THE GREAT OCEAN ROAD
The Great Ocean Road is a magnificent tribute to nature’s power and human resilience, winding along Victoria’s rugged coastline. It offers a spectacular journey through towering cliffs, lush rainforests, and charming seaside towns.
This iconic coastal drive is a true bucket-list destination, famed for its breathtaking vistas and the dramatic rock formations rising from the Southern Ocean. It is a land where every turn reveals a new, unforgettable vista.
Most Popular Attractions
Iconic Natural Formations & Lookouts:
Twelve Apostles: The most famous attraction, a collection of limestone stacks rising dramatically from the Southern Ocean.
Loch Ard Gorge: A beautiful, sheltered gorge named after a shipwreck, featuring dramatic cliffs and turquoise water.
Gibson Steps: A sheer cliff-line descent leading down to a beach for a close-up view of two of the Twelve Apostles.
London Bridge: A famous sea-arch that once formed a natural bridge but partially collapsed in 1990.
The Grotto: A stunning sinkhole formation with a viewing area overlooking a calm pool of water within the rock.
Bay of Islands: A spectacular stretch of coastline featuring numerous rock stacks and islands.
Bay of Martyrs: A beautiful, tranquil bay with offshore islands, offering a less crowded experience than the Twelve Apostles.
The Arch: A natural rock arch carved by the relentless ocean waves.
Port Campbell National Park: The protected area encompassing most of the famous rock formations.
Princetown: A small town offering wetland walks and views of the Gellibrand River meeting the sea.
Coastal Towns & Historical Sites:
Lorne: A popular, stylish seaside town known for its beaches, arts precinct, and the historic Cumberland River area.
Apollo Bay: A picturesque harbor town offering stunning crescent beaches and a gateway to the Otways rainforest.
Warrnambool: The largest city at the western end, famous for its Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village and whale watching (seasonal).
Port Fairy: A charming historic fishing village with quaint stone cottages and a bustling wharf.
Torquay: The official start of the Great Ocean Road and the surfing capital of Australia, home to Bells Beach.
Anglesea: Known for its golf course frequently visited by kangaroos and the scenic Anglesea River.
Aireys Inlet & Split Point Lighthouse: A picturesque lighthouse offering tours and spectacular coastal views.
The Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch: The iconic wooden arch honoring the returned soldiers who built the road.
Rainforest & Inland Attractions:
Otway National Park: A vast park featuring lush rainforest, waterfalls, and towering trees.
Mait’s Rest Rainforest Walk: An accessible boardwalk loop through the ancient, cool temperate rainforest.
Triplets Falls: A beautiful set of waterfalls located deep within the Otway National Park.
Cape Otway Lightstation: Australia’s most significant operating lighthouse, offering a rich maritime history.
Activities & Experiences
Marvel at the Twelve Apostles: Visit the iconic limestone stacks, the centerpiece of the Shipwreck Coast, especially at sunrise or sunset for the best light and to avoid the biggest crowds.
Take the Great Ocean Road Helicopter Flight: Get a breathtaking, once-in-a-lifetime aerial perspective of the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and the dramatic coastline.
Hike the Great Ocean Walk: Tackle a section of this multi-day, 104km trail that stretches from Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles, offering secluded beach and clifftop views.
Learn to Surf at Bells Beach or Torquay: Take a surfing lesson at Australia’s surf capital, Torquay, or watch the pros tackle the legendary waves at Bells Beach.
Explore the Otway Rainforest Canopy: Go inland to the Otway Fly Treetop Adventures for a thrilling high-ropes course or a tranquil elevated walk through the lush rainforest.
Spot Wild Koalas and Kangaroos: Drive slowly through areas like Kennett River or Cape Otway, looking high up in the Manna Gum trees for wild koalas, and keep an eye out for kangaroos, especially at dawn and dusk.
Descend the Gibson Steps: Walk down the 86 steps carved into the cliff face to reach the beach and stand at the base of the massive cliffs, offering a unique perspective of the Apostles.
Discover Loch Ard Gorge: Explore the stunning gorge and hear the tragic and romantic story of the 1878 shipwreck that gave this area its name.
Walk Among the Giants at Redwood Forest: Take a detour inland near Beech Forest to wander through a serene, transplanted forest of towering Californian Redwoods.
Tour the Cape Otway Lightstation: Visit Australia’s oldest surviving lighthouse, which has been operating since 1848, and explore the surrounding historic buildings.
Go Whale Watching (Seasonal): Visit Warrnambool, particularly between June and September, to see Southern Right Whales coming to the sheltered bays to calve.
Taste Local Produce: Visit local farmers’ markets or co-operative shops in towns like Apollo Bay to try regional specialties, including the famous scallop pies or locally-made artisan gin.
