See the best of Australia’s coastline on the 1 day Great Ocean Road Tour. With expert guides, this small group day trip showcases the ocean stunning views and ancient rainforests that hug the famous road. Visit the famous 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and other geological wonders in Port Campbell National Park. Stop in the charming seaside towns of Apollo Bay and discover more stunning beaches and trails along the way.
This tour perfectly blends coastal views, pristine beaches, ancient trees, and stunning rock formations. Whether you’re looking for a sunset tour at the Apostles lookout or a day of exploring the Otway Rainforest, this road trip promises a day full of amazing views and unforgettable experiences.
Details
- Runs: Daily
- Length: 12 hours
- Includes: Entry fees to National Park
- Spotting Australian wildlife
- Proficient driver guide
- Detailed commentary on local tours
- Chosen Melbourne inner-city pick-up/drop-off locations.
Highlights
- Memorial Arch: Honoring the historical importance of the Great Ocean Road
- Surf Coast Beaches: Immaculate shorelines, picturesque coastal communities, and stunning ocean panoramas
- Watching Koalas: Observing wild koalas in their native environment
- Lunch in Apollo Bay: Indulge in the charm and flavours of this relaxed coastal village
- Great Otway National Park: Guided hike through the Otway Rainforest
- Port Campbell National Park: Discover Loch Ard Gorge, Shipwreck Coast, and the iconic Twelve Apostles
- Unusual Rock Formations: Razorback, Island Archway, and Salt & Pepper Shakers
What you can actually see
Full Itinerary
Begin a One-day Journey
Explore the beauty of Victoria’s renowned Great Ocean Road during this single-day excursion. This trip showcases the breathtaking coastline, stunning beaches, verdant rain forests, and captivating limestone cliffs, solidifying this well-known road as a top destination.
Experience the Magnificent Twelve Apostles
Be prepared to be blown away by the Twelve Apostles, a limestone stack near the coast in Port Campbell National Park. Your guide will tell you the stories and history of this coastline.
Departing Melbourne for the Surf Coast
As we leave Melbourne, we head to the Surf Coast, stopping at the beautiful coastal towns of Anglesea, Lorne, and Airey’s Inlet. We’ll take a morning break and soak up the beachy vibes and watch surfers catch the waves at some of the best surf spots. Find out why this region is so close to Antarctica and why wetsuits are a must.
Memorial Arch
Our adventure starts at the Memorial Arch. Take photos and discover the stories of the soldiers who constructed this significant famous road to honour their fallen friends. Don’t forget to visit other picturesque viewpoints for more photo opportunities along the journey.
Exploring for Koalas and Native Birds
We will make specific stops along the Great Ocean Road to look for wild koalas. There are no guarantees of sightings, but our guides know gorgeous spots to see these little cuties. Keep an eye out for native birds, too.
Lunch Break at Apollo Bay
Take your own lunch in Apollo Bay for 45 minutes. Wander around the town, shop for some goodies or have an ice cream before we head to the Great Otway National Park.
Tour of Great National Park's Rainforest
While passing by magnificent eucalyptus trees, we will follow the lush hills of Great Otway National Park and refresh ourselves in a new comfortable rainforest. We would move through tangled greenery, with towering ferns and old Myrtle Beech trees that had been there since the time of the Gondwanaland super-continent. The air is delightfully sharp to breathe and gaze at before proceeding to the Shipwreck Coast, which is an amazing sight.
Marvel at the Twelve Apostles
Back to the Southern Ocean, we go to Port Campbell National Park and the famous Twelve Apostles. You will have 40 minutes to take photos, walk the boardwalks, and enjoy the coastal views of this amazing coastline. The Twelve Apostles at Sunset is a real showstopper.
Loch Ard Gorge and Stories of Shipwrecks
Then we go down to the Loch Ard Gorge, a site known for its shipwrecks. Listen to an enthralling tale and stroll along the coastline to find hidden caves. Besides, there are also other geological marvels you can view, such as The Island Archway, The Razorback and ‘Salt and Pepper Shakers’.
Returning to Melbourne
As our journey nears its conclusion, we bid farewell to the Great Ocean Road and turn inland towards Melbourne using scenic country routes. Travelling through beautiful farmlands, we will make our way to the charming town of Colac. Here, you can enjoy a quick dinner (expenses on your own) before reaching Melbourne around 8:30 PM.
