Ride Tours 2 day Great Ocean Road Trip for 18-35 year olds

The Ride Tours 2-day Great Ocean Road Trip for 18-35 Year Olds offers an engaging and well-organized way to experience one of Australia’s most iconic coastal drives without the rush. Priced at $233.91 per person, this two-day adventure takes you through stunning vistas, wildlife encounters, and charming seaside towns, all while avoiding the crowds that often overwhelm the more popular day trips. With the added perks of included accommodation, meals, and a lively, youthful atmosphere, it’s a fantastic choice for travelers seeking both comfort and adventure.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances sightseeing with socializing — the small group size (max 20) makes it easy to connect, and the guides are praised for their energy, knowledge, and helpfulness. Another key feature that appeals is the itinerary’s reverse route, which helps you avoid the busy crowds and gives a more relaxed, intimate experience of the coast’s top highlights.

A potential consideration is the physical demand involved — moderate fitness is recommended, especially for stops like the Grotto and Loch Ard Gorge. Also, the tour does not include lunch, so you’ll want to plan for that. But overall, this tour seems ideal for young travelers who want to see everything without the stress of planning or long lines.

If you’re in the 18-35 age bracket and looking for a mix of nature, wildlife, and vibrant local culture, this trip will serve you well. It’s especially suited for those who love a lively group atmosphere, enjoy wildlife spotting, and appreciate well-organized, value-packed trips.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Max 20 travelers, fostering a friendly, social vibe.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers all major highlights of the Great Ocean Road and surrounding attractions.
• Included Meals & Accommodation: Hassle-free, with dinner, breakfast, and a night at Australia’s only hostel with its own craft brewery.
• Avoids Crowds: Unique route direction minimizes the crush of day-trippers.
• Wildlife & Nature Focus: Opportunities to see kangaroos, koalas, and possibly whales.
• Good Value: For just over $200, you get lodging, meals, and multiple iconic sights.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Off: Setting Out from St Kilda

Your adventure kicks off early at 7:00 am in St Kilda, a lively Melbourne suburb famous for its pier, eclectic vibe, and seaside charm. The small group size ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd, and the vehicle is comfortable for the journey ahead. The guides, who consistently receive praise, are the backbone of this tour, offering expert commentary, good humor, and a genuine enthusiasm that keeps spirits high.

Day 1: Wildlife and Coastal Wonders

Your first stop is Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve, a sunken volcano teeming with Australian wildlife like kangaroos, emus, and koalas. The walk here is about an hour, giving ample time for wildlife sightings and photos. Many reviews highlight how guides actively look for koalas, making this a favorite among animal lovers. Sally even mentions, “While it was a bit cloudy, we still enjoyed the view,” emphasizing the resilience of wildlife spotting regardless of weather.

Next, your route takes you to Logan’s Beach. During winter, there’s a chance to see Southern Right Whales with their calves, a rare and special sight. Though only a 30-minute stop, it’s a significant highlight for whale enthusiasts, and the excitement in reviews shows this is often a memorable part of the trip.

Then, you’ll take a leisurely walk along the Bay of Martyrs in the Bay of Islands National Park. This stretch of pristine beach is perfect for a gentle stroll and soaking in the ocean views. It’s a quieter spot, giving you a chance to breathe and reflect on the coastal beauty.

The Grotto is next — a fascinating limestone formation that your guide will take you into, often described as the “Mermaids Love Pond” because of its enchanting appearance. The 30-minute visit allows for photos and a good look at the unique geological features.

Your day winds down with visits to London Bridge, Bay of Islands, and the Grotto, all within a short span, giving you plenty of time to appreciate the scenery and snap photos. Reviewers rave about how the route is planned to avoid the crowds, letting you enjoy each spot more peacefully.

Overnight at Sow & Piglets Guest House

The night is spent at Sow & Piglets, the only hostel in Australia with its own craft brewery. The 12-hour stay includes dinner (a buffet), breakfast, and the option of relaxing with a beer brewed on-site. Reviewers like Emily appreciate the great di and the chance to mingle with fellow travelers, making this an authentic, social experience. The hostel’s unique feature adds a fun twist, especially after days of sightseeing.

Day 2: Iconic Views and Historic Coastlines

The morning begins with a visit to the Twelve Apostles, arguably the most famous sight on the route. Watching the sunset or sunrise here is commonly praised — as Krystal shares, “it still takes my breath away,” even on repeat visits. You’ll have ample time to enjoy the vistas, take photos, and soak in the majesty of these towering limestone stacks.

