Bells Beach near Torquay, known for its quality waves, is one of Australia’s premier surf spots, attracting surfers from across the globe. New surfers can try safe surfing lessons at one of the many surf schools here.
Things to do in Great Ocean Road: Top beaches, adventure activities, wildlife, and more
Looking for a beautiful drive that goes for more than 240 kilometers along the southern coast of Australia? The Great Ocean Road might be just the adventure you need. This route is known for its beautiful landscapes—from cliffs and green forests to lovely beaches and coastal towns. Adventure-lovers can enjoy surfing the famous waves at Bells Beach, kayaking through dramatic coastlines, or riding trails in nature. Spot native wildlife or go on to explore beautiful waterfalls, the Grotto, and the amazing Twelve Apostles. Whether you love adventure, enjoy nature, or just want to relax, pack your bags to make memories of a lifetime. Read on to discover activities, must-see destinations, and tips for a seamless journey.
8 ways to explore Great Ocean Road
1/8
Surfing at Bells Beach
Known for its world-class waves, Bells Beach is a must-visit for surfers. If you’re a beginner, you can also take surfing lessons. The golden sands also make it a great spot for beachcombing.
Rainforest walks
Discover the lush beauty of Great Otway National Park, home of colourful wildlife. Inside the park, take the Maits Rest Rainforest Walk, a beautiful trail through dense rainforest filled with trees, and vibrant birdlife. For another unique experience along the Great Ocean Road, visit the Californian Redwoods in Beech Forest.
Kayaking with wildlife
Paddle through the calm waters of Apollo Bay and meet seals, and dolphins. This activity is suitable for families and adventure seekers alike to explore the coast.
The Great Ocean Walk
Stretching over 100 kilometers, this walk is perfect for hikers of all skill levels. Trek through rugged cliffs and lush forests with coastline views. Some sections of the trail can be completed in a day, while others go on for longer—choose the one best suited to you.
Wildlife spotting at Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve
Spot your favorite animals at this dormant volcano turned nature reserve. Take a guided tour to spot koalas, kangaroos, emus, and native birds.
Snorkeling and shipwreck discoveries
Dive into the waters at Port Fairy or Wreck Beach to see colorful fish, corals, and fascinating relics from Australia’s maritime past.
Cycling along coastal trails
Rent a bike and ride along scenic trails on the Great Ocean Road. Popular routes include the Bellarine Rail Trail and the Anglesea Mountain Bike Park for off-road adventures.
Fishing at coastal towns
The waters at Apollo Bay and Lorne are great for fishing trips and are known for their fresh seafood, including snapper and crayfish.
Must-see attractions on the way
Twelve Apostles
These limestone stacks rise from the Southern Ocean and are best viewed at sunrise or sunset.
Adventure activities in Great Ocean Road
Surfing at Bells Beach
Hiking the Great Ocean Walk
Stretching from Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles, the Great Ocean Walk spans nearly 100 kilometers through national parks, deserted beaches, and rugged coasts. You can choose to take the entire trail over several days or a shorter-duration drive with the family.
Mountain biking in the Otways
The Great Otway National Park has mountain biking trails for everyone. The Forrest Mountain Bike Park is a favorite among adventure lovers. Go for a bike ride to enjoy the beauty of the rainforest.
Kayaking at Cape Otway
Explore the coastline by kayak around Cape Otway to discover beaches, sea caves, and spot marine life up close. And along the way, discover the unique Cape Otway Lighthouse.
Beaches of Great Ocean Road
Apollo Bay
Famous for its golden shores and perfect waves for surfing and swimming. The beach is part of the Great Otway National Park and is ideal for spotting dolphins and seals. Try exploring the coastline with a kayak, or simply enjoy a relaxing day by the sea.
Lorne Beach
Lorne is a popular spot for both swimming, surfing, and shopping. For adventure seekers, try fishing, kayaking, and hiking at the nearby Great Otway National Park.
Torquay Beach
Known as the birthplace of Australian surfing, Torquay is a must-visit for surfers. Besides surfing, you can also explore the coastal trails or head to the Surf world Museum.
Gibson Steps
The Gibson Steps, located near the Twelve Apostles, provide views of limestone cliffs and sandy beaches. For the adventurous, a steep descent down the steps to the beach offers an exciting challenge.
Something for all: Activities for different age groups
Family fun - Great Otway National Park Wildlife Tour
This family-friendly tour offers a close encounter with Australia's native wildlife and is perfect for those traveling with kids. Families can take guided walks through lush rainforests and spot wildlife like kangaroos and koalas.
Recommended experience:
Solo travelers - Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour
For solo travelers, the GOR reverse tour could be a good option as these tours are less crowded. They also come with expert guides and great photography opportunities, hitting spots like the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge.
