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Looking For The Best Great Ocean Road 4 Day Itinerary?
You’re in the right place! We live close to the official start of the Great Ocean Road and spend most of our spare time exploring it all.
In this article, I’m going to share with you my best Great Ocean Road 4 day itinerary.
The Great Ocean Road in Australia is one of the country’s most famous, yet untamed, areas.
Great Ocean Road attractions include lookouts offering majestic coastal views, some of the best surfing beaches in the world, unforgettable wildlife encounters, tumbling waterfalls, working lighthouses and exciting experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
👉 Join our Great Ocean Road Travel Planning and Tips Facebook Group here. It’s the perfect place to ask your questions and be inspired!
This is the Great Ocean Road itinerary you need when you have four days to explore this exceptional part of Victoria.
As an alternative, if you have less time, check out a shorter 2 day Great Ocean Road itinerary or a Great Ocean Road itinerary for 3 days.
Day 1 – Melbourne to Anglesea
Your Great Ocean Road drive will take you along the route of a post-war road that was built by returning Australian soldiers, seeing magnificent rock stacks, surf-battered bays, beautiful towns and much more along the way.
The classic Great Ocean Road route runs from east to west, and we recommend driving the Great Ocean Road in this direction.
Doing so makes it easier to take in the views and stop at points of interest, and it also means following the route as it was originally intended.
Don’t stress though, you’ll still have an incredible trip if you do the route in reverse. So don’t let that stop you!
Geelong Waterfront
As locals we might well be biased, but what better way to kick off your Great Ocean Road 4 day itinerary than by visiting the beautiful waterfront in Geelong?
The beating heart of this bayside city the waterfront was extensively redeveloped during the 1990s.
It offers over three kilometres of parks, heritage and artistic attractions, Eastern Beach, places to eat, and much more.
Don’t miss the Geelong Bollards, which you can discover via the Geelong Bollard Trail walk.
Torquay Beach
Once you’ve ticked off Geelong, head to the best starting point for any Great Ocean Road driving itinerary – Torquay.
Although there is plenty to do here, the first port of call is Torquay Beach, one of the town’s prettiest spots.
Though as you might expect, the surf is often up here, this more family-friendly beach also offers sheltered areas for a swim or simply some fun in the sun.
Torquay is also a great place to stay before you start your Great Ocean Road adventure.
Australian National Surfing Museum
Where else could the national museum devoted to all things surf be based, other than Australia’s surfing capital?
This Great Ocean Road attraction is a must for all fans of the water-based board sport.
The surf museum in Torquay is said to be the biggest surfing and coastal lifestyle museum on the planet and is considered highly significant by the International Surfing Association.
Australian National Surfing Museum
Where: 77 Beach Road, Torquay 3228
When: 7 days 9.00 a.m -5.00 p.m
Entry: Adult $12.00, Child $8.00, Family $25.00, Concession $8.00
Phone: (03) 5261 4606
Torquay Surf Shops
If you’re wanting to stock up on beachwear, coastal fashion or surfing equipment, one of the highlights of the Australian Great Ocean Road is the impressive selection of surf shops in Torquay.
If you’re lucky, you might even bag a bargain at the Rip Curl Factory Outlet, the King of all Torquay factory outlets.
Rocky Point Lookout
Rocky Point Lookout is the first, of many scenic viewpoints to include on your Great Ocean Road trip itinerary.
It’s based at the point where untamed Jan Juc Beach meets the slightly calmer waters of Torquay Beach and offers incredible panoramas of the rugged coastline.
Torquay Surf Lesson
If watching other surfers makes you want to jump on a board then why not include a Torquay surfing lesson on your 4 day Great Ocean Road itinerary?
You can book a two-hour group lesson delivered by Go Ride A Wave in Torquay, or benefit from a couple of hours of one-to-one surfing tuition offered by another local operator.
If you haven’t packed a wetsuit or surfboard you’re still good to go as they’re included in the cost of a lesson.
🏄Book your group surfing lesson here or your private lesson here.
Bells Beach
Of all the Great Ocean Road stops, Bells Beach is one of the most famous.
It’s home to the annual Rip Curl Pro Surfing Competition, which is held here every Easter long weekend.
