Great Ocean Road in 2–3 Days: Must-Stop Lookouts and Walks

If you dream of coastal cliffs, rainforest gullies, and beaches that glow at sunset, the Great Ocean Road answers with a road trip that exceeds the hype. In just 2 to 3 days you can stand at world-class lookouts, walk through ancient fern-filled gullies, watch koalas in the wild, and taste the region’s freshest seafood and farm produce. This is Australia’s most iconic coastal drive, and with the right plan, you will hit all the must-stop lookouts and short walks without rushing, while leaving room for the long, deep breath that this coastline invites.

Below is your complete, SEO-friendly Great Ocean Road itinerary for 2–3 days, designed for travelers who value both the famous highlights and the local secrets. It covers where to go, when to go, the essential walks and lookouts, where to stay, and how to make your trip effortless and unforgettable.

Why the Great Ocean Road Belongs on Your Short Break

• World-famous landmarks in easy reach of Melbourne. The Great Ocean Road begins at Torquay and officially runs 243 kilometers to Allansford. You can be on the coast in as little as 90 minutes from Melbourne.
• A perfect blend of short walks and dramatic lookouts. From the 12 Apostles to lush Otway rainforest boardwalks, every stop brings a different mood and photo.
• Ideal for 2 or 3 days. Two days covers the essentials. Add a third day for quieter bays west of Port Campbell and a taste of the gourmet hinterland.
• Year-round appeal. Summer brings long beach days, winter delivers wild seas and whale sightings, and autumn or spring offers crisp air and fewer crowds.

Great Ocean Road Itinerary at a Glance

Here is the fast overview, so you can see if it fits your travel style.

2-Day Snapshot

• Day 1: Torquay to Apollo Bay
  • Bells Beach, Point Addis, Split Point Lighthouse
  • Memorial Arch, Lorne and Teddy’s Lookout
  • Waterfall options near Lorne: Erskine Falls or Sheoak Falls
  • Kennett River koalas
  • Sunset at Mariner’s Lookout in Apollo Bay
• Day 2: Apollo Bay to Port Campbell via the 12 Apostles
  • Maits Rest Rainforest Walk
  • Cape Otway Lighthouse or waterfall loop via Beech Forest
  • Gibson Steps, 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge
  • Overnight in Port Campbell

3-Day Snapshot

• Day 1: Torquay to Apollo Bay, as above
• Day 2: Otways and 12 Apostles, as above, sleep in Port Campbell
• Day 3: Port Campbell to Warrnambool or return via hinterland
  • The Arch, London Arch, The Grotto
  • Bay of Martyrs and Bay of Islands at golden hour
  • Optional gourmet detour to Timboon, or whale watching in season at Warrnambool

Map and Route Basics

• Direction: Most travelers drive west from Torquay to Port Campbell. You can also reverse the route for sunrise at the Apostles on Day 1.
• Driving times:
  • Melbourne to Torquay: about 1.5 hours
  • Torquay to Apollo Bay with stops: 4 to 6 hours
  • Apollo Bay to Port Campbell with stops: 4 to 6 hours
  • Port Campbell to Melbourne via inland route: 3 to 3.5 hours
• Fuel and coverage: Top up in Torquay, Lorne, Apollo Bay, and Port Campbell. Mobile signal drops in parts of the Otways and around the Apostles.
• Parking and fees: Major coastal lookouts are free. Cape Otway Lightstation and some attractions have entry fees. Otway National Park walks are free.
• Crowd strategy: Visit the 12 Apostles at sunrise or late afternoon. Loch Ard Gorge and Bay of Martyrs are easier to enjoy in the middle of the day.
• Safety first: Stay behind fences at cliff edges. Check tide times before going down to Gibson Steps. Never turn your back on the ocean.

Day 1: Torquay to Apollo Bay

This first day is about sea air, surf culture, and classic lookouts. It is a leisurely run that features postcard scenes and short, satisfying walks.

Bells Beach Lookout, Torquay

• Why stop: Australia’s most storied surf break, home of the Rip Curl Pro, with sculpted sandstone cliffs and serious swells.
• Time: 15 to 30 minutes
• Tip: The viewpoint near the car park gives the best wide shot. Early morning light skims the headlands beautifully.

Point Addis and Koorie Cultural Walk

• Why stop: A wide arc of beach framed by ochre cliffs, with interpretive signs highlighting the Wadawurrung people’s connection to Country.
• Walk: Koorie Cultural Walk is an easy loop of about 1.6 km, 30 to 45 minutes
• Tip: At low tide, the beach and rock platforms are great for coastal textures and tidepool photos.

