The great ocean road is one of the most iconic trips in the whole of Australia. The route is about 664km long and has 375km of winding roads along the Southern Ocean. You will drive through stunning landscapes *chef’s kiss* that are on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
You can do the great ocean road in one day, but we did it in 3-4 days. Which is what I suggest doing.
Don’t forget that in Australia you drive on the left. There are signs reminding you along the road as tourists driving the wrong way is a common problem.
Having your own vehicle is highly recommended. That way you can travel at your own pace, avoid the crowds, and have more time to enjoy the many Great Ocean Road sites beyond the Twelve Apostles. We rented a car from Jucy in Melbourne which costed us $386.40 for 4 days. It came with a camping stove, sink, cutlery, fridge and you can convert the backseats into a bed.
If that is not an option, or you don’t want to drive. There are a ton of excellent tours from Melbourne showing you all the highlights and scenic points.
Our budget tips:
- We rented a car that converts into a small ‘van’. We saved a lot of money, as we stayed on cheap campsite and had our own bed in the car.
- We had a stove, so we were able to cook all our meals.
- All the attractions we visited are free.
- I highly recommend doing the road trip with a friend or a partner! This way you can split the rental and fuel cost.
In total we spend $416,40 dollar ($208,21p.p) on travel and accommodation.
A budget friendly Great Ocean Road itinerary
Day 1: Melbourne to Lorne via Torquay
After we left our accommodation early in the morning. We looked for the nearest supermarket and did most of our food shopping. It took us about 1,5 hour to get from Melbourne to the start of the great ocean road.
First stop: Lorne
You won’t be on a tight schedule today. Lorne is one of the most popular towns on a great ocean road trip. We had a quick stop in the seaside town of Lorne to buy camping supplies. You can walk on the beach or enjoy lunch by the town.
Tip: If you love dogs, visit The Salty Dog cafe. It is a dog-friendly cafe right by the beach.
Second stop: Memorial arch (Great Ocean Road Sign)
This is technically where the Great Ocean Road starts! Stop off for a worthy picture at the iconic Great Ocean Road Sign, and read up a little on the history of the area.
Third stop: Teddy’s lookout
On our way from the memorial arch to our accommodation we had a stop at Teddy’s Lookout. You can do whale spotting and I believe it is one of the best lookouts over the whole journey! The lookout is a short hike away. We spend a long time here enjoying the view and walking around the area. Sadly, we didn’t spot any whales as we were came during the wrong season. They view is still beautiful nevertheless.
Last stop: the campsite where we stayed the night
We arrived quite early on the campsite (around 17:00.) As we had a long drive from Melbourne. A bonfire, steak, red wine, baileys hot chocolate and gorgeous stars made this one of my favorite nights on the road!
Where we spend the night
We stayed at Cumberland River Holiday Park. It is an affordable option with different types of accommodation available. The camping ground with our car costed $20 dollars. The park offers walking tracks, a private beach and there are a lots of kangaroos around. It has communal facilities like a bbq area, wash up sinks and a well stocked kiosk.
Day 2: Lorne to Apollo Bay
We woke up around 7am and got ready before heading out to Lorne. The ride was absolutely stunning. We had a nice cup of coffee and a chai latte by the beach before heading out to our most ‘active’ day.
First stop: Blanket leaf picnic area wolk towards Erskine Falls
We drove up to a picnic ground called blanket leaf. The picnic ground is a great jump off point for a walk to the Erskine falls. The walk is about an 1,5 hour long. Alternatively you can drive straight up towards the Erskine Falls. But, I feel that walking to a waterfall is more rewarding + the walk is real nice.
Final stop: Apollo Bay
After walking for over 2 hours we were quite hungry. We went to a fish and chips shop called: Apollo Bay fisherman’s co-op. It is famous place in Apollo’s Bay.
Where we spend the night
Blanket Bay Campground is located on the coastal shores of Cape Otway. An overnight stay was $5 dollars. It is a very basic campground that offers toilets and a fire pit. It is right next to the beach and on the way to the campsite we spotted wild koalas. We put on a campfire and met some fellow travellers with who we shared stories, beers and pasta with. (:
Tip: Koala spotting peak time is around dusk when they climb down from the trees.
Day 3: Apollo Bay Via Port Campbell To Lorne
First stop: Maits rest rainforest walk
Waking up slightly hungover we did a lovely, short boardwalk in the rainforest. The walk is about 30 mins and very easy to do.
Second stop: Twelve Apostles
One of the most famous natural attractions along your Great Ocean Road is The Twelve Apostles. Located in Port Campbell National Park, and one of the main highlights of the Great Ocean Road itinerary.
The Twelve Apostles are reached by a five-minute walk from the car park, where there’s also a visitor centre, toilets, and a kiosk
Third stop: Lord Ard Gorge
Loch Ard Gorge is another place that you don’t want to miss. It is the perfect place to sit with a book when the wind is low, or simply enjoy the view and take a few photos. It looks like a tempting place to swim, but I wouldn’t recommend it as the currents are strong and when the wind is up the waves are rough.
Final stop: The Grotto
A short walk from the carpark and down the steps, you’ll find this famous picture frame that captures the sea. The grotto was the highlight of my trip.
We chose to drive back from The Grotto to Lorne rather than continue on for the final section of the Great Ocean Road that ends just before Warrnambool.
Where we spend the night
Jamieson Creek bush Campground is near Lorne. An overnight stay was $5 dollars. I stayed inside for most of the night watching Netflix, as it was raining, so I didn’t really make use of any of the facilities.
Day 4: Lorne to Melbourne
We set off early to Lorne and had breakfast and coffee. We went to a pie shop and took a stroll around the beach before leaving back to Melbourne as we had to give the car back before 12pm.
Please let me know what you think of the itinerary and see ya onto my next adventures! (:
