Updated on December 9, 2025
The Great Ocean Road Guide – Best Things To See & Do
The Great Ocean Road map highlights attractions, recommended places to stop, and things to do on a self-drive holiday along the Victorian coast to the 12 Apostles and Port Campbell National Park.
Explore the cool-temperate rainforest of the Great Otway National Park, including its waterfalls, best viewpoints, long golden beaches, koalas, and wildlife. Look for the elusive Platypus at Lake Elizabeth, explore ship wreck beaches and climb a historic lighthouse at Cape Otway before arriving at the famous 12 Apostles and the Port Campbell National Park.,
This great Ocean Road map will help you plan your adventure.
Click on any of the numbers on the map of The Great Ocean Road to read all about the attraction. To enlarge the map, click the top-right icon, and it will open up, full screen, in a new tab. You can also use the ‘share’ icon and share it on Facebook.
50 Of The Best Things to See & Do
1. Torquay
This is where the fun starts! A popular little holiday town with good surfing and family-friendly beaches. A visit to the Australian National Surfing Museum. Famous brand-name surf shop outlets like ‘Rip Curl’ can have incredible bargains.
2. Bells Beach
Famous for the Rip Curl Pro surfing challenge that has been held every Easter weekend since the 1960s. It is also well known for featuring in the movie ‘Point Break’. Bells Beach and nearby Winki Pop Beach are both hot spots for surfers.
3. Anglesea
Anglesea is a really sweet little town with safe beaches where you can learn to surf, hire a kayak or even visit kangaroos on the local golf course ( you must go to the clubhouse and book a tour of the course). You can also stay in a local caravan park and see kangaroos hopping around the campground.
4. Point Addis
The beach here is just excellent! On the way down to the point, there is a walk called the ‘Koori Cultural Walk’ which is well worth doing. You can walk to a lookout point and return, or continue on several tracks; one leads down to the beach from the lookout point. The area is part of the Point Addis Marine National Park.
5. Aireys Inlet
Another sweet little seaside town with great beaches, surfing, cafes, and a relaxed vibe. Visit the Split Point Lighthouse, which was the location of the kids’ TV show ‘Round The Twist’, follow walking trails along the cliff tops and beaches.
6. Great Ocean Road Sign
A definite ‘must stop’ on your journey! Pose for a photo, walk on the long, long, beach and read the historical plaques. Taking a selfie at the Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch is very popular.
7. Lorne
The largest town along the Great Ocean Road, though it’s still just a small country town. There is plenty to do here, great beaches, playgrounds, cafes, and restaurants, as well as fabulous shops. Walk to Erskine Falls from the town or relax… The perfect place for a Melbourne city escape.
8. Erskine Falls
The most popular waterfall in the Otways and a short drive from Lorne, or walk the 7.5 km hike (each way) from Lorne! Nearby, Sheoak Picnic Ground is the perfect base for exploring several other beautiful waterfall walks, such as those to Sheoak Falls, Phantom Falls, and Henderson Falls. You can even walk down to the coast and the Cumberland River. Lorne is the ideal base for exploring this stunning area.
9. Teddy’s Lookout, Lorne
A good photo opportunity and a view that is often used in advertising campaigns for the Great Ocean Road. Drive or walk from Lorne, other walking tracks lead off from the lookout point, making Lorne an ideal base for full-day hikes, or even overnight if you want to carry a pack and camp at Allenvale Mill campground, perhaps.
10. Beach stop with parking for longer vehicles – St George River
Close to Lorne, this lovely beach features a large parking area, making it suitable for caravans and other vehicles. Walking tracks opposite lead up to Teddy’s Lookout and beyond. Swim, rock hop, or hike!
The paddock opposite the beach is home to dozens of Kangaroos that come out to graze in the evening and early morning.
11. Sheoak Falls
Sheoak falls are worth stopping for, as the walk is quite pretty and the views are good. An 11 km loop walk starts from here for anyone wanting to extend their hike. Sheoak Picnic Ground, located further inland, is also a good base for waterfall walks. Best seen in the winter or after heavy rains. Chasing waterfalls? You can find more of them listed here.
