Great Ocean Road Day Tour Melbourne
The Great Ocean Road is one of the most beautiful coastal drives in the world and a journey that should not be missed when visiting Melbourne. A great way to experience this iconic route is with a Great Ocean Road day tour Melbourne, allowing visitors to take in a variety of stunning landscapes, attractions and wildlife.
About the Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia, is one of the world’s most spectacular coastal drives, renowned for its rugged beauty and breathtaking scenery. Spanning over 243 kilometres from Torquay to Allansford, it winds along the coast, offering stunning views of the Southern Ocean from towering cliffs, rainforests and beaches.
World War built road I returned soldiers between 1919-1932 and is dedicated to their memory. It is one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations and is a great way to explore the region’s beauty.
One option for experiencing the Great Ocean Road is a day tour from Melbourne. These tours offer an exciting mix of sights, activities and experiences that will provide a genuine appreciation of the area.
Overview of Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road day tour departs from Melbourne, and the guided tour follows the beautiful and winding coastal roads, allowing visitors to enjoy the crisp ocean breeze and stunning scenery. You’ll pass by quaint seaside towns where you can stop and indulge in delicious local cuisine.
One of the highlights of the Great Ocean Road day tour is the chance to witness breathtaking natural wonders along the way, such as the Twelve Apostles. These iconic limestone stacks are an absolute sight to behold, and you’ll be awed by their size and beauty. The tour also takes visitors to stop at the Gibson Steps, where you can descend towards the beach and get close to these towering cliffs.
The tour guarantees you will experience the most picturesque views imaginable, with the ocean on one side and the magnificent Victorian hinterland on the other. You’ll journey through breathtaking temperate rainforests, offering a tranquil atmosphere that soothes the senses.
If you’re a thrill-seeker, the Great Ocean Road day tour caters to you too. Stroll on the beach, or hike through the valleys, enjoying the beautiful views. You might even glimpse a host of wildlife, including multiple species of birds, koalas, and whales
What to Expect
As you begin your journey on the Great Ocean Road, you’ll pass through several charming seaside towns, each with character and history. Indulge in delicious local cuisine, shop for souvenirs, or relax and soak up the seaside atmosphere. The tour guide will take you to the most scenic and exciting spots, where you can stop and explore independently or sit back and enjoy the view.
One of the Great Ocean Road’s main attractions is the natural wonders you’ll see. The most famous of these is the Twelve Apostles, a collection of towering limestone stacks that rise majestically out of the ocean. Be sure to have your camera ready for the perfect shot! Other must-see stops on the tour include the Gibsons Steps, Loch Ard Gorge, and the Island Archway.
Get ready to be spellbound by the awe-inspiring coastal views of the Great Ocean Road, an absolute marvel that will leave you breathless.
Be prepared to be blown away by the rugged coastline, pristine beaches, and turquoise waters. The tour guide will take you to the best lookout points, offering panoramic views that are nothing short of breathtaking.
The Great Ocean Road is home to diverse wildlife, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to spot them on your tour. Look out for koalas sleeping in the gum trees, kangaroos hopping across the fields, and whales breaching in the ocean (between June and September). You might even encounter colourful birds, wallabies, and echidnas along the way.
To help you make the most of your Great Ocean Road day tour, you’ll have an informative and friendly tour guide accompany you. They will provide interesting facts about the region and tips on the best photo opportunities and places to stop. They’ll also ensure that you’re comfortable and safe throughout your journey.
Visit Port Campbell, National Park
One of the most famous sights within the park is the Twelve Apostles. These towering limestone stacks rising from the ocean are truly awe-inspiring and offer a unique and unforgettable photo opportunity. Watching the sun set behind the apostles is a sight that will stay with you forever.
Another stop in the park is Loch Ard Gorge, named after the shipwreck of the Loch Ard in 1878. Visitors can explore the stunning landscape of towering cliffs and secluded beaches here. The area’s history adds to the already mesmerising scenery, making for an all-encompassing experience.
The Island Archway is another landmark that should be noticed. It’s a natural arch that d thousands of years ago and is now an extraordinary sight that attracting sands of visitors every year. Watch waves crash into the limestone cliffs, creating a unique photo opportunity.
Other notable stops within Port Campbell National Park include the Gibson Steps, where visitors can climb down to the beach and view the breathtaking and towering cliffs from a different perspective. The Blowhole and London Bridge also offer stunning coastal views and beautiful landscapes.
Explore Kennett River Wildlife Park
The park is the perfect place to take a break from driving and spend time surrounded by nature. Visitors can stroll along the park’s well-maintained paths and marvel at the beauty of the temperate rainforest and eucalyptus trees, home to a range of native wildlife. One of the highlights is the chance to spot wild koalas perched high up in the trees, dozing in the sunshine. The park is the only place where visitors are guaranteed to see koalas in their natural habitat, making it a unique and exciting experience.
In addition to koalas, the park is home to a range of Australian wildlife, such as the Eastern Grey Kangaroo and colourful lorikeets. Visitors can provide the lorikeets with nectar, a unique experience that may result in the birds landing on your shoulders or head. Kangaroos, wallaroos, and wallabies also roam freely in the park, and visitors can pet and feed them.
Stop at Bells Beach for a Surf Lesson
On Melbourne’s Great Ocean Road Day Tour, visitors can stop at the iconic Bells Beach. Known globally for its epic surf breaks, Bells Beach is a must-visit location for surf enthusiasts and novices alike. For those looking for a thrill, stopping at Bells Beach for a surf lesson is an unforgettable experience.
