time to view the sea stacks.

Loch Ard Gorge  | This has emerged as the second most popular stop after the 12 Apostles. This incredibly beautiful gorge of crumbling cliffs has become an Insta-famous photo stop. You can simply view the gorge and small sandy beach from above or head down to the beach itself. Don’t make the mistake of just heading straight for the main gorge though, with a few other viewpoints accessible via short boardwalks from the car park. 

The Arch  | Just west of Port Campbell town, this natural rock arch has impressive waves crashing below and is worth a quick stop.

London Bridge  | Just down the road, you’ll find the London Bridge. This is a limestone archway that was once connected to the mainland, but has been stranded out to sea due to erosion. The large, boarded viewpoint area has beautiful views of the coastline in both directions.

The Grotto  | A unique sinkhole and hollowed-out cave which has created a window out to sea. It’s just a short walk down some stairs to see the view through the cave. Do not cross the barrier and try to enter the rockpools (this can be dangerous and yes, I saw a couple doing this!). 

Bay of Martyrs  | If you’re willing to keep driving a bit further than most people, then you’ll come to the Bay of Martyrs inside the Bay of Islands Coastal Park near Peterborough. From the footpath that traces the bay, you can get incredible views across the group of stacked rocks out to sea. It’s particularly beautiful at sunset.

Childers Cove | One of my favourite hidden gems on the Great Ocean Road, further on from Bay of Islands is Murnane Bay and Childers Cove. These stunning coves offer a relaxing beach to enjoy without the crowds. It’s very similar to Loch Ard Gorge but with far less people.

Where to Next?

If you make it to Peterborough or even the official end of the Great Ocean Road in Allansford, where do you go next? 

CONTINUE ALONG THE COAST | If you keep heading through Warrnambool, you’ll find plenty more beautiful beaches and seaside towns. Port Fairy, west of Warrnambool, is a beautiful town where you can spend a few days away from the crowds of Lorne and Apollo Bay. Check out my weekend guide to Port Fairy here .

HEAD INLAND | If you have plenty of time and are keen to keep road tripping through Victoria, then another option is to head north to the  Grampians . From Allansford at the western end of the Great Ocean Road, you’re only 105km or 75 minutes away from Dunkeld, the main town at the southern end of the Grampians National Park.  Read my guide to the Grampians   here .

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[…] A Guide to the Ultimate Road Trip on the Great Ocean Road […]

[…] in one of the state’s most visited areas. The trail takes you past some of the highlights of the Great Ocean Road, and through some of the more remote parts of the Otway National […]

[…] somewhere amongst nature to enjoy a night under the stars. The famous scenic drive known as the Great Ocean Road offers plenty of places to stop and spend the night either next to the ocean or in the dense Great […]

[…] didn’t make it to South Australia until the start of May, as I enjoyed the coastal life along the Great Ocean Road for far longer than expected. I then spent all of May and half of June in the Flinders Ranges […]

[…] However, Mt Gambier is also known for its own unique attractions, including sinkholes, caves and crater lakes. The town is right at the centre of an ancient volcanic landscape with plenty of things to see and do that you won’t find anywhere else in Australia. It’s the perfect place to spend a few days on your journey between Melbourne and Adelaide, which is exactly why I stopped here after exploring the Great Ocean Road. […]

[…] the best beaches in Victoria, including the iconic Bells Beach. It also marks the beginning of the Great Ocean Road, making it a popular destination for surfers, tourists and all round beach […]

[…] farming towns in the Wimmera Mallee region and these painted silos have done the trick. While the Great Ocean Road gets the crowds, the Silo Art Trail is the perfect excuse for a road trip into Victoria’s much […]

[…] just beyond the Great Ocean Road drive, it’s a convenient weekend escape from the city. This guide will help you discover all […]

[…] doing five trips down the Great Ocean Road in the last two years, I’ve slowly worked my way to most of the falls and cascades around […]

[…] the sunset somewhere on the Great Ocean Road is a must for any road trip enthusiast in Victoria. The incredible coastal drive has some stunning […]

[…] Did you know? There’s also a Redwood Forest down the Great Ocean Road, find out where here. […]

[…] in a couple more trips in the Hiace between lockdowns in Victoria, including to Wilsons Prom and Great Ocean Road. In 2021, I didn’t want to get stuck home any longer, so I took the Hiace and left in March for […]

[…] From the Great Ocean Road | The Grampians are located directly north of the Great Ocean Road. The park can be reached by a two-hour drive from the Twelve Apostles lookout to Dunkeld in the Southern Grampians. It’s common to combine a road trip to the Grampians with the Great Ocean Road. Read my guide to road tripping the Great Ocean Road here. […]

[…] Ultimate Road Trip on the Great Ocean Road […]

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Great Ocean Road Campervan Itinerary & Full Trip Guide

• 6th February 2024
• 5 minute read

The Great Ocean Road is 664 kilometres (413 miles) of breathtaking highway that undulates along Australia’s wild, southeastern coastline. The stretch of road is renowned for its rugged cliffs, seaside towns and stunning scenery with plenty of opportunity to hike, surf and spot wildlife.

