Sadhya The Great Ocean Road is one of the most scenic and iconic road trips in Australia, and for good reason. Welcome to the ultimate guide to the Great Ocean Road’s best attractions and stops. Let’s embark on this adventure together!
This 243-kilometre stretch of coastline offers stunning views of the Southern Ocean, dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, lush rainforests, and amazing wildlife. Along the way, you’ll also find plenty of attractions and activities to suit every taste and interest, from surfing and hiking to history and culture.
But with so much to see and do, how do you plan your itinerary and make the most of your time on the road? To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the top things to see and do along the Great Ocean Road, organized by the towns and regions you’ll pass through.
So grab your map, pack your bags, and get ready to explore the Great Ocean Road attractions with this ultimate guide.
Torquay: Gateway to Great Ocean Road
Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre & Australian National Surfing Museum
Start your journey at Torquay, the official gateway to the Great Ocean Road and the surf capital of Australia. Here you can visit the Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Australian National Surfing Museum, where you can learn about the history and culture of surfing, see vintage boards and memorabilia, and watch surf movies on a giant screen.
Bells Beach: Surfing Paradise
If you’re feeling inspired, head to Bells Beach, one of the most famous surf spots in the world and the home of the Rip Curl Pro, the longest-running surf competition in the world. Watch the pros ride the waves, or join a surf lesson and try it yourself. Bells Beach also featured in a Hollywood movie “Point Break”.
For a more relaxing beach experience, check out the Torquay Front Beach, a sheltered and family-friendly beach with calm waters, soft sand, and a foreshore reserve with picnic facilities and playgrounds
If you’re into nature and wildlife, don’t miss the Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre, where you can learn about the indigenous culture and history of the region, see native animals like kangaroos and emus, and browse the art gallery and gift shop
For shopping you can go to Surf City Plaza, where you can find outlet stores of famous surf brands like Rip Curl, Quiksilver, Billabong, and more. You can score some great bargains on clothing, accessories, and surf gear
Anglesea: Seaside Charms
Anglesea Golf Club & Point Addis Marine National Park
Anglesea is a charming seaside town with a laid-back vibe and beautiful beaches. Here you can join a surf lesson, hire a kayak, or enjoy a scenic walk along the Anglesea River.
If you’re a golf fan, you’ll love the Anglesea Golf Club, where you can play a round of golf on a picturesque course that is also home to a large population of kangaroos.
Point Addis Marine National Park
If you’re looking for a scenic lookout, head to the Point Addis Marine National Park, where you can enjoy stunning views of the ocean and the cliffs. On the way down to Point Addis Park you can also follow the Koori Cultural Walk, which showcases the indigenous heritage and history of the area. If you continue on the trail it will lead down to the beach.
For a relaxing picnic or barbecue, head to Coogoorah Park, a lovely reserve with a lake, a playground, and a network of boardwalks and bridges. You can also spot a variety of birds and other wildlife in this tranquil spot.
Aireys Inlet: Lighthouse & Serenity
As you drive along the Great Ocean Road, you’ll come across Aireys Inlet, a small and peaceful town with a stunning lighthouse, great beaches, cafes.
The Split Point Lighthouse
The Split Point Lighthouse is one of the most iconic landmarks on the road, and you can join a guided tour to learn about its history and enjoy panoramic views from the top.
If you’re feeling hungry, stop by the Aireys Pub, a cozy and friendly pub that serves delicious food and drinks, including local craft beers and wines. You can also enjoy live music and trivia nights on weekends.
Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary
For some nature and adventure, head to the Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary, where you can explore the rocky shores and reefs that are home to a diverse range of marine life. You can snorkel, dive, or kayak in the clear waters, or simply admire the scenery from the lookout.
Fairhaven Beach
If you’re looking for a relaxing beach, head to Fairhaven Beach, a long and sandy beach that is popular for swimming, surfing, and fishing. You can also walk along the beach and enjoy the views of the lighthouse and the ocean.
For some culture and art, visit the Eagles Nest Fine Art Gallery, where you can see a collection of paintings, sculptures, and ceramics by local and regional artists. You can also buy some unique souvenirs and gifts from the gallery.
