240kms of Australia’s most scenic drive. Breathtaking coastal views, dramatic coastline and the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. Apollo Bay, Port Campbell and Fairhaven Beach. Do you go guided or self-drive?
Guided Tours
Expert Guides and Local Knowledge
Guided tours allow you to meet expert guides who will tell you the stories behind Port Campbell National Park, Cape Otway, and London Bridge. Learn about the Shipwreck Coast, rock stacks, and ancient rainforests of Otway National Park.
Convenience and Comfort
With a guided tour, entrance fees, route planning and transportation to places like Gibson Beach, Triplet Falls and Maits Rest are handled. Sit back and enjoy the views of the Southern Ocean and the cliffs without the hassle of navigating the coastal roads.
Meet Fellow Travellers
Joining a group tour means you’ll meet others visiting the Bay of Islands, London Arch and the seaside towns along the way like Apollo Bay and Lorne.
Eco-Friendly and Stress-Free
Group tours reduce the overall carbon footprint compared to multiple individual vehicles. You can focus on the ferns, eucalyptus trees, and waterfalls like Erskine Falls without worrying about parking at popular attractions or booking surf lessons at Bells Beach, a famous surfing beach.
Self Drive
Freedom to Stop Whenever You Want
Self-driving means you can visit Johanna Beach, Wreck Beach and Aireys Inlet. Spend more time at Marriner’s Lookout or take a short drive inland to Beauchamp Falls and Otway Fly Treetop Adventures.
Find Hidden Gems
The inland route and coastal drive allow you to find lesser-known spots like Blanket Bay, Muttonbird Island, and Griffiths Island. Enjoy the views of nesting grounds, ancient trees, and mossy trees at your own pace.
Customise Your Itinerary
Focus on what you want to see, whether it’s the green rainforest of Maits Rest, the views from lookouts or the beach life of Phillip Island and Mission Beach.
More Cost Effective for Groups or Families
For groups or families, self-driving can be more cost-effective, especially when visiting places like Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve or grabbing lunch at local cafes in Apollo Bay and Lavers Hill.
Guided Tours Challenges
Limited Flexibility
Tours have set itineraries that don’t allow extra time to stop and take in the views at dramatic coastline spots like Eastern View, Kennett River, or the shipwreck coast.
More Expensive for Private Tours
While group tours are budget-friendly, private or premium tours to the 12 Apostles or the Kennett River Koala Walk are more expensive.
Crowds and Group Dynamics
Traveling in a group means sharing the experience at popular spots like Loch Ard Gorge or Kafe Koala which may not be what you’re looking for if you want to be alone.
Self-Driving Challenges
Navigating Roads and Parking
Driving along the coastal road can be tough due to the windy roads near cliffs, especially the whole drive from Surf Coast to Port Fairy. Parking at beautiful spots like Eastern Beach or Grey River Road can be limited.
Time-Consuming Planning
Mapping the trip, booking accommodation and finding attractions like Battery Hill and dive spots takes a lot of work. For example, finding glowworms at night or lake views at Mount Gambier requires planning.
Long Drives
Driving between seaside towns and inland attractions can be exhausting and prevent you from enjoying amazing sights like Coorong National Park or Grampians National Park.
Key Considerations When Choosing
Budget
Compare the cost of renting a car, fuel and accommodation to the cost of guided tours to Port Campbell or the 12 Apostles.
Time
If you have limited time, a guided tour will help you see the road highlights quickly. If you have more time, a self-drive option gives you the flexibility to stop at Fairhaven Beach and the Kennett River Koala Walk.
Travel Style and Group Size
Do you prefer the beachy vibe of coastal towns or the solitude of an independent itinerary that includes stops like the lush ferns at Maits Rest?
Comfort with Driving
If you’re comfortable with winding roads and looking for a bit of adventure, self-driving lets you see stunning views, like the limestone cliffs and massive stacks of the Great Ocean Road.
Blended Options: Best of Both Worlds
Guided Tour with Self-Drive Segments
Start with a guided tour to see the 12 Apostles then self drive to waterfalls and dive spots like Mission Beach.
Guide for a Part of the Trip
Guide for Otway National Park and self-drive on the Surf Coast road trip.
Conclusion: What to Choose
Whether you go guided or self-drive, the Great Ocean Road offers amazing views, stunning scenery, and adventure. Make sure you choose what’s right for you.
With planning, your trip on this road will be an adventure of a lifetime, with beautiful views, famous sights, and rainforests. For a well-rounded experience, a 2 day Great Ocean Road tour or an extended 3 day Great Ocean Road tour is the perfect balance of discovery and chill.
FAQs
How long does it take to drive the Great Ocean Road?
A full day or several days, depending on stops at places like London Bridge or Triplet Falls.
Are guided tours suitable for families with kids?
Yes, many tours cater to families, with stops in the laid-back coastal towns of Apollo Bay and activities like surf lessons.
Is self-driving safe on the Great Ocean Road?
Yes, but be careful of coastal cliffs, beach goers and weather changes. Stop to rest and take in the views.
Can I hire a car in Melbourne?
Yes. Many agencies in the capital of Victoria have cars suitable for the main attractions like Apollo Bay Beach, London Arch and Griffiths Island.
With planning your trip on this road will be an adventure of a lifetime, with beautiful views, famous sights and rainforests.