Unmissable Highlights along the Great Ocean Road

From the rugged coastline to lush greenery, the Great Ocean Road has a little something for everyone!

The dramatic coastline of the Great Ocean Road offers some of the best views in Australia and along it, you will find hidden waterfalls, ancient rainforests, and native wildlife. The trip to the Great Ocean Road has long been a bucket list destination for many tourists, and with a distance of 243 kilometres, there are enough activities and attractions to satisfy your every travel desire. In saying this, we know how overwhelming it can be to plan your holiday so here are the unmissable highlights along the Great Ocean Road to ensure that you make the most of your journey in Australia!

• The 12 Apostles

  

  These limestone rock formations jut proudly out of the sea to create one of Australia’s world-famous landmarks. Perhaps one of the most picturesque views you’ll see on the drive through the coast, the stacks today are fewer in numbers yet still are a mesmerising sight to see. Standing on the windy cliffs above, take your time here to watch the crashing waves dance along the bottoms of the rocks as it is truly a breathtaking natural wonder. Scattered along the coastline of the Southern Ocean, the 12 Apostles are constantly exposed to erosion by the hungry waves, so be sure to visit before there are less of them!

• Loch Ard Gorge

  

  The stunning site of Loch Ard Gorge is shrouded in a rich history that gives the area a mysterious atmosphere. Originally the area in which a ship called Lock Ard ran aground in 1878, today the gorge is a well-loved stop off point for tourists to take some time to visit the nearby blowholes, and wander along the trails that offer gorgeous views of the dramatic and broody waves that make up the site of the rugged Shipwreck Coast. Venture down the steps to get a closer look at one of Australia’s treasured attractions.

• Gibson Steps

  

  Just a short 2-minute drive from the 12 Apostles, you will find yourself at Gibson Steps. Towering stacks affectionately nicknamed Gog and Magog will stun you as you walk down the 86 steps to witness the magnitude of the 70-meter-high rock formations. Named after local settler Hugh Gibson; the carver of the steps that leads down to the beach, Gibson Steps are a sight to behold, especially at sunset as the light hits the back of these imposing stacks which leaves you with a gloriously picture perfect moment from your prime position down along the sand.

• London Arch

  This natural arch sits high above the water in Port Campbell National Park and was once named the London Bridge due to its likeness to the real deal. However, in 1990 the bridge connecting the two arches collapsed which is why it’s now referred to as the London Arch. Nevertheless, it still holds all its initial appeal and charm as it’s fascinating structure is still categorised as one of the Great Ocean Roads most viewed attractions.

• Kennett River

  Right in the middle of the Great Ocean Road and about a 2-hour drive from Melbourne, you’ll happen upon Kennett River, the home for native wildlife in the region. If koala spotting is one of your top reasons for visiting Australia, then it is at this location where you’ll have the best of luck doing just this. Here you have the opportunity to walk along the Grey River Road, a road that is encompassed by eucalyptus trees all around- the main diet of koalas!

Related article: How Long is the Great Ocean Road?

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.