The Great Ocean Road, one of the world’s best road trips in Victoria, Australia, is 240 km of stunning coastal driving. Many ask can you do it in one day from Melbourne? The short answer is yes, but there are some tips to make the most of your day. The road has amazing views, experiences and icons that will make your day trip epic.
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What to Expect
Yes you can do the Great Ocean Road in one day but you need to get an early start and plan efficiently. The drive from Melbourne to the start of the Great Ocean Road, Torquay, takes 1.5 hours. From there the road winds along the coast and there are countless stops to pull over and take it all in. The coastal drive has famous attractions like limestone cliffs, coastal towns and rainforests so there are plenty of photo opportunities. Along this section of road you’ll see stunning lookouts, beaches and unique cliffs that will make the day trip epic.
A day trip is around 500km return so be prepared for a long day of driving. Prioritise the highlights to make the most of your time and enjoy the views. If you have more time a 2-day Great Ocean Road trip from Melbourne is a more relaxing drive and you can see more of the beautiful spots.
One Day Itinerary Must-Sees
If you’re only here for one day, focus on these:
- Torquay and Bells Beach: Start your day in the surf capital of Australia. Take in the views and watch the surfers. Torquay is the perfect place to begin your adventure.
- Lorne and Teddy’s Lookout: Stop in Lorne and take a quick detour to Teddy’s Lookout for the views and a postcard-perfect shot. Don’t miss the spots and stops along the way.
- Apollo Bay: This pretty town is a great place to stop for lunch. If time permits, visit the Great Otway National Park to explore the temperate rainforest, ancient trees and tree ferns. The rainforest is where you can see koalas in eucalyptus trees and get immersed in a unique environment.
- The Twelve Apostles: The best part of the trip, these limestone stacks are best seen in the late afternoon when the light is good for photos. This iconic sight is amazing and the views are a major traveller photo op.
- Loch Ard Gorge: Near the Twelve Apostles, this spot has great views, cliffs and a shipwreck history. A must-see for anyone interested in ancient relics and famous shipwrecks.
- Otway Fly Treetop Walk: If time allows, take a detour to walk the rainforest floor from an elevated walkway. This scenic trail gets you up close to mossy trees and ancient rainforests.
Tips
- Start Early: Get out of Melbourne by 6:00 AM to make the most of daylight and avoid peak times.
- Plan Your Stops: Research and decide in advance which spots and stops you want to see. The main attractions are beaches, cliffs and lookouts.
- Pack: Bring snacks, water, sunscreen and a fully charged camera or phone to capture the views and beaches. Don’t forget to pack comfortable shoes for quick photo stops and self-guided trails.
- Take a Tour: If you don’t want to drive, there are many Wildlife Tours from Melbourne that cover the main spots in a day. A guided Great Ocean Road tour will enhance your experience with information on native animals, iconic attractions and ancient relics.
- Drive Carefully: The road is twisty and can be tricky if you’re not used to it. Allow plenty of time to drive and don’t rush.
One Day or Overnight?
While you can do a one-day trip, if you can stay overnight, it’s worth it. You’ll have more time to do the Otway Fly Treetop Walk, Gibson Steps and Cape Otway Lighthouse at a leisurely pace. A 2 day Great Ocean Road tour from Melbourne is a great way to see the coastal route, inland route and temperate rainforests. You’ll have a more relaxed drive and can stop at more attractions along the way.
In 2 days, you’ll have time to visit more country towns, walk coastal trails, and lunch at loads of cafes in beautiful settings. You’ll also have time for more memorable experiences like bird feeding, visiting gift shops and spotting Aussie animals in the wild.
FAQ
How long does it take to drive the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne?
10-12 hours round trip including stops at main attractions and plenty of scenic stops.
When should I start my one-day trip?
Best to start around 6:00 AM to make the most of the daylight and avoid the crowds on this road.
Should I drive myself or take a guided tour?
Both have their advantages. Driving gives you more flexibility and you can discover hidden gems at your own pace. Guided Melbourne tours give you convenience and a friendly tour guide.
Can I see the Twelve Apostles on a one-day trip?
Yes you can see the Twelve Apostles and they are a highlight of the one-day trip. They offer stunning views and are a must-have photo opportunity.
What to bring?
Snacks, water, sunscreen, hat, comfortable shoes, camera, day itinerary and don’t forget to stop at loads of cafes along the coast or pack your lunch to save time.