Next, you’ll explore Loch Ard Gorge, a stunning bay with limestone cliffs and a poignant shipwreck story. The reviews mention how walking the beach surrounded by these cliffs offers a perfect blend of history and natural beauty.

A walk through Mait’s Rest, a cool temperate rain forest in the Otway National Park, offers a contrasting lush, green environment. The 40-minute guided walk highlights the region’s diverse plant life and forest ecology, which many reviews say adds depth to the trip.

Your afternoon is free in Apollo Bay, a lively seaside town. Travelers often enjoy local brews, Dooley’s Ice Cream, and a swim at the beach, all within an hour. It’s a perfect spot for lunch or a quick relax. The small-town vibe and local flavor are often cited as a highlight.

Afterward, the group visits Lorne Pier, where you might spot seals or stingrays in the shallows, adding a fun marine wildlife element. The final stretch along the coast includes scenic views of Bells Beach, home of the Rip Curl Pro surfing competition, and the final moments along the legendary Great Ocean Road itself.

Why This Tour Works for You

This 2-day trip offers excellent value for those who want to see the best of the Great Ocean Road without the hurried pace of many day tours. The inclusion of accommodation, dinners, and breakfasts simplifies planning and lets you focus on enjoying the scenery and company. The small group size nurtures a friendly environment, often leading to social bonds and shared stories.

The itinerary’s reverse route is a clever way to sidestep the busiest crowds, making each stop more peaceful and personal. Many reviews mention how the route planning enhances the experience, especially at the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge.

The fact that wildlife sightings are frequently highlighted — from koalas to whales — makes this trip particularly attractive for nature lovers. Plus, the guides’ reputation for enthusiasm and helpfulness means you’re in capable hands.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation: You’ll travel in a comfortable vehicle suited to small groups, making for a more intimate and flexible experience. The tour starts early at 7:00 am, giving you a head start before the crowds arrive.

Duration: Each day offers a perfect balance — enough time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed. The first day is packed with stops, while the second offers iconic sights like the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and the Otway Rainforest.

Meals & Accommodation: Included dinners and breakfasts take the hassle out of planning. The hostel stay at Sow & Piglets adds social fun and a local touch, especially with their craft brewery.

Physical Fitness: The tour is designed for those with moderate fitness. Some stops involve walking on uneven surfaces or steep paths, so be prepared for some light adventure.

Group Size: Limited to 20 travelers, which helps foster a friendly atmosphere and makes it easier for guides to tailor the experience.

Weather Considerations: Tours are weather-dependent; in poor weather, you might be offered alternative dates or a full refund.

Authentic Experiences and What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the guides, especially Cam and James, for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and friendliness. Many mention how these guides actively searched for wildlife and shared interesting stories, making the journey engaging and educational.

The sightseeing spots are described as breathtaking and peaceful because of the route planning, which minimizes the crowds. The wildlife encounters, from kangaroos and koalas in Tower Hill to potential whale sightings at Logan’s Beach, are frequently highlighted as memorable.

The quality of the hostel stay also receives praise — many appreciate the chance to relax in a local, social environment after a day of exploring. The inclusion of meals and a craft brewery at Sow & Piglets often earns high marks for value and ambiance.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re a young traveler eager for a fun, social atmosphere with a good mix of wildlife, scenic vistas, and local culture, this tour is a winner. It’s perfect if you want more than just a quick snapshot of the coast — two days allows you to enjoy the sights without feeling hurried.

It’s also suited for those comfortable with moderate physical activity and looking for value-packed experiences that include meals and accommodation. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, the small group setting makes it easy to meet people and share the adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention meeting new friends along the way, and the small group size fosters a friendly, communal atmosphere.

What’s included in the price?
Your tour includes accommodation at Sow & Piglets hostel, buffet dinner, breakfast, and coffee/tea. Entry tickets to the stops are included, but lunch is not.

How physically demanding is this tour?
It requires a moderate level of fitness. Stops like the Grotto, Loch Ard Gorge, and Mait’s Rest involve walking on uneven or sometimes steep terrain.

What is the route’s advantage?
By traveling in the opposite direction of most other tours, it helps you avoid crowded spots during peak times, leading to a more relaxed experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. In case of poor weather, you might be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the experience suitable for people under 18?
No, the tour is designed for travelers aged 18-35.

In summary, this Ride Tours 2-day Great Ocean Road experience offers an excellent balance of scenic beauty, wildlife, social interaction, and convenience. It’s particularly suitable for young explorers eager to see the coast at a relaxed pace, with the comfort of included meals and a lively, friendly group. With consistently glowing reviews and a well-thought-out itinerary, it’s a memorable way to experience one of Australia’s most spectacular coastlines.