The journey from Melbourne to The Grotto is one of Australiaās most iconic road trips, filled with incredible ocean views, charming towns, natural landmarks, and plenty of stops worth making. Here's a deep dive into all the must-see spots, where to eat, and the best campgrounds to make the most of your adventure.
Starting Point: Melbourne
Must-Do: Before you start, stock up on groceries and fill your tank. Grab a coffee at Proud MaryĀ (a Melbourne institution) or breakfast at Higher Ground.
Tip: Get an early start! This route has so much to offer, and youāll want time to explore every stop.
Stop 1: Torquay - The Surf Capital šāāļø
Drive Time: 1.5 hours from Melbourne
Torquay is the official starting point of the Great Ocean Road and a hub for all things surfing.
Must-Do: Visit Bells Beach, known for its legendary waves, and check out the Australian National Surfing MuseumĀ to learn about surf culture.
Where to Eat: Grab breakfast or lunch at Surfcoast WholefoodsĀ for organic and locally sourced meals.
Campsite: Torquay Holiday ParkĀ offers powered sites close to town.
Stop 2: Anglesea - Coastal Charm and Nature Walks š
Drive Time: 15 minutes from Torquay
Anglesea is a quieter coastal town with beautiful beaches and scenic views.
Must-Do: Relax on Anglesea BeachĀ or take a kayak down the Anglesea River. For hikers, the Anglesea HeathĀ offers trails through wildflower-filled landscapes.
Where to Eat: Enjoy casual dining with a view at Sea Eyes CafƩ.
Campsite: Anglesea Family Caravan Park, right on the river, with easy access to the beach.
Stop 3: Aireys Inlet & Split Point Lighthouse šÆ
Drive Time: 10 minutes from Anglesea
One of the Great Ocean Roadās most photographed spots, the lighthouse offers unbeatable views.
Must-Do: Tour the Split Point LighthouseĀ or walk the Lighthouse Cliff WalkĀ for breathtaking ocean views.
Where to Eat: Stop at The Captain of AireysĀ for coffee or a light lunch.
Campsite: Aireys Inlet Holiday ParkĀ for a quiet, family-friendly stay.
Stop 4: Lorne - Vibrant Beach Town šļø
Drive Time: 25 minutes from Aireys Inlet
Lorne is a bustling town with shops, cafes, and easy access to natural attractions.
Must-Do: Stroll along Lorne BeachĀ or visit Erskine Fallsāa short drive inland for a 30m waterfall surrounded by lush rainforest.
Where to Eat: Try The Bottle of MilkĀ for amazing burgers, or head to Ipsos for Greek-inspired dishes.
Campsite: Lorne Foreshore Caravan ParkĀ is right by the beach with great amenities.
Stop 5: Teddyās Lookout (Lorne) šø
Drive Time: 5 minutes from Lorne
Just a short drive up the hill, Teddyās Lookout provides stunning panoramic views of the winding Great Ocean Road and coastline.
Must-Do: Take in the breathtaking views from the lookout, perfect for photos.
Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds.
Stop 6: Kennett River - Koala Spotting šØ
Drive Time: 20 minutes from Lorne
One of the best places on the route to see wild koalas.
Must-Do: Take a short walk down Grey River Road, where koalas are often found lounging in eucalyptus trees. Also look out for colorful parrots and kingfishers.
Where to Eat: The Koala CafĆ©Ā offers a good spot for a quick coffee and a bite.
Campsite: Kennett River Holiday Parkāideal for wildlife lovers.
Stop 7: Apollo Bay - Beachside Relaxation šļø
Drive Time: 35 minutes from Kennett River
Apollo Bay is a cozy seaside town and a perfect spot to relax and recharge.
Must-Do: Walk along Apollo Bay Beach, visit the local shops, or take a detour into the Great Otway National ParkĀ for rainforest hikes.
Where to Eat: Try La BimbaĀ for fresh seafood or Dooleyās Ice Cream for a treat.
Campsite: Apollo Bay Holiday Parkāclose to the beach with great facilities.
Stop 8: Maits Rest Rainforest Walk (Otway National Park) š³
Drive Time: 20 minutes from Apollo Bay
This short loop trail offers a serene walk through ancient ferns, towering trees, and lush rainforest.
Must-Do: Take the Maits Rest Rainforest Walk, a gentle 30-minute trail through the Otwaysā cool, shaded rainforest.
Tip: The boardwalk is stroller-friendly, making it great for families.
Stop 9: Cape Otway Lighthouse - A Historic Landmark š°
Drive Time: 25 minutes from Maits Rest
The oldest lighthouse in mainland Australia, perched on a stunning cliff.
Must-Do: Tour the Cape Otway LighthouseĀ and check out the museum. Enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and keep an eye out for whales during migration season.
Where to Eat: The on-site Lightkeeperās CafĆ©Ā serves decent snacks and coffee.
Campsite: Bimbi ParkĀ offers camping "under the koalas" in the nearby Otway forest.
Stop 10: Gibson Steps - Ocean Views Up Close šļø
Drive Time: 30 minutes from Cape Otway
A unique spot where you can descend 86 steps to the beach for a close-up view of towering cliffs.
Must-Do: Take the steps down to the beach, where youāll be dwarfed by massive cliffs and see the first limestone stacks (precursors to the Twelve Apostles).
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes, as the steps can be steep and slippery.
Stop 11: Twelve Apostles - The Main Event š
Drive Time: 5 minutes from Gibson Steps
The Twelve Apostles is the highlight of the Great Ocean Road, with towering limestone formations rising from the sea.
Must-Do: Take in the view from the main lookout. Itās particularly beautiful at sunrise or sunset when the light hits the cliffs.
Where to Eat: Head to Port CampbellĀ just down the road for cafes and fish and chips.
Campsite: Port Campbell Holiday Park, located conveniently close to the Twelve Apostles and other attractions.
Stop 12: Loch Ard Gorge - A Hidden Gem š
Drive Time: 5 minutes from Twelve Apostles
Just minutes away, Loch Ard Gorge offers dramatic views, a hidden beach, and fascinating shipwreck history.
Must-Do: Walk down to the beach, explore the cliffs, and learn about the famous Loch Ard shipwreckĀ story.
Tip: Take the Razorback WalkĀ for even more stunning views along the coast.
Stop 13: The Grotto - Stunning Coastal Rock Formation š
Drive Time: 10 minutes from Loch Ard Gorge
The Grotto is a partially submerged cave and rock formation thatās both beautiful and serene.
Must-Do: Walk down the steps to the viewing platform for an up-close look at this unique geological feature. The rock arch frames the water beautifully, creating perfect photo ops.
Tip: Go during low tide for the best view.
Where to Eat and Camp Near The Grotto
Port CampbellĀ has several food options, with Forage on the Foreshore offering great local produce and ocean views.
Campsite: Port Campbell Recreation ReserveĀ is a convenient spot to stay near the end of your journey, with basic facilities and easy access to the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge.
Extra Tips for the Road
Pack Snacks and Water: The drive has remote stretches, so be prepared, especially if traveling with kids.
Take Your Time: Each stop is worth exploring, so donāt rush.
Check for Fuel Stations: Fuel up when you can, as options can be limited.
This Melbourne-to-Grotto route is packed with spectacular sights, cozy towns, and family-friendly activities. Enjoy every winding turn, epic ocean view, and memorable stop along the Great Ocean Road!
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