The Great Ocean Road is one of those drives that lives up to the hype. Two hundred and forty-three kilometres of coastal drama: limestone cliffs, green hills rolling into the sea, and a ribbon of road that begs you to keep driving just one bend further.
But the magic of this trip isn’t just the scenery — it’s the places you pull over. Here’s our Boondock guide to where to camp, snack, spot wildlife, and paddle out.
Campsites Worth the Stay
Johanna Beach Campground (Parks Victoria)
Between Apollo Bay and the 12 Apostles, this beachside camp is as raw as it gets. No showers, no power, just sand dunes and surf. Fall asleep to the roar of the ocean. Book through Parks Victoria.
Cumberland River Holiday Park
Minutes from Lorne but feels like another world. The river curls through a valley of cliffs before spilling into the sea. A great mix of powered and unpowered sites with that wild, hidden-gem energy.
Princetown Recreation Reserve
Ten minutes from the 12 Apostles. Budget-friendly, community-run, and perfectly placed if you want to catch sunrise or sunset at the Apostles before the tour buses arrive.
Aire River West Campground
Nestled in the Otways. Wake up to kangaroos grazing by the river, and keep your eyes up — koalas love the gum trees here. A solid pick if you want a taste of the Great Ocean Walk.
/
Where to Stop for a Snack
Apollo Bay Bakery — Famous for its scallop pies. Yes, seafood in pastry, and yes, it works.
Lorne’s Bottle of Milk — Legendary burgers and milkshakes, the kind that hit perfectly after a swim.
The Kafe Koala, Kennett River — Coffee with a side of wild koala spotting. Check the eucalyptus trees just behind the café.
Where to See Koalas
Kennett River is the spot. Park near the Grey River Road turnoff, grab a coffee at Kafe Koala, and look up. You’ll often see koalas lounging in the gum trees, along with a riot of king parrots and cockatoos.
Best Surf Breaks
Bells Beach (Torquay) — The most famous break on the road, home of the Rip Curl Pro. World-class waves if you’re up for the challenge.
Winki Pop (next to Bells) — For the confident only. Powerful right-handers that reel down the point.
Johanna Beach — Wild, remote, and best for experienced surfers. When Bells is flat, locals head here.
Lorne & Apollo Bay — Great for learners, with more mellow waves and surf schools on hand.
Boondock Take
The Great Ocean Road is more than just a drive — it’s a patchwork of stops, campsites, and side adventures. Pull over often. Eat the pie. Scan the treetops. And if you’re packing a board, bring it. The coast will deliver.