Split Point Lighthouse and Eagle Rock, Aireys Inlet

• Why stop: White lighthouse, dramatic stacks, and a simple clifftop path that rewards you with sweeping coastal views.
• Time: 30 to 45 minutes
• Tip: Walk to the Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary viewpoint for classic coastline layer shots. Lighthouse tours operate most days.

Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch, Eastern View

• Why stop: A quick photo at the timber arch that commemorates the returned World War I servicemen who built the road.
• Time: 10 minutes
• Tip: Park safely in the designated bays, then cross carefully for the beach view back to the arch.

Lorne and Teddy’s Lookout

• Why stop: Lorne is a perfect coffee and bakery stop. Teddy’s Lookout sits just above town with an epic view where the Saint George River meets the sea.
• Walk: 5 to 10 minutes from the car park to the upper lookout
• Bonus: Grab a burger at The Bottle of Milk or pastries at a local bakery.

Pick One Waterfall Near Lorne

• Erskine Falls
  • Upper lookout: a flat, 5-minute stroll from the car park to the top viewpoint
  • Lower lookout: about 240 steps down, 20 to 30 minutes return, reward is a ferny amphitheatre
• Sheoak Falls and Swallow Cave
  • Sheoak Falls: 1.2 km return, about 30 to 40 minutes
  • Add Swallow Cave: total about 2.2 km return, 1 to 1.5 hours
  • Tip: Peak summer is swallow season, when they swirl above the cave.

Kennett River Koalas

• Why stop: One of the most reliable places to spot wild koalas in roadside eucalypts.
• Where: Turn onto Grey River Road and drive slowly for 1 to 2 km
• Time: 20 to 45 minutes
• Tip: Look for fresh scat on the ground under trees, then scan the branches. Keep a respectful distance and never feed wildlife.

Apollo Bay and Mariner’s Lookout for Sunset

• Why stop: Apollo Bay is your first-night base with seafood, ice cream, and beach views. Mariner’s Lookout is a short, steep walk to a grassy summit.
• Walk: About 0.8 km return from the car park, 10 to 20 minutes up, slightly less down
• Tip: Golden hour here gives a sweeping view across the bay and township. Bring a windproof layer.

Where to stay in Apollo Bay:

• Motels and boutique stays near the foreshore keep it walkable to dinner.
• Holiday parks and cabins suit families and road trippers.
• Book ahead in summer and long weekends.

Day 2: Apollo Bay to Port Campbell and the 12 Apostles Coast

Today blends lush Otway rainforest with limestone drama. If you only have 2 days, this is your showpiece.

Maits Rest Rainforest Walk

• Why stop: An 800-metre boardwalk loop through cool-temperate rainforest with mossy myrtle beech and giant tree ferns.
• Time: 30 to 45 minutes
• Tip: It is mostly flat and family friendly. Go early for birdsong and soft light.

Cape Otway Lightstation or Otways Waterfall Detour

Choose one path to balance your day.

Option A: Cape Otway Lightstation

• Why stop: Australia’s oldest surviving lighthouse precinct, perched above churning Bass Strait.
• Drive: About 30 minutes each way from Apollo Bay via Lighthouse Road
• Walk: Inside the precinct you will walk 1 to 2 km around the grounds. Entry ticket required.
• Wildlife: Koalas often rest in roadside trees on Lighthouse Road. Pull over only in safe, signed areas.

Option B: Waterfalls near Beech Forest

• Hopetoun Falls: 1 km return, 20 to 30 minutes to the upper lookout and down steps to the base. Expect spray and a powerful curtain of water.
• Triplet Falls: 2 km loop, 1 to 1.5 hours through dense rainforest and bridges that peek into the falls.
• Beauchamp Falls: 3 km return, 1.5 to 2 hours. A deeper hike with a rewarding plunge pool view.
• Tip: Allow extra time for the unsealed roads. Wear proper shoes after rain.

Gibson Steps

• Why stop: Descend from the clifftop to the beach to stand beneath towering limestone stacks known as Gog and Magog.
• Walk: Short clifftop path to the staircase, then about 80 to 90 steps down to the sand
• Time: 30 to 45 minutes
• Safety: Check tides and surf conditions. Do not linger if waves push high up the beach.

