Great OCean road

Torquay

About

Torquay is a vibrant seaside town on Victoria’s Surf Coast and is widely known as the official starting point of the Great Ocean Road. Marked by the iconic start gates just outside town, Torquay serves as the gateway to one of Australia’s most scenic coastal drives. Famous for its laid-back surf culture, beautiful beaches and sweeping ocean views, the town offers the perfect introduction to the dramatic coastline that unfolds along the Great Ocean Road. Whether stopping for a coffee, a beach walk or simply a photo at the famous gates, Torquay is a must-visit at the beginning of the journey. 

Bells Beach

About

Bells Beach is one of Australia’s most iconic surf destinations, located just outside Torquay along Victoria’s Surf Coast. Renowned for its powerful swells and dramatic cliffside setting, the beach attracts surfers from around the world. Each year it hosts the legendary Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach, a premier surfing competition on the World Surf League calendar that traditionally takes place over the Easter period. With its world-class waves and rich surf culture, Bells Beach is a must-visit stop along the Great Ocean Road. 

Lorne

About

Lorne is a charming seaside town nestled between the forested hills of the Great Otway National Park and the sweeping coastline of the Great Ocean Road. Known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, Lorne is a favourite stop for travellers exploring the region, offering beautiful beaches, a lively café scene and scenic walking trails. Just moments from town, visitors can discover stunning natural attractions such as Erskine Falls, one of the most popular waterfalls in the Otways. With its mix of ocean views, lush rainforest and welcoming village feel, Lorne is a perfect place to pause along the journey. 

Erskine and Phantom Falls

About

Erskine Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in the Great Otway National Park, located just outside Lorne. Surrounded by lush rainforest, the falls cascade more than 30 metres into a fern-filled gully, with viewing platforms and walking tracks offering beautiful perspectives.

Nearby, the short walk to Phantom Falls is a great way to stretch your legs after lunch or morning tea in Lorne—perfect for walking off the nibbles while enjoying the peaceful Otway forest.

Forrest Brewing Company

About

Forrest Brewing Company is a relaxed craft brewery tucked away in the small township of Forrest in the Great Otway National Park. Known for its locally brewed beers, wood-fired pizzas and welcoming beer garden, it’s a popular stop for travellers exploring the Otways. Surrounded by forest and fresh country air, it’s the perfect place to pause for a drink or a bite before continuing along the Great Ocean Road.

Lake Elizabeth

About

Lake Elizabeth is a peaceful freshwater lake hidden within the rainforest of the Great Otway National Park, just outside the small township of Forrest. The scenic walking track through towering trees leads to a tranquil lake known for its still reflections and abundant wildlife.

It makes for a perfect quick stop after visiting the nearby Forrest Brewing Company, offering a refreshing short walk through the forest before continuing your journey.

Apollo Bay

About

Apollo Bay is a picturesque seaside town along the Great Ocean Road, where the rugged coastline meets the lush forests of the Great Otway National Park. It’s a favourite stop for travellers to stretch their legs, enjoy harbour views and sample some local treats.

While in town, don’t miss the famous scallop pie from Apollo Bay Bakery, a Great Ocean Road institution, followed by a sweet stop at Dooley's Premium Ice Cream for a scoop overlooking the water.

The Redwoods, Otways

About

The Redwoods, Otways is a striking grove of towering Californian redwood trees hidden within the Great Otway National Park. Planted in the 1930s, these giants now soar high above the forest floor, creating a peaceful and almost otherworldly atmosphere. A short walk among the trees offers a memorable stop along the journey through the Otways and a perfect photo opportunity beneath the impressive canopy. 

Otway Fly Treetop Climbing

About

Otway Fly Treetop Adventures offers a thrilling way to experience the Great Otway National Park rainforest from above. Visitors can stroll along elevated treetop walkways, enjoy panoramic views of the lush forest canopy, or add an adrenaline rush with zipline adventures. It’s a must-visit for families and adventure seekers looking to combine breathtaking scenery with an unforgettable outdoor experience. 

Cape Otway Light Station

About

Cape Otway Light Station is Australia’s oldest surviving lighthouse, perched dramatically on the cliffs where the Southern Ocean meets the land. Located within the Great Otway National Park, it offers sweeping ocean views, rich maritime history, and even koala sightings along the access track. A visit here is a highlight of the Great Ocean Road, perfect for history enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers alike. 

Twelve Apostles

About

The Twelve Apostles are the iconic limestone stacks that define the dramatic coastline of the Great Ocean Road. True to their name, they sound like a dozen—but with only seven stacks remaining, it seems even the Apostles aren’t great at keeping a full roll call. Towering above the Southern Ocean, they’re best viewed from the lookout platforms, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light brings out their rugged beauty.
Also to mention, large crowds do attend the famous land mark and it is recommended to visit early in the morning to get the best experience.

Port Campbell

About

Port Campbell is a charming coastal town on the Great Ocean Road, perfectly situated near the region’s famous limestone formations, including the Twelve Apostles. With a relaxed seaside atmosphere, a small harbour, and cafes offering fresh local seafood, Port Campbell is an ideal spot to pause, stretch your legs, and enjoy the views before continuing along the dramatic coastline.