NOT DOG FRIENDLY
12. Cumberland River
A popular camping site with self-contained cabins to rent as well as powered and unpowered sites. Several walks from the Cumberland River reserve are superb, climbing up into the Otways to Waterfalls alongside the river. The beach opposite is perfect for families.
NOT DOG FRIENDLY
13. Artillery Rocks
This is a fascinating spot to stop. It is 12.5km/18 minutes from Lorne. The rocks are eroded and stand up like ‘cannonballs’, hence the name. It is a very popular fishing spot. Be careful on the rocks as waves can come crashing in without warning. The nearest camping spot, within walking distance to Artillery Rocks, is the Jamieson Creek Campground, situated on the hill above.
14. Mt Defiance Lookout
A small car park area with good views looking along the coast and an information plaque.
15. Godfrey Shipwreck Memorial
The W.B. Godfrey was built in Greenock, Scotland, and was shipwrecked at this site in 1891. Some remnants of the iron hull can still be seen at low tide. Worth stopping to read more of this fascinating history. At low tide, remnants of the shipwreck can still be seen. Read more about the many shipwrecks along this part of the coast.
16. Wye River
A good beach stop to break up the journey and a popular pub with views. ‘Wye Not’ stop for a cuppa. Many of the properties here are named with a ‘wye…’ prefix, such as Wye Worry and Wye Up. There is a good hiking trail to Wye River from the Jamieson Creek Campground. There is also a dog-friendly beach section, making it an ideal spot if you are travelling with your furry friend.
Wye River offers a variety of rental accommodations, as well as campgrounds. A gorgeous, 3 km return walk passes through the Big 4 Camping Ground.
DOG FRIENDLY BEACH AREA
17. Koalas in the wild at Kennett River
One of the best places to see Koalas in the wild! Kennett River is a tiny village with a cafe, and it gets extremely busy here as everyone wants to ‘do the koala walk’! Drive along Grey River Road a few km’s and look out for the cuddly Australians in the trees. If you stay in the area, consider visiting the glowworms walk, located further up in the forest at the Grey River picnic area.
There is a pretty campground at Kennett River, often featuring koalas in the trees and just across the road from the beach.
18. Cape Patton Lookout
Another good viewpoint to stop and stretch your legs after driving the winding Great Ocean Road! Fantastic views along to Apollo Bay.
19. Carisbrook Waterfall
If you fancy another stop, this waterfall is a nice walk, uphill, with some good views. Best seen in winter/spring and after heavy rains. Find out about other waterfalls in the Otways.
NOT DOG FRIENDLY
20. Rocks and Cairns at Carisbrook Creek
People started making cairns from the rocks on the beach here a few years ago, and it has really caught on! After heavy seas, they tend to get knocked over, but people continue to build them again. A good bit of fun, especially if you have kids in the car.
21. Apollo Bay
The second largest town on the Great Ocean Road, but it is still a laid-back and lovely place to stop. Plenty of parking, a safe beach that stretches for miles, plus free-to-use BBQs on the foreshore, a skate park, and a playground! This is an excellent base to stay a few days and relax, hike, or drive the waterfalls circuit up in the Otways.
22. Marriners Lookout
Spectacular views over Apollo Bay and a top spot to watch the sunset, perfect for a picnic. Walk from Apollo Bay or drive to the car park and then walk a short way. The road is quite steep and the parking is limited, but it is worth a visit.
23. Marengo Beach & Seal Colony
Seal colony on Marengo Reef. This is a brilliant spot for kayaking or paddleboarding (for experienced paddlers) on a calm day, offering a chance to view seals on the rocks about 200 metres offshore. Apollo Bay Surf & Kayak offers tours as well as surfing lessons. https://apollobaysurfkayak.com.au/
24. Maits Rest Rainforest Walk
Stop here and walk! It is a lovely spot, even if you are only doing the Great Ocean Road in a day, add it to your itinerary. The wonderful old Myrtle Beech Trees and tall tree ferns are stunning. It only takes about 20 minutes, no to do. Small day tour buses usually always stop in here too, so you could always book a tour from Melbourne?
