Running 243 km along Victoria’s coast, the Great Ocean Road is one of the most beautiful drives in the world. Famous for its rugged coastline, limestone cliffs and natural wonders, this iconic route is more than just a drive; it’s an adventure that includes cultural heritage, seaside towns, and dramatic landscapes. Along the way you can stop and enjoy panoramic ocean views, rainforests and coastal villages, every stop is a winner. Looking for native wildlife, historic buildings or just a place to chill out? The Great Ocean Road’s towns have got you covered.
Discover the Region
The Great Ocean Road is a journey of many landscapes and many stories. This stretch of coast has attractions for adventurers, history buffs and relaxation lovers. From the cliffs and rock formations of Port Campbell National Park to the beaches of Apollo Bay, it’s a mix of natural wonders and small-town charm. This area is also home to the Eastern Maar and Gunditjmara people, whose connection to the land is being reconciled and their culture preserved. Along the way, you’ll find coastal villages, views and opportunities to hike, surf and whale watch.
When should you visit the towns along Great Ocean Road?
The Great Ocean Road is open all year round, but each season has its own highlights. Summer (December to February) is beach and water time, autumn (March to May) is cooler, and the foliage is brilliant. Winter (June to August) is whale watching and cozy retreats in fishing villages like Port Fairy, and spring (September to November) is wildflowers, hiking, and exploring the rainforests.
The Best Towns on The Great Ocean Road
Aireys Inlet: A Quiet Haven
Anglesea: Nature’s Playground
Anglesea is a favourite for families, outdoor enthusiasts and anyone looking for a mix of adventure and chill. The Anglesea Golf Club is a unique attraction where kangaroos roam free on the fairways, a one-off golfing experience. For beach lovers, Anglesea Beach and its calm beaches are perfect for swimming, paddleboarding and picnicking.
The Anglesea Heath is a botanical wonderland and one of Australia’s most diverse ecosystems. Hiking and cycling trails wind through the hills and offer stunning coastline views. In town, the markets are bustling with local crafts, produce and gourmet goodies, so it’s a great place to stop on your trip.
Apollo Bay: Paradise by the Sea
Situated in the Otway Ranges, Apollo Bay is a beautiful town with a mix of seaside charm and natural beauty. The beach is sandy and perfect for swimming, surfing and sunbathing. The harbour is a hub of activity with fishing, boat tours and even wildlife spotting trips to see dolphins, seals and whales.
Nature lovers will love the Great Otway National Park with its ancient forests, Triplet Falls and the Maits Rest rainforest walk. The town itself is full of cafes, restaurants and local art galleries.
Lorne: The Heart of the Great Ocean Road
Lorne is one of the most popular stops on the Great Ocean Road with its thriving arts scene. The town’s main street, Lorne Beach, is a swimming and surfing hot spot, and nearby Louttit Bay has ocean views for days.
Just a short drive inland, Erskine Falls is a must-see natural wonder. Surrounded by ferns and greenery, this beautiful waterfall is a nature lover and photographer’s paradise. Lorne also hosts the annual Falls Music & Arts Festival, which attracts visitors from all over the world. Don’t miss the boutique shops and eateries in the middle of town, which add a bit of glamour to this fun coastal town.
The Otways: A Hidden Gem
The Otways is a nature lover’s dream, with ancient rainforests, tall trees and dramatic waterfalls. The Otway Fly Treetop Adventures lets you walk in the canopy and see this magical forest from a different perspective. For a more grounded experience the Melba Gully walk lets you see glowworms at night.
Highlights of the Otways are Hopetoun Falls, Cape Otway Lightstation, and Maits Rest, each showcasing the region’s natural beauty. Wildlife lovers can spot wallabies and exotic birds while history buffs can explore the Cape Otway Lightstation, one of Australia’s oldest surviving lighthouses.
Port Fairy: Old World Charm
Port Fairy: Old World Charm
Step back in time in Port Fairy, a quaint fishing village with a rich maritime history. The town’s historic buildings and cobblestone streets are a joy to walk around. Griffiths Island, just off the coast, is home to a shearwater colony with walking trails and stunning coast views.
Port Fairy’s artistic vibe comes alive during the annual Port Fairy Folk Festival, a celebration of music, culture and community. With its beautiful beaches, boutique shops and cozy cafes, this town is the perfect place to relax.
Portland: History and Nature
As Victoria’s first European settlement, Portland has a unique blend of historical sites and natural attractions. Visit the Portland Maritime Discovery Centre to learn about the town’s seafaring past, or take a ride on the historic Cable Tram for a trip down memory lane.
Nature lovers will love the craggy cliffs of Cape Bridgewater, home to a fur seal colony and a petrified forest. The nearby Bridgewater Bay is great for rock pooling and coastal walking. Whether you’re into history or nature, Portland is a must-see.
Torquay: Surfing Capital of Australia
At the start of the Great Ocean Road, Torquay is a surfy town through and through. Bells Beach, a world-renowned surf spot, hosts the Rip Curl Pro, with surfers from around the globe descending on the town. The town is also home to the Australian National Surfing Museum, where you can learn about the surfing history in Australia.
Beyond surfing, Torquay has family-friendly attractions like calm beaches, markets, and trails that showcase the coastal views. Shoppers will love the flagship stores of the biggest surf brands, like Rip Curl and Quiksilver.
FAQ
What are the top towns to visit on the Great Ocean Road?
Torquay, Anglesea, Apollo Bay, Lorne, Port Fairy and Portland are the must-see towns.
Can I see wildlife on the Great Ocean Road?
Yes! Koalas at Kennett River, kangaroos at the Anglesea Golf Club, shearwaters on Griffiths Island and fur seals at Cape Bridgewater.
Is the Great Ocean Road family-friendly?
Yes! The road has family-friendly activities, calm beaches, and towns like Anglesea and Torquay with attractions for all ages.
What are the best outdoor activities on the Great Ocean Road?
Hiking in the Otways, surfing at Bells Beach, waterfalls at Erskine Falls, and wildlife at Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve.
When should I visit the Great Ocean Road?
September to November and March to May are the best times to visit when the weather is good, and the scenery is at its best.
