Top Things to Do and See on the Great Ocean Road

WORDS: Diana Smith PHOTOGRAPHY Supplied

If you’re wondering how to spend an unforgettable vacation in Australia, taking a trip down the Great Ocean Road will offer numerous experiences and a worthwhile ride. Take a spectacular coastal drive of over 240km, and spot some of Australia’s most iconic sights. Whether you’re travelling to Australia from abroad or you’re a local who has never taken a drive down the world’s longest war memorial, the Great Ocean Road trip will leave you in awe. Here are some of the top things we suggest you do and see on your GOR adventure.

Visit the Surfing Museum

For many people, the first association with Australia is surfing. Having that in mind, Torquay opened Australian National Surfing Museum for all the locals and tourists to marvel at this fascinating activity. You won’t find a larger museum dedicated to surfing anywhere else in the world. Whether you’re a surfing aficionado or not, going to the surfing museum will be beyond fun for you and the rest of the group. Learn everything from the history of surfing to the types and evolution of surfboards to all the famous surfers.

Spot koalas at Kennett River

What’s a trip to Australia without spotting a koala, right? Cross another item off your bucket list and head to the Kennett River. Only 30 minutes southwest away from Lorne, down the Great Ocean Road, lies the township of Kennett River. A large number of koalas decided to settle in this charming place, making it one of the best-known Australia’s koala-spotting capitals. Take a break from the drive, stretch your legs and take the Koala Walk as you check out the cutest furry creatures sleeping in the trees.

Don’t miss out on the 12 Apostles

The 12 Apostles When you take a Great Ocean Ride drive, a must-stop is the 12 Apostles. Formed by erosion throughout millions of years, these limestone stacks are one of the biggest attractions in Australia. While four stacks have eroded and crashed into the ocean over the years, the site still holds the same name and is no less admirable. You’ll spot a boardwalk that will lead you along with the best viewpoints of the Apostles. Don’t miss out on soaking up all the majestic viewpoints and enjoy the breathtaking coastline beyond it. Your Instagram account will be bursting with content as this is one of the best spots to snap iconic sunrise and sunset shots. To make sure you avoid the crown, book affordable Great Ocean Road accommodation nearby to be able to arrive before all the other tourists crowd the site and ruin your photo opportunity.

Warrnambool whale-watching trip

Whale watching is quite popular in this part of Australia. If you take the Great Ocean Road drive between June and September, you’ll have a chance to spot whales raising their calves in the waters off Logan’s Beach as it’s the period when southern right whales give birth. There’s nothing quite thrilling as watching these marvellous giants cavorting in the sea, only a few distant meters from the shore. What’s even better, whale watching won’t cost you a penny. If you happen to stop by Warrnambool, check out Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, to learn about the story of the region’s seafaring past. You can also see shipwrecks and a recreated maritime village. The Thunder Point Coastal Reserve is another attraction that brings tourists to this part of Australia, thanks to the enchanting sunsets and rock pools.

Check out numerous waterfalls

The Otway National Park along the Great Ocean Road is home to a myriad of gorgeous waterfalls. Let the towering trees and lush greenery awaken the tranquillity in you, as you pay a visit to some of the most iconic waterfalls in Victoria. If you want a calming afternoon outdoors not far away from Lorne, 30m high Erskine Falls tower will offer all the peace you need. If the water is low, feel free to cross the river and explore the falls. When the levels aren’t too high, you can even splash in the waters as it’s one of the coolest waters you’ll find in that part of Australia. Hopetoun Falls are another sight for sore eyes. Shy Platypus inhabits this charming area, and on rare occasions, visitors get to spot it. Put Triplet Falls and Beauchamp Falls on your list to make this experience wholesome.

The Great Ocean Road offers a full spectrum of fantastic sights for everyone’s preferences. Whether you’re more of a museum person or you like t explore the outdoors, you’ll find your cup of tea easily. Don’t miss the chance to spot whales, go to the surfing museum and marvel at the ever-enchanting waterfall after potting koalas and admiring the 12 Apostles. We guarantee you’ll have the time of your life and come back for another ride very soon after.