There is a huge list of things to do along the Great Ocean Road, including learning to surf, enjoying our beaches or bush walks, eating and drinking out at many quirky eateries. We recommend you download the Great Ocean Road Journey PDF (PDF, 876KB) to make your own check list for your adventure.
Unfortunately, no. There are many accommodation options for those on a budget, including the RV friendly 48 stop in Winchelsea plus many caravan parks and camping spots, each with their own set of requirements (some are even free!) Please take care to not damage any wildlife habitats or environments when visiting these precious places.
As you leave Torquay, the Great Ocean Road begins just as you cross over Spring Creek after the roundabout.
The Memorial Arch is located on the Great Ocean Road at Eastern View, just past Coalmine Creek. Its GPS coordinates are Lat: -38.47205, Long: 144.044708.
The Memorial Arch was built by returned WWI soldiers, then rebuilt after the 1983 bushfires and is a very important part of the Heritage of the Great Ocean Road.
Via the inland route, the trip is approximately 2 hours, but you would miss the stunning Great Ocean Road and its many activities on the way. From Torquay to the 12 Apostles via the Great Ocean Road, it usually takes 3-4 hours, so consider organising some accommodation for the night and making the most of your trip.
Please visit our Events Calendar for more information about events which will be on whilst you are within the Surf Coast Shire. Contact the event organisers for more information.
The Rip Curl Pro is undoubtedly the best time to watch surfing at Bells Beach. "The Pro" attracts World Class surfers and is the biggest and most highly competitive surfing competition in Australia. Go to Surfing Victoria for more information including entry prices.
There are many resources online to start planning your Surf Coast trip (see Tourism), but you can also visit our Visitor Information Centre when you arrive in Torquay, the gateway to the Great Ocean Road.