12 Apostles Lookout

• Why stop: The classic view. Jagged limestone pillars rising from a turquoise sea, with wide boardwalks and multiple lookouts.
• Walk: About 600 to 700 metres one way from the visitor centre via the footbridge
• Time: 30 to 60 minutes
• Best light: Sunrise for pastel skies, late afternoon for side light and soft textures.

Loch Ard Gorge Precinct

This compact area delivers several of the Great Ocean Road’s finest short walks and lookouts.

• Loch Ard Gorge Beach
  • Why stop: Calm, sheltered cove famous for the 1878 shipwreck. Sand and sculpted walls create a natural amphitheatre.
  • Time: 20 to 40 minutes
• The Razorback and Muttonbird Island Lookouts
  • Walk: Around 1.6 to 2 km return if you link viewpoints, 45 to 60 minutes
  • Why stop: Thin limestone fin, scoured by salt and wind. Superb for geology and long-lens detail.
• Thunder Cave and Sherbrook River
  • Walk: 1 to 1.2 km return to Thunder Cave, more if you continue to the river mouth
  • Why stop: Feel the thump of incoming swell in a slot canyon-like inlet.

Finish the day in Port Campbell. It is a small, friendly town wrapped around a protected bay with clifftop paths that glow at sunset.

Where to stay in Port Campbell:

• Coastal motels, self-contained apartments, and holiday homes
• A holiday park with cabins and powered sites
• Book ahead for weekends and peak season

Optional Day 3: Beyond the Apostles to Bay of Islands and the Hinterland

The coastline west of Port Campbell is quieter, wilder, and spectacular at golden hour. Or head inland to taste your way through lush dairy country.

The Arch and London Arch

• The Arch
  • Why stop: Waves carve an elegant limestone arch right at the waterline.
  • Time: 15 to 30 minutes
• London Arch
  • Why stop: Formerly known as London Bridge before its collapse. Impressive spans with deep-water blues.
  • Time: 20 to 30 minutes
• Tip: Mid to late afternoon light adds texture to the cliff faces.

The Grotto

• Why stop: A limestone sinkhole and sea cave with a natural window that frames the horizon.
• Walk: About 700 metres return on a path and steps
• Time: 20 to 30 minutes
• Tip: Visit at low to mid tide for a calm rock pool reflection.

Bay of Martyrs and Bay of Islands

• Why stop: Vast, sculptural coastline with stacks and headlands that light up at sunset. Less crowded than the 12 Apostles.
• Time: 30 to 60 minutes at each bay
• Best light: Golden hour into sunset, with islands catching warm tones.
• Tip: Several signed pullouts make it easy to stop for multiple angles.

Add a Gourmet or Wildlife Detour

• Timboon and the 12 Apostles Gourmet Trail
  • Why stop: Distillery tastings, award-winning ice cream, local cheese, berries, and farm gates.
  • Walk: Short sections of the Timboon Rail Trail for a leg stretch
• Warrnambool and Logan’s Beach
  • Why stop: Southern right whales often calve nearshore from June to September.
  • Time: 20 to 40 minutes at the whale viewing platform
• Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve
  • Why stop: Extinct volcano crater with abundant emus, kangaroos, and koalas.
  • Walks: Multiple short loops, 30 to 90 minutes each

Return to Melbourne via the inland A1 route for a quicker trip, or loop back to Apollo Bay if you want more rainforest and coast on the way back.

Best Short Walks and Lookouts by Interest

Family-Friendly Walks Under 1 Hour

• Maits Rest Rainforest Walk, 800 m loop, 30 to 45 minutes
• Teddy’s Lookout, 5 to 10 minutes to the platform
• Loch Ard Gorge Beach, short path and steps, 20 to 40 minutes
• 12 Apostles boardwalks, 30 to 60 minutes
• The Grotto, 700 m return, 20 to 30 minutes

Accessible or Pram-Friendly Options

• 12 Apostles visitor centre to some lookouts has accessible boardwalk sections
• Teddy’s Lookout upper platform via a short sealed path
• Parts of Loch Ard Gorge precinct have sealed paths to lookouts
• Torquay and Lorne foreshore paths

Always check latest access notes for mobility details, as conditions can change after storms.

