Where to Start Your Great Ocean Road Adventure

The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most famous and beautiful coastal drives, 240km long and hugging the Southern Ocean. With its stunning coastline, cliffs and coastal towns it’s no wonder people come to see it. But with so many beautiful spots along the way, where do you start? Whether you want to visit famous surf beaches, ancient rainforests or charming coastal towns this guide will help you decide where to begin.

Start the Great Ocean Road

There are many places to start your Great Ocean Road journey, each with its own experience. Depending on where you’re from and how much time you have the route can be tailored to your adventure. If you want a hassle free way to see all the highlights of this beautiful drive book a Great Ocean Road 3 Day Tour so you don’t miss any of the must see sights along the way.

Start in Melbourne: The City Gateway

Starting your Great Ocean Road journey in Melbourne is a great option if you’re flying in. Only 1.5 hours from the coast Melbourne is a major hub and Avalon Airport is a gateway to the Great Ocean Road and a great place to base yourself.

Why Start in Melbourne?

• Convenience: Melbourne is a major city, Avalon Airport is a easy access point to the Great Ocean Road.
• Cultural Attractions: Spend some time in Melbourne’s laneways, art galleries and parks before heading out to the Shipwreck Coast and beyond.
• Iconic Beaches: Start at Bells Beach, one of Australia’s most famous surf beaches just a short drive from Torquay.

After Melbourne you’ll hit Eastern View, with its dramatic cliffs and then Kennett River and Cape Otway National Park.

Start in Geelong: A More Relaxed Beginning

Geelong is a great option if you want a more laid back start to your journey. As the second largest city in Victoria Geelong is at the start of the Great Ocean Road and a quieter entry point to your adventure.

Why Start in Geelong?

• Quieter: It’s a calm city to start your road trip before you hit the Bay of Islands or the rugged cliffs near Port Campbell.
• Attractions: Visit Port Fairy, a coastal town with beautiful coastline and wildlife reserves before heading to Port Campbell National Park.
• Scenic Drives: Take the inland route through Lavers Hill for some adventure or stay on the coastal route for ocean views.

Start in Apollo Bay: Midway Marvel

If you’re already near the coast or want a more central spot to start, Apollo Bay is the midway option. This cute town is in the Otway National Park, surrounded by old growth forest and has loads of local eateries and boutiques.

Why Start in Apollo Bay?

• Central Location: Apollo Bay is the sweet spot, close to Triplet Falls and Erskine Falls and just a short drive to Johanna Beach and Maits Rest.
• Wildlife and Nature: Native wildlife, koalas in Kennett River and local birds and marine life along the coast.
• Scenic Vibes: Laid back town, great views, walking tracks through eucalyptus and giant ferns.

Great Ocean Road Attractions

The Great Ocean Road tour has many amazing attractions, each with its own special something. Where ever you start you’ll have access to several icons.

The Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge

One of the most iconic natural wonders on the Great Ocean Road, the Twelve Apostles is a line of limestone stacks rising out of the Bass Strait. Just a short drive from Port Campbell you’ll also find Loch Ard Gorge and London Arch (formerly London Bridge).

• Port Campbell National Park is where these natural wonders and the Shipwreck Coast tell the story of Australia’s maritime history.
• Bay of Islands and London Bridge are also great for views and natural beauty.

Great Otway National Park and Cape Otway Lighthouse

For nature enthusiasts Great Otway National Park is a must see, with ancient rainforest, dramatic waterfalls (Hopetoun Falls) and giant eucalyptus trees. Stop at Maits Rest for a short walk through the forest or head to Cape Otway Lighthouse for views of the coastline and Bass Strait.

Apollo Bay, Port Fairy and beyond

After Apollo Bay head to Port Fairy, a coastal town with beaches, native wildlife and historic charm. Take a walk on Griffiths Island to see the penguin breeding ground or enjoy the calm waters of Lake Elizabeth in the nearby Otway National Park.

Bells Beach and Surf

If you surf, be sure to stop at Bells Beach, one of Australia’s best surf spots. The waves are huge here and it’s a popular competition venue. If you’re visiting during the Australian surf season you might even see some of the pros.

Tips for Planning Your Adventure

Plan for Multiple Days

You can’t see it all in one day, the Great Ocean Road deserves multiple days to take it all in. Spend at least 2 or 3 days exploring the coastal cliffs, lakes and cultural sites.

Choose Your Route

The inland route allows you to explore the local towns and the area’s cultural heritage, the ancient traditions of the Eastern Maar & Gunditjmara people. If you prefer ocean views the coastal route has rock stacks, limestone cliffs and stunning sea views.

Weather and Road Conditions

The weather can be changeable so be prepared for slippery roads and changing conditions. Always check the forecast especially during winter months when roads near Wye River and Port Campbell can be rough.

Watch out for Wildlife

The Great Ocean Road has a lot of Australian wildlife, koalas, kangaroos and native birds. Be careful and slow down in areas where wildlife is common especially around Kennett River and Port Campbell.

Nearby Places to Visit

If you want to see more of Victoria’s natural beauty visit the Grampians National Park for mountain views or head to Phillip Island to see the penguin parade. For a wildlife experience like no other book a 2 day Great Ocean Roads tour tour with Wildlife Tours Australia who offer guided tours to some of the most beautiful and wildlife rich places in the state.

Conclusion

Whether you start in Melbourne, Geelong or Apollo Bay the Great Ocean Road has something for every traveller. From surf beaches and shipwrecks to ancient rainforests there’s no shortage of views and natural wonders to see. Plan your route, pack your camera and hit the road!

FAQs

How long does it take to drive the Great Ocean Road?

A full drive can take 2-3 days but many people prefer to take their time and stop at the views, beaches and nature stops.

When is the best time to visit the Great Ocean Road?

Best time is during the warmer months of spring and summer, autumn is also beautiful with fewer tourists.

Can I see the Twelve Apostles in a day?

Yes you can, but we recommend a day to properly see the Shipwreck Coast and surrounding attractions.

Are there tours for the Great Ocean Road?

Yes, many tour operators offer guided tours, some of which have exclusive access to remote areas and hidden spots along the coast.

Is the Great Ocean Road family friendly?

Yes! There are many walking tracks, wildlife reserves and kid friendly beaches.