Full Day Tour of Great Ocean Road and 12 Apostles from Melbourne

Experience the Best of the Great Ocean Road and the 12 Apostles in a Day

If you’re after a flexible, well-organized way to see some of Australia’s most breathtaking coastline, this full-day tour from Melbourne offers a fantastic option. For around $108 per person, you’ll spend approximately 12 hours exploring the rugged cliffs, lush rainforests, and iconic rock formations along the Great Ocean Road. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and key stops at all the major sights, this tour makes for a manageable and memorable day out.

Two standout features of this experience are the emphasis on wildlife encounters—particularly koalas and kookaburras—and the opportunity to appreciate the breathtaking scenery at each stop. We also appreciate how the tour handles the logistics, allowing you to relax and focus on soaking in the views and snapping photos.

One consideration is that you’ll need to handle your own meals and snacks, as lunch and refreshments are not included. The long day and early start might be tiring for some, but the well-paced stops and expert guides help make it worthwhile.

This tour best suits travelers who value expert commentary, want to see a variety of natural sights, and appreciate the flexibility of small-group experiences. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Australia, you’ll find this trip offers a solid introduction to the coast’s highlights.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covers the major highlights of the Great Ocean Road and nearby rainforests.
• Experienced guides who share engaging stories and local insights.
• Wildlife spotting opportunities for koalas, parrots, and other Aussie animals.
• Flexible meeting points in Melbourne for your convenience.
• Value for money with included national park fees and key attractions.
• Long but rewarding 12-hour journey perfect for those eager to explore.

The Route and What You’ll See

This tour packs a lot into a single day. Starting early at 6:30 am from Melbourne, the journey takes you along the famous Great Ocean Road, a scenic route hugging cliffs and coastline that showcase some of Australia’s most dramatic landscapes. The driver, who doubles as a guide, takes care of navigation and timing so you can relax and focus on the scenery.

Anglesea: A Perfect Coffee Break

Your first stop is the charming town of Anglesea, where you get about 30 minutes to stretch your legs and grab a coffee or breakfast (at your own expense). The reviews mention the scenic charm of this seaside town, which is a nice way to ease into the day and enjoy some fresh air before the sightseeing picks up.

The Great Ocean Road Memorial Archway

A quick 20-minute pause at the Memorial Arch offers a chance to admire this historic icon. This arch commemorates the soldiers who built the road after WWI, blending history with breathtaking views. It’s an ideal spot for photos and understanding the significance of this route in Australian history.

Coastal Scenery and Wildlife Encounters

The drive along the Great Ocean Road itself is about an hour, but you’ll want to keep your camera ready. The rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and sweeping vistas are truly spectacular. Travelers appreciate how the guide manages to find the perfect spots for photos, often avoiding the large bus crowds, making for a more intimate experience.

At Kennett River, about 20 minutes, you get a special chance to look for koalas among the eucalyptus trees—an experience praised by guests who say they loved seeing these iconic animals in their natural habitat. The colorful parrots, like lorikeets, are also common here, adding vibrant splashes of color to the landscape.

Exploring Apollo Bay and Mait’s Rest

Driving through Apollo Bay gives you a glimpse of a classic Australian coastal town—perfect for an Instagram shot or a quick browse through local shops. Then, a 30-minute walk through Mait’s Rest lets you experience lush rainforest scenery, ancient trees, and the soothing sounds of nature. Several reviews highlight this as a favorite stop, saying the greenery and wildlife make the walk worthwhile.

Otway National Park and Scenic Drives

Next, a scenic 30-minute drive through Otway National Park immerses you in ancient forests. The park is renowned for towering trees and tranquil settings. Guests consistently mention the tranquility and natural beauty, making it clear that this part of the tour offers a peaceful break from the coastal vistas.