The road begins in Torquay, winds past the Twelve Apostles, through the Great Otway National Park and finishes in Warrnambool or Port Fairy. The journey can be as quick as a day trip, but multiple days are recommended. Create an agenda to suit your timetable with this comprehensive Great Ocean Road campervan itinerary…

Table of Contents

Points of interest (overview), itineraries, campervan rental, how many days do you need for the great ocean road, where do i start on the great ocean road.

Don’t have time to read this now?  Pin this blog for later .

Great Ocean Road Campervan Itinerary

What would you like to see? There is an abundance of great places to visit along the Great Ocean Road, depending on your interests and time constraints. Planning an itinerary for your road trip can be overwhelming, but this overview of each point of interest will aid the process of creating the perfect blend.

Situated on the picturesque Surf Coast, Torquay is the first stop from Melbourne , serving as the gateway to the iconic Great Ocean Road. With a relaxed seaside ambience, the town is a haven for surfing enthusiasts.

Recommendations – National Surfing Museum , Bells Beach , Bells Beach Brewing

Potential Activities – Take a Surf Lesson

A visit to Lorne is a must for every passing road-tripper because of the town’s charming atmosphere and wide array of recreational offerings. On the other hand, if you time your drive perfectly, Lorne is the perfect pitstop to dive into some illustrious fresh food for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Recommendations – Memorial Arch , Ipsos , Swingbridge Cafe , Teddy’s Lookout , Jebbs Pool , Upper Kalimna Falls , Erskine Falls

Potential Activities – Live Wire Park

Kennett River

Kennett River is renowned for its abundant wildlife, and in particular, its population of native koalas. Take a stroll through the forests or along the river to spot the gentle creatures dozing in the trees above. Some visitors mightn’t even need to walk any further than the cafe as there can often be a friendly koala hanging out within view of the popular pitstop.

Recommendations – Kennett River Nature Walk , Kafe Koala

Located (basically) halfway along the Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay is a great place to stop whether it be to stock up on groceries, have an evening’s rest or simply for a bite to eat.

Recommendations – Marriner’s Lookout

Potential Activities – Join a Wildlife Walk

Great Otway National Park

Spanning over 100,000 hectares (1,000 kilometres squared) , the Great Otway National Park is home to a variety of ecosystems; from ancient rainforests to rugged coastlines and tranquil waterfalls in between.

Recommendations – Maits Rest Rainforest Walk , Hopetoun Falls , Beauchamp Falls

Potential Activities – Otway Fly Treetop Adventures

Port Campbell National Park

Marvel at the breathtaking landscapes that the forces of nature have sculpted; Port Campbell National Park is a section of back-to-back photo opportunities. From fascinating rock formations to dramatic cliffs, the infamous Twelve Apostles to a cave of thunder… Charge your camera and pop on your windproof jacket before embarking on an awe-inspiring journey through some of Australia’s most captivating natural wonders.

Recommendations – Twelve Apostles & Gibson Steps , Loch Ard Gorge , Thunder Cave , London Bridge , The Grotto , Timboon Railway Shed Distillery

Potential Activities – Skydive over the Twelve Apostles

Peterborough

With an endlessly long sandy beach, the shorefront town of Peterborough offers travellers a glimpse into Australia’s laidback coastal lifestyle.

Recommendations – Bay of Martyrs , Childers Cove

Warrnambool

Being the western gateway, and largest town on the Great Ocean Road, Warrnambool is the first stop for travellers beginning their journey from Adelaide. Overlooking the deep blue of the Southern Ocean, Warrnambool is also a great vantage point to catch a glimpse of the passing Southern Right Whales (from June to October) .

Recommendations – Logan’s Beach Whale Watching Platform , Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve , Hopkins Falls , Thunder Point

Strictly speaking, the Great Ocean Road finishes at Warrnambool, but if you have time, it’s worth keeping your foot on the pedal until the next town along. Port Fairy’s history dates back to the 1800s when the place acted as a whaling station and fishing community. Before then, the area was inhabited for thousands of years by the Gunditjmara people. Today, Port Fairy is a thriving coastal community that welcomes both local and international visitors.

