The Great Ocean Road is one of those can’t miss places when planning a trip to Australia. This road is 243 km of coastal scenery located between Torquay and Allansford, and is best experienced by spending a few days exploring. Most of the stops along this road are short walks from the car park, and you can see a lot once you get to this area.
Here are 10 can’t miss stops along this amazing coastline!
PETERBOROUGH BEACH
Located near Port Campbell National Park, start or end your day here to relax and take in the wonderful views of the coastal scenery. There were only a few people on the beach when we visited, and it was nice being in a more secluded area before hitting some of the more popular sites along the road.
BAY OF ISLANDS
Your first view of the famous towering Limestone Rock Stacks that can be found throughout this coastline. This spot is not part of Port Campbell National Park that contains the rest of the nearby attractions, but it is equally impressive.
LONDON BRIDGE
The first stop in Port Campbell National Park, this rock formation once connected to the mainland until it collapsed in 1990. It now towers above the ocean away from the shoreline as an Arch. The collapsed bridge reminds you that this coastline is still constantly changing.
LOCH ARD GORGE
Impressive cliffs are the backdrop of a beautiful beach down the hill from the car park. The site gets its name from a 19th century shipwreck that took place nearby. This would be a great stop if you happen to be passing through the area early in the morning or right at sunset where you may get lucky enough to have the beach to yourself.
THE TWELVE APOSTLES
The most famous of the towering limestone rock stacks and main destination of the entire road. These really are an amazing site and something that would be worth seeing through different times of the day to watch the lighting make it even more magical. Make sure to walk the entire path to catch it from all different angles!
THE AUSTRALIAN BUSH
Find a place to stay off the beaten path. Our bnb was surrounded by wilderness and you could cook out on the BBQ with a bottle of Shiraz while listening to exotic birds and other unfamiliar wildlife sounds all around. Just remember that you are in the bush and you may get more visitors than you bargained for like the bat that darted around our bedroom one night!
KENNETT RIVER
Make a quick stop here to see one of the many Koalas that are known to live in this area. You will most likely find them napping high in the trees during the afternoon.
LORNE
If you are looking for a great beach scene, check out this quaint little town. The main street has a good stretch of cafes, restaurants, and the cutest shops. The Louttit Bay Bakery and Swing Bridge Cafe are both great places to grab lunch close by to the water.
COASTAL DRIVE FROM LORNE TO APOLLO BAY
Along this drive there are not the type of stops as the Port Campbell area, but instead it hugs the coastline and offers dramatic views of the water below. There are plenty of coves where you could pull over and enjoy an afternoon on a perfect beach.
ERSKINE FALLS
Located about 15 minutes inland from Lorne, this waterfall is a short, but steep hike from the car park. Find a quiet spot on a rock to relax and take in this amazing view!