Recommended experience:
Adventure Seekers - Surfing at Bells Beach
Bells Beach is known for its world-famous surf breaks and vibrant surfer culture. This beach is perfect for catching waves, hiking and there are also spots for cliff jumping around the area. It also hosts the Rip Curl Pro, a legacy surfing competition, usually scheduled around Easter (April). Attend the event to see professional surfers riding the waves. You can also choose a tandem skydive experience from 8,000-15,000 feet, along with a professional jumpmaster.
Recommended experience:
Couples retreat - Twelve Apostles Helicopter Ride
For couples seeking a romantic adventure, a sunset tour to admire the beauty of the beaches is the perfect option. The tour passes through some of the most famous spots, making it perfect for capturing memories against the golden backdrop.
Recommended experience:
Best time to visit for various activities
Adventure activities
- Best time: Spring (September–November) and Autumn (March–May) are ideal due to mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer (December–February) is great for water-based activities but tends to be busier.
- Tips: Book zip-lining or surfing lessons in advance, especially in peak seasons. Some activities may not operate in adverse weather.
Visiting Beaches
- Best time: Summer (December–February) is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Early autumn (March) is also pleasant, with fewer crowds and warm waters.
- Tips: Many beaches are patrolled during summer. Check for high-tide warnings and swim only in designated areas.
Hiking
- Best time: Autumn (March–May) and Spring (September–November) offer comfortable temperatures and stunning scenery, with blooming wildflowers in spring and golden foliage in autumn. Winter (June–August) can also be scenic but is colder and wetter.
- Tips: Wear layers, as weather can change quickly. Some trails may close temporarily due to maintenance or weather, so check local updates.
Spotting wildlife
- Best time: Koalas, kangaroos, and native birds can be seen year-round, but early mornings and late afternoons are best for activity.
- Whale watching: Visit between June and October during the migration season for southern right whales.
- Tips: Bring binoculars for better viewing, and follow signs to ensure minimal disturbance to wildlife. Guided tours provide the best chance of spotting elusive animals.
Additional information
- Traffic: The Great Ocean Road can get congested, especially during weekends, holidays, and summer. Start early or stay overnight to avoid peak traffic times.
- Local events:
- In April, the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach takes place at Bells Beach, Victoria. Top surfers from around the world compete for the Bell trophy.
- In May, the Great Ocean Road Running Festival is scheduled for May. You can participate in this event with various running distances along the scenic coastline.
- Apollo Bay music festival is held in Apollo Bay, with different kinds of musical performances every year.
Spot colourful wildlife at Great Ocean Road
Koalas
Koalas can be spotted around Kennett River and Cape Otway. They rest in eucalyptus trees, often seen napping during the day. The best time to see them is around spring and summer (September to February).
Tips to prepare for the journey
- If you’re planning to drive through popular towns like Torquay or Lorne, try to avoid rush hours (typically 8-9am and 4-6pm).
- While the beaches along the Great Ocean Road are beautiful, the Southern Ocean can have powerful tides. Don’t swim in unpatrolled areas, especially near Loch Ard Gorge or Bells Beach, where rip currents are common.
- The Great Ocean Road’s remoteness means some areas may have limited phone service. Have offline maps downloaded to help you navigate, especially in areas like Teddy’s Lookout or Warrnambool’s Botanic Gardens.
- There are several secluded beaches along the route, such as Johanna Beach and Gibson Steps, that offer beautiful surroundings for a quiet picnic and family time.
- The coastal weather can be unpredictable, with sunshine, rain, and wind all possible in a single day. Layer your clothing to stay comfortable and bring a waterproof jacket.
- Gas stations can come after longer intervals along the road. Ensure your tank is full before starting your journey, especially if you plan to visit more remote areas like Cape Otway or Johanna Beach.
Frequently asked questions about the Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road is a 243-kilometer stretch along Australia's southeastern coast, known for its stunning coastal landscapes, including the iconic Twelve Apostles limestone stacks, lush rainforests, and beaches.
Key attractions include the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge, and the Great Otway National Park, known for its rainforests and waterfalls.
The region is home to koalas, kangaroos, colorful parrots, and diverse marine life along the coast.
Most full-day tours from Melbourne last approximately 12 hours, covering major highlights along the route.
The Great Ocean Road is accessible year-round, but the summer months (December to February) with warmer weather and longer daylight hours, ideal for sightseeing.
Yes, many tours are designed to accommodate all age groups, with comfortable transportation and frequent stops for rest and sightseeing.
Absolutely! The Great Ocean Road is a popular self-drive destination, offering flexibility to explore at your own pace. Make sure you’re comfortable with driving on winding coastal roads.
It’s recommended to bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a camera, and a light jacket, as weather conditions can change.
Yes, there are restrooms available at major stops and towns along the Great Ocean Road.
Some attractions and lookouts are wheelchair accessible, except adventure activities and areas with difficult terrains.
Yes, guided walks are available, offering insights into the park’s flora, fauna, and history.
Opting for early morning or late afternoon tours, or visiting during the off-peak season (May to September), can help you avoid larger crowds.
