The Great Ocean Road is dotted with tiny resort towns, welcoming hamlets and larger regional centres that all have their own distinct personalities.
Be sure to stop off as often as you can on your way along the road to discover laid back surf culture, rich maritime history, fine food and wine, sophisticated seaside lifestyles and rugged shipwreck tales. Wherever you stop, you're guaranteed astonishing scenery and lasting memories.
Set your GPS for these towns for a taste of life along the Great Ocean Road
Torquay
Dose up on surf culture at Torquay, the start of the Great Ocean Road, home to Bells Beach and birthplace of iconic brands Rip Curl and Quicksilver.
Vic Bells - WSL
Lorne
Relax and unwind in the seaside town of Lorne, attracting visitors for more than a century with its Mediterranean feel and charming scenery.
While driving a stretch of the Great Ocean Road itself is a rite of passage, you can also take the opportunity to plan ahead, park the car and set off on the Great Ocean Walk for the most up-close experience of the famous coastal scenery. Whether you walk or drive, you'll be taking in irresistible beaches, lush rainforest, and of course the iconic 12 Apostles. [Follow our tips for the most unbeatable Great Ocean Road adventures.]
Great Ocean Walk
Journey from Apollo Bay to the 12 Apostles along the Great Ocean Walk, weaving through national parks, deserted beaches and rugged coastal scenery.
12 Apostles
Witness the rugged splendour of the famous 12 Apostles, magnificent rock stacks that rise from the Southern Ocean on Victoria's dramatic coastline.
Vic Coast - WSL / Mark Watson
Beaches and coastlines
Paddle, swim or surf in the crashing waves or take a relaxing stroll along the clean, golden sands of some of Australia's best beaches.