The curving bay with soft golden sands and crashing waves is a breathtaking sight even in poor weather.
Board riding here isn’t for the uninitiated, however; this is a world-class surfing spot for a reason.
Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie
A self drive along the Great Ocean Road, or any road trip for that matter, is enough to make anyone “hangry”.
For a sugar rush unlike any other, head to the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery.
Located in Bellbrae, this Great Ocean Road chocolate factory is open daily and offers classes and workshops as well as a cafe.
Our grandsons say the hot chocolates here are the best they’ve ever had. And the ice creams are enormous.
Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery
Where: 1200 Great Ocean Road, Bellbrae 3228
When: 7 days 9.00 a.m – 5.00 p.m
Phone: (03) 5263 1588
Anglesea Golf Course Kangaroo Tour
Next up on this Great Ocean road itinerary for 4 days is a local classic – a kangaroo encounter at Anglesea Golf Course.
Seeing plenty of Australia’s most iconic creatures is a dead cert here, and tours operate daily between late morning and mid-afternoon.
Kangaroo Tours – Anglesea Golf Club
Where: 45 Links Road, Anglesea 3230
When: 7 days. Various times between 10.00 a.m – 3.30 p.m
Phone: (03) 5263 1582
Anglesea Paddle Boats
When you drive the Great Ocean Road and fancy a break from taking the wheel, take to the water instead.
Local company Anglesea Paddle and Canoe offer paddle boat, canoe, fun boat and even aqua bike hire so you can explore the peaceful Anglesea River at leisure.
Anglesea Paddle Boats
Where: Anglesea River (near the bridge)
When: 7 days 10.00 a.m – 4.00 p.m
Canoe Hire: $50.00
Paddle Boats: $30.00
Motor Boats: $40.00
Phone: 0408 599 942
Jumpz Anglesea
If you’re travelling as a family for your 4 days on the Great Ocean Road, then a visit to Jumpz Anglesea will certainly keep the kids smiling.
Jumpz Trampoline Park can also entertain the grown-ups, as there’s an outdoor lounge area with a fire pit and a bar selling freshly-prepared pizza every weekend.
Jumpz Anglesea
Where: 105 Great Ocean Road, Anglesea 3230
When: From 8.30 a.m 7 Days
Entry: Single Session: $15.00, Day Pass: $25.00
Phone: (03) 5263 3363
Loveridge Lookout
Loveridge Lookout is another of the best stops on the Great Ocean Road when it comes to magnificent panoramas.
It was built in 1938 by a grieving widow, Bertha Loveridge, in tribute to her late husband James.
The lookout also served a practical purpose during World War II, when it was used to check the coastline for invading enemies.
Loveridge Lookout
Where: Great Ocean Road access via Harvey Street, Anglesea 3230
Heading west on Great Ocean Road at the Harvey Street intersection you’ll spot the sign.
When: Always open
Entry: Free
Anglesea Walks
A windswept Anglesea walk is a unique way to experience this wild, unspoiled coastline.
You can follow the 44 kilometre Surf Coast Walk from Torquay, or the 22.6 kilometre Anglesea Perimeter Walk, including the Cliff Top Track.
Shorter routes are also available if you don’t feel like taking such a long trek.
Dinner in Anglesea
The Coast Anglesea Restaurant
The Coast Restaurant in Anglesea offers modern Australian dining, with a menu heavy on local produce and native Australian ingredients.
Suppliers include the likes of Great Ocean Duck, Bells Beach Lamb, the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery, Surf Coast Coffee Roasters and Timboon Distillery.
The Coast
Where: 105 Great Ocean Road, Anglesea 3230
When: 7 days from 5.30 p.m
Phone: (03) 5263 1683
Klein’s Anglesea Hotel
Located in the centre of town, Klein’s is an Anglesea hotel within walking distance of the river, beach and Main Street.
A good time is guaranteed at this Anglesea pub, and by eating here you can take advantage of the bistro, public bar, kids’ play area, TAB, beer garden and even a bottle shop.
