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Plan your visit to Great Ocean Road: Tips and timings

Plan Your Visit

Planning a trip along the Great Ocean Road? This page has everything you need to make the most of your journey! Stretching from 243 kilometers along Australia's eastern coast, from Torquay to Allansford, it is one of the most beautiful drives along the coast. Whether you're looking for the best time to visit, travel tips, or how to get there, this Great Ocean Road trip planner has you covered.

Opening hours

Open 24 hours a day, year-round.

Timings for major attractions:
Twelve Apostles: Open from 9am to 5pm daily
Loch Ard Gorge: Open 24/7 for access to the lookout points and trails
Great Otway National Park: Open 24 hours for hiking and sightseeing
Visitor centers (e.g., in Apollo Bay) generally operate between 9am to 4pm.
Cape Otway Lighthouse: 10am to 4pm, daily.
Gibson Steps: Open 24/7, though access may be restricted during high tide.
Apollo Bay and Lorne Townships: Shops, restaurants, and cafes generally open around 8am and close by 5-7pm.

Best time to visit

Surfer riding waves at Bells Beach, Australia.

Summers (December - February): Warm and sunny, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C..
Ideal for beach activities like surfing at Bells Beach or lounging at Lorne Beach.
Perfect for exploring coastal towns and enjoying scenic drives under blue skies.
Popular time to visit the Twelve Apostles, though it can get crowded.

Hopetoun Falls cascading in lush forest, Great Otway National Park, Australia.

Winters(March - May): Visit during the shoulder seasons for a more peaceful experience with fewer crowds.
Cool and sometimes chilly, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 14°C (46°F to 57°F).
Prime time for whale watching in Warrnambool and Apollo Bay, as Southern Right Whales migrate to the area during this time.
Misty rains make Great Otway National Park a lush retreat for nature lovers.

Know before you go

Getting there

Dining

Tips

What to pack

Melbourne is the main gateway to the Great Ocean Road and Torquay is the official starting point of the road.
Driving time: 1.5 hours from Melbourne to Torquay by car via the M1 freeway.

Wine glasses on a table in a restaurant.

Seafood: Coastal towns like Apollo Bay are famous for their fresh catches. Don't miss the local fish and chips or the seafood platter at Apollo Bay Fishermen's Co-op.
Wineries: The hinterland area has many boutique wineries. Basalt Wines near Port Fairy offers tastings with scenic vineyard views.
Local markets: Farmers' markets, such as the Torquay Farmers Market, provide an opportunity to sample and purchase local cheeses, fruits, and artisanal products.

Woman at viewpoint overlooking 12 Apostles along Great Ocean Road, Melbourne.

Reverse your route: Begin your drive as early as possible to avoid crowds or start at the Twelve Apostles and work your way back toward Melbourne to beat the rush at popular spots.
Fuel up beforehand: Fuel stations are limited, especially past Apollo Bay. Fill up your tank in Torquay or Lorne to stay on the route.
Plan for limited phone signal: Some areas along the Great Ocean Road have poor reception. Download offline maps and save key info (like emergency numbers) in advance.

Comfortable Clothing: The weather can be unpredictable, so pack light layers, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable outfits.
Sturdy footwear: Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the beach or hiking in the national parks.
Sun protection: Sunscreen and sunglasses are essential during summer months.
Power bank: Carry a power bank to make sure your devices are charged during the road trip.
Offline maps: Physical maps or downloaded offline maps will come in handy in areas with limited signal.

Attractions and activities

Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour with view of 12 Apostles rock formations in Melbourne, Australia.

Landmarks

Twelve Apostles: These limestone stacks are the most famous landmarks along the route. Sunset tours are a great way to experience the beauty during the golden hours.
Great Otway National Park: Rugged coastlines, rainforests, and waterfalls—a perfect place for the entire family. Popular spots include the Otway Fly Treetop Walk and Erskine Falls.

Woman observing koala in tree along Great Ocean Road, Australia.

Wildlife

Koala spotting: This area is known for its wild koala population. You can find them in their natural habitat along the Kennett River and Grey River Road.
Whale Watching: Between June and September, Southern Right Whales can be spotted off the coast of Warrnambool, particularly from Logan's Beach.

Memorial Arch at Eastern View along Great Ocean Road, Australia, with scenic coastal backdrop.

Historical sites

Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village: Located in Warrnambool, this living museum offers insights into the region's maritime history, with a recreated 19th-century village and shipwreck artifacts.
Cape Otway Light station: As Australia's oldest surviving lighthouse, it provides panoramic ocean views and historical exhibits.
Memorial arch: An arch to honour the World War I soldiers who helped build the Great Ocean Road, makes a great pitstop for taking photographs during the tour.

Frequently asked questions about Great Ocean Road

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

The drive typically takes 4-5 hours one way without stops. However, to truly enjoy its beauty, plan for at least a full day or an overnight stay to explore the sights.

When is the best time to visit the Great Ocean Road?

Visit during spring (September–November) or autumn (March–May) for mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer (December–February) is popular but busy, while winter (June–August) offers great ocean views with fewer tourists.

Can I do the Great Ocean Road as a day trip?

Yes, but it’ll be a packed day! Starting early from Melbourne is important to beat the traffic, and you’ll likely need to focus on key highlights like the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and Apollo Bay.

How do I reach the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne?

The journey starts about 100 km (1.5 hours) from Melbourne. You can drive to Torquay, the official starting point, or join a guided tour departing from the city.

Is the Great Ocean Road suitable for families?

The drive is family-friendly, and kids will love stops like wildlife spotting in Great Otway National Park and exploring the beaches at Lorne or Apollo Bay.

What wildlife can I see on the Great Ocean Road?

Koalas in the wild (especially at Kennett River), kangaroos, colorful parrots, and, in winter, migrating whales off the coast near Warrnambool.

Is the Great Ocean Road wheelchair-accessible?

Many of the main attractions, like the Twelve Apostles viewing platform, offer wheelchair access. However, some trails and beaches may not be suitable.

What are the road conditions like?

The road is well-maintained and paved. It features some sharp bends and steep sections, so drive carefully, especially in wet weather.

Are there guided tours available, and what do they include?

Guided tours typically include transport, commentary, stops at major attractions, and sometimes meals.

How much time should I spend at the Twelve Apostles?

Plan to spend 30-45 minutes here. You can explore the viewing platforms, take photos, and soak in the stunning coastal views.

Can I swim at the beaches along the Great Ocean Road?

Yes, but always check for safety signs and swim at patrolled beaches like Lorne or Apollo Bay. Be aware of strong currents and riptides.

Can I bring my pet on a Great Ocean Road trip?

Yes, you can bring your pet along, but certain national parks like Great Otway National Park and Port Campbell National Park do not allow dogs (even on a leash). However, there are several pet-friendly beaches, walking trails, and accommodations along the route.