If you visit Australia, make sure you explore the Great Ocean Road. This is a well-known spectacular coastline with a range of Great Ocean Road day tours and short excursions showing the beauty of natural wonders, its rich past, and the abundant Australian wildlife within this area.
Starting from striking Twelve Apostles to ancient rainforests in Great Otway National Park, it is hard not to find magnificent views and unforgettable things to do on the road. Whether your interest is a trip through seaside towns with beautiful scenes or simply seeing wild koalas within their natural habitat, or taking an adventurous helicopter flight along the limestone cliffs, there is something for everyone here!
Top tours and experiences
Great Ocean Road Day Trip from Melbourne
This Great Ocean Road day trip from Melbourne will be one epic journey you won’t forget! Starting from Victoria’s capital city, this road trip experiences offers amazing views of Southern Ocean as well as meandering around charming coastal towns.
Great Ocean Road Small Group EcoTour
For a personal touch, join a small group EcoTour experience. Experience walking through an ancient rainforest with gigantic trees found at Otway Rainforest; there will also be opportunities for wildlife spotting, including Australian koalas on their natural habitat grounds. The knowledgeable guide who accompanies tourists also gives more information about ecosystems and indigenous culture found there.
Great Ocean Road Sunset Tour
One evening tour lets us see the Twelve Apostles at sunset. Moreover, throughout these tours, travellers enjoy enough time to view the magnificent Twelve Apostles and coastal cliffs along the shoreline, especially when bathed with sun rays in the evening sunset time.
Reverse Great Ocean Road Day Trip from Melbourne
Consider avoiding crowds and go to the Reverse Great Ocean Road Day Trip. This is done by starting at the central business district of Melbourne and heading directly towards the Twelve Apostles; this will allow you to enjoy what the coastline has to offer in reverse order. It will make you see breathtaking coastal views with no busy tourist crowd around.
Great Ocean Road Private Helicopter Tour
For a truly amazing experience, take a private helicopter ride over the Great Ocean Road. You can behold limestone cliffs, rugged coastline and some outstanding rock formations like London Bridge and Gibson Steps which you wrap up within less than 20 minutes during this trip. The aerial view on this tour makes it an incredible experience with spectacular views.
Unique Adventures
Great Ocean Road Trike Tour
Feel the adrenaline rush while having trike tour along coastal road. Those who came for something more unusual could choose among these adventurous tours while still enjoying incredible views along seacoast or inhaling fresh ocean air.
Great Ocean Road + Healesville Sanctuary Combo Tour
Make your coastal trip even better by going also to Healesville Sanctuary after all these excellent experiences. This package tour includes Australian exotic wildlife spotting, where you can see native birds, such as parrots or animals including cute koalas, up close.
Great Ocean Road and Grampians Tour
Combine a Great Ocean Road journey with one through the Grampians: “Explore beyond the surf coast with a combined tour of the Great Ocean Road and the Grampians.” This journey combines a stunning shoreline with the wild beauty of the Grampians, which is popular for its spectacular natural sites, walking trails, etc.
Sights to See
Visit the Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch
One must stop and visit the Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch. This iconic landmark is in honour of the soldiers who built the road and offers a perfect photo opportunity.
The Twelve Apostles
Without any doubt, The Twelve Apostles are an attraction of a lifetime on every trip down the Great Ocean Road. These magnificent rock formations that majestically rise from water create a fascinating spectacle.
Loch Ard Gorge and the Shipwreck Coast
Enjoy Loch Ard Gorge on Shipwreck Coast, which is well-known for its famous shipwrecks. It is a dramatic site with towering cliffs and has an interesting history.
Nature and Wildlife
Look out for Australian Flora and Fauna
As you go along, be on the lookout for Aussie wildlife. Many species of native wildlife can be seen along Great Ocean Road including wild koalas, native birds etc.
Rainforest Walk in the Great Otway National Park
Trek through Temperate Rainforest of Great Otway National Park. It offers peaceful surroundings filled with thick greenery as well as natural sounds.
Helpful Information
Can You Do The Great Ocean Road In One Day?
Yes, it is possible to finish exploring all that Great Ocean Road has to offer in just one day particularly when accompanied by expert guides who help in maximizing time. However having two days allows one to take it easy.
What Is The Best Time To Visit The Great Ocean Road?
The best months are November through April when temperatures are much warmer. Each season, however, holds its charm, offering stunning views along different parts of the coastal drive.
What You Need To Bring
Pack walking shoes which are comfortable, hat, sunscreen lotion, water bottle plus a camera bag with your camera inside it. Remember to carry a jacket because coastal weather sometimes changes abruptly.
Where Does The Great Ocean Road Start And End?
Torquay marks the commencement point, while Allansford is at its end, covering approximately 243 kilometres of the magnificent coastline.
How Long Is The 12 Apostles Walk?
The walk around the Twelve Apostles viewing area is quite short and should take about 30-45 minutes, depending on how many lookout points you visit.
Is The Great Ocean Road Worth It?
Absolutely! This scenic drive will give a chance to see some amazing landscapes in Australia with breathtaking views as well as unique experiences.
Stops Along The Way
Stop To Enjoy Lunch In Apollo Bay
Stop for awhile and have lunch at Apollo Bay. This delightful town also offers lovely beaches, cafes and serene atmosphere.
Booking And Conditions
Ticket Price And Booking Conditions
Tour prices may differ depending on which one was chosen. Generally, it’s recommended that you book in advance if you want to secure the lowest price available. Don’t forget to ask about cancellation conditions and any special booking requirements.
Travel Arrangements
Most tours offer pick-up from Melbourne’s Spencer Street or other convenient locations. Check your travel arrangements when booking accommodation.
Extreme Weather Conditions
Tours operate under most weather conditions; however, due to extreme weather, cancellations can occur or the itinerary changed for safety purposes.
FAQ
How long does it take to make a day trip driving along the Great Ocean Road?
A day trip typically involves going from Melbourne and going to destinations such as the Twelve Apostles before returning back on the same day. The drive from Melbourne to the Twelve Apostles is estimated at approximately 3-4 hours one-way, allowing space for breaks and sightseeing.
Are there any organized tours available for a one-day trip along the Great Ocean Road?
Yes, various tour operators offer escorted trips that go from Melbourne to the Great Ocean Road in just a single day. Itinerary usually includes transport, commentaries by guides, stops at top landmarks of interest and at times supplementary activities which may range from wildlife watching to visiting local attractions.
Will I see animals if I go on a day trip along The Great Ocean Road?
Yes, there is diverse wildlife that resides along the great ocean road. Watch out for kangaroos,kolas and numerous bird species within forests and parks through which the road traverses . Some times of the year may provide an opportunity to view whales off shore especially around Warrnambool among other places
What should I take with me when going for a one-day tour?
Pack layers so that you will be prepared for unpredictable weather conditions; don’t forget your hat, sunscreen and comfortable walking shoes either. Remember also to bring with you your camera since we have got quite a number of beautiful landscapes which are worth capturing on film.
Are there family-friendly things to do along The Great Ocean Road?
Certainly yes, some family friendly activities that can be done during a day trip over here include; having fun at the beach by picking sea shells, exploring rock pools when the tide goes down and visiting wildlife zoos or historical sites that have got computer-based displays respectively. Many of the stops along The Great Ocean Road are designed to enhance convenience for families.
Can I go to the Great Ocean Road anytime in a year?
Yes, it is accessible throughout all times of the year although weather patterns may fluctuate. Spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) are usually considered as being the best times to visit due to their moderate temperatures and fewer number of tourists. Winter offers dramatic coastal views; however, you will need a light jacket because there is rain sometimes.