The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most beautiful coastal drives, stretching 243 kilometres along the southeastern coast. It’s famous for its beaches, coastal views, rock formations and rainforests. This iconic drive has incredible ocean views, waterfalls and a beach community. The journey takes you through charming seaside towns, along impressive sections of coastline and into ancient rainforests filled with eucalyptus and giant ferns. Many visitors book Melbourne tour packages that include stops on this famous section of road. But where does the journey start and what’s the first stop on this epic drive?
The Starting Point: Torquay
The official start of the Great Ocean Road is the coastal town of Torquay, about 100 kilometres southwest of Melbourne, the largest city in Victoria. Known as Australia’s surfing capital, Torquay has famous surf beaches including Bells Beach and Jan Juc Beach. Visitors on the Great Ocean Road often start here, soaking up the surf culture before heading west along the coast. This pretty scenery makes it the perfect place to start your adventure, with surf shops, cafes and a laid-back beachy vibe setting the tone for the trip ahead.
Torquay is also the gateway to some lesser-known but equally stunning spots, including waterfalls hidden in rainforests. Whether you start your day with a surf or walk the local trails, Torquay is the perfect place to kick off one of Australia’s most iconic drives. Many visitors take a Great Ocean Road day trip from Melbourne which includes stops at Torquay, Bells Beach and other scenic spots.
First Major Stop: Bells Beach
While Torquay is the entrance to the Great Ocean Road, the first big stop for many visitors is Bells Beach. This world famous surf beach, just a short drive from Torquay, is famous for its big waves and annual Rip Curl Pro surf comp which attracts surfers from all over the world. Even if you’re not a surfer, the cliffs and ocean views are spectacular. Whether you’re looking for views or a beachy vibe, this is the perfect stop on your coastal drive. Bells Beach is also a great spot to see the tides change as the waves crash into the cliffs. If you’re looking for adventure the cliffs provide lookout points with views of the entire coastline. Keep an eye out for native birds flying over the ocean and if you’re lucky you might see dolphins or whales in the distance. If you’re on a day trip from Melbourne this is one of the best places to get up close and personal with the coastline.
Other Stopping Points
- Point Addis – A beautiful lookout with panoramic views, native birds and tide times to help plan your visit.
- Anglesea – A lovely seaside town with a wildlife headland, beachy vibe and impressive sections of coastline. Kangaroos can often be seen grazing near the golf course.
- Aireys Inlet & Split Point Lighthouse – A pretty stop with the iconic red-and-white lighthouse and stunning views of the entire coastline. Nearby you can find walking trails through tall rainforest and natural rock formations.
- Eucalyptus Trees & Ancient Rainforest – The inland roads around here offer access to rainforests with giant fern trees and sky-high rainforest. A bit of adventure here will lead to waterfalls hidden in the greenery.
- Waterfalls – A bit of waterfall chasing will lead you to waterfalls hidden in the rainforests of the area. This stretch of road has cascading water surrounded by thick foliage, a peaceful escape.
- Great Otway National Park – A stunning location with ancient rainforest, giant archways, worm caves and incredible wildlife, perfect for nature lovers.
- Coastal Views & Hidden Beaches – Along the way you’ll find beaches, dive spots and lovely spots to relax. The sections of road that hug the coast offer uninterrupted views of the Southern Ocean.
If you want to experience the region at its most magical take a Great Ocean Road Sunset Tour. This allows you to see the sun set over the Southern Ocean and watch the colours change on the cliffs and beaches.
The Twelve Apostles
No Great Ocean Road trip is complete without visiting the Twelve Apostles, one of Australia’s most famous natural landmarks. These limestone stacks rise dramatically out of the Southern Ocean and are an unforgettable sight. Whether you’re self-driving or on a Great Ocean Road day trip from Melbourne, the Twelve Apostles are an absolute must-see.
Conclusion
The Great Ocean Road is a road trip like no other and starting your journey in Torquay at Bells Beach is the perfect way to begin. Whether you like the views, rainforests or coastal driving this is a legendary route with loads of scenery and things to see.
FAQ
Where does the Great Ocean Road start?
Great Ocean Road starts in Torquay, Victoria, a beautifully coastal town with a fun community and surf vibe.
Is Bells Beach worth visiting if I don’t surf?
Yeah! Bells Beach has views, beaches, native birds and beach dwellers enjoying the waves. The views from the cliffs are stunning any time of day.
How far is Torquay from Melbourne?
Torquay is about 100 km from Melbourne, a 1.5-hour drive. The inland road has alternative routes with great views.
Can I see wildlife at the first stop on the Great Ocean Road?
Yes, you can see kangaroos in Anglesea, lake views, a natural bridge and more. The area is teeming with wildlife from native birds to beach dwellers.
What else can I do at the first stop on the Great Ocean Road?
Beyond surfing and sightseeing you can explore worm caves, a giant archway and even a dive spot for a bit of adventure. There are also walking trails that take you through the rainforest and past waterfalls.
Are there any good places to eat near the first stop?
Yeah! Torquay and Anglesea have heaps of great cafes and restaurants with fresh seafood, local produce and varied lunch menus.
