Great Ocean Road

Torquay and Lorne form the spectacular eastern gateway to the Great Ocean Road. Torquay is the absolute capital of Australian surf culture, home to legendary surf brands and the world-famous Bells Beach surf break, while Lorne is a chic, cosmopolitan coastal resort village nestled between the steep, forested slopes of the Otway Ranges and the blue ocean.

Watch world-class surfers tackle massive Southern Ocean swells at the historic Bells Beach, or walk through the surf museums in Torquay. Drive the scenic coastal winding loops to Lorne, stopping to walk the lush fern-lined trail to Erskine Falls in the Otway forest. In the afternoon, enjoy local seafood at the historic Lorne Pier, or relax with a craft beer on a street-side café terrace overlooking Louttit Bay.

Apollo Bay is a charming, sleepy coastal fishing village positioned at the base of the massive Otway Ranges. Famed as the agricultural and forestry center of the road, it is surrounded by lush green dairy farms, massive temperate rainforests filled with giant eucalyptus trees, and coastal bays home to local fishing fleets.

Wander down the quiet roads of the Kennett River to spot dozens of wild koalas resting in the branches of eucalyptus trees. Take a guided walking tour through Great Otway National Park, exploring the towering, prehistoric tree ferns of Maits Rest. In the afternoon, purchase fresh southern rock lobster directly from the local fishing cooperative at the harbor.

Port Campbell and the Twelve Apostles represent the dramatic, world-famous grand finale of the Great Ocean Road. Positioned along the rugged Shipwreck Coast, this dramatic region is characterized by monumental limestone sea stacks rising 150 feet out of the crashing Southern Ocean, steep cliffs, and deep coastal gorges.

Walk along the clifftop boardwalks at sunset to witness the spectacular silhouette of the Twelve Apostles sea stacks glowing orange in the surf. Descend the historic Gibson Steps to stand on the beach, looking up at the towering cliffs. Explore Loch Ard Gorge, the dramatic, narrow-mouthed bay where a famous passenger clipper shipwrecked in 1878, leaving only two survivors.

To ensure an absolutely perfect and safe Southern Australian coastal road trip, keep these essential practical tips in mind:

• Strictly Drive on the Left-Hand Side: In Australia, you must drive strictly on the left-hand side of the road. For international drivers, this requires constant, active concentration, particularly when turning at intersections or navigating empty roundabouts. Take your time, focus strictly, and follow the flow of traffic.
• Avoid Driving at Dawn, Dusk, and Night: Victoria’s southern coast is home to massive populations of wild kangaroos, wallabies, and wombats that become highly active near roads during twilight hours. Collisions can cause severe vehicle damage and injuries. Avoid driving at night, and always stay extremely alert during dawn and dusk.
• strictly Respect the Ocean Beach Safety: The Southern Ocean has incredibly powerful, freezing currents and massive waves. When descending beaches like Gibson Steps or Loch Ard Gorge, strictly stay away from the waterline wet sand, respect all active warning signs, and never swim in un-patrolled, open ocean areas.

The southern coast of Australia moves to a raw, sun-kissed ocean rhythm. Feel the fresh sea spray, spot the wild koalas in the trees, and let the magnificent limestone towers of the Apostles inspire your ultimate coastal journey.

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