The Great Ocean Walk is a magnificent walk that takes you through some of the most beautiful coastal scenery in Australia. From Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles, it’s a real journey through Victoria’s coastal environments. Towering cliffs and dramatic coastlines, tall forests and sandy beaches, the Great Ocean Walk has it all. Each day is a new experience: secluded beach walks to busy coastal towns along the Great Ocean Road.
Explore the Region
While the Great Ocean Road gets thousands of tourists for the drives, the Great Ocean Walk is a slower way to experience the region. Hikers walk through coastal forests, rugged cliffs and beaches as they wind their way along the trail. For wildlife lovers, the walk is a chance to see local species like koalas, kangaroos and even whales offshore during migration season. Famous stops along the way are Apollo Bay, Johanna Beach and Cape Otway, each with its own unique landscapes and attractions, tall Mountain Ash forests, vast coastal heathlands and quaint seaside towns.
What is the Ocean Walk?
The Great Ocean Walk is a long distance trail managed by Parks Victoria, designed to showcase the region’s coastal landscapes. Unlike the busy Great Ocean Road, the trail takes you through secluded natural areas so that you can get up close and personal with Victoria’s wild and rugged beauty. The walk is divided into sections, each with different levels of difficulty, so it’s suitable for both beginners and experienced walkers.
History of the Walk
The Great Ocean Walk opened in 2006 to provide a sustainable way for visitors to walk the Great Otway National Park and surrounding coastal areas. These areas were previously traversed by European settlers and local Indigenous communities, and now the trail preserves this history while offering eco-friendly travel through these protected areas.
Sections and Distances
The walk is divided into several sections, each 10-15km long, with different landscapes and levels of difficulty. From Apollo Bay, the trail goes through sections like Elliot Ridge with stunning views, Blanket Bay and Cape Otway with tall eucalyptus forests and the Cape Otway Lightstation, then Johanna Beach to Castle Cove with sweeping coastal views and rugged beach walks and finally Milanesia Beach to the Twelve Apostles with the ultimate reward of the limestone stacks. These sections allow you to do shorter day walks or a full multi-day walk, depending on your time and experience.
When to Go: Weather and Seaso
The Great Ocean Walk is open year-round, but the best times are spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) when the weather is mild and conditions are perfect for walking. Spring brings wildflowers into bloom, and autumn brings stunning views. Summer can be warm, so beach stops are great for swimming and cooling off, but be prepared for crowds and heat. Winter is a quieter time with fewer tourists, but the trails can be rough and muddy, so good walking shoes are essential. Hike based on your weather tolerance, as each season has its own views and challenges.
Camping on the Great Ocean Walk
Camping is a big part of the Great Ocean Walk experience for many hikers, with designated hike-in campsites like Elliot Ridge, Blanket Bay, and Devils Kitchen, which provide water tanks, kitchen shelter, and composting toilets. These campsites allow you to get up close and personal with nature, waking up to ocean views or the sounds of native birds. Campgrounds like Aire River and Johanna Beach Campground are popular stops and are safe and scenic places to camp—book campsites in advance, especially in peak season, as there is limited space at each site. If you prefer a bit more comfort, nearby towns have comfortable accommodations with all the amenities.
Getting There
The start of the Great Ocean Walk is in Apollo Bay which is accessible by car or public bus from Melbourne. The 2-hour drive along the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne is a beautiful experience in itself. At the end of the walk near Port Campbell and the Twelve Apostles, shuttle services are available for walkers who need a ride back to Apollo Bay or Melbourne. There are also private vehicle transfers available for those who want a more personal Melbourne tour experience, so all types of travellers can get to the trail.
Walk Itinerary: Suggested Itineraries
Day Walkers
If you want to walk the Great Ocean Walk in a day, there are several sections to choose from. The section from Blanket Bay to Cape Otway has coastal views, historic landmarks like the Cape Otway Lighthouse and local wildlife in a day. The section from Gibson Steps to the Twelve Apostles is another short and sweet option with iconic views.
Weekend Walkers
Weekend warriors walk from Apollo Bay to Cape Otway or Cape Otway to Aire River and get to explore the Cape Otway Lightstation and surrounding coastal forests. This itinerary also has the option to camp or stay in accommodation with ensuites for extra comfort.
Full Trail Itinerary
FAQ
How long does it take to do the whole Great Ocean Walk?
The whole Great Ocean Walk takes 7-8 days, depending on your pace and trail conditions.
Are there shuttles along the Great Ocean Walk?
Yes, shuttles are available for various parts of the trail so that you can start or finish at different sections.
What do I need to bring for the Great Ocean Walk?
Day pack, walking shoes, camping gear, water, snacks and layers for the weather. Book your accommodation in advance.
Are there guided tours?
Yes, many guided tours offer options for all levels, with accommodation, meals and luggage transfers so you don’t have to worry.
Is the Great Ocean Walk for beginners?
The walk has sections for beginners. Day walks or self-guided walks with walking notes are good for less experienced walkers.