Recommendations – Port Fairy Lighthouse

How many days do you have available for your ideal Great Ocean Road campervan itinerary ?..

Day 1 – Torquay > Apollo Bay (approx. 1.5 hours drive)

Day 2 – Apollo Bay > Port Campbell (approx. 1.5 hours drive)

Day 3 – Port Campbell > Port Fairy (approx. 1.5 hours drive)

Day 1 – Torquay > Lorne (approx. 1 hour drive)

Day 2 – Lorne > Kennett River > Apollo Bay (approx. 1 hour drive)

Day 3 – Apollo Bay > Great Otway National Park (approx. 15-minute drive)

Day 4 – Great Otway National Park > Port Campbell National Park > Peterborough (approx. 1.25 hours drive)

Day 5 – Peterborough > Warrnambool > Port Fairy (approx. 1 hour drive)

Day 4 – Great Otway National Park > Port Campbell National Park (approx. 1 hour drive)

Day 5 – Port Campbell National Park > Peterborough (approx. 20-minute drive)

Day 6 – Peterborough > Warrnambool (approx. 45-minute drive)

Day 7 – Warrnambool > Port Fairy (approx. 30-minute drive)

Choosing your favoured four-wheel to cruise along one of Australia’s most scenic highways is a big decision! With 240 kilometres of winding roads and a rugged coastline, it’s important to find a vehicle that will match your level of adventure. Fortunately, there are plenty of vehicles to choose from and deals to take advantage of!

There are no rentals along the Great Ocean Road itself, but Camplify has a great selection of campervans, caravans and 4WD cars for hire. You will no doubt find a vehicle to match your ambitions, personality and comfort levels.

Are you concerned about the hours of planning and driving? There are many great organised tours of the Great Ocean Road . If you are a solo traveller, you may also benefit from the social aspect of travelling in a group.

Frequently Asked Questions

It’s possible to drive the entire length of the Great Ocean Road in one long day, but the journey is far more enjoyable split across a few days.

The Great Ocean Road begins in Torquay, or Warrnambool if you are travelling in the reverse direction.

Let’s go! @katie.maree

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Follow the Great Ocean Road

EYES steady on the horizon, watching the water-like mirage slithering down the endless road and hurtling along the highway covered with dirt and sticks.

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A speck turns into a blot that turns into a truck that passes with a steering wheel salute and a cloud of dust over the course of a minute.

Gumtrees turn into spinifex then sheep then windmills then a swamp then salt pans then the ocean.

From Newcastle to Sydney, to the Blue Mountains, Canberra, Galore, Balranald, Cadell, Adelaide, Strathalbyn, the Coorong, Dartmoor, Apollo Bay, Pakenham, Melbourne, Bowral, then back on home to Newcastle, it was one hell of a drive.

Not including exploration of individual towns and attempts to find a park in Adelaide, we drove 4033 kilometres (44½ hours of driving) over almost three weeks. Inland to Adelaide, then around the Great Ocean Road and through Melbourne on the way home.

It gets dark at 9.30pm, which gives us plenty of time to reach the campsite and set up, make dinner, eat, settle in and read, with moths flocking to the light of our battery-powered lantern.

Waking to the sound of birds and the heat of the morning sun on the tent, staggering into the light and having a quick dip in the Murrumbidgee with a bar of soap before packing up and moving on to the next wherever.

It's a big country and we only touched an inch of it.

Critics of the Great Ocean Road had warned me it was "a lot of driving through bush with constant stops to get out and walk for ages to a lookout, over and over again".

That isn't really the case. Sure, it's lots of driving. It's a road. But a lot of it is right on the coast, via beautiful and puzzling salt pans, passing dazzling rock formations and often past exciting wildlife.

It's dotted with lookouts, that's true, but the vast majority are easy to get a glimpse of without walking any great distance, with the option to go further afield to get a different view for the more adventurous sightseers.

We drove in my old 2001 Honda Civic hatch with a tent and an esky.

Despite its name, the Civic is actually an excellent road trip car on the 2WD side of things, with heaps of space and excellent fuel efficiency.

Our first night out of Sydney we just folded down the back seats, inflated the air mattress and slept in the hatch.

But most of the time we visited caravancaravan.com.au (a website put together by an enthusiastic grey nomad) and found free campsites close to the highway where we pitched the tent and cooked dinner on a single-burner butane stove.

The free campsites are surprisingly numerous and very well set up, just not in Victoria, where a recent crackdown has led to many of the previously free spaces to charge a fee and require a reservation.

