One of the world’s most famous road trips, the Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most popular tourist attractions. Winding along the country’s southern Victorian coastline, this awesome length of road is dotted with stunning national parks, incredible ocean views and some gorgeous seaside towns. If you have enough time you should spend at least 3 days to drive the whole length. There really is so much to see and do here. To give you a taste and to inspire your journey, here are the 10 Great Ocean Road must sees that you shouldn’t miss.
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Memorial Arch – Great Ocean Road
Located right at the start of the Great Ocean Road, as you head from Melbourne. This archway pays tribute to the construction of this famous drive. The Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch is dedicated to the returning World War I Servicemen of Australia that built the road in 1932. This is the third memorial arch built, but it’s a fascinating piece of history nonetheless.
Bells Beach & Torquay – Great Ocean Road
Located near Torquay, Bells Beach is one of Australia’s most famous surfing beaches, known for its powerful swells and the prestigious Rip Curl Pro surfing competition. Even if you’re not a surfer, the beach’s dramatic cliffs and ocean views are a sight to behold. Come at Easter time and enjoy the Rip Curl Pro Event. Or just watch the locals braving their luck in the cold water.
The nearest town to Bells Beach is Torquay. It is also a gorgeous little spot to enjoy a picnic or to wander the Surf World Museum. If you’re feeling a little more active, then the Surf Coast Walk – a gorgeous stroll along the coastline – also starts from here.
Koalas at Kennet River – Great Ocean Road
Kennett River on the Great Ocean Road is one of the best places in Australia to spot wild koalas. Take a stroll along the Grey River Road, and look up to see these adorable creatures in their natural habitat. So we certainly recommend heading here if you’re yet to tick spotting one of these grey, fluffy creatures off your bucket list.
And they’re easy to spot too. Just pull up your vehicle next to the rest of the tourists and follow the gaze of their pointing fingers and snapping lens. Yes, sometimes popular tourist spots can have their advantages!
Apollo Bay – Great Ocean Road
A picturesque seaside town, Apollo Bay is a great place to relax on the beach, enjoy fresh seafood, and explore the nearby Otway Ranges. It’s also a popular spot for water sports, including surfing, kayaking, and seal and dolphin watching tours.
Cape Otway National Park – Great Ocean Road
This diverse national park spans from the hinterlands to the coast, featuring ancient rainforests, waterfalls, and rugged coastline. Highlights include the Cape Otway Lightstation, Australia’s oldest surviving lighthouse, and the Otway Fly Treetop Adventures, offering a unique perspective of the rainforest canopy.
There’s also some great, budget-friendly camping spots located within the park, as well as some super hiking opportunities. Including the 243 km Great Ocean Walk!
The Great Ocean Road’s only lighthouse, also known as the Cape Otway Light Station, lays claim to being Australia’s most important lighthouse. It guards one of the country’s most treacherous coastlines and was built after hundreds of lives were lost from numerous shipwrecks. As such, it is Australia’s oldest surviving lighthouse and invites visitors to enjoy the breathtaking views from its observation deck. There is also an excellent interpretive Centre and indigenous Cultural Centre, which also make a visit here highly worthwhile.
Lorne – Great Ocean Road
The little town of Lorne is a lovely place to stop for a few hours or even spend the night. There is plenty of nearby waterfalls to walk to. You can enjoy an active and outdoorsy exploration of the area on foot.
Located near Lorne, Teddy’s Lookout offers one of the best vantage points along the Great Ocean Road. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Saint George River and the coastline stretching towards Apollo Bay.
London Bridge – Great Ocean Road
Originally a natural archway and tunnel in the limestone, London Bridge collapsed in 1990, leaving a freestanding stack. The site tells a fascinating geological story and offers spectacular views of the coast.
Loch Ard Gorge – Great Ocean Road
Named after a shipwreck that occurred in 1878, Loch Ard Gorge is a stunning example of the power of erosion. The gorge features clear blue waters, towering cliffs, and sandy beaches, making it a perfect spot for photography and exploration.
This beach has been made famous by the ship that ran aground on nearby Muttonbird Island. The incredible survival story of the 2 teenage passengers is wonderfully told in the landscape around. It must have been terrifying.
The 12 Apostles – Great Ocean Road
Perhaps the most iconic sight along the Great Ocean Road, the Twelve Apostles are magnificent limestone stacks that rise majestically from the Southern Ocean. Despite the name, only five apostles remain, but they offer an unforgettable panorama, especially at sunrise or sunset. Hundreds of people flock daily to see these natural structures, which are actually geological formations known as stacks.
There are a great walkaway and lookout that will give you beautiful views of the Apostles. Be sure to visit the fantastic visitor centre with tons of info. If you want to splurge, however, then it’s really all about taking a scenic flight over the 12 Apostles at sunset for a spectacular view.
Bay of Islands – Great Ocean Road
Further west from the Twelve Apostles, the Bay of Islands Coastal Park features a stunning collection of limestone cliffs and sea stacks. The area is less crowded than the Twelve Apostles, offering a peaceful and equally impressive experience.
Tips for Visiting
Best timing?
Visit the most popular sites early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photography.
Safety
Stay on marked paths and respect safety barriers, especially near cliffs and coastal viewpoints.
Accommodation
Consider staying overnight in one of the towns along the route to fully experience the region’s beauty without rushing.
If you are staying in Apollo Bay, here a little selection:
- Best High budget hotel : Seafarers Getaway
- Best mid-range hotel : Sandpiper Hotel Apollo Bay
- Backpackers Hostel : Apollo Bay Backpackers
So those are 10 amazing must sees along the Great Ocean Road. Have you driven this famous road trip? What were your favourite spots?