Top places to see Koalas on the Great Ocean Road

Koalas

Koalas are a highlight of any Great Ocean Road trip, and you don’t need a zoo ticket to see them. You may be able to spot several Koala bears in Eucalypt pockets along the coast, along with kangaroos, parrots, and echidnas, if you know when to look.

Where to see Koalas

Kennett River Koala Walk

This is the most popular koala-spotting stop. Start at the general store and stroll the gravel lane. Make sure to look up at Eucalyptus trees since Koalas are often found to be sleeping cozily on the branches.

Cape Otway Lighthouse Road

The drive down to the Cape Otway Lighthouse is a hotspot for koalas. Keep your eyes on the treetops along the road, especially in the afternoons. It’s one of the best areas for relaxed koala sightings in a natural habitat.

Great Otway National Park

While not as guaranteed as Kennett River, the dense eucalyptus forests in the park are natural koala habitats. Maits Rest Rainforest Walk is a beautiful, short loop walk and spotting a koala here is a lucky bonus.

Lorne to Apollo Bay Drive

This stretch is dotted with tall gum trees and occasional koalas. Pull over safely at designated stops and scan the trees!

More wildlife on the route

Eastern grey kangaroos graze open fields near Kennett River just after dawn.
Crimson rosellas and sulphur-crested cockatoos add colour (and noise) to most picnic areas.
Echidnas roam on track edges after rain; look for small conical diggings in soft soil.
Kookaburras and eastern spinebills often perch on car-park rails.

Timing & practical tips

Best hours: Sunrise to 9am or 4pm to sunset—cooler air equals more movement.
Seasonal edge: Autumn and winter make spotting easier; leaves thin out, and koalas move lower for the sun.
Drive slow: Under 40 km/h through eucalyptus trees; pull into signed bays, not roadside shoulders.
Stay quiet: Low voices and muted clothing keep animals relaxed. Binoculars help without needing to step closer.
Distance from animas: Keep five metres from koalas; twenty from kangaroos if you come across one.
Avoid feeding wildlife: Never feed wildlife—fines apply.

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Frequently asked questions about Koala spotting on the Great Ocean Road

Can I see koalas year-round?

Yes. They’re present all seasons; bare winter branches simply make them easier to spot.

Is it safe to get close to wild koalas?

It’s best to admire koalas from a distance. They may look cute, but they’re wild animals and can become stressed if approached. Avoid feeding them or using flash photography.

Do I need permits for these reserves?

No. Most roadside pull-outs and short trails are free.

Are binoculars essential?

Helpful but optional—some koalas sit only a few metres above ground.

What if I find an injured animal?

Stay back and phone Wildlife Victoria (1300 094 535) with location details.

Is night driving good for sightings?

No—risk of collisions rises after dark. Stick to dawn and dusk.

Can I pair koala spotting with other stops?

Absolutely. Koala sites sit between surf beaches, rainforest walks, and the 12 Apostles, so including them in a day trip is easy.