Australia

Great Ocean Road

Discover top-rated Great Ocean Road tours, excursions, and activities powered by AI. From Twelve Apostles tours to koala encounters, find the perfect way to explore Australia's iconic coastal drive.

Why Visit Great Ocean Road?

Witness the dramatic Twelve Apostles limestone stacks, a truly iconic Great Ocean Road sight.

Drive Victoria's stunning coastline, experiencing breathtaking ocean vistas and rugged cliffs.

Explore charming seaside towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay, offering unique local charm.

Discover the wreck of the Loch Ard Gorge, a poignant piece of maritime history.

Spot diverse wildlife, from kangaroos in the Otways to migrating whales offshore.

Embark on an unforgettable road trip, capturing the wild spirit of Australia's coast.

Getting Around

Getting around Great Ocean Road is best done by car, offering the freedom to stop at scenic lookouts and small towns. You can rent a car in Melbourne or at Avalon Airport. Guided bus tours are also available, providing a convenient way to see the main sights without the stress of driving. For shorter explorations, consider local shuttle services in popular towns or cycling for the more adventurous, though be mindful of the winding roads and distances. Public transport options are limited between towns, making a self-drive or organised tour the most practical choices for exploring the Great Ocean Road.

Prefer renting a car? See options here.

Must-See Attractions

  • Marvel at the towering Twelve Apostles, sculpted by the Southern Ocean's relentless power along the Great Ocean Road.
  • Walk through the ancient rainforests of the Otway National Park, a lush contrast to the coastal scenery.
  • Enjoy fresh seafood in Apollo Bay, a vibrant fishing village perfect for a delicious, local lunch experience.
  • Visit the Cape Otway Lightstation, Australia's oldest surviving lighthouse, offering panoramic ocean views and history.
  • Experience the powerful waves at Bells Beach, a world-renowned surf break and a must-see for surf enthusiasts.
  • Seek out the tranquil beauty of Kennett River, a prime spot for spotting koalas in their natural habitat.

Best Time to Visit

Weather

The Great Ocean Road experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool, wet winters. Coastal winds are a constant feature, and weather can change rapidly. Expect sunshine and warmth in summer, but be prepared for cooler, potentially stormy conditions in winter and autumn.

Best Months

The shoulder seasons of spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are often ideal, offering pleasant weather for exploring and fewer crowds than the summer peak. You'll experience milder temperatures and beautiful colours along the coast.

Peak Season

Summer (December to February) is the peak season, bringing warm, sunny days perfect for beach activities. However, expect larger crowds at popular attractions and higher accommodation prices, especially during school holidays.

Off Season

Winter (June to August) is the off-season, characterised by cooler temperatures and increased rainfall. While less ideal for beach days, it's a fantastic time for whale watching and enjoying the dramatic, moody coastal scenery with fewer people around.

Popular Great Ocean Road Tours & Activities

Discover the best tours and activities in Great Ocean Road with our AI-powered recommendations

Tours are loading or no tours found at the moment.

Try browsing all tours to see what's available.

Browse All Tours & Activities

Plan Your Great Ocean Road Trip

Transportation Tips

Getting around Great Ocean Road is best done by car, offering the freedom to stop at scenic lookouts and small towns. You can rent a car in Melbourne or at Avalon Airport. Guided bus tours are also available, providing a convenient way to see the main sights without the stress of driving. For shorter explorations, consider local shuttle services in popular towns or cycling for the more adventurous, though be mindful of the winding roads and distances. Public transport options are limited between towns, making a self-drive or organised tour the most practical choices for exploring the Great Ocean Road.

Car Rental Deals in Great Ocean Road

Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.

Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your Great Ocean Road adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.

Best Hotel Deals in Great Ocean Road

Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Trivago USA.

Frequently Asked Questions About Great Ocean Road

What is the best time to visit Great Ocean Road?

The Great Ocean Road experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool, wet winters. Coastal winds are a constant feature, and weather can change rapidly. Expect sunshine and warmth in summer, but be prepared for cooler, potentially stormy conditions in winter and autumn.

How do I get around Great Ocean Road?

Getting around Great Ocean Road is best done by car, offering the freedom to stop at scenic lookouts and small towns. You can rent a car in Melbourne or at Avalon Airport. Guided bus tours are also available, providing a convenient way to see the main sights without the stress of driving. For shorter explorations, consider local shuttle services in popular towns or cycling for the more adventurous, though be mindful of the winding roads and distances. Public transport options are limited between towns, making a self-drive or organised tour the most practical choices for exploring the Great Ocean Road.

Why should I visit Great Ocean Road?

  • Witness the dramatic Twelve Apostles limestone stacks, a truly iconic Great Ocean Road sight.
  • Drive Victoria's stunning coastline, experiencing breathtaking ocean vistas and rugged cliffs.
  • Explore charming seaside towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay, offering unique local charm.

What types of tours are available in Great Ocean Road?

Great Ocean Road offers a variety of tour experiences including:

Great Ocean Road Self-Drive Tours
Otway National Park Rainforest Walks
Bells Beach Surfing Experiences
Coastal Wildlife Spotting Tours

What are the must-see attractions in Great Ocean Road?

  • Marvel at the towering Twelve Apostles, sculpted by the Southern Ocean's relentless power along the Great Ocean Road.
  • Walk through the ancient rainforests of the Otway National Park, a lush contrast to the coastal scenery.
  • Enjoy fresh seafood in Apollo Bay, a vibrant fishing village perfect for a delicious, local lunch experience.
  • Visit the Cape Otway Lightstation, Australia's oldest surviving lighthouse, offering panoramic ocean views and history.
  • Experience the powerful waves at Bells Beach, a world-renowned surf break and a must-see for surf enthusiasts.
  • Seek out the tranquil beauty of Kennett River, a prime spot for spotting koalas in their natural habitat.

Ready to Explore Great Ocean Road?

Discover the best tours and activities in Great Ocean Road with AI-powered recommendations tailored just for you.