Sunset and sunrise spots on the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road offers breath-taking landscapes at any time of day, but it is particularly stunning when the sea views are bathed in a milky gold glow!

The Great Ocean Road offers exceptional scenery throughout the day, but there is no better time than when the sun illuminates the road. When the sun rises above the ocean horizon or sinks down below, the sea and cliff tops are bathed in brilliant colours that shine a range of golds, pinks, violets, and reds. The light transforms the landscape into a magical and captivating place, enhancing its natural highlights to the extreme. So, get up at the crack of dawn or relax mid-afternoon to see the epic marvel of the sunset and sunrise along the great ocean road come to the past.

• 12 Apostles

  Appearing in very Great Ocean Road postcard, the 12 apostles is the jewel of the area. It is the most popular spot for watching the sunrise or the sunset, with travellers setting up along the beach, or climbing up to the highest lookout point. Each spot promises exceptional views out across this ancient rock formation, where visitors can marvel at the vivid jutting shapes of the limestone stacks which create striking silhouettes against the setting or rising sun.

• Beach views: Apollo Bay

  What’s more romantic than strolling along a soft sandy beach while the sunsets in the background? It’s no surprise this is the backdrop to nearly every romantic movie ever made as the bright light creates an enchanting atmosphere perfect that matches the emotion love beautifully. Alternatively, you can pop yourself in a motivation movie, as you take a run along the sand while the sun slowly rises.

• Lorne Rooftop restaurant

  Enjoy a delicious dinner as you marvel at the brilliant sky as the sun goes down! Lorne offers you a perfect rooftop right nearby the beachfront, promising you a view to going with your meal. You don’t even need to grab a full meal if you don’t want, as drinks are also available, so sip on a beer as you survey the sea beyond!

• Cape Otway Light Station

  Get the perfect view as you climb up the winding stairs of the lighthouse to see the sunrise/sunset from a high altitude. The lighthouse is both a great lookout and a historic landmark, dating back to 1848. Visitors can discover the Lighthouse and the region’s history while here, a view of the expanding deep ocean and the lush greenery of the Otway’s, you will truly be in awe of the natural splendour.

• Loch Ard Gorge

  Shrouded by impressive, yellow-washed limestone cliffs, the Loch Ard Gorge is home to a calm inlet of clear, blue water. Its picturesque beauty and rich history make it one of the most popular spots along the Great Ocean Road. Avoid the foot traffic and visit this remarkable place during the sunrise or sunset. The cliff faces will shine a stunning orange as the ocean reflects the sunrays. Sit back in the soft sand and marvel at the changing landscape.