Klein’s Anglesea Hotel
Where: 1 Murch Crescent, Anglesea 3230
When: 7 days 11.00 a.m – 10 p.m
Phone: (03) 5263 1210
Anglesea Accommodation
The Great Ocean Road Resort in Anglesea offers luxurious boutique accommodation, a spa and fine dining on the beachfront.
An indoor heated pool, steam room, tennis court, fitness centre, kids’ playground and trampoline park completes the array of amenities.
➡️ Check rates and availability here!
Anglesea Riverside Motel offers indoor and outdoor pools, a gym and a garden.
The property offers a range of river view units, and there are some three bedroom units ideal for families.
➡️ Check rates and availability here!
Day 2 – Anglesea to Apollo Bay
Morning Swim or Walk Along Anglesea Beach
A refreshing start to day 2 of your from-Melbourne 4 days itinerary is to take a dip at or a wander along Anglesea Beach.
The vast sandy stretch is perfect for sunbathing, swimming and strolling, and is one of the top things to see and do in Anglesea.
Breakfast in Anglesea
4 Kings Coffee & Food
Start the day the right way by fuelling up at 4 Kings Coffee and Food in Anglesea.
Expect great coffee, inventive dishes and plentiful menu options for gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian diets.
The location, portions and service are unbeatable.
4Kings Coffee Anglesea
Where: 143A Great Ocean Road, Anglesea 3230
When: 7 Days 7.30 a.m – 2.00 p.m
Anglesea Markets
If you like to shop till you drop, some of the Great Ocean Road attractions you might not want to miss are an Anglesea market or two.
Stroll among the 100 or so stalls selling unique items at Anglesea Riverbank Market, or catch the Twilight Anglesea Farmer’s Market for fresh locally sourced produce.
Split Point Lighthouse
This lighthouse in Aireys Inlet is one of the iconic sights of the Shipwreck Coast.
One of the star attractions along the Great Ocean Road, Split Point Lighthouse tours offer visitors panoramic views, plus a trip through local maritime history.
It’s open daily – weather permitting – and remains a working lighthouse in the present day.
The cute Lighthouse Tea Rooms are also highly recommended.
There’s some great accommodation in Aireys Inlet if you’re looking for a quieter place to stay.
Split Point Lighthouse
Where: 13 Federal Street, Aireys Inlet
When: Mon – Fri: 10.00 a.m – 2.00 p.m, Sat – Sun: 10.00 a.m – 3.00 p.m
Entry: From $10.00
Eagles Nest Fine Art Gallery
Also in Aireys Inlet, you’ll find Eagles Nest Gallery. This local concern showcases works by Surf Coast, Great Ocean Road and Victorian artists.
You can see over 100 pieces of art at any one time, plus occasional international exhibits.
Eagles Nest Fine Art Gallery
Where: 50 Great Ocean Road, Aireys Inlet 3231
When: Fri – Sun: 10.00 a.m – 4.00 p.m, Mon: 11.00 a.m – 2.00 p.m
Great Ocean Road Sign
You simply cannot miss capturing the Great Ocean Road memorial and sign on camera during your visit to this area.
The arch and statue were built to commemorate the soldiers returning from World War II who constructed the Great Ocean Road.
Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch
Where: 689/721 Great Ocean Road, Eastern View 3231
When: Always open
Entry: Free
Lorne Beach & Pier
Lorne Beach is a great all-rounder and ideal for your Great Ocean Road self drive itinerary whether you want to surf, swim, snap pictures or sit back and relax.
Lorne Pier can also be found here, which dates back to 1879. The elevated walkway above the surf was originally built for the logging industry, and today is used for fishing as well as recreation.
We’ve spotted seals here more than once playing amongst the pier’s pylons.
If Anglesea doesn’t appeal then an overnight stay in Lorne is a great alternative.
Lunch in Lorne
Bottle of Milk
The Bottle of Milk in Lorne is a cafe with a local vibe and a slightly retro feel. With indoor and outdoor seating, it serves up superb coffee, breakfast, brunch and burgers.
Bottle Of Milk
Where: 52 Mountjoy Parade, Lorne 3232
When: Fri – Tues: 8.00 a.m – 4.00 p.m
Phone: (03) 5289 2005
Salty Dog Fish & Chips
Lorne’s favourite fish and chip shop is a Great Ocean Road attraction in its own right.
