Great Ocean Road – Australia is a place that many people dream of visiting. It is so beautiful and special that almost everyone who loves to travel wants to go there someday. Whether it is the laid-back vibe, the wide-open spaces, the friendly locals, or the blend of wild nature with city charm, it is a country that offers something for everyone.
From the iconic Sydney Opera House to the mystical Uluru, the Land Down Under offers experiences that stay with you long after you have returned home. However, there is one Australian attraction that has been buzzing on social media feeds and travel blogs more than ever.
A coastal drive that captures hearts and fills smartphone galleries with Instagram-worthy views. This blog is all about it – The Great Ocean Road.
It captures the true essence of its coastal magic. Over the last few years, many Indian tourists visiting Australia have loved to drive along this road. It is perfect for all those who enjoy beautiful views, relaxed travel, and nature.
So what makes this road trip so special? Let us dive in.
Where is the Great Ocean Road & Why Should You Visit It?
The Great Ocean Road runs for about 243 kilometres along the beautiful coast of Victoria. It starts in a town called Torquay – about an hour from Melbourne and goes all the way to Allansford. What is really cool is that returning soldiers built this road by hand between 1919 and 1932 as a memorial for their friends who died in World War I.
Now, you may wonder how is this road trip different from other road trips around the world? It is not just about driving on a road—it is about being surrounded by nature’s amazing show. It is the perfect mix of stunning ocean views, rolling hills, ancient rainforests, and cute beach towns- all packed into a trip you can do in just a few days. This scenic route feels as if nature carefully mapped it to impress you at every point.
Unlike many famous road trips that take weeks to finish, you can see the best parts of the Great Ocean Road in just 2-3 days. And where else can you see beaches, forests, waterfalls, and wildlife all in one drive?
Self-Drive or Guided Tour – Which is the best way to experience the Great Ocean Road?
Now comes the million-dollar question – should you drive it yourself or sit back and let a tour guide take the wheel?
Deciding how to experience the Great Ocean Road is the most vital part of planning your trip. Let us look at the pros and cons of both options to help you make the best choice for your travel style.
Self Drive
Pros
- Great for families, couples, or friends travelling together.
- You can travel early or late to avoid crowds.
- You can make your schedule and stay as long as you want at each place.
- You can stop when you see something nice.
- You can change plans if the weather is bad or you are tired.
- Total control of your itinerary.
- Roads are well-maintained and easy to navigate.
Cons
- Missing out on interesting facts and stories that tour guides share.
- Responsibility for navigation and driving in an unfamiliar area.
- It can be hard to park during busy times.
- Driving can be tiring, especially on winding coastal roads.
- Have to organize your own accommodation and meal stops.
- Risk of missing hidden gems that local guides know about.
- Parking can be difficult at popular sites during peak season.
Loading Packages...Guided Tours
Pros
- Relaxing trip with no driving or navigation stress.
- Everything is planned for you—just enjoy the view.
- No need to worry about parking or roads.
- Guides know secret spots and the best times to visit places.
- The buses are comfortable and safe.
- Guides tell you interesting facts and stories.
Cons
- A pre-planned schedule with fixed times at each place.
- Hard to change plans or stay longer at places you like.
- Can feel less personal and more touristy.
- Often not enough time at major spots.
- Must follow the group’s pace.
For first-time visitors from India, a guided day tour can be an excellent introduction to the Great Ocean Road, especially if you are short on time or unsure about driving. However, if you have 2-3 days available, self-driving gives you a much richer, more flexible experience.
How to Explore the Great Ocean Road – Itinerary Options
Planning your trip on this beautiful coastal road depends on your time. You can take a quick one-day trip or spend several days exploring. There are options for every schedule, letting you enjoy the coast at your own pace.
Here are some trip ideas to help you plan your Great Ocean Road adventure.
Option 1 – One-Day Express Drive
- Route: Melbourne → Torquay → Lorne → Apollo Bay → Twelve Apostles → Melbourne.
- Total Duration: Approx. 8 to 12 hours round trip.
- Best For: Travellers who are short on time but do not want to miss the highlights of this drive.
Option 2 – 2-Day Classic Getaway
- Day 1 Route: Melbourne → Torquay → Anglesea → Lorne → Kennett River → Apollo Bay(overnight stay).
- Day 2 Route: Apollo Bay → 12 Apostles → Loch Ard Gorge → London Arch → Return to Melbourne.
- Total Duration: 2 full days with overnight stay.
- Best For: Couples, families, and those who do not want to rush.
Option 3: 3 days Leisurely Experience
- Day 1 Route: Melbourne → Torquay → Lorne (overnight).
- Day 2 Route: Lorne → Kennett River → Apollo Bay → Port Campbell (overnight).
- Day 3 Route: Port Campbell → 12 Apostles → Bay of Islands → Warrnambool → Melbourne
- Total Duration: 3 days with 2 overnight stays.
- Best For: People who enjoy relaxing trips, nature, and road adventures.
