Exploring the Great Ocean Road is a must-do experience, making it a highlight of any Australian adventure.
Starting from Melbourne, this renowned road trip is among the world’s premier coastal drives. It’s famed for the striking Twelve Apostles, ever-changing coastline, verdant rainforests, charming fishing villages, and renowned surf beaches.
My 3-Day Great Ocean Road Trip Itinerary
Driving along the Great Ocean Road was a standout experience during my year in Australia. To help you make the most of this scenic route, I’ve crafted a 3-day itinerary showcasing the key attractions and hidden gems along the way.
Why You Need 3 Days to Drive the Great Ocean Road
A road trip is the ideal way to explore the Great Ocean Road, with so much to see and do. A 3-day itinerary allows you to take your time, enjoy the sights, and discover surprises along the route.
While you could speed through the 243 km in a day, there’s much more to the Great Ocean Road than just the Twelve Apostles. A day tour might rush you through this spectacular coastal drive, preventing you from fully appreciating it.
The Perfect 3-Day Great Ocean Road Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Melbourne to Apollo Bay – 3 hours driving, 187 km/116 miles
Begin your journey from Melbourne, driving an hour to Torquay, the official start of the Great Ocean Road and home to the Australian National Surfing Museum and Bells Beach. Continue to Anglesea, a great spot for surfing and kangaroo watching.
Stop at Airey’s Inlet to visit the Split Point Lighthouse and take a photo at the Memorial Arch. The road then leads you to Lorne, an ideal lunch stop with nearby waterfalls and scenic walks.
After Lorne, stop at Kennett River’s ‘Koala Walk’ before reaching Apollo Bay. The drive offers spectacular cliff views and wild beaches. Spend the night at Apollo Bay, where you can tour the oldest surviving lighthouse in Australia.
Where to stay in Apollo Bay:
- Marengo Holiday Park offers cabins and campsites.
- Apollo Bay Eco YHA provides budget-friendly accommodations.
- Sandpiper Motel and The Apollo offer hotel options.
Day 2: Apollo Bay to Port Fairy – 3 hours driving, 189 km/117 miles
From Apollo Bay, visit Cape Otway Lightstation and Otway National Park for treetop walks or ziplining adventures. Next, marvel at the famous Twelve Apostles and other formations like the Arch and Loch Ard Gorge along the Shipwreck Coast.
Continue to Warrnambool to explore its maritime history or whale watching at Logans Beach. Then, drive to Port Fairy, visiting the Tower Hill State Game Reserve to see wildlife.
Where to stay in Port Fairy:
- Gumtree Caravan Park for camping and cabins.
- Port Fairy YHA for budget accommodations.
- The Victoria Apartments for mid-range options.
- Oscars Waterfront Boutique Hotel and Drift House Apartments for luxury stays.
Day 3: Port Fairy to Melbourne
Spend the morning exploring Port Fairy’s historic sites and beaches. The Great Ocean Road ends here, but you can extend your trip to the Grampians or drive north to Adelaide and Uluru.
To return to Melbourne, either retrace your steps along the Great Ocean Road or take the inland route, stopping at Camperdown and Colac for dining and craft breweries.
How to Plan Your Great Ocean Road Trip
Best time to travel: The Great Ocean Road can be visited year-round. Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures, while winter can be chilly, especially in a campervan. Summer can be very hot.
Duration: While possible to drive the Great Ocean Road in a day, a minimum of 3 days is recommended to fully enjoy the scenery and attractions.
Taking your time to appreciate the diverse landscapes, stunning views, and hidden gems makes this one of the world’s best road trips. Enjoy the drive!