Locals and visitors alike love to head here for freshly fried seafood to devour on the beach.
There’s a good selection, and portions are generous.
Salty Dog Fish and Chips
Where: 148 -174 Mountjoy Parade, Lorne 3232
When: Mon – Thu: 11.00 a.m – 7.30 p.m, Fri – Sat: 11.00 a.m – 8.00p.m, Sun: 11.00 a.m – 7.00 p.m
Phone: (03) 5290 1300
Teddy’s Lookout
When you’re visiting Lorne, Teddy’s Lookout is a quick and easy stop that offers a pleasant, recently constructed walkway.
As well as majestic ocean views, you can also see lush fern-covered gullies and valleys, and dramatic gorges from here.
This clifftop viewpoint is situated where the St George River meets the Bass Strait.
Teddy’s Lookout
Where: 53 George Street, Lorne 3232
When: Always open
Entry: Free
Erskine Falls
The 30-metre-high Erskine Falls is among Lorne’s most popular waterfalls.
The sparkling water here tumbles into an attractive fern-lined gully, and there are two viewing points to choose from.
Pick between an easy five-minute walk to the top of the Erskine waterfall and a more strenuous – but rewarding – trek down 240 steps to the base.
Erskine Falls
Where: Erskine Falls Road, Lorne 3232
A quick 10 minute drive past Live Wire Park into the Otways will get you there.
When: Always open
Entry: Free
Sheoak Falls & Swallow Cave
Break up your driving days along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria with a short walk at Sheoak Falls and Swallow Cave.
These falls are among the most accessible waterfalls in the Otways. During spring, summer and autumn, you might also get to spot nesting birds at Swallow Cave.
Sheoak Falls and Swallow Cave
Where: Great Ocean Road, Lorne 3232
10 minute drive west of Lorne along Great Ocean Road.
When: Always open
Entry: Free
Kennett River Koala Walk
Another one for wildlife fans is the koala walk at Kennett River.
If you’re seeing the Great Ocean Road in 4 days as a family, the kids won’t want to miss seeing these cute, cuddly-looking native creatures perched in the eucalyptus trees.
Head along Grey River Road from Kafe Koala, and don’t forget to look up high.
Kennett River Koala Walk
Where: 15 Great Ocean Road, Kennett River 3234
When: Always open
Entry: Free
Maits Rest Rainforest Walk
Maits Rest Rainforest Walk comprises a looping boardwalk cutting through the rainforest.
As well as lush fern gullies and towering trees that are hundreds of years old, the trail allows you to glimpse fauna such as swamp wallabies, ring-tailed possums, grey kangaroos, koalas and yellow-bellied gliders.
After dusk, bring a torch too so you can try to see some of the resident glow worms.
Maits Rest
Where: 15 minutes west of Apollo Bay on the Great Ocean Road
When: Year round
Entry: Free
Dusk Discovery Wildlife Tour
Operated by Wildlife Wonders, take a 90-minute Dusk Discovery Tour to see local animals in their native Otways habitat.
This predator-free wildlife centre allows you to see rare creatures like bandicoots, pademelons, and potoroos, as well as kangaroos, emus, wombats, and more.
The experience also includes mezze-style sharing snacks,d alcoholic drinks, and the use of binoculars.
🐨🦘Book Your Dusk Discovery Tour Here!
Apollo Bay Dinner
Chris’s Beacon Point Restaurant
For superb food served in a stunning setting, why not treat yourselves to dinner at Chris’s Beacon Point Restaurant?
Perched over the Bass Strait, the eatery offers exquisite food and unparalleled full-length panoramas.
Chris’s Beacon Point Restaurant
Where: 280 Skenes Creek Road, Apollo Bay 3233
When: Thu -Mon: 6.00 p.m – Close, Tues – Wed Closed
Phone: (03) 5237 6411
Apollo Bay Hotel
Dine right over the road from the beach at Apollo Bay Hotel.
At weekends there’s live music here, and at any time you’ll find a food and drinks menu to suit anyone and everyone.