NOT DOG FRIENDLY
25. Cape Otway and Historic Lighthouse
One of Australia’s most historic lighthouses, the Cape Otway Light Station is well worth a visit if you have plenty of time (not advised on a day trip along the Ocean Road). You can tour the lighthouse, at a cost, and there is accommodation in the old lighthouse keepers’ house.
NOT DOG FRIENDLY
Koalas are plentiful in the area, with a few bush camping spots available. Bimbi Park is a popular campground with excellent facilities, including koalas in the trees, walking trails, cabins, and spacious camp sites. Another option is to camp at one of the two Parks Victoria-managed sites, either Blanket Bay or Parker Hill.
26. Aire River – East & West
There is a fabulous camping ground here, booked via Parks Victoria. No showers, just a long drop loo. Lovely walks, a pretty river to canoe on (byo canoe or kayak). Nearby cottages are available for rent if you’d like to stay for a while and relax in this area. It is an ideal base for visiting and enjoying hiking on sections of the Great Ocean Walk.
Walk to the ocean beach from the parking area.
NOT DOG FRIENDLY
27. Johanna Beach
Not ideal for swimming due to strong currents, but very popular with surfers! Camping near the dunes, this is the perfect spot for those seeking a bit of serenity or for experienced surfers.
DOG FRIENDLY
28. Triplet Falls & Little Aire River Falls
A fabulous walking track beneath massive trees and through the cool temperate rain forest to one of the prettiest waterfalls in the Great Otway National Park.
NOT DOG FRIENDLY
29. Otway Fly Treetops Walk
Brilliant walk on elevated walkways through the treetops. The Otway Fly is also home to a tree zip line course. Paid entry, loads of parking, and a cafe on site. This is located near Triplet Falls.
NOT DOG FRIENDLY
30. Hopetoun Falls
Just gorgeous, the walk to these falls is not very far, though it does involve steps. The falls can be viewed from the car park area, as in the photo above.
NOT DOG FRIENDLY
31. Californian Redwoods
This plantation is a fabulous surprise. Not far from Hopetoun Falls is a plantation of giant Sequoia Trees, also known as California redwoods—a truly peaceful spot by a small river. Once you enter the little forest, it seems so quiet with pine needles underfoot, dulling the noise. It is not too far from Apollo Bay to this spot, following Binns Road.
NOT DOG-FRIENDLY
32. Beauchamp Falls
One of our favourites. A free camping area is also available here. The walk to the falls is fabulous; it takes about 30 minutes and has historic signage along the way.
DOG FRIENDLY TO THE WATERFALLS AND CAMPING (the waterfall walk, whilst it’s ok to take your dog, the metal walking surface is not great for their feet).
33. Lake Elizabeth – Platypus Spotting!
Up high in the Otways, 11km from the township of Forrest, the Lake Elizabeth Campground is a gem. Walk to Lake Elizabeth, do the circuit, and watch for Platypus (or do a platypus paddle) early in the morning or at dusk. The area is a mountain biker’s paradise with miles of specially marked trails.
There is a tent-only campsite here, within an easy walk of Lake Elizabeth. Please find details on our free and low-cost campgrounds page.
DOG FRIENDLY
34. Stevenson’s Falls, Otways
This is another really pretty waterfall in the Otways. You definitely need a few days to explore this area. The walk to the falls is not too far, but it’s pretty, and the falls are worth the trek. There is a free campground nearby, which is extremely popular. The walk has been upgraded to make it an all-abilities trail.
DOG FRIENDLY
35. Melba Gully
Another historic spot along the Ocean Road and a superb walk. If you have time, stop in and see the massive trees, follow the historic signs, and, at night, you can see glow worms! Stay nearby if you want to see the glow worms at night – and take a torch to use on the track.