Photographer’s Golden List

• Sunrise: 12 Apostles main lookout, Gibson Steps clifftop, Cape Otway light before opening hours for sky color
• Sunset: Bay of Martyrs, Bay of Islands, Mariner’s Lookout, Port Campbell clifftop trail
• Midday with drama: Thunder Cave, The Razorback for sculptural shadows, Point Addis for beach color

Hidden-Gem Moments

• Point Addis at low tide for expansive reef textures
• Johanna Beach lookout for a powerful, off-the-beaten beach scene
• Swallow Cave near Sheoak Falls when swallows are nesting in warmer months
• Parker Inlet near Cape Otway on a short section of the Great Ocean Walk, 2 to 3 km return if you only sample the inlet area

Seasonal Tips and Best Time to Visit

• Summer, December to February: Long daylight, warm water, busiest season. Book stays and parking early, start walks early or late.
• Autumn, March to May: Cooler days, calmer seas, excellent shoulder season for hikes and photography.
• Winter, June to August: Wild, moody oceans, frequent rainbows, whales near Warrnambool. Pack layers and a waterproof jacket.
• Spring, September to November: Wildflowers and baby wildlife, fresh waterfalls, fewer crowds than summer.

Sunrise and sunset times vary widely. In summer, sunrise can be before 6 am and sunset after 8:30 pm. In winter, sunrise is later and sunset around 5:30 pm, ideal for squeezing in golden hour without a late dinner.

Where to Stay: Best Bases for a 2–3 Day Itinerary

• Torquay and Anglesea: Great for surf beaches and a leisurely start if you arrive from Melbourne in the afternoon.
• Lorne: Lively coastal village with cafes, galleries, and easy access to waterfalls.
• Apollo Bay: Central base between the Otways and the Apostles. Ideal for night one.
• Port Campbell: Stay here for sunset and sunrise access to the limestone coast and the quieter day three wonders.

Campers and vanlifers:

• Holiday parks in Torquay, Lorne, Apollo Bay, and Port Campbell
• Parks Victoria campgrounds like Johanna Beach, Blanket Bay, and Aire River require bookings and can be remote. Respect fire restrictions and local guidelines.

What to Pack for 2–3 Days on the Great Ocean Road

• Clothing: Layered outfits, warm fleece, windproof and waterproof jacket, hat, and sunglasses
• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes with grip for steps and damp trails
• Daypack: Water bottle, snacks, small first aid kit, sunscreen, insect repellent
• Photography: Spare batteries, lens cloths, neutral density filter for waterfalls
• Beach gear: Swimwear and towel if you plan to swim in patrolled areas
• Extras: Torch or headlamp for pre-dawn or post-sunset walks to car parks, reusable coffee cup, compact umbrella

Driving and Safety Tips

• Distances can be deceptive. The road is curvy, with slower sections between Aireys Inlet and Apollo Bay. Allow time buffer.
• Wildlife moves at dawn and dusk. Reduce speed and stay alert for kangaroos and koalas on Lighthouse Road and rural routes.
• Ocean safety matters. Strong rips and surges can appear even on calm days. Swim only where patrolled and heed local signs.
• Clifftop caution. Fences are there for a reason. Do not step over barriers for photos or drone shots.
• Drone rules. Most national parks require a permit for drone use. Flying near crowds or wildlife is not allowed.
• Weather changes quickly. Sunny mornings can shift to mist and rain by noon. Pack layers in your daypack.
• Toilets and supplies. Visitor centres at the 12 Apostles and towns along the way have facilities. Carry cash or card for lighthouses and small vendors.

Sample Timings and Distances for a Balanced Day

Use this as a menu, then adjust to your pace.

Day 1 example:

• Torquay to Point Addis: 20 minutes drive, 30 to 45 minutes walk
• Point Addis to Aireys Inlet: 20 minutes drive, 30 minutes stop
• Memorial Arch: 10-minute photo stop
• Lorne and Teddy’s Lookout: 30 minutes drive from Arch, 45 minutes stop plus lunch
• Optional waterfall: 30 to 90 minutes depending on choice
• Lorne to Kennett River: 35 minutes drive, 20 to 45 minutes stop
• Kennett River to Apollo Bay: 25 minutes drive, dinner and sunset at Mariner’s Lookout

Day 2 example:

• Apollo Bay to Maits Rest: 15 minutes drive, 30 to 45 minutes stop
• Maits Rest to Cape Otway Lighthouse: 30 minutes drive, 1 to 2 hours on site
  • Or waterfall loop: add 2 to 3 hours total
• Cape Otway to Gibson Steps: 1 hour drive, 30 to 45 minutes stop
• Gibson Steps to 12 Apostles: 5 minutes drive or walk if time permits, 30 to 60 minutes stop
• 12 Apostles to Loch Ard Gorge: 5 minutes drive, 1 to 2 hours exploring
• Loch Ard Gorge to Port Campbell: 10 minutes drive, dinner and stroll

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is 2 days enough for the Great Ocean Road?
  • Yes, if you focus on the essentials. Day 1 for Torquay to Apollo Bay, Day 2 for the Otways and the Apostles. Add Day 3 for Bay of Islands and gourmet stops.
• Can I do the Great Ocean Road in one day?
  • It is possible but rushed. You will spend most of the day driving and miss many walks. Stay at least one night for sunrise or sunset magic.
• Do I need a 4WD?
  • No. The main roads and most car parks are sealed. Some waterfall access roads are unsealed but usually fine in a standard vehicle unless there has been heavy rain.
• Are there entry fees?
  • Most lookouts and walks in Great Otway and Port Campbell National Parks are free. Cape Otway Lightstation and private attractions have paid entry.
• Is it kid friendly?
  • Very. Many short walks and boardwalks are ideal for families. Always supervise near cliffs and water.
• Are dogs allowed?
  • Dogs are not permitted in most national park areas, including many beaches and walking tracks. They are allowed in towns and some non-park beaches on leash. Check signs.
• Where are the best sunrise and sunset spots?
  • Sunrise at the 12 Apostles. Sunset at Bay of Martyrs or Bay of Islands. Mariner’s Lookout in Apollo Bay is lovely at either end of the day.
• When can I see whales?
  • Southern right whales are often seen off Warrnambool from June to September. Keep an eye out from high lookouts year-round for dolphins and occasional seals.

Responsible Travel on the Great Ocean Road

• Stay on formed tracks to protect fragile cliff edges and coastal vegetation.
• Pack out all rubbish, including food scraps. Bin availability drops between towns.
• Respect Indigenous heritage sites and interpretive signage.
• Support local. Order the catch of the day, try small-batch ice cream in Timboon, and browse local makers’ markets.
• Drive patiently. Allow locals to merge and do not stop in unsafe places for photos.

Putting It All Together: Two Ready-Made Itineraries

The Best of the Best: Great Ocean Road 2-Day Itinerary

• Day 1
  1. Bells Beach at first light
  2. Point Addis walk
  3. Split Point Lighthouse and Memorial Arch
  4. Lunch in Lorne, Teddy’s Lookout
  5. Erskine Falls upper and lower lookouts
  6. Koalas at Kennett River
  7. Sunset at Mariner’s Lookout, sleep in Apollo Bay
• Day 2
  1. Maits Rest rainforest loop
  2. Cape Otway Lighthouse, or Hopetoun Falls for waterfall lovers
  3. Gibson Steps beach, tide permitting
  4. 12 Apostles boardwalk
  5. Loch Ard Gorge precinct walks
  6. Dinner and overnight in Port Campbell

Slow and Scenic: Great Ocean Road 3-Day Itinerary

• Days 1 and 2 as above, then:
• Day 3
  1. The Arch and London Arch in the morning
  2. The Grotto for late morning reflections
  3. Lunch in Port Campbell or Peterborough
  4. Bay of Martyrs and Bay of Islands for golden hour
  5. Return to Melbourne via the inland route, or continue to Warrnambool for whale season

Pro Tips for a Seamless Trip

• Start early, finish golden. Beat tour buses to the 12 Apostles at sunrise or arrive after 4 pm for softer light and smaller crowds.
• Choose one waterfall cluster. Combine Hopetoun Falls and Triplet Falls if you love rainforest, or stick to Maits Rest if you prefer more coast time.
• Watch the wind forecast. Strong onshore winds make cliff tops chilly. Pack a warm layer even in summer.
• Check tides. Plan Gibson Steps around low tide for safe beach access.
• Helicopter flights. If you want the bird’s-eye view of the Apostles, book a 12 to 25 minute flight from the visitor centre heliport. It is a thrilling way to see the full sweep of coast.

Conclusion: Your Great Ocean Road Awaits

In 2 to 3 days you can watch sunrise paint the 12 Apostles, wander through Maits Rest beneath ferns older than memory, taste crayfish straight from local waters, and trace the coastline from surf towns to shipwreck coves. The key is balance. Mix famous lookouts with short, soul-filling walks. Start early, linger late, and let the Otways breathe life into your trip.

Book your nights in Apollo Bay and Port Campbell, pack layers and curiosity, and set your navigation to Torquay. The Great Ocean Road rewards planners and wanderers alike. With this itinerary in your pocket, you will see the must-stop lookouts, step onto the best short walks, and come home with a memory card full of magic and a heart already planning the next visit.