Great Otway National Park: A Coastal and Rainforest Paradise
Explore rugged coastlines, lush rainforests, and cascading waterfalls in this diverse Victorian national park along the Great Ocean Road.
The Great Otway National Park, stretching along Victoria's scenic coast and hinterland, offers a diverse landscape of rugged coastlines, lush rainforests, and cascading waterfalls. Explore the iconic Great Ocean Walk, discover hidden waterfalls, and immerse yourself in the region's rich history and natural beauty.
A brief summary to Great Otway National Park
- Victoria, AU
- +61131963
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during winter for impressive waterfalls and whale watching opportunities along the coast.
- Book campsites in advance, especially during peak season, through the Parks Victoria website.
- Explore Melba Gully at night to witness the enchanting glow worms, best seen between December and March.
- Take caution when swimming at beaches and rivers, as they may have unseen dangers such as currents and reefs.
- Check for fire restrictions and park closures, especially on days with a high fire danger rating.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Melbourne, take the V/Line train to Geelong Station. Then, transfer to a V/Line coach towards Apollo Bay, which stops at various points along the Great Ocean Road, providing access to the park. The bus trip from Geelong to locations within the park takes approximately 1 hour and 12 minutes. Single fares from Geelong to the park range from $1 to $12. Alternatively, a daily bus service connects Geelong, Lorne, and Apollo Bay, linking with train services to Melbourne. From Lorne Hotel/Great Ocean Rd (Lorne), several bus lines provide access to the park. Note: Public transport options may require walking or short taxi rides to reach specific destinations within the park.
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Driving
The Great Otway National Park is accessible via the Great Ocean Road. From Melbourne, the drive to Cape Otway Lighthouse is approximately 215 km and takes around 3 hours and 4 minutes. From Geelong, the drive to the park is approximately 142 km and takes around 2 hours and 10 minutes. Parking is available throughout the park at various locations, including visitor areas, campgrounds, and trailheads. Parking fees may apply in certain areas, so it's best to check local regulations. Unsecured public parking is available at locations such as The Gables Lookout, Wreck Beach, and Johanna Beach. Note: During peak seasons and weekends, parking may be limited, especially at popular attractions like the Twelve Apostles. Arrive early or during off-peak hours to secure a parking spot.
Discover more about Great Otway National Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cape Otway Light station Lookout
7.1 km
Explore Cape Otway Light Station Lookout: a historic lighthouse offering stunning ocean views and a glimpse into Australia's maritime heritage.
Cape Otway Lightstation
7.7 km
Discover the historic Cape Otway Lightstation, where maritime history meets stunning coastal views on Australia's Great Ocean Road.
Great Ocean Walk Retreat
9.6 km
Experience the serenity of Great Ocean Walk Retreat, your perfect self-catering escape along Victoria's stunning Great Ocean Road.
Apollo Bay Foreshore Reserve
11.7 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife at Apollo Bay Foreshore Reserve, a coastal gem in Victoria's stunning scenery.
Twelve Apostles Lodge Walk
13.7 km
Experience the stunning landscapes of the Great Ocean Road on the Twelve Apostles Lodge Walk, a perfect blend of adventure and luxury.
12 Apostles Cottages
35.1 km
Discover the beauty of the Great Ocean Road while enjoying the comfort and serenity of 12 Apostles Cottages, your perfect coastal retreat.
Pebble Point
35.9 km
Discover Pebble Point, your ideal indoor lodging near The Twelve Apostles and the stunning landscapes of Victoria's Great Ocean Road.
12 Apostles Helicopters
40.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the 12 Apostles from above with thrilling helicopter tours along the iconic Great Ocean Road.
Sheoak Picnic Area
43.7 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Sheoak Picnic Area, a perfect retreat for picnics and nature walks in the stunning Great Otway National Park.
Unmissable attractions to see
Maits Rest Rainforest Walk
4.1 km
Explore the lush beauty of Maits Rest Rainforest Walk, a serene hiking area along the Great Ocean Road, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Cape Otway
5.1 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage of Cape Otway, a coastal gem in Victoria, Australia, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Blanket Bay Campground
5.3 km
Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Blanket Bay Campground in the Great Otway National Park, a perfect getaway for camping and adventure.
Blanket Bay
5.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Blanket Bay in Cape Otway, a serene coastal escape perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Wildlife Wonders
8.2 km
Experience the wonders of Australia's wildlife at Wildlife Wonders, a unique sanctuary that combines education, conservation, and unforgettable encounters.