Apollo Bay Hotel
Where: 95 Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay 3233
When: Sun – Thu: 11.00 a.m – 11.00 p.m, Fri – Sat: 11.00 a.m – Late
Phone: (03) 5237 6250
Apollo Bay Accommodation
Beacon Point Ocean View Villas
Beacon Point Ocean View Villas offer sweeping sea views, private balconies, BBQ facilities and a tennis court.
All units have air conditioning, a full kitchen and laundry, and some have spa baths or fireplaces.
➡️ Book Beacon Point Ocean View Villas
Coastal Motel in Apollo Bay is positioned in the heart of town.
The property offers rooms with kitchenettes, BBQ facilities, a beachfront position and units for up to half a dozen guests.
➡️ Book The Coastal Motel Here!
Day 3 – Apollo Bay to Port Campbell
Breakfast in Apollo Bay
Café 153
Before your Apollo Bay sightseeing, head to Cafe 153 a laid-back eatery offering counter service, indoor and outdoor seating and contemporary Australian food.
The menu is strong on local, healthy fare, such as locally sourced seafood and free range eggs.
Cafe 153
Where: 153 Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay 3233
When: Thu – Mon 8.00 a.m – 2.00 p.m
Phone: (03) 5237 1123
Marriners Lookout
This Apollo Bay lookout is another place to take in breathtaking panoramas of the local area.
It’s also the most popular spot in the area for local and visiting hang gliders taking off, which makes for a colourful spectacle in the sky.
Marriners Lookout
Where: 155 Marriners Lookout Road, Apollo Bay 3233
When: 7 Days 6.00 a.m – 10 p.m
Entry: Free. As this is private property a donation is appreciated to help maintain the track.
Wildlife Walking Tour
Lasting around an hour and 15 minutes, this walking wildlife tour for all abilities is under a kilometre-and-a-half.
Along the way, you can see local wildlife like kangaroos, wallabies, emus, and koalas in their natural habitat.
You’ll also get to learn about the local eco system, conservation projects and threatened species while having lots of fun!
🐨🦘 Book Your Wildlife Walking Tour Here!
Seal Kayak Tour
As an alternative to the Wildlife Walking Tour, why not take a kayak tour so you can see the local seal population?
This is operated by the local company Apollo Bay Surf Kayak, who will lead you out to the seal colony while teaching you all about the creatures’ life cycle and behaviour.
Cape Otway Lightstation
As the oldest working lighthouse on the Australian mainland, Cape Otway Lightstation is also a popular whale watching point between winter and spring.
Migrating whales can be easy to spot here when they swim close to the shoreline. The Lightkeeper’s Cafe can also be found here.
Cape Otway Lightstation
Where: Lighthouse Road, Cape Otway 3233
When: 9.30 a.m – 5.00 p.m daily
Entry: Adult: $19.50, Child: $ 7.50, Family: $49.50, Concession $17.50
Phone: (03) 5237 9240
Redwoods Otways
You can see a stand of the tallest species of tree on the planet in the Otways.
Take an easy, 15 minute, half kilometre walk to see the majestic Redwoods, which were planted back in 1936.
Redwoods Otways
Where: Binns Lane, Aire Valley 3237
When: Year round
Entry: Free
Hopetoun Falls
Hopetoun Falls on the Aire River can also be found in the Great Otway National Park. Like Erskine Falls, this waterfall has a 30 metre drop.
Take a 20 metre walk to the upper viewing platform, or descend (and then ascend) 200 steps and take a short walk to the base.
Hopetoun Falls
Where: Hopetoun Falls Road, Beech Forest 3237
When: Always open
Entry: Free
Beauchamp Falls
A more challenging walk will take you to Beauchamp Falls. It takes about an hour, and the trail is steep and slippery in places.
Those making the effort are rewarded with a 20-metre waterfall plus ferns, blackwood, and myrtle beech trees en route.
If you’re interested in camping there are picnic tables, toilets, and a free campground at the start of the trail.
Beauchamp Falls
Where: Beauchamp Falls Road, Beech Forest 3237
When: Always open
Entry: Free
Otway Fly Treetop Walk
The Otway Fly is a 60 metre elevated walkway offering views from the forest canopy.