NOT DOG FRIENDLY
36. Moonlight Head & Wreck Beach
Moonlight Head and Wreck Beach – One of the lesser known spots to visit. At low tide, scramble down the rather steep track to the beach where remnants from the Fiji shipwreck in 1891.
37. Princetown, near the 12 Apostles
Princetown is a tiny village with some accommodation options and a cafe, plus a picturesque wetlands walk that is worth taking the time to do. There is also a walk to the mouth of the Gellibrand River and the ocean beach. There is camping at the Princetown Recreation Reserve. You can find all our camping sites along the Great Ocean Road here.
DOG FRIENDLY
38. Information sign and lesser-known lookout
There is a small parking area with an information board a few minutes before the 12 Apostles. Follow the path uphill for a short distance to a viewing platform, where you’ll enjoy a good view of the 12 Apostles along the coast. This track is part of the Great Ocean Walk, and if time permits, have a hike in either direction.
NOT DOG FRIENDLY
39. Gibson’s Steps to the Beach
My favourite beach of all! 88 steps have been hand-carved into the limestone cliff face (now concreted for safety)—the lead down to the beach with waves crashing in and the cliffs towering above. Two of the famous rock formations can be seen from the beach.
40. The 12 Apostles
The famous Twelve Apostles! A massive car park, an information kiosk, a small selection of snacks, and a walkway to the viewing area to see the Apostles. Fab at any time, beautiful for sunset or sunrise, and almost always busy as we all want to experience this area! Helicopter rides can be taken from beyond the car park, book ahead or take your turn if you have time to wait a little while. Read all about the 12 Apostles area here.
41. The Bakers Oven
Don’t take large caravans down this tiny track, as turning is limited. It can be rough and potholed, but the view to the rock stack known as the Bakers Oven is rather fabulous.
42. Loch Ard Gorge
One of the best stops along the way. It does get busy in peak times, too, but there is more space for everyone to spread out a bit more to see compared to the 12 Apostles. Three or more hours can easily be spent here doing the walks and going down to the beaches: there are no toilets, water taps, or shops. The Loch Ard is one of the most famous shipwrecks on the Victorian Coast. Read all the history as you walk.
43. Port Campbell
A fishing village less than 15 15-minute drive from the 12 Apostles. Lots of accommodation to choose from, a microbrewery and good places to eat. An ideal spot to spend a night or two.
44. The Arch
A short walk down to the viewing area and another place to see. The Arch (top left image) was formed over thousands of years. Good views back towards the Apostles coastline.
45. London Bridge, Australia!
No longer a bridge, it fell in 1990, unexpectedly, leaving two people stranded on the newly formed island. Luckily, no one was hurt! It is now known as the London Arch and is still worth stopping in to see. At dusk, little penguins can be seen coming ashore. You have to stay on the viewing platform and can’t get close, though.
46. The Grotto
We love this spot. The Grotto (lower right image) is a sinkhole. The path winds down to where the ocean can be viewed through an arch.
47. Bay of Martyrs
This is an area with a sad history, but it is also very pretty. Stop in to read the information and learn more about Australian history.
48. Worm Bay
Of the numerous viewpoints and beaches along this section, Worm Bay is notable for having one of the steepest boat launching ramps in the country. Walk down the steps beside the ramp and explore the beach if the tide is low.
49. Bay of Islands
Smaller limestone stacks in a sheltered bay with walking tracks along the coast and to the beaches. Accommodation can be found locally in Peterborough if you plan to stay overnight. This area is not as frequented as the famous 12 Apostles; the stacks are smaller, but it is still a breathtaking area to explore.
50. Warrnambool
Whilst the Great Ocean Road drive has finished, there is more to see and do. Warrnambool is worth visiting if you are travelling further. Beyond Warrnambool, there is still so much more to see. Port Fairy is a charming village well worth spending time in. The road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide can include stops in Port Fairy and other coastal towns.
