Walking the national parks along the Great Ocean Road is like walking through a gallery of Australia’s most stunning natural works of art. This iconic road trip takes you through different landscapes – rugged coastlines and limestone cliffs, rainforests, beaches and ancient ecosystems. The Great Ocean Road Tour is about reconciliation, acknowledging traditional lands and building lasting relationships with Indigenous communities to protect and showcase these amazing places. Each park along the way gives you a glimpse into Australia’s natural and cultural heritage, so the Great Ocean Road is more than just a drive – it’s an adventure through the soul of nature.
Port Campbell National Park
Port Campbell National Park is famous for its incredible coastal formations – Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge and the Twelve Apostles. These towering limestone stacks rise out of the Southern Ocean and have attracted visitors from around the world. Whether you’re a history buff, a photographer or just a lover of stunning landscapes, Port Campbell National Park has plenty to offer.
- Must-See: Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge, Twelve Apostles, Gibson Steps, Gibson Beach
- Activities: Explore historical shipwreck sites, walk along coastal tracks with rock platforms and limestone cliffs and a day trip to explore the region’s fascinating history and rugged coastline.
- Unique: This park has both rugged limestone stacks and iconic wave-sculpted rocks, making it a photographer’s dream and a nature lover’s paradise for incredible views of limestone cliffs.
- Best for: Dramatic views of ancient natural rock formations along a pristine coastline.
Great Otway National Park
Great Otway National Park is a vast area of ancient rainforest, towering eucalyptus and dramatic waterfalls. From Maits Rest with its giant beech trees and mossy tracks to the coastal cliffs near Cape Otway Lightstation, there’s something for everyone. Triplet Falls, Hopetoun Falls and Phantom Falls are the must-sees that plunge into ferny gullies and offer beautiful waterfalls surrounded by ferns and temperate rainforest.
- Top Spots: Maits Rest Rainforest Walk, Cape Otway Lightstation, Melba Gully, Triplet Falls, Hopetoun Falls, Phantom Falls, Beauchamp Falls.
- Activities: Rainforest walks, glow worm colonies in Melba Gully, and tall tree views of the rainforest.
- Ideal for: Nature lovers and families who want to do day trips into rainforest, ferns and waterfalls and views.
- Unique Highlights: See rainforest with giant tree ferns, mossy ancient trees and wildlife including koalas, kangaroos and waterbirds.
Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve
Set in an extinct volcano, Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve is a one of a kind destination where you can see native Australian wildlife in a natural environment. The cone shaped hills and crater lakes at Tower Hill provide a beautiful backdrop for guided walks that focus on the park’s cultural heritage and conservation. Here you can see kangaroos, emus, koalas and echidnas, making it a top family friendly spot on the Great Ocean Road.
- Features: Wildlife, volcanic landscapes, indigenous cultural tours.
- Highlights: Indigenous cultural tours and native wildlife in bushland.
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or dusk when the wildlife is most active.
- Perfect for Families and animal lovers who want to spend a day in native flora and fauna.
- Extra Activities: Picnic in designated areas like the Sheoak Picnic Area and take a short walk to Lake Elizabeth for more wildlife spotting.
Bay of Islands Coastal Park
For a more peaceful experience, the Bay of Islands Coastal Park has stunning coastal views with less people than Port Campbell. This park is famous for its rock formations, secluded beaches and peacefulness that matches the iconic rock formations of the Twelve Apostles.
- Highlights: Bay of Martyrs, Bay of Islands, and Wreck Beach, which has quietness and ocean views.
- Activities: Walking on the rock platforms, photography and beach walking.
- Perfect For: Those looking for peaceful and spectacular views without the crowds, a more intimate coastal experience.
- Extra Tips: Sunset views are amazing and great for photography and beach lovers will enjoy the sandy beaches and rock pools along the coast.
Grampians National Park
Not on the Great Ocean Road but a popular detour, Grampians National Park offers majestic sandstone peaks, dramatic waterfalls and a deep cultural heritage with ancient Aboriginal rock art sites. Famous for its lookouts and sights such as MacKenzie Falls and Boroka Lookout, the Grampians is a paradise for hikers, climbers and those interested in Indigenous culture.
- Highlights: MacKenzie Falls, The Pinnacle, Boroka Lookout, Aboriginal rock art sites and towering sandstone cliffs.
- Activities: Rock climbing, cultural tours, hiking and views from various lookouts.
- Perfect for adventure seekers, culture enthusiasts, and families looking for educational experiences.
- Must-See Sites: The Grampians has significant rock art sites so you can gain a cultural and historical perspective on Australia’s Aboriginal heritage.
More Must-See Places along the Great Ocean Road
- Apollo Bay: A classic seaside town with sandy beaches, cafes and access to Otway National Park.
- Johanna Beach: Epic surf beaches and the Johanna Beach Hike.
- Port Fairy: A charming coastal town with beautiful beaches, history and natural beauty.
- Erskine Falls and Phantom Falls: Near Lorne, these waterfalls are perfect for a short nature walk.
- Kennett River: Koalas and a peaceful escape into eucalypt forest and ferns.
- Maits Rest Rainforest Walk: A short but stunning walk with ancient mossy trees, giant tree ferns and temperate rainforest.
- Bells Beach: One of the world’s most famous surf beaches and a hot spot for surf culture and warmer waters.
- Cape Otway: The Cape Otway Lightstation and views of the Southern Ocean.
Try Great Ocean Road Day Tour From Melbourne where every park and landmark has a story to tell of natural beauty, rugged coastline and Australia’s history. From ocean views to secluded beaches and giant trees over ancient rainforests, this trip is an adventure not to be missed.
FAQ
What are the best times to visit the national parks along the Great Ocean Road?
The best times are spring and early autumn, when the weather is mild and the trails are lush and accessible. Each park offers unique seasonal beauty, from warmer waters and sunny beaches to dense rainforest landscapes.
Are there accommodations and campgrounds within these parks?
Yes, there are options such as beachfront campsites and campsite lodges, especially in areas near Port Campbell National Park and Grampians National Park. Many towns along the route, like Apollo Bay and Port Fairy, offer accommodations ranging from backpacker lodges to luxurious stays.
Can we spot wildlife along the Great Ocean Road?
Absolutely. From native wildlife in Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve to koala spotting at Kennett River, there are numerous opportunities to observe Australian animals in their natural habitat.
Are there family-friendly activities in these national parks?
Yes, most parks offer family-friendly walking tracks, picnic areas like the Sheoak Picnic Area, and wildlife viewing, making them ideal for family outings and day trips.
What waterfalls should I visit along the Great Ocean Road?
Must-visit waterfalls include Hopetoun Falls, Erskine Falls, Phantom Falls, Beauchamp Falls, and Triplet Falls. Each offers dramatic waterfalls set within lush forest scenery and ancient ferns.
Title:
Exploring National Parks Along the Great Ocean Road: Top Sights & Hidden Gems
Description:
Discover the best national parks on the Great Ocean Road—waterfalls, scenic lookouts, beaches, and wildlife for an unforgettable nature-filled adventure.