Spend a long weekend exploring one of Australia’s incredible coastal routes, filled with beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife.
The Great Ocean Road offers plenty to do all year round, from checking out Port Campbell’s natural spots to visiting charming coastal towns. One of the top spots here is Bells Beach, known worldwide as a top surf destination.
In Bells Beach town, you’ll find the heart of Australian surfing. For years, it’s been hosting big surf competitions, like the Rip Curl Pro, named after the brand that started in nearby Torquay.
Bells Beach and Torquay are famous for their great surfing waves from the Southern Ocean, making it one of the world’s best surf spots. But there’s much more to explore, like these awesome places:
The Port Campbell National Park
Despite being smaller than other national parks, Port Campbell National Park boasts some of the most extraordinary natural attractions in the country. And what makes it so superb, as you can get from one amazing site to another in the space of just a few minutes!
Twelve Apostles
You must make sure you head towards the Twelve Apostles! Even though there are fewer than twelve now, they’re still one of Australia’s most stunning landmarks. Loads of people travel along the Great Ocean Road just to see these limestone stacks.
Loch Ard Gorge
Loch Ard Gorge is another highlight, with huge cliffs framing a beautiful sandy beach below. It’s a great place to spend some time and maybe take a walk along the beach.
There’s also a cool historic story here. In 1878, the Loch Ard ship crashed into Mutton Bird Island, and out of 54 people on board, only two 18-year-olds survived and made it to Loch Ard Gorge.
London Bridge
London Bridge, also known as London Arch, is another rock formation in Port Campbell National Park. It used to be a bridge until part of the cliff collapsed in the early 1990s, turning it into an arch.
Kennett River
If you want to see koalas, head to Kennett River along the Great Ocean Road. Take a walk down the Kennett River Koala Walk and try to spot these cute animals in the wild. You might also see wallabies, king parrots, and kookaburras.
Lorne
Lorne is one of Australia’s prettiest towns, nestled neatly against the forest. Lots of travelers stop here for lunch when driving along the Great Ocean Road. You could even base yourself in Lorne for a while, with plenty of places to stay and things to do.
Great Otway National Park
Great Otway National Park is a beautiful rainforest full of giant tree ferns, amazing waterfalls, and redwood trees, the tallest trees in the world!
Don’t miss out on Lake Elizabeth for a chance to spot a platypus. Just be patient and keep your eyes peeled!
To really enjoy the Great Ocean Road, take two to four days to explore by car. This gives you time to see all the best bits. If you don’t have a car, join a two-day tour and maybe catch some surfers showing off at Bells Beach!
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.