Guidelines for a Killer Road Trip on the Great Ocean Road

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Do you love all things ocean? Take a road trip on the Great Ocean Road. Sit back and enjoy the scenery in your custom tour or follow one of our tour ideas. Depending on how much time you have and what you want to see riding along this historic road will give you plenty of things to do. Our coach charter tours are a fantastic way to see the area and our drivers are usually happy to share their local knowledge and ensure that you have a great time.

Bells Beach

Bells Beach is a world renowned beach known for surfing. The Rip Curl Pro is held annually at Bells, typically in mid to late April, but as anyone knows who follows surfing, dates move with the tides. Whether there is a competition or not you can still catch sight of pro and amateur surfers alike surfing the waves at Bells Beach. If you are feeling particularly adventurous you can catch a wave yourself. There is more than enough room in our mini coaches for your surfboards, just let us know when you book how many boards you have and the longest one and we will make sure we bring the right minibus.

During low tide fishing is possible at Bells Beach on either end of the reef, if you prefer poles to boards, be sure and bring your fishing gear and perhaps you can catch your dinner?

The beach at Bells Beach is quite small, the sandy area gives way to dramatic cliffs and makes for some truly killer views. There are fabulous picture opportunities at the Memorial Arch (Eastern View). You will want to have your camera ready at all times. You never know when the perfect photo opp will present itself.

Anglesea

Travel a little passed Bells Beach and find yourself in Anglesea, a delightful little beach town. Enjoy breakfast at the The Deck Cafe & Bar at Anglesea Surf Life Saving Club. The Deck overlooks the coastline with amazing views. Watch the surfers, enjoy the world class food, and enjoy the vintage artwork reflecting the beach as it once was.

Kennett River

Further along the coast is a coastal town on the banks of the Kennett River. Where the river meets the sea. Keep your eyes peeled for all the wildlife you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of. Koala’s have their homes in this area, however are generally nocturnal so you will have to keep a close eye on anything that moves. There are a myriad of birds to be spotted along the walking trails. King Parrots, Lorikeets, Rosellas, the famous Kookaburras, and ducks. During the quieter times of year Wallabies venture down to graze on the grass, if you see one be very quiet, not many people get to.

Lunch in Apollo Bay

The beach setting of Apollo Bay with it’s harbour full of fishing boats is a wonderful place to stop for lunch along the Great Ocean Road. This small town has a number of of fabulous Australian chefs serving up Australian fare infused with Thai and Chinese flair, Mediterranean cuisine inspired by Italy, Spain and Greece, and and of course The Vista which specialises in seafood coming right off the local fleet of fishing boats. There are a number of pubs, cafes, fine dining, and takeaway options to suit all tastes. Check out the complete list of dining options for Apollo Bay from The International by Comfort Inn.

Stroll through the Rainforest to work off Lunch

From Apollo Bay you can make your way inland to the Maits Rest Rainforest Walk. This gentle 1km walk takes about half an hour allowing time to enjoy the majesty of the surrounding rainforest. Marvel at the National Trust registered Myrtle Beech tree that is over 300 years old. The sheer size of some of these trees will blow you away.

You may also get to see Australia’s own Black Otways Carnivorous Snail which makes its home in the rainforest. Watch a snail chase down a worm!

Visit Australia’s Most Famous Shipwreck Loch Ard

The Loch Ard ship sank off the coast of Victoria on it’s way from Britain to Melbourne in 1878. Loch Ard Gorge is the place where the only two survivors of the shipwreck made it to shore. Experience the towering limestone cliffs as you hear the stories of the shipwreck, the survivors and what became of the cargo intended for delivery one and a half centuries ago.

London Bridge is Falling Down

In 1990 the famous London Bridge in Victoria came crashing down after standing for thousands of years. The natural bridge even though collapsed still makes for some amazing photos.

Tour the Great Ocean Road with Transport Network Australia

A road trip along the Great Ocean Road is an experience not to be missed. To take full advantage of all the sites book bus or coach charter to take care of all your transport needs. Let our logistics staff know how many people you have and when you want to hit the road and we will work out the details for you. Create your own custom Great Ocean Road Tour or use our guidelines and modify it to suit your wants and needs. We are happy to make suggestions for your perfect road trip.