This means you can enjoy all the local flora and fauna without disturbing the natural ecosystem.
Here you can enjoy an enchanted treetop trail, or experience the adrenaline rush of a zipline ride.
Otway Treetop Adventures
Where: 360 Phillips Track, Weeaproniah 3237
When: Thu – Mon: 10.00 a.m – 5.00 p.m, Everyday in school holidays. Last entry 3.30 p.m
Entry: Adult: $27.50, Child $21.50, Family $80.00
Phone: (03) 5235 9200
Late Lunch in Lavers Hill
The Perch at Lavers Hill
It’s worth making a late lunch stop in Lavers Hill to dine at The Perch. You may even choose to stay in the area.
With one wall made almost entirely from glass panels, expect superb views, fine wines, an ever-changing menu and a programme of events including quizzes and live music nights.
The Perch
Where: 1 – 15 Great Ocean Road, Lavers Hill 3238
When: 7 days for lunch and dinner
Phone: (03) 5237 3110
Melba Gully – Madsen’s Track
Referred to as the Jewel of the Otways, the Melba Gully to Madsen’s Track is, like Maits Rest, a good place to spot glow worms after dark.
By day, you can also see dense rainforest, lush ferns, mosses, and cool fern gullies.
Melba Gully
Where: 5 Melba Gully Road, Lavers Hill 3238
When: Year round
Entry: Free
12 Apostles at Sunset
Even if you’ve already seen the 12 Apostles, sunset is a very special time to see these natural limestone stacks.
The changing light results in shifting colours, and it’s a popular time to visit.
Combine this with a viewing the next morning if you want to see the very best of the site at all times of the day.
Port Campbell Dinner
12 Rocks Café And Beach Bar
A varied pub style menu is on the cards when you have dinner at the 12 Rocks Cafe and Beach Bar in Port Campbell.
There’s also a side helping of stunning water views.
12 Rocks Cafe & Beach Bar
Where: 19 Lord Street, Port Campbell 3269
When: 9.00 a.m – 8.00 p.m 7 Days
Phone: (03) 5598 6123
Port Campbell Hotel
Port Campbell Hotel dates back to 1987 and offers a great selection of food and drinks in a relaxed, comfortable setting. Expect a rustic, barn-like interior with lots of natural wood.
Port Campbell Hotel
Where: 40 Lord Street, Port Campbell 3269
When: Mon – Thu: 4.30 p.m – Late, Fri – Sat: 12.00 p.m – Late, Sun Closed
Phone: (03) 5598 6320
Port Campbell Accommodation
Set among 30 acres, Anchors Port Campbell offers a range of detached cottages with plenty of living space.
Interiors are luxurious with spa baths, iPod docks and huge picture windows.
➡️ Book Anchors Port Campbell Here!
Centrally located on Lord Street in Port Campbell, the Loch Ard Motor Inn is also only 100 metres from the beach.
It offers BBQ facilities, ocean views and private balconies.
➡️ Book Loch Ard Motor Inn Here!
The Southern Ocean Motor Inn in Port Campbell is also situated in the heart of town on Lord Street.
It has fresh, generously sized rooms, some with ocean views.
➡️ Book Southern Ocean Motor Inn Here!
Day 4 – Port Campbell to Melbourne
12 Apostles at Sunrise
Visit the 12 Apostles at sunrise as well as sunset and you get to see every possible colour permutation of the Great Ocean Road’s most famous site.
Don’t forget to come here with a fully charged camera!
Breakfast in Port Campbell
Grassroots Deli Café
Stop for brekkie in town before heading towards the natural wonders of Port Campbell and its national park on your fourth day.
Grassroots Deli Cafe offers a range of light and more substantial options, from sourdough toast with homemade rhubarb jam to The Gorge (Andrew’s favourite) and Loch Ard vegetarian and meat breakfast specials.
Grassroots Deli Cafe
Where: 28 Lord Street, Port Campbell 3269
When: Mon – Sat: 8.00 a.m – 3.00 p.m, Sun: 8.00 a.m – 2.30 p.m
Phone: 0448 331 662
Port Campbell Scenic Lookout
Just a couple of kilometres west of town you can find Port Campbell Scenic Lookout. There are panoramic views from here over the town and the golden sandy bay.
