The Great Ocean Road is one of the world’s great coastal drives — a 240 km ribbon of tarmac hugging Victoria’s wild southern coast, past the Twelve Apostles, surf beaches, rainforest and koala-filled forests. Here’s exactly how to do it, whether you have one big day or a relaxed three.
Great Ocean Road route overview
The official road runs from Torquay (about 1.5 hours from Melbourne) to Allansford near Warrnambool. Most travellers drive it west from Melbourne, so the ocean is on your left and the lookouts are easy to pull into. Allow a minimum of a full day, but 2–3 days lets you actually stop.
Day 1: Torquay to Apollo Bay
Start at Bells Beach, the world-famous surf break, then wind through Anglesea and Aireys Inlet (climb the Split Point Lighthouse). Stop at Lorne for lunch and the Erskine Falls, then continue to Kennett River to spot wild koalas in the gum trees. Overnight in Apollo Bay.
Day 2: Apollo Bay to Port Campbell
Detour inland into the Great Otway National Park — walk the fern gullies at Maits Rest and see Hopetoun Falls. Back on the coast, the big finale begins: the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, London Arch and The Grotto. Time the Apostles for sunset when the limestone glows gold. Overnight in Port Campbell.
Day 3: The Shipwreck Coast & home
Finish at the Bay of Islands and Bay of Martyrs — just as spectacular as the Apostles but far quieter — then loop back to Melbourne inland (about 3 hours) or continue to Warrnambool for whale watching (June–September).
Tips for driving the Great Ocean Road
Fuel up in the larger towns, drive on the left, and don’t rush — the road is winding and the views are the point. It gets busy midday at the Apostles, so aim for early morning or sunset. For more coastal drives, see our Australian road trips and road-trip tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Great Ocean Road take to drive?
Non-stop it’s about 4 hours end to end, but with stops most people take a full day. Two to three days is ideal to enjoy the beaches, waterfalls and Twelve Apostles properly.
Which direction should you drive the Great Ocean Road?
West from Melbourne (Torquay to Port Campbell) — the ocean is on your left and the lookouts are easy left-hand turn-ins.
Can you do the Great Ocean Road in one day?
Yes, as a long day trip from Melbourne (12+ hours return), but you’ll be rushed. An overnight in Apollo Bay or Port Campbell makes it far more relaxed.
What is the best time to drive the Great Ocean Road?
Summer (Dec–Feb) for beaches, autumn for quiet roads, or June–September for whale watching near Warrnambool. Avoid midday crowds at the Twelve Apostles.
