Best Places to Stay on the Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most iconic road trips, with breathtaking ocean views, stunning coastline and Accommodation to suit all budgets. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious beachfront property, a cozy boutique hotel or a budget-friendly caravan park there’s something for everyone along this stretch of road. The road is packed with amazing views, beautiful beaches, famous landmarks and coastal attractions, so it’s an adventure you’ll never forget. If you’re short on time a Great Ocean Road day trip is also a great way to see some of the highlights.
Top Places to Stay
1. Torquay – The Gateway to the Great Ocean Road
Torquay is the starting point of the Great Ocean Road and is perfect for an overnight stay before you start your journey. This charming town has beautiful beaches, boutique shops and a foodie heaven with plenty of food options. Book your accommodations in advance especially during peak season. The town centre is full of fun activities and the nearby coastal walks have stunning ocean views. Many travelers choose to include Torquay in their Great Ocean Road trip to enjoy the surf beaches and the town vibes.
Recommended Stays:
- RACV Torquay Resort (Luxury, indoor pool and ocean views)
- Torquay Foreshore Caravan Park (Budget, beach camping and unpowered sites)
- The Sands Torquay (Mid-range, pool and outdoor deck)
2. Lorne – A Coastal Gem
Lorne is one of the most popular towns along the Great Ocean Road, famous for its walks, coastal tracks and beach. It’s a great choice for travelers who love the outdoors and the coastal attractions of a seaside town. The town centre is full of boutique shops, dining options and charming accommodations that make for a perfect escape. If you’re doing a Great Ocean Road day tour stop at Lorne for a meal and a walk along the beach is a must.
Recommended Stays:
- Mantra Lorne (Luxury, ocean views and private beach house feel)
- Grand Pacific Hotel (Mid-range, beautiful property and views)
- Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park (Budget, camping and equipped kitchen)
3. Wye River – A Hidden Gem for Nature Enthusiasts
Wye River is a small coastal town between Lorne and Apollo Bay, famous for its rugged coastline and quietness. This is the place to get away from it all with stunning views and beautiful beaches. If you’re on a Great Ocean Road tour, a quick stop in Wye River will give you breathtaking scenery and wildlife spotting.
Recommended Stays:
- Big4 Wye River Holiday Park (Luxury, beachfront property and private campgrounds)
- Wye Beach Hotel (Mid-range, outdoor deck and views)
- Wye River Campground (Budget, drop toilets and drinking water)
4. Apollo Bay – A Midpoint Stop with Views
Midway along this iconic route, Apollo Bay has views and is a peaceful retreat for travellers. This coastal town is a great base to explore the rugged coastline and surrounding natural landscapes. It’s also a great spot for beach camping and camping. For those on a Great Ocean Road tour from Melbourne, Apollo Bay is a great lunch stop with ocean views.
Recommended Stays:
- Seafarers Getaway (Luxury, ocean lookout)
- Comfort Inn The International (Mid-range, bedroom house and dining)
- Apollo Bay Eco YHA (Budget, camping style stay with camp kitchen)
5. Port Campbell – Close to the Twelve Apostles
If you want to see the Twelve Apostles at sunrise or sunset, staying in Port Campbell is a good option. This small but popular town is near to Loch Ard Gorge and London Arch so it’s a great base for exploring the main attractions along the coastal road. Many day-trippers to the Great Ocean Road stop here before heading back.
Recommended Stays:
- Southern Ocean Villas (Luxury, villas with bedrooms and acres of land)
- Port Campbell Parkview Motel & Apartments (Mid-range, right in the town centre)
- Port Campbell Hostel (Budget, camping and affordable accommodation)
6. Warrnambool – The Last Stop with History
Warrnambool is one of the bigger towns on the Great Ocean Road and a great place to finish your trip. It’s famous for whale watching, Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village and beautiful coastal views. Whether you want a boutique hotel, a campsite, or a beachfront property Warrnambool has it all.
Recommended Stays:
- Deep Blue Hotel & Hot Springs (Luxury, indoor pool and spa)
- Mid City Motel Warrnambool (Mid-range, bedroom cottages and food nearby)
- Warrnambool Holiday Park and Motel (Budget, camping with your favourite campsite)
Camping
For those who love the outdoors, there are plenty of camping spots along the coastal road, with all sorts of facilities. Whether you want beach camping, private campgrounds or unpowered sites, the Great Ocean Road has got you covered. If you’re on a Great Ocean Road day trip you may want to scope out some camping spots for a future longer stay.
Best Camping Spots:
- Johanna Beach Campground (Beach camping with ocean views)
- Aire River Campground (Remote camping with natural landscapes)
- Kennett River Holiday Park (Wildlife and rugged coastline)
Check for camping permits, camp tidy rules and drinking water access before you go. Booking in advance is recommended especially in peak season. Whether you want luxury, charm or budget camping the Great Ocean Road has all types of accommodation to enhance your trip along this stunning coastline.
FAQ
Where should I stay along the Great Ocean Road?
Lorne, Apollo Bay and Port Campbell are popular choices with a range of options from luxury resorts to budget camping.
Can I find budget options along the way?
Yes! There are hostels, motels and campgrounds galore. Great budget picks are Apollo Bay Eco YHA and Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park.
When should I book accommodation?
Spring (September–November) and autumn (March–May) are the best times for milder weather and fewer crowds. Book in advance during peak season.
Are there campsites along the Great Ocean Road?
Yes! There are many campgrounds including Johanna Beach and Aire River with powered and unpowered sites.
Can I do the Great Ocean Road in a day?
Yes, but a multi-day trip is recommended for the full experience. If you are short on time a Great Ocean Road day trip can hit the highlights – the Twelve Apostles and coastal towns.