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Contents
1-day Great Ocean Road itinerary
Crunched for time and want to see the best of the Great Ocean Road in just one day? This itinerary maximizes every moment of your adventure, from stunning landscapes and coastal wonders to historical sites.
Torquay
Start your trip in the cool surfing town of Torquay where you can stop by the National Surf Museum, which showcases Australia’s surf history, and grab some delicious fish and chips at Fisho’s.
Kennett River
Next, head to this small town where you can spot koalas sleeping in the gum trees along the Koala Walk or take a quick trip down to Kennett River, where you can watch some king parrots and eastern rosellas flying around.
Memorial Arch
Head on to this wooden arch dedicated to the soldiers who built the Great Ocean Road after returning from WWI. Take a photo in front of the arch to mark your adventure.
Lorne
Stop at this cute coastal town where you can visit the famous 30-meter tall Erskine Falls nearby or take a stroll along the Lorne Pier for great ocean views.
Apollo Bay
Head on to this laidback coastal town where you can head up to Marriner’s Lookout to enjoy an unbeatable view of Apollo Bay or visit the Saturday foreshore market for local crafts, artworks, and fresh produce.
Great Otway National Park
Take some time out for this stunning park where you can take a walk in the Redwoods Forest or search for wild platypus at Lake Elizabeth.
Gibson Steps
After Great Otway National Park, walk down the 86 meticulously carved steps to the sandy, kelp-covered beach while enjoying the beautiful view of the famous Twelve Apostles.
Twelve Apostles
Go from Gibson Steps to the viewing platform to watch the eight iconic limestone stacks rising from the Southern Ocean at sunset or take a 15-minute helicopter tour to get a bird’s eye view.
Loch Ard Gorge
End your trip with a visit to the stunning gorge named after the 1878 shipwreck. Take the Geology Walk to Razorback Lookout or visit the cemetery where the shipmates of the Loch Ard are buried.
2-day Great Ocean Road itinerary
If you are a family or couple seeking a quick escape, then this 2-day Great Ocean Road itinerary is perfect for you. From covering iconic spots like the Twelve Apostles to going on a guided forest with Great Otway National Park, this itinerary lets you enjoy the road without feeling rushed.
Day 1
Day 2
Torquay
Start your journey at Australia's surfing capital by picking up some delicious cheese and fresh produce at the Saturday Farmer’s Market or shopping for some surf clothes at Surf City Plaza.
Splits Point Lighthouse
Head on this red-capped lighthouse in Aireys Inlet where you can take the walk down Lighthouse Discovery Trail to watch some southern right whales in the ocean or to Eagle Rock Marin Sanctuary to see some sea sponges and octopi.
Teddy’s Lookout
Drive next to this lookout in Lorne to get a beautiful view of the St George River meeting the ocean and the Great Ocean Road snaking around the coastline. Spend 20 minutes taking in the beauty and take a few pictures too.
Erskine Falls
Drive 14 minutes drive to watch this 30-meter cascading waterfall plunge into the lush tree-fern gully of the Erskine River. You can walk to the base to take a picture of the waterfall from below.
Kennett River
Pause to stretch your legs in the small town of Kennett River. Take a walk down Grey River Road to see some cute koalas or try your hand fishing for some Australian salmon at Kennett River.
Apollo Bay
Stop for the day at the gateway to Great Otway National Park. Spend a lazy afternoon at Shelley’s Beach or shop for some local artworks and handicrafts at the community market.
Great Otway National Park
Start your day exploring and marveling at the towering trees and fern-covered gullies at Main’s Rest or walking on a 600-meter-long treetop walk suspended up to 30 meters above the forest floor to get your adrenaline pumping.
Hopetoun Falls
Next, visit this stunning 30-meter waterfall that tumbles into a fern-lined gorge into the Aire River. Take a short but steep walk to the base to get a close-up view and get some amazing pictures.
12 Apostles
Reach the 12 Apostles just in time for sunset. Watch these limestone pillars bathed in golden light from the viewing platform for a magical experience.
Loch Ard Gorge
After spending some time at Hopetoun Falls, drive to this coastal gorge where you can walk a 1.1 kilometre path to get to Thunder Cave to hear the roaring sound of the waves crashing against the cliffs or watch some short-tailed shearwaters from Mutton Bird Lookout.
Port Campbell
End your 2-day trip with a stop at the calm beach town of Port Campbell. Make your way to the Kanawinka Geotrail to explore the lush farmland with volcanic lakes and craters or sample whiskey or sweet liqueur from Timboon's finest.
3-day Great Ocean Road itinerary
This 3-day Great Ocean Road itinerary provides a deeper dive into the region’s beauty, with time to explore hidden gems like Triplet Falls and Port Fairy. Tailored for nature lovers and road trip enthusiasts, this itinerary offers enough time for a well-rounded experience of Australia’s breathtaking coastline.
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Torquay
No better way to start your 3-day tour than by visiting the surfing town of Torquay. Take in the coastal view from vantage points along the Surf Coast Walk or go snorkeling around Point Danger Marine Sanctuary.
Anglesea
After enjoying your time at Torquay, explore the seaside town of Anglesea. Drive across the Menai Suspension Bridge, check out the production of the Halen Môn sea salt, or bike at the four-cross track at Anglesea Bike Park.
Airey’s Inlet
Next, visit the iconic Split Point Lighthouse at Airey’s Inlet. Spend some time exploring the rock pools in the coves of Sandy Gully or enjoying a delicious barbecue at Distillery Creek.
Memorial Arch
Head on to the Memorial Arch where you can snap a photo in front of the sculpture of two returned soldiers working on the Great Ocean Road and learn about the road's fascinating past through nearby plaques.
