Last Updated on May 2, 2026 by Felecia at Road Trips Australia
Leave the busy city behind for the Great Ocean Road iconic road trip! This 7-day road trip from Melbourne will reveal Australia’s most scenic and iconic coastline. Experience the 284 km of rugged coastline scenes, from the Twelve Apostles, Island Arch Lookout, and London Bridge. Along with this is the opportunity to blend exploration with the hip seaside towns from Wye River to Portland.
As the circuit continues, the salt-spray gives way to the jagged peaks of Halls Gap and the Grampians National Park. Walk in the footsteps of the Gariwerd Aboriginal landscape, which is home to ancient Aboriginal rock art. Explore hiking trails, impressive waterfalls and stunning mountain vistas. Stop by wineries, breweries, and cafes, and experience a taste of this region. So get ready, and let’s go on an unforgettable road trip from Melbourne along the Great Ocean Road in just seven days!
Iconic Great Ocean Road: 7-day Road Trip From Melbourne
| Distance: | 834 km |
| Length: | 7-days |
| When to Visit: | Summer or September to December or March to April |
| Where to Stay: | Holiday park accommodation, tent camping, RV camping |
Guide to the Great Ocean Road and the Twelve Apostles
While seeing this iconic landmark for free is drawing to a close, 2026 marks a new chapter for the Great Ocean Road. To coincide with the opening of the $126M Visitor Experience Centre later this year, the State Government will introduce a booking system and entry fee for parking and access.
While this is a significant shift for Victoria, it aligns with many of Australia’s premier natural wonders—from the permit systems across NSW and Tasmania to the vehicle entry fees at Uluru and Mount Kosciuszko. Ultimately, as long as these contributions remain affordable, we hope every cent is reinvested into protecting this fragile coastal environment and improving facilities for future generations of road trippers.
Great Ocean Road Packing Guide
- Have you downloaded a navigation app, ready for the road trip, along with phone chargers
- Book ahead, especially during the peak holiday season
- Ensure your vehicle is in good mechanical order with a functional spare tyre
- Carry snacks and water (extra food if travelling with kids)
- Pack items for the outdoors: Hats, sunglasses, walking shoes, and sunscreen.
- Beach towel for swimming
- Camping gear if camping
- Entertainment: Music, podcasts, camera, download movies and games
Day 1 – Melbourne to Apollo Bay
Depart Melbourne on this iconic road trip. Enjoy the ocean-side drive from Anglesea towards the first night’s destination at Apollo Bay. Big 4 Apollo Bay Pisces Holiday Park, close to Apollo Bay, offers a range of accommodation options, from campsites to cabins. Stay for one night, 190 km.
Things to do at Apollo Bay, VIC:
- Explore the Great Otway National Park for amazing waterfalls and tall mountain forests.
- Maker Beacon Lookout over the Southern Ocean.
- Enjoy a seaside stroll along Apollo Bay.
- Visit the Apollo Bay Museum.
- Don’t go past the 10-minute walk to panoramic views from Mariner’s Lookout.
- Thinking food? How about a seafood platter at Apollo Bay Fisherman’s Co-op?
Day 2 – Warrnambool
Start the day early to see all the sights along this section of the Great Ocean Road. All the scenic spots are well signposted, allowing road trippers to explore multiple stops along the way. First stop is the iconic Twelve Apostles Marine National Park visitor centre before following the pathaway under the road towards the iconic coastline. This is a fantastic place for photos, though, please be considerate of other visitors who want their iconic shot too!
But there’s more than one scenic stop! Other sights include: Gibson Steps, Loch Ard Gorge, Thunder Cave, The Arch, London Bridge, The Grotto, and the Bay of Islands. Continue the journey to stay at Discovery Holiday Park Warrnambool, conveniently located between McGennans Beach Cove and town. Stay for two nights—187 km.
Things to do in Warrnambool:
- Visit Cheese World for locally-made cheese, wine and sweets.
- Logans Beach Whale Watching platform in Winter.
- Explore Stingray Bay for the chance to encounter a stingray! Or explore the scenic walking trails.
- Beach Stroll along McGennan’s Beach.
- The Whalers Hotel for a wholesome meal in a relaxed setting.
Continue this road trip from the Great Ocean Road to the ancient landscapes of the Grampians National Park.
Day 4 – Portland
Continue the journey along the coast road towards Portland, stopping at NRMA Parks and Resorts located by the bay. Take the time to explore the coastline lookouts and sites around Cape Nelson State Park or Point Danger Gannet colony. Stay for one night, 101 km.
Day 5 – The Grampians National Park
Now leaving the coast behind, the journey continues inland to the Grampians National Park. Stay at Smiths Hill Campground or nearby accommodation options in Halls Gap while exploring this stunning region. Observe the gorgeous landscape from the Boroka Lookout, admire Splitters Falls, and take the loop walk through Venus Baths Loop. Stay for two nights—125 km.
Things to do near The Grampians and Halls Gap:
- Discover one of Grampians National Park’s many walking trails, lookouts and waterfalls.
- View ancient Aboriginal rock art at Billimina Shelter or Ngamadjidj Shelter.
- Taste the wine in the region at Fallen Giants Vineyard.
- Halls Gap Zoo.
- Halls Gap Visitor Centre.
- Hungry? Choose from various food options along Grampians Road, from Fish and Chips to Pizza or fine dining.
Day 7 – Melbourne
From the Grampians and Halls Gap, continue the road trip towards Ballarat. Take time to stop at the fascinating Sovereign Hill Museum, which displays memorabilia from Victoria’s gold rush era. Return to Melbourne, 258 km.
Road Trip VIC: The Great Ocean Road and Grampians Region
As this road trip from Melbourne concludes, the fantastic experience will create long-lasting memories. From the charming seaside towns, rugged coastal panoramas, and the timeless beauty of the Grampians landscape. Each stop along this route offers a unique experience, blending coastal scenes with the rugged hinterlands. So, pack your sense of adventure, hit the road, and let this itinerary guide you to unforgettable moments as you experience the unmatched beauty on this Road Trip from Melbourne: the Great Ocean Road…
Respect our natural environment and leave nothing but footprints…
Road Trip Map: Great Ocean Road Journey
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