Some trips stay with us forever. This Great Ocean Road Trip in southern Australia was one of those unforgettable experiences. We did it in 2020 during our second trip around the world, and even as time passes, we still remember every curve of the road, every viewpoint overlooking the ocean, and every deserted beach where we stopped just to listen to the waves.
The idea was simple: leave Melbourne, follow the coast to Warrnambool, and then return leisurely, stopping at the most iconic spots and savoring every moment. Along the way, we encountered wild koalas, impressive rock formations, and landscapes that seemed straight out of a movie. But more than that, we found that rare sense of freedom that only comes from driving along an ocean road.
In this guide, we share our complete itinerary: what we saw, where we stayed, what left the biggest impression on us, and everything we wish we’d known before setting off. If you’re planning this route—or if you’re looking for inspiration for a different kind of trip—this article is for you.
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Our experience along the Australian coast
We chose to do this Great Ocean Road Trip for two reasons: because it’s considered one of the most beautiful roads in the world and because we were going to be in Melbourne—and we didn’t want to miss the chance to explore this part of Australia.
We made the trip in March, which in the southern hemisphere means the end of summer, with still-warm and long days. We spent five days on the road but had four full days of exploration. We thought it was the perfect amount of time to see everything at a relaxed pace, without rushing or tight schedules.
We rented a car through DiscoverCars directly in Melbourne and headed to Warrnambool, at the western end of the Great Ocean Road. Then we returned to Melbourne, making several stops along the way. It’s a very accessible trip for those used to driving, even with left-hand traffic.
Day-by-day itinerary: From Melbourne to Warrnambool (and back)
Day 1: Melbourne → Warrnambool
We started the trip with a good dose of enthusiasm. The first leg was long, but the idea was to reach Warrnambool quickly so we could take our time on the way back. The town is small, friendly, and ideal for starting to explore the coast the next day.
Day 2: Warrnambool → Apollo Bay
This was one of the most intense and beautiful days. We visited incredible spots like Bay of Islands, the Twelve Apostles, and Loch Ard Gorge. Each stop seemed more impressive than the last. We stayed overnight in Apollo Bay, a charming seaside village.
Day 3: Apollo Bay → Geelong
We explored Great Otway National Park, where we walked through lush forests and visited hidden waterfalls. We also stopped at Kennett River, where we saw wild koalas. By nightfall, we were in Geelong.
Day 4: Geelong → Melbourne
On the last day, we took the morning to visit Bells Beach, an iconic surf spot. Then it was back to Melbourne, with our hearts full and our memories packed with incredible images.
Places that left a mark on us (and you can’t miss)
- Bay of Islands – One of the most dramatic coastal landscapes, with rock formations sculpted by the sea.
- Twelve Apostles – The most famous postcard of the Great Ocean Road. It’s truly worth seeing at sunrise or sunset.
- Loch Ard Gorge – Here, the ocean shows its power. A tragic story gives the place its name, but the beauty is unforgettable.
- London Arch and The Grotto – Geological formations that reminded us that nature is the best artist.
- Great Otway National Park – A total contrast to the coast: dense forests, waterfalls, and trails in the middle of greenery.
- Bells Beach – A legendary surf spot, and a must-stop even for non-surfers.
- Kennett River – One of the best places to see wild koalas. Just look up and wait.
Where we stayed
- Melbourne – City Tempo Queen Street: central location, ideal for exploring the city on foot. Check out our guide on where to stay in Melbourne.
- Warrnambool – Mid City Motel Warrnambool: simple but comfortable, perfect for a quiet night.
- Apollo Bay – The Apollo: modern, spacious, and just steps from the beach.
- Geelong – Quality Hotel Bayside Geelong: great bay views and comfortable rooms.
- Melbourne (end of the trip) – We stayed at HOTEL NO, a unique experience—an airstream transformed into a work of art that combines design, comfort, and modernity for an exclusive stay in Melbourne.
Best time to do a Great Ocean Road trip
The best time to do the Great Ocean Road Trip is between November and April, which corresponds to the Australian spring and summer. The days are longer, there’s less rain, and the temperatures invite stops at the beaches. In winter, there’s a lot of wind and fog, which can limit the views—though it has its own wild charm.
Is a Great Ocean Road trip worth it?
For us, the answer is a resounding yes. It’s a trip that blends pure nature, small coastal towns, deserted beaches, rainforests, and wildlife. The Great Ocean Road Trip is perfect for those who enjoy driving at a relaxed pace and stopping whenever the heart desires. We especially recommend it to first-time travelers to Australia who want to see a lot in just a few days without major complications.
FAQs – Frequently asked questions about a Great Ocean Road Trip
Is driving in Australia dangerous?
No. They drive on the left, which might feel strange at first, but the roads are well-marked, in great condition, and traffic is calm, especially outside big cities.
How many days are ideal for this route?
We recommend at least 4 to 5 days to enjoy it without rushing. You can do it in 2 or 3 days, but you’ll have to skip some stops.
Do I need a 4×4?
No. A regular car is perfectly fine. The road is paved and in good condition the whole way.
How can I see the Twelve Apostles with fewer people?
Go at sunrise. Besides the incredible light, there are far fewer people. You could also consider staying in Port Campbell to make this stop early in the morning.
