How to Get to the Start and End of the Great Ocean Road

Directions

The Great Ocean Road starts at Torquay and ends at Allansford, 243 kilometres later. You can either drive the whole way yourself, mix trains with buses, or take a guided tour while you sit back and relax. Here is a rundown of every option so you can choose the one that fits your timing, budget, and appetite for coastal curves.

By car

Melbourne to Torquay: Follow the M1 to Geelong (about an hour), then turn onto Surf Coast Highway. You’re at the official start in roughly 90 minutes.
Torquay to Port Campbell: Stay on the B100 past Bells Beach, Anglesea, Lorne, and Apollo Bay. Pull over for rainforest walks, lighthouse detours, and snack stops to sightsee along the way.
Port Campbell to Allansford: Keep driving along the cliffs and limestone stacks, then merge onto Princes Highway where the coastal signage ends.

By train

Train to Geelong: V/Line trains leave Southern Cross Station from Docklands, Melbourne, every 30 minutes. The ride is about an hour.
V/Line coach network: From Geelong, a V/Line coach network runs through Torquay, Anglesea, Lorne, Apollo Bay, and Warrnambool. In peak season (October–March), expect three to four departures a day; winter drops to one or two.
Through-service to Warrnambool: A direct coastal coach also runs a handful of times daily—ideal if you’re not hopping off at every town.

Pro-tip: Double-check timetables and book seats if you’re travelling on weekends or holidays.

Handy distance guide

Melbourne → Torquay: 105km, about 1 hour 20 minutes.
Torquay → Lorne: 48.4km, roughly 50 minutes.
Lorne → Apollo Bay: 45km, just under an hour.
Apollo Bay → Warrnambool: 158km, about 2 hours 19 minutes.

Why a guided tour can be easier

You get to sit back and enjoy the scenic views of the Great Ocean Road.
A seat on a small-group coach or minivan removes parking battles, fuel costs, and post-sunset driving on twisty roads.
Guides fill in the shipwreck tales, take you to empty lookouts, and often combine lunch, park fees, and optional extras like a Twelve Apostles helicopter flight — all in one day!
Tours range from half-day to full-day.

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Frequently asked questions about Melbourne to Great Ocean Road tours

Can I drive the whole road in a day?

Yes, but it’s a long day (around 12–13 hours round trip). For a more relaxed experience, consider a guided tour.

Do rental cars allow drop-off in Warrnambool?

Many Melbourne agencies require the car back in town; a few offer one-way hire for an extra fee—ask before you book.

Is mobile coverage reliable?

Reception fades between Lorne and Apollo Bay. Download offline maps.

Any tolls once I’m out of Melbourne?

No. CityLink tolls end before Geelong, and the coastal highway is toll-free.

Best season for the drive?

Summer brings beach weather and crowds; spring offers wildflowers and lighter traffic.

Are there public bus transport options?

There’s no direct public bus along the full route, but you can take V/Line trains and buses to towns like Geelong or Apollo Bay, then join local tours.

Is it easy to rent a car in Melbourne?

Yes, several major rental companies operate from the city and the airport. Make sure you're comfortable driving on winding coastal roads.

Are there fuel stations along the way?

Yes—most towns like Anglesea, Lorne, and Apollo Bay have fuel, but it’s best to top up early in case stations are spaced out.

Is the road safe for beginner drivers?

It’s paved and well-maintained, but features sharp curves and narrow sections. Drive slowly, especially around blind corners.

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

The full stretch from Torquay to Allansford (near Warrnambool) takes about 4–5 hours without stops. Most visitors take 2–3 days with sightseeing.