Victoria, Australia
The Great Ocean Road is famed for its dramatic coastal formations.
These natural sculptures highlight the power of the Southern Ocean.
Always observe safety warnings at coastal historical sites, especially regarding tides and cliff stability.
A beautiful waterfall near Lorne, easily accessible via a short walk and steps from the car park. The falls cascade into a fern-filled gully, creating a picturesque scene.
Displays panoramic views of the Great Ocean Road as it winds along the coast, with the St George River mouth and rugged coastline stretching into the distance. A short walk from the car park.
A renowned spot where wild koalas are often visible in their natural habitat along Grey River Road. It is popular for bird feeding, though discouraging feeding wild animals is generally a better practice to maintain their natural behaviours.
Located west of Peterborough, this park features numerous limestone stacks and rock formations, similar to the Twelve Apostles but often less crowded. It includes beautiful coastal sections like Bay of Martyrs and Peterborough Beach, creating tranquil and picturesque alternatives for coastal exploration.
A unique geological formation where a sinkhole, a blowhole, and an arch combine, creating a serene, picturesque natural rock pool. It displays a calm, reflective contrast to the more dramatic open ocean views.
Discover lesser-known but equally rewarding spots beyond the main tourist trail.
A majestic grove of Californian Redwood trees planted in 1936. These towering trees form a serene, almost mystical forest experience, distinct from the native eucalypt forests. It is a peaceful spot for a walk.
A relatively easy walk from the Apollo Bay town centre or a short drive to the car park, making possible stunning panoramic views over Apollo Bay town, its crescent beach, harbour, and the surrounding coastline. Best visited at sunrise or sunset for incredible light.
A small, tranquil basin making possible good birdwatching opportunities and a peaceful escape within Warrnambool, away from the busier city centre. It presents a quiet natural setting.
One of Australia's oldest aboriginal stone arrangements, potentially predating Stonehenge. This significant cultural site is believed to have astronomical alignments. Calls for respectful visitation and prior research to understand its importance. Access might be restricted or need permission from Traditional Owners.
Beyond the main platform, explore smaller paths that display different perspectives of the winding road and coastline, ideal for photography.
Discover local crafts and produce at smaller, less advertised community markets in towns like Forrest or Port Fairy. These markets are great for authentic souvenirs and interactions with locals.
One of Australia's oldest aboriginal stone arrangements, potentially predating Stonehenge. Calls for respectful visitation and prior research.
Explore smaller paths around Teddy's Lookout for different scenic perspectives of the coast.
Discover local crafts and produce at smaller, less advertised community markets.
Pre-booking tours and activities simplifies your visit and often secures preferred times.
Beyond the famous rock formations, the Great Ocean Road region holds diverse natural beauty, including lush rainforests, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife.
Explore temperate rainforests, rugged coastlines, and a range of waterfalls in the expansive Great Otway National Park.
The Great Otway National Park extends from the coast into the hinterland, featuring temperate rainforests and rugged coastlines.
Beyond the main rock formations, coastal views and wildlife viewing opportunities abound.
Explore coastal parks beyond the Twelve Apostles for equally stunning natural rock formations.
The region also holds various other points of interest that enrich your visit.
The Great Ocean Road region offers insights into its history and local culture through its museums and heritage sites.
Australia's National Surfing Museum, outlining the history of surfing and its cultural impact. Displays surfboards and memorabilia.
A recreated 19th-century village and maritime museum. Houses thousands of artifacts from shipwrecks, including the "Loch Ard Peacock."
Australia's oldest working lighthouse on the mainland. Features panoramic views and shares insight into local Aboriginal heritage.
The official start of the Great Ocean Road, this arch acts as a direct memorial to the World War I soldiers who built the road. Stop for a photo and read the plaque to understand the road's historical significance.
A secluded and somewhat challenging-to-reach beach that displays the skeletal remains of two 19th-century shipwrecks, the Marie Gabrielle (1869) and the Fiji (1891), at low tide. Access includes a long, steep walk down hundreds of steps. Calls for sturdy footwear.
Numerous small cemeteries along the coast contain headstones of shipwreck victims, offering a poignant reminder of the treacherous maritime history.
Several lighthouses along the coast (e.g., Aireys Inlet, Cape Otway) feature restored keepers' cottages, some available for tours or overnight stays, providing a glimpse into past lives.
Dedicated trails and lookouts provide interpretive signage detailing the stories of specific shipwrecks and the brave rescues that took place along this dramatic coastline.
Explore local cultural institutions that highlight the region's artistic and community spirit.
Gain a appreciation for the ancient history and enduring culture of Australia's First Peoples.
Many attractions are outdoors. Check weather forecasts before heading out.
Sturdy footwear is essential for walks, especially at sites like Wreck Beach.
Explore the world-renowned limestone formations that define the Great Ocean Road's coastline.
Famous limestone stacks from the Southern Ocean. Visit at sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting and fewer crowds.
A picturesque gorge named after a famous 1878 shipwreck. Easy walk from the car park to a sheltered beach.
A natural arch that collapsed into two sections in 1990. Viewing platforms display the impressive two-part formation.
Descend 86 steps carved into the cliff face to the beach below for close-up views of two towering limestone stacks. Check tide times carefully before descending.
A unique geological formation where a sinkhole, a blowhole, and an arch combine, creating a serene, picturesque natural rock pool. It displays a calm, reflective contrast to the more dramatic open ocean views.
West of Peterborough, this park features numerous limestone stacks and rock formations, similar to the Twelve Apostles but often less crowded. It includes beautiful coastal sections like Bay of Martyrs and Peterborough Beach.
An active, historic lighthouse recognizable by its distinctive white and red stripes. It makes possible panoramic views of the coast. Tours are available, allowing you to ascend the tower.
Displays panoramic views of the Great Ocean Road as it winds along the coast, with the St George River mouth and rugged coastline stretching into the distance. A short walk from the car park.
The Great Otway National Park provides diverse walking trails through ancient rainforests to beautiful waterfalls.
Explore additional natural landscapes that offer tranquility and unique views.
