Victoria, Australia
Available in major towns like Torquay, Lorne, Apollo Bay, Port Campbell, and Warrnambool. These include private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and parking. Motels are practical for road-trippers.
Found in the Otway Ranges hinterland, focusing on sustainability and nature immersion. Stays in natural settings often highlight local materials.
Charming, locally-run options common in smaller towns, often include home-cooked breakfast for a personal experience.
Popular for families and groups, including self-catering facilities and more space. Options via Booking.com, Agoda, and Vrbo.
Numerous parks in most towns, including powered and unpowered sites for tents, caravans, and campervans. Shared facilities like kitchens and bathrooms are common.
Range from basic to luxurious, self-contained villas with private bathrooms and kitchens. Many are family-friendly, with playgrounds and swimming pools.
Designated campsites within Great Otway National Park. These often book through advance reservations via the Parks Victoria website. A Lightweight tent aids for a rustic experience.
Available in larger towns like Torquay, Lorne, and Apollo Bay, with dorms and private rooms for budget travellers. They create a social atmosphere. Check Hostelworld for options.
The Great Ocean Road is a linear destination, with towns along the route offering distinct vibes and benefits as overnight bases.
Small fishing village, ideal base for iconic Shipwreck Coast formations (Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge). Peaceful and quiet.
Larger regional city with good facilities. Excellent for whale watching (seasonal). Further from main iconic GOR sights.
Advance booking considerations and platform details for your stay.
TrustedHousesitters is an option for longer, unique stays where you care for pets.
This platform connects travellers with homeowners seeking pet care, creating free accommodation in exchange for care.
It creates a different way to stay, living like a local and experiencing a home environment.
Suggested options catering to different budgets and travel styles.
Social and budget-friendly. Apollo Bay Eco Hostel and YHA Apollo Bay are known for good facilities. Base Backpackers is popular in Lorne.
Cost-effective. Cumberland River Holiday Park (near Lorne) features a riverside setting. Apollo Bay Recreation Reserve Caravan Park is beach-close.
Comfort Inn the International (Apollo Bay) features comfortable rooms, often with ocean views, and good amenities. Best Western Olde Maritime Motor Inn (Warrnambool) is reliable.
Lorne Bay View Apartments (Lorne) includes self-contained apartments with views, suitable for couples or small families. Apollo Bay Beach House includes various self-contained units, often with kitchens, creating more space and flexibility.
Many caravan parks along the Great Ocean Road are excellent for families. They include a range of cabin types (often with multiple bedrooms), playgrounds, swimming pools, and shared facilities like kitchens and barbecues, making self-catering simple.
Holiday rentals (via Airbnb/Stayz) are also excellent for families due to the increased space, separate bedrooms, and self-catering options. Look for properties with outdoor areas.
Some IHG Hotels have family rooms or connecting rooms, and sometimes include amenities like pools that appeal to families.
Some rentals and parks allow pets. Check policies before booking.
Hostels are a good choice for solo travellers looking for social interaction and budget-friendly accommodation.
For those driving solo, consider a comfortable motel or a cozy cabin in a caravan park.
Vacation rentals and apartments are the best choice for extended stays, with home-like amenities like full kitchens, living areas, and laundry facilities. Caravan park cabins are also suitable for longer durations, creating good value and a community atmosphere.
For longer, unique experiences, TrustedHousesitters connects travelers with homeowners for pet and house-sitting opportunities.
The Seahaven Lorne includes stylish, modern apartments directly on the beachfront, with premium views and amenities. Peppers The Sands Resort (Torquay) is a contemporary resort with golf course access, pool, and spa facilities, ideal for a relaxed stay at the start of the GOR.
Otway Escapes (Otways hinterland) includes secluded, eco-friendly accommodation in the rainforest, perfect for nature lovers seeking tranquility. Anchors Port Campbell includes luxury apartments with ocean views, close to the Twelve Apostles.
Historic cottages on the grounds of Australia's oldest working lighthouse. This creates an unique opportunity to stay within a heritage-listed site with stunning coastal views and rich maritime history. Book well in advance due to limited availability.
Some historic homesteads in the hinterland have been converted into guest accommodation, creating a glimpse into rural history and heritage living.
Several boutique hotels and guesthouses in the region reside in historic buildings, reflecting local architecture and stories, providing a cultural connection.
