How to Plan a Great Ocean Road Day Trip From Melbourne
A one-day Great Ocean Road trip doesn't need to include dozens of attractions. By concentrating on Torquay, Memorial Arch, Apollo Bay, Great Otway National Park and the 12 Apostles, you can experience a good combination of surf beaches, historic landmarks, coastal towns, rainforest and spectacular scenery.
Melbourne Sphere editors · Editorial team
3 min read
In this article
A Great Ocean Road day trip from Melbourne is one of the best ways to experience Victoria's spectacular coastline. With an early start and a well-planned route, you can enjoy beautiful beaches, coastal scenery, rainforest and the famous limestone formations without trying to fit too many stops into one day.
1. Torquay
Torquay is a great place to begin your Great Ocean Road adventure. Located about 100 kilometres from Melbourne, this coastal town is widely known for its surfing culture and beautiful beaches. Take some time to walk along the waterfront, enjoy a morning coffee or simply watch the waves before continuing your drive.
Torquay also provides a good introduction to the relaxed coastal atmosphere that continues along the Great Ocean Road.
Suggested time: 30–45 minutes.
2. Memorial Arch
The Memorial Arch at Eastern View is one of the most recognizable landmarks on the Great Ocean Road. The wooden arch stands beside the road and commemorates the returned servicemen who helped construct the road after World War.
It is a quick but worthwhile stop for photographs. The surrounding coastline and forest also provide a beautiful backdrop, making this an easy place to pause during your drive.
Suggested time: 15–20 minutes.
3. Apollo Bay
Apollo Bay is one of the most popular coastal towns along the route and makes an excellent place to stop for lunch. The town sits between the ocean and the Great Otway National Park, giving it a scenic setting surrounded by mountains and coastline.
After lunch, take a short walk along the beach or explore the main streets before continuing towards the Otways. If you are travelling with family, Apollo Bay is also a convenient place to take a longer break and stretch your legs.
Suggested time: 45–60 minutes.
4. Great Otway National Park
The Great Otway National Park offers a completely different experience from the coastline. Its lush rainforest, tall trees, walking trails and waterfalls make this one of the most scenic parts of the journey.
Even on a day trip, you can choose a short walking trail and spend some time enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Keep an eye out for native birds and other Australian wildlife as you explore.
Suggested time: 45–60 minutes.
5. 12 Apostles
The 12 Apostles are the highlight of most Great Ocean Road trips. These enormous limestone formations rise dramatically from the Southern Ocean and create one of Australia's most recognizable coastal landscapes.
Walk to the viewing platforms for panoramic views of the cliffs and ocean. Late afternoon can be particularly beautiful as the changing light creates different colours across the rock formations and coastline.
Because this is the furthest point on this itinerary, allow enough time for sightseeing before beginning the journey back to Melbourne.
Suggested time: 45–60 minutes.
Suggested Day Trip Route
Melbourne → Torquay → Memorial Arch → Apollo Bay → Great Otway National Park → 12 Apostles → Melbourne
Start early in the morning so you have enough daylight for sightseeing and photography. The drive back to Melbourne can be tiring after a full day, so take regular breaks and avoid rushing.
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