Lorne: Vibrant Coastal Town
The next town you’ll pass through on the Great Ocean Road is Lorne, a lively and vibrant town with a lot of attractions and activities to offer. Here you can visit the Lorne Sea Baths, where you can enjoy a range of facilities and services, including a saltwater pool, a hydrotherapy spa, a gym, a mini golf course, and a trampoline park.
Erskine Falls
If you’re a fan of waterfalls, you’ll love the Erskine Falls, one of the most beautiful and accessible waterfalls on the road, a short drive from Lorn. You can reach the falls by a short walk from the car park, and admire the cascading water from two viewing platforms.
Sheoak Falls
Just nearby, the Sheoak Picnic Ground serves as an excellent starting point for several other waterfall hikes, including trails leading to Sheoak Falls, Phantom Falls, and Henderson Falls. Sheoak Falls is a hidden gem tucked within the picturesque landscapes of the Great Ocean Road region.
If you continue you can go down to the coast and explore Cumberland River. With its central location, Lorne proves to be the perfect hub for discovering the beauty of this captivating region.
Cumberland River
Cumberland River is a popular camping site with beautiful waterfall walks. The family-friendly beach makes it a great stop for families.
Teddy’s Lookout
Teddy’s Lookout in Lorne, Australia, not only offers a fabulous photo opportunity but is also a frequently featured picture in Great Ocean Road advertising campaigns. Whether you choose to drive or take a leisurely walk from Lorne, various hiking trails branch out from the lookout, making Lorne an ideal starting point for full-day hikes.
For the more adventurous, overnight options are available, with the possibility of carrying a backpack and camping at Allenvale Mill free-camp. Discover excellent accommodation choices for your Lorne stay in this vibrant town. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking view looking down from Teddy’s Lookout.
Lorne Pier
For some wildlife encounters, head to the Lorne Pier, where you can see the local fur seals and penguins that frequent the area. You can also join a fishing charter or a cruise to see more of the marine life and the scenery.
Lorne Historical Society Museum
For some history and heritage, visit the Lorne Historical Society Museum, where you can learn about the past and present of the town and the region. You can see exhibits and displays of photos, documents, artifacts, and memorabilia that tell the stories of the people and the events that shaped Lorne.
For some fun and entertainment, check out the Lorne Festival of Performing Arts, an annual event that showcases a variety of performances and workshops by local and national artists. You can enjoy music, comedy, theatre, dance, and more at various venues around the town.
Mt Defiance Lookout
Mt Defiance Lookout, is a small car park area with excellent coastal views and informative plaques.
Kennett River: Wildlife Haven
Koala Spotting & Birdwatching
At Kennett River, you can spot koalas in the wild. Drive along Grey River Road to see these cuddly Australians in their natural habitat. Kennet River is a small village and people come mostly here to do the Koala walk.
Apollo Bay: Coastal Serenity
Great Otway National Park & Apollo Bay Beach
After Lorne, you’ll reach Apollo Bay, a picturesque and friendly town that is a great base for exploring the Great Ocean Road and the Otway National Park.
Apollo Bay Museum
Here you can visit the Apollo Bay Museum, where you can learn about the history and culture of the town and the region, from the indigenous people to the settlers, the whalers, and the shipwrecks.
Otway Fly Treetop Adventures
If you’re looking for some adventure, head to the Otway Fly Treetop Adventures, where you can experience the thrill of walking among the treetops on a steel canopy walkway, or zip-lining through the forest. You can also enjoy the views of the rainforest and the waterfalls from the ground level.
Apollo Bay Harbour & Cape Otway
For some nature and wildlife, head to the Cape Otway Lightstation, the oldest surviving lighthouse in mainland Australia. You can climb to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy spectacular views of the ocean and the coast, and spot whales, dolphins, and seals. You can also visit the Aboriginal Cultural Centre, the Telegraph Station, and the World War II Radar Bunker.
For some relaxation and rejuvenation, head to the Apollo Bay Day Spa, where you can indulge in a range of treatments and services, including massages, facials, manicures, pedicures, and more. You can also enjoy the sauna, the steam room, and the hydrotherapy spa.
