The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most beautiful drives, 243 km from Victoria’s southern coast. Famous for its coastal views, cliffs, surf beach and views, this is a must-do for any travel lover of Australia’s coast. Many people choose to do a Great Ocean Road tour so they don’t have to plan it all out. This stunning drive takes you through beautiful beaches, surf towns, coastal towns and historic towns full of beauty.
If you’re driving this stunning drive you may be wondering: where is the halfway point of the Great Ocean Road? Knowing the midpoint will help with your itinerary and make sure you have the right stops for rest, viewing platforms and sightseeing. Remember the best time of day to stop at major towns to get the panoramic views and unobstructed views of the coast.
Where is the Halfway Point?
The approximate halfway point of the Great Ocean Road is the lovely town of Port Campbell. 190kms from Melbourne and 80kms from Warrnambool Port Campbell is a quiet spot and a major town where you can stop to break, eat or stay overnight. It’s also home to some of the most famous attractions on this stretch of coast so it’s a must-stop on any Great Ocean Road tour. This spot has coastal views, beautiful beaches and access to the famous limestone cliffs that define this part of the coast.
A Bonus Stop
Port Campbell is not only a convenient stop but also a great spot to access some of the most famous and most photographed spots on the Great Ocean Road:
- The Twelve Apostles – One of Australia’s most famous natural rock formations, unobstructed views of the coast.
- Loch Ard Gorge – A beautiful cove with sandy beaches, steep history and native wildlife, named after a shipwreck that occurred in the late 1800s.
- Gibson Steps – A viewing platform with panoramic views and great views of the shoreline cliffs and ocean via steep steps.
- London Bridge – A natural rock arch that was once a land bridge before it collapsed in 1990 and left this dramatic rock formation.
- Many Lookouts – There are many lookouts around Port Campbell with views of the surf coast, wild beaches and shoreline cliffs.
- Whale Spotting – This is also a great spot for whale watching, with lookouts with ocean views.
Other Halfway Points
While Port Campbell is the most popular halfway point, other places along this beautiful drive are relatively central:
- Lavers Hill – A quiet coastal town in the Otway Ranges, perfect for those who want to explore the rainforest, the drive and walking trails of Great Otway National Park. Bird enthusiasts can also spot beautiful birds and tropical birds in this peaceful spot.
- Apollo Bay – A beautiful seaside town often considered the unofficial halfway point for those coming from Melbourne. It’s a nice stop for those who want to relax and read the guides on what to see. Many Great Ocean Road tours stop in Apollo Bay so you can experience the atmosphere. You can also do a return trip to inland routes for more inland scenery.
Plan Your Trip
Whether you’re driving the Great Ocean Road in one day or over multiple days, stopping at the halfway point is a must for a comfortable trip. If you have time constraints, consider staying overnight in Port Campbell to see the area at sunset when the views are at their best. Keep an eye out for Australian wildlife, including wild koalas and native animals along the way. Booking a Great Ocean Road tour will also help you not to miss any of the highlights. Lookout platforms along the way offer stunning views of the cliffs, a place to rest and many photo opportunities.
FAQ
Can I do the Great Ocean Road in a day?
Yes, but it’s recommended to do at least 2 days to enjoy the natural beauty, lookouts and historic towns without feeling rushed. A multi-day trip allows for scenic stops, spotting Australian wildlife, walking trails and beach time. If time is tight, book a Great Ocean Road tour to make the most of your time.
How long does it take from Melbourne to Port Campbell?
From Melbourne to Port Campbell is 3.5 to 4 hours without stops. However most people take longer as there are many roadside car parks for sightseeing, views, lookout platforms and waterfalls.
Is there accommodation in Port Campbell?
Yes, Port Campbell has a range of accommodation options, motels, hotels, holiday parks and budget options for the budget-conscious. Many Great Ocean Road tours offer multi-day packages that include accommodation in Port Campbell.
When is the best time to visit the Great Ocean Road?
Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March to May) are the best times to visit when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. Summer (December to February) is also popular but can be busy with tourists enjoying the natural beauty and surf towns along the way.
Are there petrol stations along the Great Ocean Road?
Yes, but they are spaced out so it’s best to fill up in the larger towns like Torquay, Apollo Bay or Port Campbell to avoid running out in the remote areas. Some Great Ocean Road tours include fuel stops as part of their itinerary to make the journey stress-free.