Great Ocean Road Walk
8 Days or so of hiking from Apollo Bay to the 12 Apostles following the coastline with views and experiences not possible by car or bus. Spectacular and diverse scenery, wildlife, byo tent or book accommodation along the way. This is one of Victoria’s best bush and ocean walks. Find out more and plan your adventure.
Or
Walk 91 provides assistance to plan your walk along the GOR Walk, either with luxurious accommodation and meals provided or the budge self-catering option. Find out more…
Activities and Attractions on the Great Ocean Road
Along with so many natural attractions to experience, the Ocean Road also has activities to keep visitors on a self-drive tour busy for days. Ziplining, surfing, horse riding, canoes, and kayaking, to name a few…
Lorne
- Live Wire Park Ziplines, tree climbing course, and fun!
- Health and Hire, (HAH) Lorne Beach. A super little ‘Gourmet Sustainable Cafe’ and the spot to hire a bike, surfboard, SUP (stand up paddleboarding) etc.
- Lorne Seabaths, Gym, inground Trampolines for kids, and more.
- Read more about what to see and do in Lorne for a weekend escape.
Otways
- Otways Trees Adventure Park
- Otway Fly – Tree Top Walk and Zip Lining
- Read more about The Great Otway National Park
Helicopter Joy Rides
- Scenic helicopter flights leave from near the 12 Apostles visitor center behind the car park.
- Or how about a flight from Apollo Bay? These trips follow the coast, passing the Cape OtwayLight Station and parts of the coast that you can’t see or access from the road. Apollo Bay Aviation provides a variety of trips, read more on their website.
- Helicopter Tour from Melbourne! Well, this is one way to experience The Ocean Road in a day. Helicopter Tours operate out of Melbourne, offering a few different choices including a flight to the Twelve Apostles for lunch and then down to Phillip Island to see the Little Penguins come ashore. Landing by the 12 Apostles so passengers can take in the most famous section of the Ocean Road and enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch – Proposals… Anniversaries… Just because you want to…
Surf Lessons
Go-Ride a Wave! Surf lessons can be booked in Lorne, Anglesea, Torquay, and Ocean Grove.
Boat and Kayak Tours or Hire
- Anglesea paddle boat and canoe hire.
- Apollo Bay Surf, Stand Up Paddle Boarding & Kayak – Learn to Surf, Kayak to a Seal Colony, Bike and Walk the Otways.
- GORATS (Great Ocean Road Adventure Tours)- Personalised tours by bike or paddling down rivers.
Gourmet Food Trail
- Apostle Whey Cheese – Cooriemungle (near Port Campbell)
- Berry World – Timboon
- Farm Fudge – Timboon Colac Road Jancourt East
- Gorge Chocolates – Cooriemungle
- Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie – Bellbrae
- Otway Blueberries – Gellibrand
- The Place of Wonder – Port Campbell Rd, Newfield
- Timboon Fine Icecream – Timboon
Micro Breweries & Great Pubs
- Bells Beach Brewing – Torquay
- Blackmans Brewery Bar – Torquay
- Forrest Brewing Company – Forrest
- Great Ocean Road Brewhouse – Apollo Bay
- Otway Estate Brewery – Prickly Moses Beer – Barongarook
- Salt Brewing Company / Rogue Wave Brewing- Aireys Inlet
- Sow & Piglets Brewery – Port Campbell
- Timboon Distillery – Timboon
- Wye Beach Hotel – Wye River, Craft Beer on Tap
- ANDY’S TRAILS – Beer, Wine, and Gourmet Food Tours. A safe option to take if you want to get the most out of a microbrewery tour experience.
Great Ocean Road Bus Tours
If you want to get the most of a day trip down the Great Ocean Road but do not want to self-drive, a bus tour will be the perfect option. We can recommend a number of excellent companies who all use smaller buses which means more time at stops and more personalized experience. Find out more here.
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