Option 4: 4 Days Deep Dive Itinerary
- Day1 Route: Melbourne → Geelong → Torquay → Lorne (overnight)
- Day 2 Route: Lorne → Apollo Bay (overnight)
- Day 3 Route: Apollo Bay → Port Campbell (overnight)
- Day 4 Route: Port Campbell → Warrnambool → Tower Hill → Melbourne
- Total Duration: 4 full days with 3 overnight stays.
- Best For: People who love adventure, exploring, and seeing both the coast and countryside.
You can change each trip plan to match what you like – taking pictures, seeing animals, doing fun activities, or trying local food. Remember that driving times may vary depending on stops and traffic.
Your Perfect Pit-Stop Guide for the Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road is not just about the journey – it is about the incredible stops on the way that will take your breath away.
Before we dive into the list, let us get one thing straight—the Great Ocean Road is not about rushing from point A to point B. It is about soaking in the views, taking detours, stopping for coffee in cute coastal towns, and getting lost in the moment.
Every stop has its own vibe, and skipping any would be like missing a chapter in a really good book.
Here are some of the must-visit places along the way.
- Beech forest
- Kennett River
- Hopetoun Falls
- Childers Cove
- The Twelve Apostles
- Apollo Bay
- Thunder Cave
- The Grotto
- Flagstaff hill
- Bells Beach
- London Bridge
- Warrnambool
- Loch Ard Gorge
- Gibsons Steps
Top Activities & Experiences to Enjoy On the Great Ocean Road
You can do more than just look at scenic views – there are numerous activities on the Great Ocean Road to explore and enjoy the stunning coastline. This drive is not just about sitting in the car and admiring the view – it is an experience packed with action, beauty, and little surprises that make your drive memorable.
Here are the best things to do while exploring this famous route.
- Take a helicopter tour.
- Go wildlife spotting.
- Walk part of the Great Ocean Walk.
- Go whale watching.
- Sample local food and wine.
- Explore rainforest boardwalks.
- Click postcard-perfect photos.
- Visit small-town markets and cafes.
- Explore waterfalls and forests.
- Enjoy the beaches.
- Watch the sunrise at the Twelve Apostles.
- Take a surf lesson at Apollo Bay.
Great Food with Great Views – Where to Eat On the Great Ocean Road
What’s a road trip without great food, right? Along the Great Ocean Road, the food options are as unforgettable as the views.
Here are a few of the popular food outlets on the Great Ocean Road.
- Pavilion Café & Bar.
- The Swing Bridge Café and Boathouse.
- Apollo Bay Bakery.
- Warrnambool Fresh Market.
- Time and Tide High Tea
- Graze
- Merrijig Kitchen
- Brae
- Oaks Bakery Café
- Anglesea Restaurant, Cafe or Bar
Travel Tips for a Smooth Great Ocean Road Experience.
- Avalon Airport, near Geelong, is the closest airport to the start of the Great Ocean Road.
- If you love sunny beach days, summer (December to February) is the best time to go. For a quieter trip with fewer crowds, autumn (March to May) or spring (September to November) is perfect. And if you are into rugged cliffs and whale watching, winter (June to August) is a great surprise.
- During peak season (December-February), book accommodation at least 3-6 months in advance. Even in shoulder seasons, book a few weeks ahead.
- Do not rush it in one day. Plan at least 2-3 days to really enjoy everything.
- The road has many curves and can be narrow in places. Take your time, take breaks, and be extra careful at sunset when wildlife is active.
- Never feed wild animals, keep a safe distance.
- Start early to avoid crowds at major spots like the 12 Apostles.
- Coastal weather can change quickly, so pack layers even in summer. Rain can appear suddenly, so bring a light waterproof jacket.
- The Australian sun is extremely strong. Wear SPF 50+ sunscreen, reapply often, and bring hats and sunglasses.
- Signal can be patchy between towns, so download offline Google Maps before your trip and keep emergency contacts handy.
- Gas stations are available in the main towns but it is wise to refill whenever you are at half tank.
- Only swim at patrolled beaches with flags and follow all safety signs. Ocean currents can be dangerous.
- Wear proper footwear for coastal walks as trails can be uneven. Stay on marked paths for your safety and to protect nature.
- Indian travellers can drive with their valid Indian license if it is in English. An International Driving Permit is recommended.
- You can stop for photos on the Great Ocean Road, but only in safe, designated areas.
- Credit cards are widely accepted, but keep some cash for smaller cafés and shops. ATMs are available in main towns.
- Carry all trash with you, stay on designated paths, and respect wildlife habitats to help preserve this beautiful area for future visitors.
- Do not rush – this journey is about the ride, not just the destination.
In the End
Standing at the edge of those dramatic cliffs watching waves crash against the Twelve Apostles, you will agree that a road trip on the Great Ocean Road is a must! With every turn of the wheel, you will find something new – a beach that tempts you to stay longer, a cliff that makes you pause, or a koala chilling in a tree that makes your day. Each spot reveals another postcard-perfect view that will stay with you long after the trip ends.
With our Australia tour packages, you can explore the coast your way and make memories that last.
Also Read: Perth Australia: A Complete Travel Guide to the Sunniest City Down Under!