Visit the Australian National Surfing Museum: Delve into Australia’s surf history in the coastal town of Torquay, exploring the development of boards and surf culture.
Local Tips & Transport
Self-Drive is Essential: The only way to experience the full Great Ocean Road at your own pace is by car. This allows you to stop at the countless scenic pull-offs and detours.
Drive on the Left: As in all of Australia, you must drive on the left side of the road. The road is winding and narrow in places, so drive cautiously and respect the speed limits (typically 80-100 km/h).
Use Turnouts: If you are driving slowly (e.g., in a campervan) and have vehicles behind you, use the designated slow-lane turnouts to allow faster traffic to pass safely.
Car vs. Tour: While a self-drive is recommended for flexibility, if you have only one day, consider an organised bus tour from Melbourne. It saves you from having to focus on the long drive and allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Public Transport is Limited: Train services run from Melbourne to Geelong and Warrnambool, with connecting buses serving coastal towns like Torquay, Lorne, and Apollo Bay. However, the service is not frequent, and it is impractical for a full sightseeing trip.
Fuel and Accommodation: Fuel stations can be remote and more expensive than in the city. Book your accommodation well in advance, especially during the peak summer season (December to February).
“Four Seasons in One Day”: The weather along the coast is notoriously unpredictable, often experiencing four seasons in a single day. Dress in layers—you might need a sun hat, a light jacket, and sunscreen all within a few hours.
Respect the Wildlife: Be extremely mindful of native animals, particularly at dawn and dusk, when kangaroos and wallabies are most active on the roadside. Collisions are common and dangerous. Never feed wild animals.
Sun Protection is Crucial: The Australian sun is intense. Always wear sunscreen (SPF 30+), a hat, and sunglasses, even on cloudy days. The coastal wind can make it feel cooler, leading to easy sunburn.
Coastal Winds and Swimming: Many beaches are open to the strong southerly swells and coastal winds of the Southern Ocean. While towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay have protected beaches, never swim alone and always swim between the red and yellow flags patrolled by surf life savers. Do not attempt to swim at the Twelve Apostles area.
Best Time to Visit: To avoid the crowds, visit during the shoulder seasons (March-May or September-November). Winter (June-August) offers dramatic, moody scenery and the chance to see whales without the tourist rush.
Indigenous Heritage: The Great Ocean Road lies on the traditional lands of the Eastern Maar and Wadawurrung Peoples. Take time to learn about the history and culture, perhaps visiting the Budj Bim Cultural Landscape (a UNESCO site near Warrnambool) or the Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve with an Aboriginal guide.
Hidden Gems:
- The Grotto: A visually stunning sinkhole and rock arch between London Arch and the Bay of Islands, often overlooked by those rushing between the major sites.
- Bay of Islands: A quieter stretch of coastline west of the Twelve Apostles with its own collection of smaller, dramatic rock formations.
- Turtons Track: An inland detour through the Otways that offers a unique perspective of the temperate rainforest, best for those with a capable vehicle.
- Apollo Bay Bakery: Famous among locals and travelers for its award-winning Scallop Pie—a must-try savory coastal treat.
Top Restaurants
Brae [$180-$250+] – An internationally-renowned, highly-acclaimed restaurant located inland in Birregurra. It offers a stunning, ever-changing degustation menu based on organic produce from its own farm and surrounding region. Bookings are essential, a significant detour, but truly world-class.
Merrijig Kitchen [$60-$100] – Tucked inside the historic Merrijig Inn in Port Fairy, this intimate and inviting restaurant serves a seasonally focused, French-inspired menu celebrating local Western District and Otway produce.
Ipsos Restaurant & Bar [$40-$70] – A modern, sophisticated Greek restaurant in Lorne offering share-style platters, grilled meats, salads, and an extensive cocktail list, all with a lively atmosphere.
Conlan’s Wine Store [$40-$70] – Located in Port Fairy, this spot offers a relaxed dining experience with a focus on a four-course sharing menu or excellent a la carte options, paired with a curated selection of regional wines.
La Bimba [$40-$70] – Often cited as one of the best restaurants in Apollo Bay, offering a Mediterranean-inspired menu that highlights local seafood and produce with beautiful ocean views.
Chris’s Beacon Point Restaurant [$40-$70] – Set high in the Otways above Apollo Bay, this long-standing restaurant offers breathtaking views and a Mediterranean menu that expertly uses local seafood and produce.
The Coast [$35-$65] – The on-site restaurant at the Great Ocean Road Resort in Anglesea, known for its seasonally changing menu, emphasis on local produce, and flawless service in a modern, comfortable setting.
