As the vibrant hues of spring begin to grace the landscapes, this iconic coastal drive comes alive with rugged cliffs to pristine beaches, lush rainforests to charming seaside towns promising a remarkable experience for those seeking the beauty of nature intertwined with a touch of adventure.
The gateway to the Great Ocean Road, Torquay, is a town that exudes the perfect blend of surf culture, natural beauty, and laid-back coastal charm.
Bells Beach, with its towering cliffs and breathtaking views of the Southern Ocean, is a crown jewel of Torquay. Surrounded by the rugged beauty of the coastline, it’s a magnet for surfers and visitors seeking a slice of unspoiled nature.
The Australian National Surfing Museum is a treasure trove of exhibits, showcasing the rich heritage and culture of surfing in Australia. From vintage boards to surf memorabilia, it’s a must-visit for anyone fascinated by the world of waves.
With the weather warming up what better time to play a round of golf at one of two premier golfing destinations in Torquay amid the stunning backdrop of the Great Ocean Road. RACV Torquay Golf Club and The Sands Torquay Golf Course. When you’re ready for a break why not visit One Spa for an indulgent spa treatment.
Apollo Bay is renowned for its breathtaking coastal scenery. The town is set against a backdrop of lush green hills and the sparkling Southern Ocean.
The region around Apollo Bay offers a plethora of outdoor activities. From hiking in the nearby Great Otway National Park, which is known for its rainforests and waterfalls, to exploring the rugged coastline through scenic walks and trails, adventure seekers will find plenty to do.
For anyone seeking an adrenaline-pumping adventure or a leisurely paddle along the stunning Apollo Bay coastline, Apollo Bay Surf and Kayak provides the means to embrace the thrill of the ocean. Their surf lessons, kayak tours, and equipment rentals offering ample opportunities to explore.
A 30-minute drive from Apollo Bay to Cape Otway brings you to the Cape Otway Lightstation – one of the oldest surviving lighthouses in Australia. The lightstation is open to visitors, providing guided tours of the lighthouse and its historic buildings, and for those that wish you can even climb to the top of the lighthouse for a panoramic view of the coast.
Spring is a fantastic time to visit the Otways for those seeking a balance between pleasant weather, beautiful flora, active wildlife, and stunning outdoor scenery. Visitors can explore a variety of walking trails leading to picturesque waterfalls, such as Triplet Falls, Beauchamp Falls, and Hopetoun Falls.
Forrest Guesthouse is the ideal base for mountain biking, hiking, or tasting your way along the Otway Harvest Trail. Lake Elizabeth is only a 15-minute drive as is Treetops Adventure at Yeodene where you can test your fitness, coordination and courage tackling the high ropes courses and zip lines.
The 12 Apostles Coast is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling the Great Ocean Road.
But there is much more to see than the 12 Apostles alone. Travelers can also explore nearby natural attractions such as Loch Ard Gorge, The Grotto, and Gibson Steps, each offering unique geological formations and beautiful views over the Southern Ocean.
The 12 Apostles Hinterland is dotted with small towns where you can experience the local culture, visit art galleries, enjoy farm-to-table dining experiences, and perhaps even stay in cozy bed and breakfasts or boutique accommodations. We would recommend basing yourself at Anchors Port Campbell to explore the region.
Anchors Port Campbell invites couples to experience the epitome of luxury and serenity amid the natural wonders of the Great Ocean Road. Its dedication to maintaining a pristine property and offering guests an exceptional travel experience has made it a highly sought-after destination for discerning travelers seeking a premium getaway.
Warrnambool is a popular destination known for its stunning coastline, whale watching, maritime history, and vibrant arts and culture scene.
The Warrnambool Art Gallery, often referred to as the ‘WAG’, is a prominent cultural hub in the city. The Warrnambool Art Gallery frequently hosts exhibitions, workshops, talks, and educational programs for all ages and is a must-see this spring.
Port Fairy is renowned for its well-preserved historic architecture, featuring a range of 19th-century buildings. The scenic Griffiths Island Walk and the Port Fairy to Warrnambool Rail Trail are popular for those wanting to explore the coastal landscapes on foot or by bike with the spring sunshine above.
Where will you visit this spring? Can’t decide? Make it a road trip!
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Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the Great Ocean Road region the Wadawurrung, Eastern Maar & Gunditjmara. We pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging. We recognise and respect their unique cultural heritage and the connection to their traditional lands. We commit to building genuine and lasting partnerships that recognise, embrace and support the spirit of reconciliation, working towards self-determination, equity of outcomes and an equal voice for Australia’s first people.
