18 Best Things to Do on the Great Ocean Road (2026 Guide)

Split Point Lighthouse stands as a sentinel at the Shipwreck Coast in Aireys Inlet. Also known as “The White Queen,” the lighthouse has been guiding vessels navigating the treacherous waters of Bass Strait with its steadfast beam. Apart from its significant role in maritime history, it is also instantly recognisable to many Australian millennials as the filming location of the ‘90s TV show, Round the Twist.

What You Can Look Forward To:

• Walk around the lookout platforms and soak in coastal views stretching along the Great Ocean Road.
• Climb atop the lighthouse and enjoy marvellous 360-degree views of the stunning coastline. Guided and self-guided tours are available daily (except on Christmas Day), weather permitting.
• Grab a snack or a cup of coffee at The Lighthouse Tea Rooms, located just 90 metres from the lighthouse, and is known for its rustic, homey atmosphere.

Address: Eagle Rock Parade, Aireys Inlet VIC 3231, Australia

This list is not complete without one of the world-famous attractions on the Great Ocean Road: the Twelve Apostles. Contrary to what the name suggests, the Twelve Apostles currently only have seven limestone stacks, with the seventh located several metres away from the main viewing platform. At sunset, the Twelve Apostles become even more breathtaking, especially as the golden light casts shadows across the towering rocks.

What You Can Look Forward To:

• Walk along the clifftop boardwalks and view the limestone stacks from multiple vantage points.
• Capture stunning photos at sunrise or sunset with the rock formations standing in beautiful contrast against the golden backdrop of the sky.
• If you want a truly one-of-a-kind experience, soar over the limestone stacks on a luxury helicopter flight and see the splendour of the Great Ocean Road from above with 12 Apostles Helicopters.

Address: Great Ocean Rd & Booringa Rd, Princetown VIC 3269, Australia

Bay of Islands Coastal Park is home to a stunning range of towering rock formations and sheltered bays with clifftop walks, scenic lookouts, and small beach coves. One of the most popular attractions here is the Bay of Martyrs, which holds a tragic history steeped in stories of shipwrecks, conflict, and the harsh realities of early colonial contact.

What You Can Look Forward To:

• Take a 2-hour walk through the Bay of Martyrs trail, which will take you through Halladale Point, where the shipwreck of Falls of Halladale lies.
• Explore the smaller bays within the Bay of Martyrs: Crofts Bay and Massacre Bay. Crofts Bay is a known fishing spot for Australian salmon, snapper, sweep, and gummy shark. Massacre Bay, on the other hand, comprises three beaches, with the two smaller beaches only accessible at low tide from the main beach. Always remember to check the tide and weather conditions before heading out to these bays.
• Visit multiple lookout points throughout the Bay of Islands for different perspectives of the rugged coastline.

Address: Bay of Islands Track, Peterborough VIC 3270, Australia (Bay of Islands), Peterborough VIC 3270, Australia (Bay of Martyrs)

The Great Otway National Park is home to a remarkable collection of sandy beaches, magnificent waterfalls, tranquil lakes, and stunning rock formations. It is one of the attractions along the Great Ocean Road that will take you at least a full day to explore, thanks to the many gems tucked away in its forests and along its coastline.

What You Can Look Forward To:

• Admire the beauty and listen to the sounds of nature at the waterfalls nestled in the forested surroundings. Most popular spots include Hopetoun Falls, Beauchamp Falls, Stevensons Falls, and Triplet Falls.
• Pedal your way through the various mountain bike trails in the area, ranging from easy two-kilometre rides to challenging loops.
• Take a walk through the lush, emerald-green rainforest of Melba Gully, also called the “Jewel of the Otways,” and spot twinkling glow worms after dark.

Address: Great Ocean Road, Lorne, Victoria, 3232

Officially a part of the Great Otway National Park, the Maits Rest Rainforest Walk is an 800-metre trail through cool-temperate rainforest that looks like something out of a fairytale. Here, you’ll be surrounded by tree-fern gullies, towering ancient rainforest trees up to 300 years old, and moss-covered roots, making this a perfect nature break from beaches and cliffs.

What You Can Look Forward To:

• Keep an eye out for swamp wallabies, koalas, ring-tailed possums, and grey kangaroos.
• Stroll the circuit boardwalk through the lush rainforest that feels like a green cathedral.

Address: Great Ocean Rd, Cape Otway VIC 3233, Australia

It’s no surprise that one of the top attractions in Torquay showcases the surfing culture that helped put this seaside town on the global map. The Australian National Surfing Museum is one of the world’s largest of its kind, and every turn and corner celebrates the rich connection of Australia with the sport. With immersive exhibits featuring legendary surfers and iconic surfing moments, it’s one of the must-visit attractions for wave riders and history buffs alike.

What You Can Look Forward To:

• Learn about the iconic surfers in the Australian Surfing Hall of Fame and what makes them the legends they are today.
• Watch heart-pounding footage of surfers in action.
• Explore over 150 surfboards, ranging from century-old “dinosaur” slabs to modern water rockets and everything in between.

Address: 77 Beach Rd, Torquay VIC 3228, Australia

Just beyond Allansford, near the western end of the Great Ocean Road, Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village in Warrnambool brings Victoria’s maritime past to life. Here, you’ll learn about the tragic history of the Shipwreck Coast and the hundreds of ships it claimed during the 19th century. But what makes the exhibits special is their immersive storytelling that is sure to be equally captivating and informative.

What You Can Look Forward To:

• Explore one of the largest maritime collections in Victoria, containing over 10,000 artefacts. 
• Experience the multimillion-dollar Sound and Light show, where stories of the past are told through projections onto a nine-metre water wall.
• Take a walk through the cobblestoned streets in the village that gives you a taste of what life was like for the Shipwreck Coast’s first European settlers in the 19th century.

Address: 89 Merri St, Warrnambool VIC 3280, Australia

Mantra Lorne is a beachfront resort set on 12 acres of landscaped gardens. It’s perfectly placed for exploring coastal trails, soaking up sea views from your room, or simply relaxing with easy access to the shops, cafés, and eateries along Mountjoy Parade. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, family, or group, this resort features a wide range of modern amenities to make your stay as comfortable and engaging as your Great Ocean Road explorations.

What You Can Look Forward To:

• Take a dip in the indoor heated mineral pool or unwind in one of their steam rooms. 
• Choose from different rooms: Resort Room, 1-Bedroom Ocean View Apartment, Heritage Room, 2-Bedroom Dual Key Apartment, 1-Bedroom Garden View Apartment, and 2-Bedroom Apartment with Classic View. All are equipped with modern amenities for your convenience.
• Savour meals at The Larder restaurant with its relaxed coastal cuisine and fresh local ingredients.

Address: Mountjoy Parade, Lorne VIC 3232, Australia