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The Unsurpassed 10 Must-Stop Spots from Melbourne to the 12 Apostles
If you’re craving an unforgettable trip, the journey from Melbourne to the iconic 12 Apostles should be at the top of your list. This legendary route along Victoria’s Great Ocean Road offers the perfect blend of coastal curves, open highways, and dramatic scenery. But a great trip isn’t just about the destination—it’s about the stops you make along the way. Here are 10 spots that will turn your drive into a truly memorable adventure.
This is part of our series of Riding Around Victoria. So buckle up and let’s hit the road.
This post will be covering the hotspots that leads to the 12 Apostles.
1. Werribee South Foreshore
1. Werribee South Foreshore
Just under an hour from Melbourne CBD, Werribee South is the perfect first pit stop. Here, you can soak in wide open views of Port Phillip Bay and take in the salty air while sipping a strong coffee. This peaceful coastal escape is the ideal place to reset your senses and prepare for the stunning drive ahead.
Location on Google Maps
2. Torquay – Gateway to the Great Ocean Road✅
2. Torquay – Gateway to the Great Ocean Road✅
Once you roll into Torquay, the real adventure begins. This town is the beating heart of Australian surf culture and the official gateway to the Great Ocean Road. Stretch your legs at Bells Beach or dive into surf history at the Australian National Surfing Museum before you hit the winding coastal bends.
Location on Google Maps
3. Anglesea Lookout
3. Anglesea Lookout
This under-the-radar lookout offers stunning panoramic views of the coastline without the crowds. After cruising through smooth sweeping corners, it’s a great spot to stop, breathe, and appreciate the endless ocean stretching out before you.
Location on Google Maps
✅BONUS: To find KANGAROOS 🦘, you can easily check THIS OUT. It's a Golf club that has many kangaroos chilling in the "wild". Go on top of the hill to find them, can be seen through the net.
4. Aireys Inlet & Split Point Lighthouse
4. Aireys Inlet & Split Point Lighthouse
A charming little town with serious old-school coastal vibes, Aireys Inlet is home to the dramatic Split Point Lighthouse. Park up and wander up to the lighthouse for breathtaking views that make the perfect backdrop for a break or photo.
Location on Google Maps
5. Lorne & Teddy’s Lookout ✅
5. Lorne & Teddy’s Lookout ✅
Lorne is a paradise, offering a mix of oceanfront cafes, relaxed beach town charm, and great food. But the real gem here is Teddy’s Lookout, perched high above the road, offering that classic Great Ocean Road view that will stop you in your tracks. A perfect spot for a scenic breather.
Location on Google Maps
6. Cumberland River
6. Cumberland River
Tucked away between cliffs and forest, Cumberland River is a hidden oasis many drivers miss. It’s the ideal place to park your car, take in the serene atmosphere, and, if you’re lucky, watch the sunlight filter through the dense bush.
Location on Google Maps
Where to Find Koalas 🐨 spot #1 - Around Kennett River Caravan park there are a couple of streets in which the tall trees will be a house of a coupe of these beauties. it's a bit of a walk uphill. If you're lucky enough to spot someone there and have already seen a koala that's jackpot ! Otherwise be patient because they can camouflage themselves very well amongst the gumtrees.
7. Apollo Bay✅
7. Apollo Bay✅
Roughly halfway along the route, Apollo Bay is a must-stop for a proper refuel. Grab some fresh seafood or classic fish and chips, enjoy the seaside charm, and relax before the next leg of the drive takes you deep into the Otway Ranges.
Location on Google Maps
Where to Find Koalas 🐨 spot #2 - There are a few places to park along the road, and koalas can be seen in the trees. It is common to find tourist buses parked here, as this spot is generally known by tour guides and is not officially advertised. There is a good chance of seeing these adorable marsupials at the top of the trees. You need to be patient and have a keen eye to find them, but it's worth it!
8. Maits Rest Rainforest Walk
8. Maits Rest Rainforest Walk
Swap your helmet for a walk through nature at Maits Rest. This easy boardwalk loop winds through lush, ancient rainforest with towering ferns and mossy giants. It’s a refreshing change of scenery and a chance to stretch your legs before getting back in the saddle.
Location on Google Maps
9. Gibson Steps ✅
9. Gibson Steps ✅
Before you hit the grand finale, stop at Gibson Steps. Walk down to the beach and experience the jaw-dropping scale of the limestone cliffs from sea level. Standing at the foot of these giants is a humbling reminder of nature’s raw power.
Location on Google Maps
10. The 12 Apostles✅
10. The 12 Apostles✅
The crown jewel of the journey. The 12 Apostles rise majestically from the Southern Ocean, carved by time and tides. Whether you arrive at sunrise, sunset, or mid-afternoon, the view is always spectacular. Park your car, take a deep breath, and enjoy the reward for your epic journey.
But don't let this bring you down, because the Tom and Eva Lookout, after the 12 apostle scan be quite interesting as well.
Location on Google Maps
So, Ready to drive?
Click HERE to go straight to your Google Maps with destinations already pinned.
In case you want to view the Map in a broader perspective with places pinned, click HERE.
The Melbourne to 12 Apostles route isn’t just another simple trip —it’s a rite of passage for every driver who loves smooth roads, coastal beauty, and timeless scenery. Fuel up, gear up, and make every stop count on your way to one of Australia’s most iconic landmarks.
✅Most Iconic
In case you feel like waking up your wild side, check this out for the 8 Best Wildlife Encounters
CHEERS!
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