Great Ocean Road Guide

Why Drive the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is one of the world's great coastal drives — 243km of cliffside road from Torquay to Allansford, past surf beaches, rainforest and the limestone stacks of the Twelve Apostles.

Key Stops

Torquay and Bells Beach are the surf-culture starting point. Lorne and Apollo Bay are good overnight bases with beaches and cafes, while the Otway rainforest offers treetop walks and waterfalls just inland.

The Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and Gibson Steps are the road's iconic finale — best visited at sunset when the light hits the limestone stacks.

How Long Do You Need

A rushed day trip from Melbourne is possible but tight; two days with an overnight in Apollo Bay or Port Campbell lets you enjoy the drive without rushing the best lookouts.

Best Time to Go

March to May and September to November offer good weather and fewer crowds than the busy Australian summer holidays.