Additional information
Inclusions
- Admission to all National Parks
- Observing Australian native animals
- Skilled and personable driver and guide
- Educational local tour insights
- Pick-up and drop-off at designated urban locations
Pricing Options
Great Ocean Road and Rainforest 1 Day Tour: $150 Adult (13+), $120 Child (0 to 12)
If you’re keen on traveling to the Great Ocean Road on a private tour with just your friends or family we can help take you there. You can create your own tailor-made Melbourne trip or follow our itinerary. Contact our charters team for more information on [email protected].
Pickup Times And locations
Our central meeting point for this tour will be the Immigration Museum (East-Side)- 400 Flinders St corner of Market St, Melbourne @ 7:35AM.
Please arrive 5-10 mins prior to your nominated pickup time so as not to delay or miss your tour.
- 6:55 - Pegasus Apartments Hotel - 206 A’Beckett St, Melbourne
- 7:00 - Melbourne Marriott Hotel - Cnr Exhibition St Lonsdale St, Melbourne
- 7:05 - Space Hotel - 380 Russell St, Melbourne
- 7:10 - Grand Hyatt Melbourne - Russell St entrance, Melbourne
- 7:20 - Adina Apartment Hotel - 189 Queen St, Melbourne
- 7:25 -The Savoy Hotel – 630 Little Collins St, Melbourne
- 7:35 - Immigration Museum (east-side), 400 Flinders St corner of Market St, Melbourne
- 7:40 - Crown Towers - 8 Whiteman St Queens Bridge St, Southbank
If you are still looking for your desired pickup location, please contact our office for a comprehensive list of sites.
It is highly advisable to arrive at your pickup location at least 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Please remain calm and patient if your bus runs a few minutes behind schedule. If your bus has not arrived within 10 minutes of the scheduled departure time, kindly contact our office at 03 9393 1300.
Discover the private tour groups! Reach out to our incredible charters team at [email protected] to unlock unforgettable adventures.
Need To Bring
- Water Bottle - 2L
- Hiking shoes (recommended)
- Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
- Prescribed medications
- Camera
- All-weather clothing
- A sense of adventure!
Important Notes
- This tour will only depart if we have 8 passengers or more. We will wait until one week before departure to cancel if minimum numbers aren’t met.
- The itinerary may be subject to change due to cultural reasons, seasonal weather changes, operational logistics and accessibility.
- The minimum age requirements for this tour is 6 years old. This trip is not suitable for children under 6 years of age.
- Please email our Reservations Team ([email protected]) at least 48 hours prior to departure to confirm pick-up location and time.
- Travel Insurance is highly recommended.
- Remember to double-check your exciting tour plans with the tour operator! Just ring them at 03 9393 1300 within seven days of your departure.
- Before you embark on your adventure, let the tour perform the operator's pre-existing medical conditions.
Check Availability & Book
FAQ
Can you do the Great Ocean Road in a day?
The journey typically lasts around three to four hours each way. With attractions such as the Twelve Apostles and Great Otway National Park along the route, it is advisable to plan for multiple stops to enjoy your day excursion fully.
Is Great Ocean Road worth it?
The Great Ocean Road is definitely worth visiting. This scenic route provides breathtaking coastal scenery, iconic sights such as the Twelve Apostles, and distinctive natural attractions, creating a memorable journey for travellers.
How long is the tour duration on Great Ocean Road?
The one-day tour typically spans around 13 hours. For a more thorough exploration of the area, multi-day tour options are also offered.
Is the Great Ocean Road Tour suitable for children?
The Great Ocean Road Tour welcomes travellers of all ages. Please be aware that infants aged 0 to 4 are not allowed to travel on adult laps and should be securely fastened in a child-protective seat. Our vehicles do not accommodate prams or strollers, so they should be left at your lodging.
What is the weather like on the Great Ocean Road?
The weather in this area varies depending on the season and tends to be slightly cooler due to coastal winds. It is advisable to bring a jacket even during the summer.
What is the procedure for booking a Great Ocean Road Tour?
You can book Great Ocean Road Tours directly on our website. Additionally, they can be reserved through different platforms, including travel agencies. It is recommended to secure your spot in advance, particularly during peak travel seasons.
Is it possible to explore the 12 Apostles without a guided tour?
The 12 Apostles and other famous attractions along the Great Ocean Road can be visited independently. However, opting for a guided tour offers advantages such as expert commentary, ease of transportation, and insights into the region’s history and ecology that may enhance the experience compared to solo exploration.
Are there accommodation options available along the Great Ocean Road?
There are a variety of accommodation choices ranging from campsites and hostels to luxury resorts along the Great Ocean Road. It is recommended to make reservations in advance, especially during peak periods, to secure accommodation.