The Great Ocean Road is one of the most beautiful Australian road trips, an unforgettable journey along the coastline, cliffs and scenery. 243km from Torquay to Allansford this iconic road trip passes through towns, coastline, national parks and beaches.
Choosing the best spot to base yourself along this stretch of coastline depends on your travel style, what you want to see and how many days you have. Whether you’re after waterfalls, surfing beaches or fishing villages here’s a guide to help you decide where to stay.
Torquay – Surf & Coast
Best for: Surfing, beach lovers, first stop on the Great Ocean Road
As the official start of the Great Ocean Road Torquay is a surfers’ paradise, home to Bells Beach one of the most famous surfing beaches in Australia. It’s also a great coastal town with a laid-back vibe, making it a favourite weekend getaway spot.
Drive from Melbourne: ~90 minutes
Top Attractions:
- Bells Beach – World-famous surf break
- Fairhaven Beach – A long stretch of beach for walking
- Anglesea River – Kayaking and paddleboarding
Where to Stay:
- RACV Torquay Resort (Luxury)
- Torquay Foreshore Caravan Park (Budget & Camping)
Lorne – A Village with Beaches & Views
Best for: Coastal charm, Lorne Beach, Erskine Falls, scenic drives
Lorne is one of the most popular towns along the Great Ocean Road, a mix of coastal views, sandy beaches and national park adventures. A bustling village with a vibrant cafe scene, boutique shopping and easy access to epic waterfalls like Erskine Falls.
Drive from Melbourne: ~2 hours
Top Attractions:
- Erskine Falls – 1m waterfall in ancient rainforest
- Sheoak Falls & Triplet Falls – Photo spots
- Wye River & Kennett River – Wildlife spotting
Where to Stay:
- Lorne Luxury Apartments (Mid-range)
- Lorne Beach Houses (Beachfront)
3. Apollo Bay – Nature & Wildlife Heaven
Best for: Nature lovers, Cape Otway, Beech Forest, Otway Fly Treetop Adventures
Tucked between the coastal rainforest and the Southern Ocean, Apollo Bay is one of the most popular spots along the Great Ocean Road. It’s a beautiful coastal town and a great base for exploring Cape Otway, Beech Forest and the Otway National Park.
Many Great Ocean Road day tours stop in Apollo Bay, so you can take in the sights, have some fresh seafood or take a detour to the Otway Fly Treetop Adventures to walk above the rainforest.
From Melbourne: ~2.5 hours
Top Picks:
- Cape Otway Lightstation – Australia’s oldest mainland lighthouse with 360-degree views
- Otway Fly Treetop Adventures – Walk above the rainforest
- Johanna Beach & Gibson Beach – Stunning beaches with amazing views
Where to Stay:
- BIG4 Apollo Bay Pisces Holiday Park (Budget & Family Friendly)
- Seafarers Getaway (Ocean View Cottages)
4. Port Campbell – Closest to the Twelve Apostles
Best for: Iconic landmarks, Limestone formations and Photo spots
If your main focus is the Twelve Apostles, Port Campbell is the closest town and the best sunset spot. Many visitors do a 12 Apostles tour which includes stops at London Bridge, Loch Ard Gorge and The Grotto all within Port Campbell National Park.
For a truly amazing experience head to the Twelve Apostles at sunset when the light is golden and the formations are dramatic. The viewing platforms offer panoramic views of the Shipwreck Coast so it’s a must-see for keen photographers.
Melbourne to Port Campbell: ~3.5 hours
Top Attractions:
- Twelve Apostles – The most famous spot on the Great Ocean Road
- London Bridge & London Arch – Magnificent rock stacks
- Bay of Islands & Wreck Beach – Gorgeous spots for photographers
Where to Stay:
- Southern Ocean Villas (Luxury)
- Port Campbell Parkview Motel (Mid-Range)
5. Warrnambool – Whale Watching & Historic Towns
Best for: Historic towns, Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve
At the end of the Great Ocean Road Warrnambool is a popular resort town with historic sites, native wildlife and rugged coastlines. It is also a top photo spot for whale watching (June–September).
Melbourne to Warrnambool: ~4.5 hours
Top Attractions:
- Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village – A historical city with a maritime history
- Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve – A volcanic crater filled with Crimson Rosellas, koalas and emus
- Lake Elizabeth & Lake Bellfield – Peaceful holiday destinations for canoeing
Where to Stay:
- Deep Blue Hotel & Hot Springs (Luxury)
- Lady Bay Resort (Seaside Stay)
Where to Base Yourself?
Your perfect spot depends on your interests:
- Surf & Adventure → Torquay & Bells Beach
- Seaside Village Charm → Lorne & Wye River
- National Park & Waterfalls → Apollo Bay & Cape Otway
- Twelve Apostles & Limestone Cliffs → Port Campbell
- Historic Towns & Wildlife → Warrnambool
For the best coastal routes, scenic drives and overnight stays plan for 3–5 days to fully experience this iconic road trip.
Pro Travel Tips
- Book accommodation early during peak season
- Take a helicopter ride over the Twelve Apostles for amazing views
- Do a Great Ocean Road day tour if you’re short on time and want to see the best bits
FAQ
How many days do I need on the Great Ocean Road?
For a full experience plan for 3–5 days. This allows time to explore coastal towns, waterfalls and national parks without feeling rushed. If you’re short on time do a Great Ocean Road day tour from Melbourne and see the best bits in a day.
When is the best time to visit the Great Ocean Road?
The best time to visit is spring (September–November) or autumn (March-May) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer (December–February) is great for beach lovers but can be busy, while winter (June–August) is for whale watching.
Where is the best place to stay for the Twelve Apostles?
Port Campbell is the nearest town to the Twelve Apostles so is the best place to stay for an early morning or Twelve Apostles at sunset visit. It’s also close to Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge and The Grotto.
Are there good accommodation options along the Great Ocean Road?
Yes, the Great Ocean Road has a range of accommodation options from luxury resorts to budget-friendly caravan parks. Towns like Apollo Bay, Lorne and Port Campbell have plenty of options including beachfront stays and eco-lodges.
Can I get public transport to the Great Ocean Road?
Public transport is limited. A bus runs from Melbourne to major towns like Torquay, Lorne and Apollo Bay but the best way to get around is by car. Many people do a Great Ocean Road day tour or 12 Apostles tour.