A Lunch Break at Lavers Hill

Lavers Hill provides a one-hour window for lunch at a regional cafe—at your own expense. This stop offers a chance to refresh before the big highlight: the Twelve Apostles. The reviews note that this is a “long day,” but many agree it’s well worth the effort for the scenery and wildlife.

The Twelve Apostles: Iconic Limestone Stacks

No trip to the Great Ocean Road is complete without seeing the 12 Apostles. These towering limestone formations emerging from the ocean are awe-inspiring. The stop here lasts about 45 minutes, giving ample time for photos and marveling at their grandeur. Guests often mention how surreal it feels to stand at this iconic site, with some adding that the views are even more stunning in person.

Loch Ard Gorge and Gibson Steps

The final stops are Loch Ard Gorge and Gibson Steps—both captivating and steeped in history. Loch Ard Gorge, named after a shipwreck, features dramatic cliffs and a quiet beach that invites reflection. Many reviews highlight how this spot combines natural beauty with a sense of history. Gibson Steps allows visitors to descend the cliffs and walk onto a pristine beach, a favorite for photos and a chance to imagine how shipwrecked sailors once saw this coastline.

The Experience and Guide Quality

Across reviews, the guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer mentions that their guide, Darren, was “your man” for rainforest, wildlife, and scenic views, highlighting the personalized attention given to each traveler. Another remarks that Leah managed the group well, giving clear instructions and sounding enthusiastic about the wildlife and scenery.

Guests appreciate the small-group atmosphere—maximum of 21 travelers—which offers a more relaxed experience compared to large bus tours. The guides’ stories and attentiveness elevate the journey from just sightseeing to a memorable learning experience.

The Logistics and Value

The price of $107.97 includes all national park fees and entrance to key sites. This makes it a good value compared to self-organized trips, which might require renting a car, paying for parking, and planning numerous stops. The tour handles all logistics, freeing you from the hassle.

The long duration might seem daunting, but the carefully timed stops and expert guidance help prevent fatigue. Plus, the early start ensures you get as much daylight as possible for sightseeing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who crave a rundown of the coast, with expert narration and wildlife encounters. If you’re interested in iconic landmarks like the 12 Apostles, and want to see koalas, parrots, and rainforests all in one day, this is a perfect fit. It’s also ideal for those who prefer small groups for a more personal experience.

Final Thoughts

The Full Day Tour of the Great Ocean Road and 12 Apostles from Melbourne offers a well-rounded, enjoyable introduction to one of Australia’s most stunning regions. With knowledgeable guides, a well-organized itinerary, and plenty of opportunities for photos and wildlife viewing, it delivers excellent value for money.

While it’s a long day, the highlights—such as the towering limestone stacks, lush rainforests, and native animals—make every minute worthwhile. If you’re eager to see the best of the coast without the stress of planning, this tour strikes a winning balance of comfort, insight, and adventure.

This experience is best for those who want a thorough, guided look at the coast, enjoy nature and wildlife, and appreciate the convenience of a pre-arranged itinerary. It’s a great way to tick off Australia’s iconic sights in one memorable day.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, starting at 6:30 am from Melbourne and returning to the original meeting point.

Are meals included?
No, lunch, snacks, and beverages are not included. You will have a one-hour stop at Lavers Hill for lunch at your own expense.

How many people are on the tour?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 21 travelers, fostering a more intimate experience compared to larger bus groups.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is open to most travelers, and child seats for 4-7-year-olds are available upon request.

Do I need to prepare anything?
Bring your camera, comfortable clothing, and any snacks or drinks you prefer, since these are not included.

What are the meeting points?
You can choose from four convenient meeting and drop-off points in Melbourne—details are provided at booking.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
This specific information isn’t detailed, but most travelers will find the tour suitable. Contact the operator for exact accessibility options.

In the end, this full-day adventure offers a well-organized, insightful, and scenic journey suitable for travelers eager to explore Australia’s coast without the fuss of self-driving. Expect stunning views, wildlife sightings, and a knowledgeable guide to make your day memorable.