Surf lessons at Bells Beach are offered by experienced instructors who provide valuable advice and instruction to help visitors catch the perfect wave. Those who have never surfed can learn the basics and stand up on their board while riding the waves.
Take a Morning Tea Break at Cape Otway Lighthouse Café
The café’s outdoor seating area overlooks the rugged coastline, providing a stunning vista perfect for taking photos or simply soaking up the stunning surroundings. As you enjoy your morning tea, watch for the abundant local wildlife. This area is home to various unique Australian species, including kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, and colourful birdlife.
In addition to the delectable refreshments and stunning setting, the café also offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the rich history of the Cape Otway Lighthouse and its essential role in safeguarding the treacherous southern coast. Guests can stroll through the lighthouse complex and explore the exhibits depicting the lighthouse’s fascinating past.
Drive Along Shipwreck Coast and View Spectacular Coastal Landscapes
Driving along the Shipwreck Coast is one of the most breathtaking experiences you can have in Australia. The rugged coastline stretches for over 150 miles and is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world. From the towering limestone cliffs to the pristine beaches, this stretch of road is a must-see for any nature lover.
Along the way, you’ll also have the chance to spot some of the local wildlife. Watch for wild koalas sleeping in the eucalyptus trees or playful seals swimming in crystal-clear waters.
Aside from the stunning scenery, the drive along the Shipwreck Coast also offers plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the view. Plenty of lookout points and photo opportunities will make for the perfect Instagram-worthy shot.
Go Hiking Through Ancient Rainforest in Otway National Park
For those with an adventurous spirit, hiking through the ancient rainforest is an experience to be noticed. As you begin your hike, the towering eucalyptus trees engulf you in their beauty, providing a canopy that filters the sunlight and creates a tranquil atmosphere.
Along the way, you’ll discover stunning waterfalls cascading down moss-covered rocks and some of Victoria’s most breathtaking panoramic views. Keep your eyes peeled for the local wildlife, too, as you may be lucky enough to spot a koala snoozing in the branches above you or a kookaburra perched upon a nearby tree.
One of the most popular hiking trails in Otway National Park is the Maits Rest Rainforest Walk. This 30-minute walk takes you on a boardwalk through the enchanting rainforest, allowing you to see the towering trees up close and appreciate the world of mosses, lichens, fungi, and ferns that thrive in this unique environment.
Accommodations & Food Options During the Tour
For those who prefer to stay overnight along the Great Ocean Road, seaside towns such as Lorne and Apollo Bay offer various accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. Wake up to stunning ocean views and enjoy local cafes and restaurants serving delicious breakfast options.
Nicknamed the Surf Coast, the Great Ocean Road is home to countless beachside cafes and restaurants serving everything from fresh seafood to gourmet burgers and pizza. Many terms offer a morning tea and lunch stop at seaside towns along the route, allowing one to enjoy the local cuisine. If you prefer to continue the tour in one day, don’t worry, you won’t go hungry.
Where to Stay Along The Route
Seaside towns such as Lorne and Apollo Bay offer various accommodations for all budgets and preferences. For those looking for a luxurious stay, several high-end resorts and apartments have stunning ocean views. Alternatively, budget-friendly hostels and motels can be found in many smaller towns.
For those who prefer a more secluded stay, opting for accommodation in the smaller towns and villages along the route might be the way to go. Areas like Kennett River and Aireys Inlet offer quieter stays with plenty of opportunities to explore the surrounding natural habitat, including temperate rainforests and eucalyptus trees.
Staying overnight along the Great Ocean Road allows visitors to glimpse the famous Twelve Apostles at sunrise or sunset without rushing back to Melbourne. And with many tours offering pick-up and drop-off at these seaside towns, it’s a convenient option for those who want to experience the beauty of the Great Ocean Road more leisurely.
Pick-up Locations & Times
Join us bright and early for an unforgettable adventure starting at 7:35 AM sharp at the Immigration Museum on the east side of 400 Flinders St, right at the corner of Market St in Melbourne!
- 6:20 – Newport Bus Interchange, Mason St, Newport
- 6:55 – Space Hotel, 380 Russell St, Melbourne
- 7:05 – Pegasus Apartments Hotel – 206 A’Beckett St, Melbourne
- 7:15 – Windsor Hotel – 111 Spring St, Melbourne (Hotel Guests Only)
- 7:25 – The Savoy Hotel – 630 Little Collins St, Melbourne
- 7:30 – Holiday Inn, 575 Flinders Ln, Melbourne
- 7:35 – Immigration Museum (east-side), 400 Flinders St corner of Market St, Melbourne
What do you need to bring?
When embarking on a Great Ocean Road day tour, it is essential to ensure you bring the necessary items to ensure your comfort and safety. You should wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes and pack a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Bring an extra layer, such as a warm jacket or raincoat, depending on the season.
Finally, bringing a camera to capture and share the breathtaking views with your friends and family is recommended!
Online Booking
FAQ
What is the itinerary for the Great Ocean Road day tour from Melbourne?
What are the key attractions of the Great Ocean Road day tour?
What should I bring on the Great Ocean Road day tour?
What are the pick-up locations and times for the tour?
Are there any accommodation options if I want to stay overnight?
Yes, seaside towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay offer a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. These towns provide stunning ocean views and local culinary delights, making them perfect for an extended stay along the Great Ocean Road.