A La Grecque [$40-$70] – A long-standing, well-regarded Greek restaurant in Aireys Inlet, popular for its authentic, hearty Greek dishes and warm, family-run atmosphere.
The Grove [$40-$70] – A modern Australian restaurant in the historic town of Port Fairy, known for its focus on seasonal ingredients and sophisticated presentation.
Movida Lorne [$35-$60] – The coastal outpost of the famous Melbourne Spanish restaurant, offering delicious Spanish tapas and an exceptional wine list in a beautiful setting right on the beach in Lorne.
The Pickled Pig [$35-$60] – Located in the heart of Torquay, this venue offers a contemporary Australian menu with a focus on local produce and a good selection of craft beers and wines.
The Apollo Bay Hotel Bistro [$30-$50] – Offers a revamped pub-bistro menu with excellent views over the Apollo Bay foreshore, focusing on quality pub classics and local seafood.
Forage on the Foreshore [$30-$50] – A great spot near the Twelve Apostles in Port Campbell, with a menu featuring predominantly local, seasonal, and harvested ingredients like local cheeses and fresh fish.
Santara Restaurant [$30-$50] – Located in the Sunnymead Hotel in Aireys Inlet, this restaurant offers a creative and modern fusion-inspired menu that provides something unexpected for the region.
Number One Restaurant (RACV Torquay) [$30-$50] – Situated within the RACV Torquay Resort, this restaurant offers modern Australian cuisine with a focus on locally sourced produce and stunning coastal views.
Oak & Anchor [$25-$45] – Located in a historic 1857 building in Port Fairy, this spot serves fresh and light fare, including local cheese platters, Australian king prawns, and quality coffee.
The Grand Dining Room [$30-$55] – Found within the Port Fairy Motel & Apartments, this venue offers a more formal dining experience with a focus on classic Australian cuisine and high-quality, local ingredients.
Salt Brewing Co. [$20-$40] – Located at the Aireys Pub, this popular spot offers excellent pub food like burgers and pizzas, which are perfectly paired with their own locally brewed craft beers.
Noodledoof Brewing Co. [$20-$40] – A brewery and distillery in Koroit that offers a menu of hearty burgers, chips, and chicken wings for lunch and dinner, alongside their craft beers and spirits.
Great Ocean Road Brewhouse [$20-$40] – A craft beer haven in Apollo Bay, offering over 100 craft beers and a laid-back atmosphere with a menu of Aussie pub favorites made from local produce.
Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-Op [$15-$30] – The ultimate spot for fresh seafood in Apollo Bay, offering fish straight from the boats, including rock lobster and the best fish and chips in town. Highly recommended for a true local experience.
Apollo Bay Bakery [$10-$20] – A highly-regarded local favorite famous for its scallop pie, as well as a great range of fresh sandwiches, rolls, cakes, and hand-made pies.
The Wye General [$15-$30] – Located in the scenic hamlet of Wye River, this general store and cafe is perfect for an all-day brunch, excellent coffee, fresh pastries, and bang-up burgers in a charming, seaside location.
The Bay Leaf Cafe [$15-$25] – A popular, non-pretentious brunch spot in Apollo Bay with a focus on locally sourced, fresh ingredients for creative and healthy breakfast and lunch dishes.
Fish by Moonlite [$15-$30] – A high-quality fish-and-chip and seafood retail shop in Anglesea, known for serving the freshest seafood delivered daily and top-notch classic fish and chips.
Port Fairy Thai [$15-$30] – A consistently popular local Thai restaurant in Port Fairy, known for its generous portions and authentic, fresh flavors, offering both dine-in and takeaway options.
The Bottle of Milk [$15-$25] – A well-loved cafe in Lorne known for serving excellent coffee, all-day breakfasts, and great burgers, a perfect spot for a casual morning meal.
Pond Cafe [$15-$25] – A popular cafe in Torquay known for its hearty full breakfasts, lighter healthy options, and excellent coffee, perfect for fuelling up before a day of surfing or driving.
Coffin Sally [$15-$30] – A fun, grown-up pizza bar down a bluestone alleyway in Port Fairy, known for its quality craft beers, wines, and piping hot, gourmet pizzas.
Waves [$15-$25] – A casual dining spot in Port Campbell offering simple, hearty meals perfect for families and travelers, with a good range of classic Australian dishes.
The Swing Bridge Café and Boathouse [$15-$25] – A beloved Lorne institution located right by the water, perfect for a lazy weekend breakfast or lunch, famous for its “Wakey Wakey Roll.”
Pavilion Cafe & Bar [$15-$30] – Overlooking Lady Bay in Warrnambool, locals consider this one of the best spots for breakfast or brunch on the road, with stunning ocean views.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
The Loft: Located centrally in Warrnambool, this stylish venue occupies the first floor of a historic building, offering a sophisticated menu of inventive cocktails, local wines, and share plates in a contemporary setting.
The Kookaburra: A charming little hideaway in Lorne, this bar is known for its friendly, casual atmosphere and excellent, handcrafted cocktails, perfect for a relaxed evening after a day on the beach.
A La Grecque: While primarily a highly-regarded restaurant in Aireys Inlet, their bar area serves elegant cocktails and local wines, providing a great pre- or post-dinner spot with a focus on fresh, regional ingredients.
The Salty Dog Café Bar: Found right in the heart of Port Campbell, this spot offers a relaxed coastal vibe. While it’s a café during the day, by evening it turns into a casual bar serving classic cocktails and local craft beers.
The Wye Beach Hotel: Perched right on the coast in Wye River, this iconic pub’s balcony offers spectacular ocean views. They serve a solid selection of drinks, including classic Australian cocktails, making it a perfect sunset spot.
The Whalers Hotel: Located in Warrnambool, this modern hotel bar provides a sophisticated environment. It’s known for its extensive whiskey list but also serves high-quality, signature cocktails.
The Torquay Hotel: A classic watering hole in Torquay, this venue has a dedicated front bar that serves a wide range of popular cocktails and premium spirits, often featuring live acoustic music to set a lively mood.
Great Ocean Road Brewhouse: Found in Apollo Bay, while known for its craft beer, this popular spot also offers a relaxed setting where you can enjoy basic, well-made cocktails, especially those featuring local spirits.
Little Picket: Set in a classic seaside building in Lorne, this sophisticated venue offers a curated cocktail list that complements its refined dining experience, focusing on local produce and premium spirits.
Wyuna: Located slightly inland near Apollo Bay, this boutique accommodation often features a sophisticated lounge and bar area, focusing on high-quality, hand-crafted cocktails in an intimate, tranquil setting.
Port Fairy Hotel: In the historic village of Port Fairy, this hotel’s bar blends historic charm with a modern touch, offering a great range of drinks, including well-executed classic cocktails.
Blackman’s Brewery Bar: While a craft brewery in Torquay, their taproom features a full bar offering, including refreshing cocktail options and local gin pairings, in a buzzing, casual industrial space.
The Common Man: A casual pub in Lorne known for its beachy, relaxed feel. They offer a simple list of popular cocktails and mixed drinks, perfect for a sunny afternoon session.
The Star of the West Hotel: Located in Port Fairy, this historic pub provides a traditional setting where you can find well-known cocktails and a strong selection of Australian spirits.
Hotel Warrnambool: In the heart of Warrnambool, this beautifully preserved pub serves a selection of classic cocktails alongside their extensive beer and wine list in a grand, historic interior.
The Torquay Hotel (Back Bar): The rear section of this large Torquay venue frequently transforms into a high-energy club on weekends, hosting both big-name and local DJs, featuring a large dance floor and a late license.
The Loft (Late Night Sessions): In Warrnambool, while a cocktail bar, The Loft often extends its hours on weekends, bringing in local DJs to spin commercial and house music, creating a lively club-like atmosphere.
The Apollo Bay Hotel: This prominent pub in Apollo Bay is one of the few places along the central road to consistently host late-night weekend entertainment, including cover bands and DJs, often leading to a busy dance floor.
The Whalers Hotel (Basement/Late Bar): The lower level or designated late-night bar area of this Warrnambool spot occasionally ramps up the music on weekend nights, providing a space for dancing and high-energy socializing.
The Lorne Hotel: A large and iconic venue in Lorne, the public bar or dedicated function space often hosts bands and DJs on busy summer weekends, turning into a vibrant, late-night party spot popular with tourists and locals alike.
Truffles Restaurant & Bar (Late Lounge): Located in Port Fairy, while not a traditional club, this venue occasionally hosts themed nights or local musicians who play high-energy sets, providing one of the few late-night options in the western section of the road.
The Koroit Hotel: Found just off the main road in the township of Koroit, this lively local pub frequently hosts live bands on Saturday nights, drawing a crowd that enjoys classic rock and party anthems well into the evening.
Ocean Grind (Late Events): In the industrial section of Torquay, this venue, primarily a coffee roastery, sometimes hosts large, ticketed evening events and parties with DJs and bands, functioning as a temporary club space.
The Seanchai Irish Bar: Situated in Warrnambool, this lively Irish pub often features live music that turns into an energetic atmosphere, with patrons dancing and socializing well past midnight.
Hotel 794: In the town of Colac (just inland from the coast), the main bar area often features late-night entertainment, including DJs and live cover bands, making it a popular spot for a weekend night out in the region.