Great Ocean Road

Introducing the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is located west of Melbourne. It is a driving highway in Victoria, Australia. It is known as one of the most beautiful coastal roads in the world and is the treasure of Victoria. The highway code is "B100". It runs from Torquay in the east to Port Fairy in the west, with a total length of about 276 kilometers.

Built into the cliffs as a memorial to the soldiers who fought in World War I, the Great Ocean Road is known as the world's most beautiful coastal road, with its coastal scenery being one of the best in the world. This iconic tourist route winds past pristine, windswept beaches, picturesque towns, historic gold mining areas, and stunning mountain ranges, rainforests, and national parks.

Climate and best time to travel

The temperate oceanic climate is from October to June of the following year, which is the golden period for self-driving on the Great Ocean Road. The climate in the Great Ocean Road area is changeable and the wind is strong when driving, so you can prepare a raincoat.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

2 days

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Great Ocean Road

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Great Ocean Road is one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world, stretching 243 kilometers along the southeastern coast of Australia. Built between 1919 and 1932 by returned soldiers, it serves as both a memorial to soldiers who fought in WWI and as a major tourist attraction known for its natural beauty, including iconic rock formations and coastal wildlife.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Great Ocean Road stretches from Torquay to Allansford, in Victoria, Australia. It is best accessed by car, with plenty of stopping points along the way. Public buses are available, but renting a car or joining a guided tour is recommended for full flexibility and convenience.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Great Ocean Road is open year-round, with no specific hours of operation. The best times to visit are from late spring to early autumn (December to April), when the weather is warm and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee to drive along the Great Ocean Road. However, some specific attractions, such as the Twelve Apostles and certain national parks, may have a small entry fee. Tickets can typically be purchased at the sites or online for special tours or experiences.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For most attractions along the Great Ocean Road, no advance booking is required. However, for guided tours, helicopter rides, or entry to specific activities, it's advisable to book at least 1-2 days in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore the Great Ocean Road, including the key highlights like the Twelve Apostles and Otway Rainforest, plan for at least 2-3 days. If you want to explore further inland or take more leisurely stops, you may need up to a week.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The Twelve Apostles, the iconic limestone stacks.
• Loch Ard Gorge, known for its historical shipwreck story.
• The Otway Rainforest and its lush walking tracks.
• Kennett River for koala spotting.
• The coastal town of Lorne with its beaches and waterfalls.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in English and other languages like Mandarin and German, depending on the provider. Tours can be arranged for both the scenic drive and specific attractions along the road, such as the Twelve Apostles and koala-watching experiences.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The Twelve Apostles, especially at sunrise or sunset for the best light.
• The Great Otway National Park, where you can capture the lush greenery and wildlife.
• Viewpoints at Gibson Steps and Loch Ard Gorge.
• The coastal cliffs around Lorne, providing stunning panoramic views of the coastline.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

The most popular route starts from Torquay, passing through towns like Anglesea and Lorne, with stops at major landmarks such as the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and the Otway Rainforest. A loop back from Apollo Bay offers a scenic inland route to return to the beginning.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

While there are no light shows along the Great Ocean Road, there are evening tours available for wildlife spotting, particularly for nocturnal animals in the Otway Rainforest. The area is also perfect for stargazing due to its rural and coastal setting.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The Great Ocean Road is busiest during school holidays and long weekends. For a quieter experience, visit on weekdays, especially in the early mornings or late afternoons. Avoid peak seasons like Christmas and New Year for the best experience.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are plenty of facilities along the Great Ocean Road, including rest areas, toilets, cafes, and shops, particularly in towns like Lorne, Apollo Bay, and Torquay. Water refill stations are available, and food options range from fast food to gourmet restaurants.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Yes, the Great Ocean Road is accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with many viewpoints, walking tracks, and attractions equipped with ramps and accessible facilities. However, some areas may involve steep or uneven terrain, so certain sections may be more difficult for people with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted in shops, cafes, and attractions along the Great Ocean Road. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller, more remote locations where electronic payments may not be available.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Freshwater Creek Cafe (near Anglesea)
• The Bottle of Milk (Lorne, famous for burgers)
• Chris's Beacon Point Restaurant (Apollo Bay)
• The Elephant Walk (Lorne, seafood and fine dining)

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available at most cafes and restaurants along the Great Ocean Road. Many places offer fresh, locally sourced produce that caters to vegetarian diets, and some restaurants also offer halal options.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• The Mantra Lorne Resort
• Apollo Bay Eco YHA
• Great Ocean Road Resort (Anglesea)
• Seaview Motel (Lorne)

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Grampians National Park (accessible from the western end of the Great Ocean Road)
• The Otway Fly Treetop Adventures
• Port Campbell National Park (home to the Twelve Apostles)

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are numerous souvenir shops along the Great Ocean Road, particularly in towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay. Common souvenirs include local crafts, koala-themed memorabilia, handmade jewelry, and artisan food products such as local jams and wines.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting the Great Ocean Road, you can continue your trip by car or coach to nearby destinations like Melbourne (about 2-3 hours away) or head inland to explore the Grampians National Park. Public transport is available from towns along the road, but a car provides the most flexibility.