Stretching for more than 240 kilometers between Torquay and Allansford, the Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most scenic drives. It takes in spectacular beaches, charismatic surf towns and the iconic rock formations of the Twelve Apostles.
The Great Ocean Road was built by returned World War I soldiers and stands as the world’s largest war memorial. Today it is a recreational paradise, with legendary surf, beautiful coastal walking trails and snorkeling in the offshore reefs.
Be sure to explore the Surf Coast Walk that extends 44 kilometers along the coast from Point Impossible to Fairhaven. It’s divided into a number of sections, including the Wadawurrung Country trail that explores the indigenous heritage of the region and the Surf Coasting section that offers incredible views of the waves at Juc Juc Beach.
You can discover more about the Great Ocean Road’s surf legacy at the Australian National Surfing Museum in Torquay. Vintage surfboards and surfing memorabilia are on display, together with hands-on exhibits that offer an insight into the development of the sport over the years.
If you want to venture below the water’s surface, head to the nearby Point Danger Marine Sanctuary. This large limestone reef platform provides a habitat for a variety of weird and wonderful marine creatures.
Be sure to make a stop at Bells Beach, which is one of Australia’s most iconic surf spots and hosts the Rip Curl Pro Surfing Competition each year over the Easter long weekend. Also not to miss are the towering limestone stacks known as the “Twelve Apostles” that lie offshore from Port Campbell National Park and have become an icon of the Great Ocean Road.