Kennett River
Then, stop at Kennett River to get greeted by koalas napping in gum trees at the Kennett River Koala Walk or munch on some yummy burgers at Kafe Koala General Store.
Lorne
End your first day on a relaxing note at the bustling beach town of Lorne. Take the chance to stroll up to Shelley Beach or experience a wine tasting at St. Anne’s Winery while enjoying a scenic view of Lorne Beach.
Apollo Bay
Step into Apollo Bay on the second day of your trip where you can stop by Apollo Bay Museum to get insight into the town’s history or kayak down Barham River to spot some seals.
Mait’s Rest
Drive 17km to reach your next stop, Mait’s Rest at Great Otway National Park. Stroll leisurely on the boardwalk while snapping some pictures of wallabies and ring-tailed possums.
Triplet Falls
End your 40-minute walk at Triplet Falls featuring three cascading streams tumbling through a vibrant mountain ash and myrtle beech forest. Stop to check out the timber mill, which displays remnant artefacts from the era.
Cape Otway
Move on to Cape Otway, which has guided ships along the Southern Ocean coastline since 1848. Take a guided tour of Australia’s oldest surviving lighthouse to learn about its maritime history.
Johanna Beach
End the second of your trip at this underrated spot known for its wild beauty, rolling waves, and dramatic cliffs. Try your hand at surf fishing where you might catch some mullet or gummy shark for grub.
12 Apostles
Reach the 12 Apostles at sunrise and watch the limestone pillars standing tall in the Southern Ocean as the day breaks. If you’re lucky, you might spot some penguins getting ready to go on their fishing expedition.
Loch Ard Gorge
Next, visit this stunning gorge surrounded by clear, turquoise water and flanked by two yellow-washed cliff faces. Go to Loch Ard Lookout to see the 1.4km wreck of the Loch Ard trail or sit back and soak up some sun and ocean breeze.
London Bridge
Move on to this natural archway which partially collapsed in 1990, leaving behind a unique coastal structure. Take in the coastal beauty as you keep an eye out for some whales swimming in the waters.
The Grotto
Drive to your next stop in the itinerary, this unique sinkhole, archway, and hollowed-out cave all in one. For the best view, look into the Grotto from the lower viewing platform to see the horizon, the pools, and the jutting rock formations.
Warrnambool
After ticking off the iconic spots on your trip, head on Warrnambool to visit the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village to learn about Shipwreck Coast or check out more than 2000 artworks, ranging from European salon paintings to indigenous artefacts at Warrnambool Art Gallery.
Port Fairy
End your 3-day trip in this charming and historic fishing village. Take a walk down to the local port to watch fishers unload their crayfish and abalone catch or learn about the local maritime history on the Port Fairy Maritime and Shipwreck Heritage Walk.
Best time to visit Great Ocean Road
No matter the season, the Great Ocean Road promises breathtaking scenery and memorable experiences. Here’s a seasonal guide to help you choose the best time for your adventure.
Summer (December - February)
Warm weather, cool wind, and long daylight hours make summer ideal for outdoor activities. Expect bustling crowds at popular spots like the Twelve Apostles, Torquay, and Great Otway National Park. It’s the perfect time for swimming, surfing, and coastal exploration.
Autumn (March - May)
Sunny days without the heat of the summer and cool winds, making it perfect for scenic drives, forest walks, exploring inland trails, and quieter visits to popular attractions. It is also the best time to spot kangaroos and wallabies in their natural habitat.
Winter (June - August)
Winter offers a tranquil escape with fewer crowds, strong winds, larger waves, and dramatic coastal scenery. However, the rain can make it unsuitable for hiking and forest walks. It's also the best season for watching as southern right whales migrate along the coast.
Spring (September - November)
Spring breathes life into the region with pleasant weather, wildflowers in bloom, and lush green landscapes. Wildlife is more active, and the waterfalls are at their peak. It’s an excellent season for nature lovers and photographers.
Frequently Asked Questions about Great Ocean Road trip itinerary
Is 1 day enough for visiting the Great Ocean Road?
Yes, but it will be rushed. A 1-day itinerary will focus more on popular stops and highlights like the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge while skipping out on smaller stops.
Are 2 days enough for visiting Great Ocean Road?
Yes, it is possible. Two days is a great amount of time to explore the major attractions at the destination. Although, 3-4 days is an ideal time.
Are 3 days enough for visiting Great Ocean Road?
Yes, three days are enough to explore the highlights of the Great Ocean Road while enjoying a relaxed pace. This timeframe also allows for leisure activities, such as scenic walks, beach stops, and wildlife spotting and hidden gems.
What should I pack for a Great Ocean Road trip?
Bring comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, sunscreen, a camera, and a reusable water bottle. Layers such as jackets are recommended due to the changing weather.
Is there public transport available along the Great Ocean Road?
While buses do connect major towns, they’re infrequent and not ideal for exploring all the attractions. The most convenient way to travel is by car or joining an organized tour, as this allows for greater flexibility in visiting remote locations. For those without a car, shuttle services and private tour operators are available, but they may be more costly and require booking in advance.
Is the Great Ocean Road pet-friendly?
Yes, several stops like Kennett River, Lorne, and Anglesea are pet-friendly, offering trails and areas for pets to enjoy.
Do I need to pay entry fees at Great Ocean Road attractions?
Most attractions, like the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge, are free. However, some places like the Cape Otway Lightstation will have entry fees.
Can I complete the Great Ocean Road in a campervan?
Yes, campervans are a popular way to explore the road, with campgrounds available in Apollo Bay, Lorne, and other stops.