Great Ocean Road

One of the world's most scenic coastal drives stretching 243 kilometres along Victoria's southwestern coast, featuring dramatic cliffs, beaches, and the iconic Twelve Apostles rock formations. Essential for experiencing spectacular coastal landscapes and charming seaside towns.

Things to do

• Twelve Apostles viewpoint — Marvel at the iconic limestone rock formations rising dramatically from the Southern Ocean, best visited at sunrise or sunset for stunning photography.
• Loch Ard Gorge walk — Explore this sheltered cove with a sandy beach surrounded by towering cliffs and accessible via a short walking trail with rich maritime history.
• Bells Beach surfing — Visit Australia's most famous surfing beach, home to the Rip Curl Pro surf competition and consistent waves suitable for various skill levels.
• Torquay town exploration — Discover Australia's surf capital with its surf shops, cafes, and vibrant coastal culture at the eastern start of the Great Ocean Road.
• Port Campbell coastal cliffs — Walk along dramatic clifftop trails with interpretive signs explaining the geology and maritime heritage of this rugged coastline.
• Maits Rest Rainforest walk — Stroll through a lush temperate rainforest with ferns and native trees, offering a stark contrast to the coastal landscapes.

Food to try

• Fresh local seafood chowder — Creamy soup featuring locally caught fish, mussels, and prawns, a specialty in coastal towns like Apollo Bay and Port Campbell.
• Barramundi and chips — Crispy battered or grilled barramundi served with golden chips, a quintessential Australian coastal meal available at beachside fish shops.
• Native Australian bush tucker — Dishes incorporating ingredients like finger limes, Davidson plums, and wattleseed, reflecting Indigenous culinary traditions found in modern restaurants.
• Olecranon coffee and local pastries — Renowned artisan coffee culture in Torquay paired with fresh croissants and sourdough from local bakeries.
• Freshly caught rock lobster (crayfish) — Seasonal delicacy grilled simply and served in upscale coastal restaurants, celebrating the region's fishing heritage.

Local customs & good to know

• Plan for coastal weather changes — The exposed southwestern coast experiences rapid weather changes and strong winds, so pack layers and check forecasts before heading out to viewpoints.
• Respect Aboriginal heritage — The region is part of traditional Gunditjmara and other Indigenous peoples' lands; seek out guided tours and cultural experiences that acknowledge and honor this history.
• Allow sufficient driving time — The Great Ocean Road is best experienced slowly over 1-2 days rather than rushed, with frequent stops to walk trails and absorb the landscape.
• Embrace the surf culture — Surfing is central to the coastal identity here; even non-surfers will encounter this culture in towns, shops, and local conversations throughout the region.