One great spot in Yanga National Park, Balranald, NSW, was completely deserted but for us, on the banks of the Murrumbidgee, with a brand new toilet block and plenty of park tables and benches.

At another campsite we were confronted with a young couple who threw chairs at one another and played dance music at a very inappropriate volume between strangely animated bouts of river fishing.

On one particular day we crossed two state borders on a single tank of petrol, sighting wild emus on the way. I got a fascinating shock one morning when I looked down to find my very first leech sucking on the inside of one of my toes.

A couple of nearby campers lent me their salt and I was amazed and disgusted to discover it really does work.

There were a few setbacks in the form of an unfortunate reversing disaster that resulted in a crushed kettle and a few white-knuckled drives to the petrol station, but they just added to the fun.

It's a beautiful country and I feel lucky to have had the time and companionship that allowed me to see some of it in such a nice way.

All you really need for such a trip is food, water, shelter and an appreciation for this weird old country we live in.

For anyone interested in such things, the trip cost us about $2000 including food, petrol, camp fees and accommodation in Adelaide and Melbourne and a few nights on the town.

Had we stuck to plain old camping, that number would have been significantly lower.

There are so many places left to visit, but we'll have to put them aside until next year.

For now, we're off exploring into environments of the European persuasion, spending a year in Sweden with the in-laws.

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Out of the Centre

Savvino-storozhevsky monastery and museum.

Zvenigorod's most famous sight is the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, which was founded in 1398 by the monk Savva from the Troitse-Sergieva Lavra, at the invitation and with the support of Prince Yury Dmitrievich of Zvenigorod. Savva was later canonised as St Sabbas (Savva) of Storozhev. The monastery late flourished under the reign of Tsar Alexis, who chose the monastery as his family church and often went on pilgrimage there and made lots of donations to it. Most of the monastery’s buildings date from this time. The monastery is heavily fortified with thick walls and six towers, the most impressive of which is the Krasny Tower which also serves as the eastern entrance. The monastery was closed in 1918 and only reopened in 1995. In 1998 Patriarch Alexius II took part in a service to return the relics of St Sabbas to the monastery. Today the monastery has the status of a stauropegic monastery, which is second in status to a lavra. In addition to being a working monastery, it also holds the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum.

Belfry and Neighbouring Churches

Located near the main entrance is the monastery's belfry which is perhaps the calling card of the monastery due to its uniqueness. It was built in the 1650s and the St Sergius of Radonezh’s Church was opened on the middle tier in the mid-17th century, although it was originally dedicated to the Trinity. The belfry's 35-tonne Great Bladgovestny Bell fell in 1941 and was only restored and returned in 2003. Attached to the belfry is a large refectory and the Transfiguration Church, both of which were built on the orders of Tsar Alexis in the 1650s.  

To the left of the belfry is another, smaller, refectory which is attached to the Trinity Gate-Church, which was also constructed in the 1650s on the orders of Tsar Alexis who made it his own family church. The church is elaborately decorated with colourful trims and underneath the archway is a beautiful 19th century fresco.

Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is the oldest building in the monastery and among the oldest buildings in the Moscow Region. It was built between 1404 and 1405 during the lifetime of St Sabbas and using the funds of Prince Yury of Zvenigorod. The white-stone cathedral is a standard four-pillar design with a single golden dome. After the death of St Sabbas he was interred in the cathedral and a new altar dedicated to him was added.

Under the reign of Tsar Alexis the cathedral was decorated with frescoes by Stepan Ryazanets, some of which remain today. Tsar Alexis also presented the cathedral with a five-tier iconostasis, the top row of icons have been preserved.

Tsaritsa's Chambers

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is located between the Tsaritsa's Chambers of the left and the Palace of Tsar Alexis on the right. The Tsaritsa's Chambers were built in the mid-17th century for the wife of Tsar Alexey - Tsaritsa Maria Ilinichna Miloskavskaya. The design of the building is influenced by the ancient Russian architectural style. Is prettier than the Tsar's chambers opposite, being red in colour with elaborately decorated window frames and entrance.

At present the Tsaritsa's Chambers houses the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum. Among its displays is an accurate recreation of the interior of a noble lady's chambers including furniture, decorations and a decorated tiled oven, and an exhibition on the history of Zvenigorod and the monastery.

Palace of Tsar Alexis

The Palace of Tsar Alexis was built in the 1650s and is now one of the best surviving examples of non-religious architecture of that era. It was built especially for Tsar Alexis who often visited the monastery on religious pilgrimages. Its most striking feature is its pretty row of nine chimney spouts which resemble towers.

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