Top 8 Tips for Driving the Great Ocean Road
Driving the Great Ocean Road for the first time is an unforgettable experience, but it can also be overwhelming without proper planning.
This scenic route is filled with breathtaking coastal views, hidden gems, and winding roads that require careful navigation.
Whether you’re concerned about safety, fuel stops, or avoiding tourist crowds, this guide covers the top 8 tips to help first-time travellers enjoy a smooth and stress-free journey.
From planning your time wisely to exploring beyond the main road, these insights will ensure you make the most of your adventure along one of Australia’s most famous drives.
1. Plan Your Time
The Great Ocean Road isn’t just a drive—it’s an experience. Rushing through it in a single day means missing out on the best parts.
Allow at least 3 to 5 days to enjoy the coastal views, stop at scenic lookouts, and explore the small towns.
Each stretch has something unique, from dramatic cliffs to hidden waterfalls, so taking it slow makes all the difference.
Driving from west to east, starting in Warrnambool and heading towards Torquay, offers a more enjoyable experience.
This route keeps the ocean on the left, making it easier to pull over at lookout points without crossing traffic.
It also avoids the bigger crowds that gather closer to Melbourne, giving a more peaceful journey through the rugged coastline.
Planning the timing of stops matters, too. The Twelve Apostles are best seen early morning or just before sunset when the light hits the limestone stacks perfectly.
Popular spots like Loch Ard Gorge and Gibson Steps are quieter in the late afternoon.
Exploring beyond the main tourist sites—like the Otway Rainforest or lesser-known beaches—adds depth to the trip, making it more than just a scenic drive.
2. Safety First
Driving the Great Ocean Road comes with unique challenges, so staying safe is essential.
Always drive on the left side of the road in Australia, especially if coming from a country where driving is on the right.
Speed limits vary from 50 km/h to 100 km/h, so pay attention to road signs and adjust accordingly.
Wildlife awareness is key, particularly at dawn and dusk when kangaroos, koalas, and other animals are most active.
Sudden wildlife crossings are common, so staying alert reduces the risk of accidents.
Weather conditions along the coast can change quickly. In winter, fog and rain make roads slippery, while strong winds can affect visibility.
Checking forecasts before heading out and preparing for sudden weather changes ensures a safer trip.
The road is famous for its twists and turns, making it important to navigate cautiously.
Wet or foggy conditions require slower speeds and extra care. Take breaks when needed, stay focused, and enjoy the drive responsibly.
3. Vehicle Preparation
Ensuring the vehicle is properly serviced and insured before setting off is essential. Checking tyre pressure and condition helps prevent unexpected breakdowns.
Carrying a basic toolkit, including a spare tyre and car jack, ensures minor repairs can be handled on the go.
Fuel stops need to be planned. Petrol stations can be spaced out, so refuelling at key locations like Torquay, Apollo Bay, and Warrnambool is smart.
Keeping the tank full, especially before long stretches without services, prevents unnecessary delays.
The 243-kilometre journey from Torquay to Allansford requires careful planning for fuel stops.
Checking that vehicle documents, including registration and insurance, are current ensures a smooth trip.
Staying alert on the road is important. Changing speed limits and unexpected wildlife crossings, particularly at dawn and dusk, require extra caution.
4. Take Regular Breaks
Long drives can lead to fatigue, making regular breaks essential.
Using designated rest areas helps prevent tiredness and provides opportunities to enjoy scenic coastal views along the way.
Stretching your legs every couple of hours keeps you fresh and alert, reducing the risk of fatigue-related mistakes.
Taking breaks at scenic lookouts or small towns along the route makes the drive more enjoyable and less exhausting.
5. Accommodation and Camping
Planning is key when travelling on Great Ocean Road. Popular spots like Apollo Bay and Lorne can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Booking your stays ahead ensures comfortable resting places after a long day of driving and sightseeing.
If you’re camping, apps like WikiCamps can help you locate suitable spots with detailed reviews and amenity information.
Recreation Reserves offer affordable camping options for those looking for a more budget-friendly or adventurous stay.
Bringing the right camping gear and checking for designated sites ensures a smooth experience.
Some sites require bookings, so researching ahead helps avoid last-minute surprises.
6. Traffic and Road Closures
Checking for events and road closures is important before setting off.
Events like the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race and the Great Ocean Road Running Festival can lead to temporary closures and detours, affecting travel times.
Traffic increases significantly during summer, especially around popular attractions like the Twelve Apostles.
Expect changes in speed limits and congestion during peak travel periods, so planning travel times accordingly helps avoid delays.
7. Sun Protection and Supplies
The Great Ocean Road offers stunning coastal views, but the Australian sun can be harsh.
Applying sunscreen, wearing a hat, and using sunglasses help protect against sunburn and heat exposure.
Bringing enough food and water is essential, especially for longer stretches between towns.
Packing snacks and a picnic setup allows for flexibility in meal breaks while enjoying the scenic surroundings.
8. Explore Beyond The Main Road
Taking detours off the main road leads to some incredible hidden gems. Secluded beaches, rainforests, and waterfalls provide a chance to escape the crowds and enjoy nature in peace.
The Great Otway National Park is a must-visit, offering scenic walks, lush greenery, and breathtaking natural attractions.
For nature lovers, Erskine Falls‘ 30-metre cascade and the ancient trees of The Redwoods provide memorable forest experiences.
Stop at Logan Beach Whale Watching Platform between June and September, where you might spot whales just 200 metres offshore.
The Grotto and London Bridge offer unique geological formations that showcase the coast’s raw beauty.
Marriners Lookout provides visitors with panoramic bird’s eye views of the stunning coastline and Great Ocean Road from the foothills of Apollo Bay.
Having a camera ensures the beauty of the coastline and landmarks can be captured.
From dramatic cliffs to picturesque seaside towns, the Great Ocean Road provides plenty of unforgettable photo opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Many Petrol Stations Along the Great Ocean Road?
You’d think there’d be stations everywhere on such a famous route, but they’re limited. You’ll find them in major towns, so keep your tank above 1/4 full during your journey.
Can I Complete the Journey Using Public Transportation Instead of Driving?
You can travel the Great Ocean Road by V/Line buses, which run between Warrnambool and Geelong. They’ll stop at major attractions, but service is limited on certain days.
What Mobile Phone Coverage Can I Expect During the Drive?
You’ll get 85% coverage with Telstra along the route. Other carriers are less reliable. Expect signal drops in dense forest areas like Cape Otway. High points offer better reception.
Are There Designated Areas for Camping and Overnight Parking in Vehicles?
You’ll find designated campsites in national parks and campgrounds, but you need bookings. Vehicle camping is restricted to specific areas, and most public spaces don’t allow overnight parking.
