One of Australia’s most well-liked road journeys is the Great Ocean Road. From Torquay to Allansford, the scenic journey stretches 243 km along Victoria’s southwest coast. One of Australia’s most beautiful areas is the Great Otway National Park, which combines lush rainforests with breathtaking coastal views. Travelling the Great Ocean Road in a car you own or rent is preferable. You can stop whenever you want and view any sights and attractions you wish to see when you can drive along the Great Ocean Road.
Places To See On The Great Ocean Road
The list of sights and activities in the area includes everything from waterfalls to surf beaches to lighthouses, which can be a little intimidating at first. Still, many of the highlights can be seen in a few days, and several are even close to one another.
1. Torquay
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The Great Ocean Road officially begins in Torquay, 22 kilometres south of Geelong. Over the past few decades, this hip surf resort with fantastic stores and cafes has grown into a significant town. Though it’s undoubtedly busier than the sleepier seaside communities to the west, this area is a must-see because it’s known as the birthplace of Australian surfing. Visiting the stores at Surf City Plaza is one of the most well-liked activities in Torquay. This sector on the Surf Coast Highway houses major stores for several of Australia’s well-known surfing brands, such as Oakley, Roxy, and Rip Curl.
Location: Victoria
Timing: 11 am – 6 pm
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2. Anglesea
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Did you know that Swampy Creek was the original name of Anglesea? The town came from a coastal town in Wales, and the creek eventually became the Anglesea River. Discover more at this quaint seaside hamlet on the Great Ocean Road than simply gorgeous beaches. Anglesea is the ideal place to appreciate life by the sea, with family-friendly shorelines, breathtaking cliffs, and abundant wildlife. Take in the renowned red cliffs and safe havens. Discover beaches such as Anglesea Beach, Point Roadknight, and Point Addis. Explore the diverse species and lush vegetation. Finally, relax on the fantastic oceanfront walking pathways for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Location: Surf Coast Shire
Timing: 11 am – 6 pm
3. Lorne
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Lorne is located on the Great Ocean Road, just 120 kilometres west of Melbourne. The Great Otway National Park is right outside your door, and the town is charming, with many cafes and stores. Stroll along the shore, ride a bike down the waterfront to the pier, grab coffee at Lorne Beach Pavilion, and indulge in a mouthwatering pizza from Pizza Pizza! Please be aware that this location gets very busy during the Christmas season. Lorne is one of the best places to stay at Great Ocean Road.
Location: Louttit Bay in Victoria
Timing: 11 am – 6 pm
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4. Teddys Lookout
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Teddy’s Lookout provides breathtaking views of the Great Ocean Road’s shoreline and the St. George River. Teddy’s Lookout is roughly a half-hour’s walk from two other lookouts along a walking track. The first lookout you will reach is the upper one, which offers breathtaking views of the Bass Strait and the mouth of the George River. The river and lovely valley to the west are better seen from the lower lookout, which faces more southerly.
Location: 53 George St, Lorne VIC 3232,
Timing: 11 am – 6 pm
5. Marriner’s Lookout
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Climb to the magnificent Marriner’s Lookout, located north of Apollo Bay, atop a hill. You will have an absolutely amazing experience from this vantage point, which gives breathtaking views of the town, beach, hinterland, and ocean. Remember to pack your camera because you’ll want to document these breathtaking vistas. Walk for ten minutes from the parking lot to see breathtaking views. Stroll 1.5 km down the Great Ocean Road or the beach for an extended hike before ascending the steep slope. You can observe hang gliders take off from this well-liked launch location. Pay attention to signage and private property, and maintain a clean environment.
Location: Apollo Bay VIC 3233, Australia
Timing: 11 am – 6 pm
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6. Cape Otway
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Just over 200 kilometres separate Melbourne from Cape Otway, which has a beautiful lighthouse within a national park. Apollo Bay, located at Cape Otway, is a point break and beach that is fairly exposed and offers steady surf. A picnic in Cape Otway is a great idea. Winter is the greatest season to surf here. There are several accommodation options nearby, and some of the best places to stay are at Great Ocean Road. One experience you really must have is the neighbouring Maits Rest Rainforest Walk. This short 800-metre loop winds through a cold temperate rainforest home to various ferns, fungus, and trees.
Location: Victoria 3233
Timing: 10 am – 6 pm
7. Gibson Steps
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The Gibson Steps are directly across the street from the Twelve Apostles Visitors Center. For a closer look, descend these steps and step onto the sand. This place offers you a fresh viewpoint on the strength of the waves and the elevation of the cliffs. The ease with which the rocks shatter away is nearly palpable. To truly appreciate the force of the ocean and how it continuously shapes our planet, take some time to observe the water crashing at the base of the limestone stacks.
Remember the tide when you stroll around the corner; otherwise, you can have a soggy walk back. It arrives quite quickly. Go to Gibson Steps after dusk. In this manner, the sun sets behind the two Apostles, creating a magnificent scene.
Location: Along The Great Ocean Road
Timing: 11 am – 6 pm
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8. Bells Beach
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A favourite destination for most Victorians, including those who don’t surf, Bells Beach is widely regarded as the birthplace of surfing in Australia. One of the most visited locations on the surf coast is the well-known beach outside of Torquay, a must-see for tourists. All year long, surfers can be seen catching some waves. Actually, there are other breakers along the lengthy stretch of surf, including Winki Pop, Southside, and Steps. Along the cliffs are numerous fantastic lookout points, and the main parking lot provides a superb vantage point from which to watch local surfers for hours.
Location: Victoria 3228, Australia
Timing: 11 am – 6 pm
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Great Ocean Road Victoria is a breathtaking coastal drive known for its breathtaking landscape and well-known sights. Its 243 kilometres give visitors the chance to take in breathtaking views of the Southern Ocean, rocky cliffs, verdant jungles, and quaint seaside communities. Book a trip to Australia and enjoy a Great Ocean Road day trip. Along the trip, plenty of spectacular sights exist, from the well-known Twelve Apostles to the charming Loch Ard Gorge.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Great Ocean Road
What is the Great Ocean Road's length?
From Torquay to Allansford, the road is roughly 243 kilometres (151 miles) long.
Which sights along the Great Ocean Road Victoria are a must-see?
The Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, The Grotto, London Arch (previously known as London Bridge), and the Gibson Steps are a few famous sites
What time of year is ideal to go there?
While you may explore the Great Ocean Road all year round, the Australian summer months of December through February tend to have milder and more pleasant weather.
Is driving on the Great Ocean Road subject to an admission fee?
No, there is no entrance fee to drive on the Great Ocean Road itself. You can enjoy a Great Ocean Road day trip with your loved ones whenever you’re in the region.
Can I take public transit along the Great Ocean Road?
Even while there are some public transit choices, such as buses and tours, having a private car allows you greater freedom to see the different attractions at your speed.
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As a Travel Content Writer, I live to conquer the world of globetrotting with words. With my unquenchable thirst for storytelling, I believe that my words will inspire you to travel around the world’s breathtaking landscapes. As for me, I am an unapologetic selenophile, who loves to wander around in a starry night!