Castle Cove Lookout
10.0 km
Discover stunning coastal views and serene landscapes at Castle Cove Lookout along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia.
Great Ocean Walk
11.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Great Ocean Walk, a scenic hiking trail along the stunning coastline of Victoria, Australia.
Apollo bay
11.8 km
Explore the beauty of Apollo Bay, a coastal paradise on the Great Ocean Road with stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and natural wonders.
Apollo Bay Garden and Beach
11.8 km
Discover Apollo Bay Garden and Beach: Where lush gardens meet pristine sands on Victoria's spectacular Great Ocean Road.
Great Ocean Walk - Walk 91
11.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Great Ocean Walk in Victoria, Australia, where adventure meets stunning coastal views and vibrant wildlife.
Great Ocean Road Visitor Information Centre
11.8 km
Your gateway to exploring the Great Ocean Road and Otway Ranges, offering expert advice, local crafts, and booking services.
Apollo Bay Beach
11.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and adventure at Apollo Bay Beach, a gem along Victoria's Great Ocean Road, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
apollo bay harbour
12.3 km
Explore Apollo Bay Harbour - a stunning coastal gem along Victoria's Great Ocean Road, perfect for relaxation, adventure, and fresh seafood.
Marriner's Lookout
12.4 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Apollo Bay and the Great Ocean Road from the easily accessible Marriner's Lookout.
S.S. Casino Shipwreck
13.3 km
Explore the underwater remains of the S.S. Casino, a historic coastal steamer wrecked off the shores of Apollo Bay in 1932. A diver's delight!
Essential places to dine
Graze Apollo Bay
11.6 km
Experience exceptional cuisine at Graze Apollo Bay; where local flavors meet artistic culinary expression in a beautiful coastal setting.
Casalingo
11.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Casalingo in Apollo Bay – where every meal tells a story.
Apollo Bay Hotel
11.7 km
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and local flavor at Apollo Bay Hotel - your gateway to an unforgettable Great Ocean Road adventure.
George's Restaurant
11.7 km
Experience diverse flavors at George's Restaurant on Great Ocean Road - where delicious fusion cuisine meets stunning coastal views.
Fusion Space Café and Restaurant
11.7 km
Experience delightful breakfasts at Fusion Space Café & Restaurant along the stunning Great Ocean Road in Apollo Bay.
Apollo Bay Chinese Restaurant 龍華中餐館
11.7 km
Discover authentic Chinese flavors amidst breathtaking coastal scenery at Apollo Bay's premier dining destination.
Apollo Bay Seafood Cafe
11.7 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Apollo Bay Seafood Cafe along the breathtaking Great Ocean Road.
The Vault Chinese Restaurant 旺德福中餐馆
11.7 km
Experience authentic Chinese cuisine with breathtaking views at The Vault Chinese Restaurant on the iconic Great Ocean Road.
The Birdhouse Apollo Bay
11.7 km
Experience fresh local cuisine at The Birdhouse Apollo Bay along Victoria's stunning Great Ocean Road.
Pit Stop Bros
11.7 km
Discover authentic American flavors at Pit Stop Bros in Apollo Bay while enjoying stunning coastal views along the Great Ocean Road.
Waves Cafe
11.7 km
Experience delightful breakfasts and breathtaking ocean views at Waves Cafe on the iconic Great Ocean Road.
Cafe 153
11.7 km
Discover Cafe 153 on the Great Ocean Road – where exceptional coffee meets hearty breakfasts in a charming coastal setting.
Chris's Beacon Point Restaurant & Villas Accommodation
16.8 km
Experience exceptional dining and stunning ocean views at Chris's Beacon Point Restaurant & Villas in Apollo Bay.
The Perch at Lavers Hill
17.9 km
Discover The Perch at Lavers Hill - A perfect blend of exquisite cuisine and stunning views along the Great Ocean Road.
Twelve Apostles Motel & Country Retreat
41.2 km
Experience serene stays at Twelve Apostles Motel & Country Retreat, your perfect base for exploring Victoria's stunning coastal landscapes.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Second Sails Opportunity Shop
11.6 km
Explore a treasure trove of second-hand gems at Second Sails Opportunity Shop, Apollo Bay's beloved thrift store with unique finds and community spirit.
Apollo Bay Surf Shop
11.7 km
Explore the ultimate surfing experience at Apollo Bay Surf Shop, your one-stop destination for top surf and skate gear along the Great Ocean Road.