For some food and drink, head to the Great Ocean Road Brewhouse, where you can sample a variety of craft beers and ciders from local and regional breweries. You can also enjoy a delicious meal from the bistro, or listen to live music and entertainment on weekends.
Port Campbell: Iconic Landmarks
The next town you’ll encounter on the Great Ocean Road is Port Campbell, a small and charming town that is close to some of the most famous attractions on the road, such as the Twelve Apostles, the Loch Ard Gorge, and the London Bridge. Here you can visit the Port Campbell Visitor Information Centre, where you can get maps, brochures, and tips on how to make the most of your trip.
Twelve Apostles
If you’re looking for some natural wonders, head to the Twelve Apostles, one of the most iconic and photographed landmarks on the road. These are a group of limestone stacks that rise from the ocean, creating a stunning contrast with the blue water and the green cliffs. You can admire them from the viewing platforms, or join a helicopter tour for a bird’s eye view.
Loch Ard Gorge
If you’re looking for some history and drama, head to the Loch Ard Gorge, where you can learn about the tragic story of the Loch Ard, a ship that sank near the coast in 1878, leaving only two survivors. You can also see the remains of the ship, the graves of the victims, and the memorials. You can also enjoy the scenic views of the gorge and the beach.
London Bridge
If you’re looking for some adventure and fun, head to the London Bridge, a natural arch that was once connected to the mainland, but collapsed in 1990, leaving two tourists stranded on the island. You can see the arch from the viewing platform, or join a boat tour to see it from the water. You can also spot penguins, seals, and birds in the area.
If you’re looking for some food and drink, head to the 12 Rocks Beach Bar and Bistro, where you can enjoy a casual and friendly atmosphere, with views of the beach and the bay. You can choose from a variety of dishes, including pizzas, burgers, salads, seafood, and more. You can also enjoy a drink from the bar, or watch sports on the big screen.
Warrnambool
The final town you’ll encounter on the Great Ocean Road is Warrnambool, a large and lively town that offers a lot of attractions and activities for all ages and interests.
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village
Here you can visit the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, where you can experience the life and times of a 19th-century port town, with restored buildings, artifacts, and displays. You can also see the famous Loch Ard Peacock, a porcelain statue that was salvaged from the shipwreck.
Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve
If you’re looking for some nature and wildlife, head to the Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve, where you can see a variety of native animals, such as koalas, kangaroos, emus, echidnas, and more. You can also enjoy the views of the volcanic crater and the lake, or join a guided tour to learn about the indigenous culture and history of the area.
Lake Pertobe Adventure Playground
If you’re looking for some fun and entertainment, head to the Lake Pertobe Adventure Playground, where you can enjoy a range of facilities and activities, including a maze, a flying fox, a mini golf course, a boat lake, and more. You can also have a picnic or a barbecue in the park, or visit the nearby beach.
Warrnambool Art Gallery
If you’re looking for some art and culture, head to the Warrnambool Art Gallery, where you can see a collection of artworks by local and national artists, covering various themes and styles. You can also see exhibitions and events that showcase the diversity and creativity of the region.
If you’re looking for some food and drink, head to the Flying Horse Bar and Brewery, where you can sample a range of craft beers and ciders that are brewed on-site. You can also enjoy a tasty meal from the menu, or watch live music and comedy on weekends.
How to Make the Most of Your Great Ocean Road Trip
The Great Ocean Road is a wonderful and rewarding trip, but it also requires some planning and preparation to make sure you have a smooth and enjoyable journey. Here are some of the essential tips and tricks to help you make the most of your Great Ocean Road trip:
- Plan your itinerary: The Great Ocean Road is a long and winding road, and you can’t see and do everything in one day. You need to plan your itinerary and decide how many days you want to spend on the road, and what attractions and activities you want to see and do along the way. You can use this guide as a reference, or use a map or an app to help you plan your route and your stops.
- Choose your mode of travel: The Great Ocean Road can be traveled by different modes of transport, such as car, bus, bike, or even helicopter. You need to choose the mode of travel that suits your budget, your preference, and your schedule. If you choose to drive, you need to rent a car, check the road conditions, and follow the traffic rules. If you choose to take a bus, you need to book a ticket, check the timetable, and follow the itinerary.
