Best of Geelong
Great Ocean Road from Geelong: What to See on the World's Scenic Coastal Drive
The Great Ocean Road begins at Torquay, about 30 kilometres from Geelong CBD, making Geelong the natural base for exploring one of the world's most celebrated coastal drives. The road hugs the Victorian coastline southwest through Anglesea, Lorne, Apollo Bay and into the Otway rainforest before reaching the Twelve Apostles limestone stacks near Port Campbell. The drive from Geelong to the Twelve Apostles is approximately 240 kilometres one way, making a day trip from Geelong feasible but rushed; staying overnight in Lorne, Apollo Bay or the Otways is recommended for a more relaxed experience. Surf beaches, national park walks, koalas in the Otways, and the dramatic limestone coast are the highlights of the route.
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1
Torquay and Bells Beach
The start of the Great Ocean Road, 20 minutes from Geelong, Torquay is the global headquarters of the surf industry (Rip Curl, Quiksilver) and Bells Beach hosts the world's longest-running surf contest.
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Lorne
A charming seaside town 2 hours from Geelong with a well-regarded restaurant strip, a sheltered bay beach and the annual Pier to Pub ocean swim in January.
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Apollo Bay
A fishing village at the midpoint of the Great Ocean Road and the gateway to the Otway Ranges, with live music at the local pub and fresh seafood.
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Twelve Apostles
The iconic limestone stacks rising from the Southern Ocean, the most visited natural attraction in Victoria, 4 hours from Geelong via the Great Ocean Road.
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5
Cape Otway Lightstation
Australia's oldest surviving mainland lighthouse (1848), accessible on a 13km return walk through the Otway Ranges or by road for a modest entry fee.
More Best of Geelong
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- Bellarine Peninsula Guide: Wineries, Beaches and the Queenscliff Ferry
- Geelong Waterfront: Dining, Art and Eastern Beach
- Renting in Geelong: Suburbs, Costs and the Surf Coast Market
- Best Restaurants and Cafes in Geelong: Where to Eat in Victoria's Second City