Trading post News Agency and Tatts lotto
11.7 km
Explore Apollo Bay's Trading Post News Agency, your go-to spot for magazines, local insights, and unique souvenirs along the Great Ocean Road.
Great Ocean Road Souvenirs
11.7 km
Explore unique gifts at Great Ocean Road Souvenirs, where local treasures meet coastal charm along the stunning Great Ocean Road.
Absolute Fashion
11.7 km
Discover unique styles at Absolute Fashion, a charming clothing store on the Great Ocean Road, perfect for fashion lovers visiting Apollo Bay.
Great Ocean Road Brewhouse
11.7 km
Experience the best of local craft brews and delicious cuisine at Great Ocean Road Brewhouse, a true gem along Australia's scenic coast.
Bottlemart Express - Great Ocean Road Brewhouse
11.7 km
Experience the essence of Apollo Bay at Bottlemart Express - Great Ocean Road Brewhouse, where local brews and wines await your discovery.
Sweet View - The Great Ocean Road Lolly Shop
11.7 km
Discover Sweet View on the Great Ocean Road, where delightful sweets and breathtaking coastal views create an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
Hodgy's Surf Centre
11.7 km
Experience the vibrant surf culture at Hodgy's Surf Centre in Apollo Bay, where expert advice meets top-notch surf gear on the stunning Great Ocean Road.
Coast Cards
11.7 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at Coast Cards in Apollo Bay, where every item reflects the beauty of the Great Ocean Road.
Apollo Bay Bakery
11.7 km
Discover the flavors of Apollo Bay at Apollo Bay Bakery, a coastal gem known for its fresh pastries, hearty breakfasts, and welcoming atmosphere.
Hawkeye Homewares
11.7 km
Explore Hawkeye Homewares in Apollo Bay for unique home goods that embody the charm of Victoria's coastal lifestyle.
Terra Craft
11.7 km
Explore the enchanting Terra Craft in Apollo Bay, where art meets creativity along the stunning Great Ocean Road.
Murphie & Co
11.7 km
Explore Murphie & Co in Apollo Bay: a unique homewares store offering local crafts, stylish decor, and gifts inspired by the stunning coastal landscape.
The Potoroo Pantry
11.8 km
Discover The Potoroo Pantry, the ultimate destination for delicious cakes, cupcakes, and wedding treats on the Great Ocean Road.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
RAWR BAR
11.7 km
Discover the refreshing taste of fresh juices and smoothies at RAWR BAR in Apollo Bay, the ultimate destination for health enthusiasts.
Apollo Bay Distillery
11.7 km
Discover the finest spirits, gourmet pizzas, and aromatic coffee at Apollo Bay Distillery, a must-visit destination on the Great Ocean Road.
Sunset lookout
52.3 km
Experience stunning sunsets at Sunset Lookout, a breathtaking viewpoint in Port Campbell, Victoria, Australia's Great Ocean Road.
Devil's Elbow
54.7 km
Discover the stunning coastal views and rich history at Devil's Elbow, a must-visit scenic spot along Australia's Great Ocean Road.
The Grotto
57.7 km
Experience the enchanting natural wonder of The Grotto in Port Campbell National Park, where stunning landscapes and unique geological formations await.
The Timboon Pub And Hotel
59.6 km
Discover authentic Australian flavor and warm hospitality at The Timboon Pub and Hotel, a charming destination in Timboon, Victoria.
Timboon Railway Shed Distillery
59.7 km
Experience the rich flavors and craftsmanship at Timboon Railway Shed Distillery, Victoria's hidden gem for spirit lovers and tourists.
MORGAN'S BAR & GRILL
70.8 km
Discover the perfect blend of food, music, and coastal charm at Morgan's Bar & Grill on the Great Ocean Road.
Crave Brew 'n' Bar
71.5 km
Experience the best of coffee and cocktails at Crave Brew 'n' Bar, a scenic gem on the Great Ocean Road in Anglesea, Victoria.
Wheatsheaf Hotel
81.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local charm at Wheatsheaf Hotel, Terang's premier bar for travelers and locals alike.
Blackman's Brewery Bar and Restaurant
84.4 km
Experience the unique flavors of craft beer and delicious cuisine at Blackman's Brewery Bar and Restaurant in Torquay, Victoria.
The Flying Horse
98.6 km
Discover Warrnambool's vibrant pub scene at The Flying Horse, where exceptional food, a great selection of drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere await.