To find the lookout drive west along the Great Ocean Road as you head out of town.
You’ll round a bend and go up a hill where you’ll be able to spot a sign for the lookout car park.
Gibson Steps
At Gibson Steps you can also descend over 80 steps to reach the beach.
Once you’re there, you’ll be awed by both the 70 metre cliffs and the large, offshore limestone stacks.
Loch Ard Gorge
Loch Ard Gorge offers not only smooth sands and a calm inlet of azure water.
It’s also a site steeped in local history, and named for a clipper ship that ran aground here.
The contrast of the colours here is also particularly striking, with turquoise waters, golden sands and yellow cliffs topped by deep emerald greenery.
The Arch
The Arch is one of the Great Ocean Road’s most famous stopping points.
Unlike other rock formations in the area, The Arch is still joined together at the top, as other stacks once were.
The walkway here also offers a unique perspective on the 12 Apostles, backed by the cliffs behind them.
London Bridge
Like The Arch, London Bridge was once a natural rock arch located offshore. As of 1990, though, the bridge collapsed and now comprises only a thick stack of rock positioned close to the shore.
The Grotto
The Grotto offers visitors something a little different from the usual limestone formations of the Great Ocean Road.
Climb down the wooden steps here to reach the seafront, where the ocean is visible via a tidal pool and sinkhole.
Bay of Martyrs
The Bay of Martyrs can be found within the Bay of Islands Coastal Park, which in turn comprises over 30 kilometres of Victorian coastline.
It’s a little more off the radar than other Great Ocean Road sites and therefore seems more wild and untouched.
Bay Of Islands
The Bay of Islands is a 32 kilometre stretch of coastline in the Great Ocean Road area, between Peterborough and Warrnambool.
Here the limestone stacks are illuminated by a different type of natural light than other parts of the area.
Even photographs captured here on a cloudy day can offer incredible clarity.
Warrnambool Whale Watching in Winter
In winter every year, lucky locals and visitors can see Southern Right Whales returning to Logans Beach in Warrnambool.
Head here between June and September and you might see whales splashing about in the ocean just a few hundred metres from the shore.
There’s a purpose-built platform set among the dunes for viewing the large marine mammals.
If you have time while you’re here be sure to check out some of the other tourist sights in Warrnambool.
Logans Beach Whale Watching Platform
Where: 11-13 Logans Beach Road, off Hopkins Point Road Warrnambool 3280
When: Access All Times
Entry: Free
Timboon
The town of Timboon in Victoria is a destination that’s earned a rightful place on any foodie map of the state.
This is dairy farming country, where the production of milk, butter and cheese is central to local life.
Timboon offers a number of food-related experiences in addition to dining out, such as Dairylicious Farm Fudge, Berry World, Timboon Railway Shed Distillery and the Little Bit of Sweet shop.
Return to Melbourne via Colac
To get back to the city, the fastest route from the Great Ocean Road area to Melbourne is via Colac.
The distance of a little over 200 kilometres takes about two-and-a-half hours by car.
If you missed it at the start of your Great Ocean Road 4 day itinerary, then you could take a slight detour to Geelong en route to break up the journey.
The Great Ocean Road Itinerary Map
Final Word: Great Ocean Road 4 Day Itinerary
From Geelong attractions and the classic rock formations of Port Campbell National Park to the best beach in Torquay for experienced surfers or the top restaurant in Anglesea or Apollo Bay, there are so many attractions in this area to include on your itinerary!
Four days in the Great Ocean Road region gives you ample time to delve a little deeper.
Whether you decide to follow this itinerary to the letter, travel in reverse or focus only on the sites that interest you most, this is for many people the highlight of their visit to Victoria.
Or even the country of Australia as a whole.
👉 Join our Great Ocean Road Travel Planning and Tips Facebook Group here. It’s the perfect place to ask your questions and be inspired!
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By Audrey Chalmers
Audrey grew up in Victoria and travelled the world but she always called Victoria home. She loves nothing more than exploring her home state and sharing it here.
