Can you do the Great Ocean Road in one day?

It is possible to drive the Great Ocean Road in one day; however, it is not recommended. The Great Ocean Road is approximately 243 kilometres (151 miles) long, and the entire route’s driving time can vary depending on traffic and road conditions. Still, it typically takes around 5-6 hours to drive without making any stops. However, the Great Ocean Road offers some of the world’s most scenic views, and it’s a shame to rush through it.

Additionally, many attractions along the way are worth stopping to see, such as the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, The Grotto, and Cape Otway Lighthouse, among others. These attractions take time to explore and appreciate. Therefore, planning for a full day or even a few days is best to experience the Great Ocean Road fully. This will allow you to take your time and enjoy the scenery, attractions and stop along the way, and have enough time to enjoy the small towns and villages along the route and indulge in the delicious local seafood and wine.

Here are some of the top things to do along the Great Ocean Road:

1. Visit the Twelve Apostles: The Twelve Apostles are one of the most famous attractions along the Great Ocean Road. These limestone stacks result from erosion and constantly change due to the sea. Visitors can take a tour to get close to the stacks or view them from a helicopter or sea kayak.
2. Explore the Great Otway National Park: This national park offers a wide range of activities for visitors, including hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting. The park is home to many plants and animals, including kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, and over 200 bird species.
3. Visit the Cape Otway Lighthouse: This historic lighthouse is the oldest surviving lighthouse in mainland Australia and offers visitors a glimpse into the past and great views of the surrounding landscape.
4. Take a Surf Lesson: The Great Ocean Road is known for its excellent surf conditions, and visitors can take a surf lesson at one of the many surf schools along the way.
5. Go on a Wildlife Tour: Visitors can spot various native animals along the Great Ocean Road, including kangaroos, koalas, and various bird species. Wildlife tours are available to help visitors spot these animals in their natural habitat.
6. Visit Local Wineries and Breweries: The Great Ocean Road region is known for its delicious seafood and wine, with many local wineries and breweries to choose from. Visitors can indulge in local flavours and take a tour of the facilities.
7. Visit the Warrnambool’s Marine Sanctuary: The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of marine life, including penguins, seals, and dolphins. Visitors can take a boat tour to spot these animals in their natural habitat.
8. Take a scenic drive: The Great Ocean Road is one of the most scenic drives in the world, and visitors can take in the beautiful views from the comfort of their car or motorbike.
9. Experience Indigenous Culture: The Great Ocean Road is an important cultural site for the local indigenous people; visitors can learn about the history and culture of the local Jardwadjali and Djab Wurrung people at the Brambuk Aboriginal Cultural Centre.
10. Relax on the beach: The Great Ocean Road is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities.