Just Got Back from 15 Epic Days on the Great Ocean Road! ππ¨
π₯ G’day mates! Just finished an absolute ripper of a 15-day family road trip along the Great Ocean Road, and I’m still buzzing! This stretch of Victorian coastline is bloody incredible β think towering limestone stacks, lush rainforests, and beaches that’ll make your jaw drop. I’ve done this trip a few times now, and I’ve finally nailed the perfect itinerary that balances adventure with plenty of downtime for the fam.
ποΈ Days 1-3: Melbourne to Torquay & Surf Coast
Kick off your adventure in Melbourne! Grab your rental camper and hit the road toward Torquay (approx 1.5 hours). Spend your first arvo exploring the Surf Coast β Bells Beach is a must-see even if you’re not a surfer. Days 2-3 are all about coastal vibes: hit the Surf World Museum, let the kids try surf lessons at Torquay Surf Academy, and cruise the Great Ocean Road Trail. For brekkie, hit the iconic Torquay Hotel for a classic Aussie feed with ocean views. Don’t miss the Point Danger Marine Sanctuary for some epic snorkelling!
ποΈ Days 4-6: Lorne & Waterfall Paradise
The drive from Torquay to Lorne is only 45 minutes, but you’ll want to stop at every lookout! Days 4-6 are your rainforest and waterfall chapter. Hit the Erskine Falls first thing in the morning β it’s a beauty and relatively easy for the kids. Spend a full day exploring the Great Otway National Park: Teddy’s Lookout offers insane coastal views, and the Lorne Sea Baths are perfect for an afternoon dip. Pro tip: Grab fish and chips from the Lorne Pier and watch the sunset. The Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park is primo for families!
ποΈ Days 7-9: Apollo Bay & Rainforest Magic
Another short 45-minute drive brings you to Apollo Bay! This stretch is where the road really hugs the coastline β pull over at Cape Patton Lookout for your most Instagrammable shots yet. Days 7-9 are all about the Great Otway Rainforest. Do the Maits Rest Rainforest Walk (wheelchair accessible!), and if you’re feeling adventurous, book the Zipline Tour at Otway Fly β absolutely worth every penny! The Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-op sells the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste. Don’t skip the Marriner’s Lookout for sunset β it’s a steep climb but the 360-degree views are unreal.
ποΈ Days 10-12: 12 Apostles & Port Campbell
Here’s the main event! The drive to Port Campbell National Park (1.5 hours) is where you’ll hit the jackpot. Days 10-12 are monument territory: start with Gibson Steps (beach access to the base of the Apostles), then hit the main 12 Apostles viewing platform β go at sunrise to beat the crowds! Don’t miss Loch Ard Gorge (the story will give you goosebumps) and London Bridge. The Port Campbell Discovery Walk is perfect for families. Stay at the Port Campbell Holiday Park β the facilities are heaps good and it’s walking distance to everything!
ποΈ Days 13-15: Warrnambool & Return Journey
Final leg! Drive to Warrnambool (1 hour) for a different vibe. Days 13-15 are your wind-down phase: visit Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village for some living history, and if you’re here between May and October, you might spot southern right whales from Logans Beach! The Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve is a must β you’ll see kangaroos, emus, and koalas in their natural habitat. Use your last day to meander back toward Melbourne, stopping at any spots you missed. The Grampians are worth a detour if you have time!
π‘ Family-Friendly Pro Tips
Alright, here’s the inside scoop for families: Download the offline maps before you leave β reception gets patchy! Most caravan parks have playgrounds and BBQ facilities, which are lifesavers. The Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery (between Anglesea and Lorne) is non-negotiable β the kids will love it! For rainy days, check out the Lorne Cinema or the Apollo Bay Museum. And trust me on this β pack motion sickness tablets for those winding sections!
π Practical Info
π Great Ocean Road, Victoria 3231, Australia
π From Melbourne, 1.5 hours to Torquay (start point). Full 15-day loop covers approximately 650km round trip
π° Budget: $2,500-3,500 (camping, cooking meals) | Mid-range: $4,500-6,000 (mix of camping/motels, dining out)
π Best visited: December-February (warm weather) or March-May (fewer crowds, mild temps). Attractions generally open 9am-5pm
β±οΈ 15 days (ideal pace with families) or 7-10 days (rush option)
π‘ Tips & Warnings
β
Book campsites well in advance for summer holidays β they sell out months ahead!
β
Download the VicEmergency app for bushfire updates during summer months
β Don’t rush the drive β plan for maximum 3 hours of driving per day with kids
β οΈ β οΈ Watch out for wildlife on roads at dawn and dusk β especially kangaroos!
π Planning your Great Ocean Road trip? Drop questions below! π
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