Victoria | Family-Friendly Great Ocean Road Itinerary

Planning on tackling this iconic road trip along one of Australia’s most scenic coastal routes? This 7-day travel itinerary is perfect for an adventurous young family eager to experience a campervan or motorhome journey between Melbourne and Port Fairy. From planning tips to all the must-see stops along the way, this travel itinerary has you covered with plenty of family-fun along the Great Ocean Road. 

• Route: Melbourne to Port Fairy (Great Ocean Road) and return 

• Best time of year: September to May 

• Highlights: Twelve Apostles, wild koalas at Kennett River, beaches, waterfalls, and charming coastal towns 

• Total km: One way (Melbourne to Port Fairy) ~290 km; Round trip (including scenic inland return option) ~600 km 

• Number of days: 7 days 

Day 1: Melbourne to Torquay

Distance: 100 km 
Drive Time: ~1.5 hrs 

After collecting your camper from the Apollo Melbourne branch, we recommend heading to a local grocery store to stock up on all your supplies for the week. Then, once you’re set, it's time to head southwest. The drive from Melbourne to Torquay is short and sweet, gradually swapping urban sights for coastal views. 

Where to stop between Melbourne and Torquay

• Bells Beach – Famous for its powerful surf break, this stunning beach also offers a short scenic walk along clifftop paths. Even if you’re not keen on surfing, it’s a great place to let the kids stretch their legs and try to spot surfers. 

Best things to do in Torquay

• Torquay Surf World Museum – This museum is a one-of-a-kind, sharing the unique story of Australia’s surfing culture. The interactive exhibits are a great way to keep younger travellers entertained. 

• Torquay Foreshore & Shops – Whether you need groceries, beach gear, or a quick snack, Torquay’s main strip is your go-to. It’s also a good chance to pick up last-minute road trip essentials and let the kids enjoy a quick paddle at the beach. 

Where to stay in Torquay

Torquay Foreshore Caravan Park – Conveniently located near the ocean, this caravan park is a popular choice for families, with a playground and jumping pillow. 

Image: Visit Victoria

Day 2: Torquay to Lorne

 Distance: 47 km 
Drive Time: ~1 hr 

This section of your Great Ocean Road trip is where the scenery really starts to impress. On this section of the Great Ocean Road, you can look forward to winding cliffside roads with panoramic ocean views—perfect for some family photos, so keep your camera charged and at the ready! 

Where to stop between Torquay and Lorne

• Memorial Arch at Eastern View – Snap a quick photo beneath this landmark. It’s an iconic point marking the start of your Great Ocean Road itinerary. 

• Aireys Inlet & Split Point Lighthouse – Pack a picnic and let the kids explore nearby trails. The short walks around the lighthouse offer beautiful glimpses of the coastline. 

Best things to do in Lorne

• Erskine Falls – A short drive from Lorne’s town centre, treat the whole family to a gentle bushwalk leading to the picturesque Erskine Falls. Keep an eye out for local birdlife, especially around the lookout area. 

• Teddy's Lookout – Just a short drive from Lorne, this easily accessible walking path leads to one of the region's most popular viewpoints with stunning panoramic views overlooking where the St George River meets the ocean. 

Where to stay in Lorne

Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park is set among trees and close to the beach, making it a welcoming spot for families. If you’re searching for Great Ocean Road's best places to park your campervan hire, Lorne is a lovely option with easy access to shops, cafes, and plenty of natural attractions. 

Day 3: Lorne to Apollo Bay

Distance: 45 km 

Drive Time: ~1 hr 

Leaving Lorne behind, you’ll continue along a stunning 45 km stretch of the Great Ocean Road. This region highlights lush rainforest pockets, rugged cliffs, and sweeping ocean vistas—so keep your eyes peeled for wildlife; you might spot koalas or colourful parrots as you wind your way toward Apollo Bay. This town is also the starting point of the scenic Great Ocean Walk, which features both full-length hikes and family-friendly day hikes. 

Where to stop between Lorne and Apollo Bay

• Great Otway National Park – This expansive park is known for its thick rainforest, cascading waterfalls, and various bushwalking trails. Families often enjoy exploring shorter walks among towering trees. 

• Kennett River Koala Walk – One of the most exciting Great Ocean Road attractions for kids, this Great Ocean Road trip stop lets you see koalas in their natural habitat. Keep your camera ready—these sleepy creatures are often found perched high in the gum trees. 

Best things to do in Apollo Bay

• Apollo Bay Beach – This curved sandy shore is known for gentle waves, making it safer for young swimmers. Let the children build sandcastles while you soak up the coastal scenery. 

Where to stay in Apollo Bay

Apollo Bay Holiday Park is conveniently located close to the beach and local eateries, making it easy to settle in with your camper or motorhome. It’s also a convenient base if you plan to explore more of the Great Otway region. 

Day 4: Apollo Bay to Port Campbell

Distance: 100 km 

Drive Time: ~2 hrs 

On day four of this Great Ocean Road itinerary, you’ll venture through the heart of the Great Otway National Park before reaching the dramatic coastline commonly referred to as the Shipwreck Coast. This 100-km journey delivers a mix of dense rainforest, towering cliffs, and some of Australia’s most photographed views, including the famous Twelve Apostles in Port Campbell National Park. 

Where to stop between Apollo Bay and Port Campbell

• Maits Rest Rainforest Walk – A short, stroller-friendly boardwalk that guides you through a lush rainforest canopy. It’s a peaceful break from the drive and a perfect chance for kids to spot ferns and ancient trees up close. 

• The Twelve Apostles – Possibly the most iconic sight on the entire Great Ocean Road, these towering limestone stacks are best viewed in the morning or late afternoon for beautiful lighting. There is a convenient car park available right near the Twelve Apostles, making it easy for visitors to access this stunning attraction. 

Best things to do in Port Campbell

• Gibson Steps – After taking in the views from above, head down the steps to the beach to really feel the scale of the cliffs. 

• Loch Ard Gorge, located nearby, is another breathtaking location that’s steeped in maritime history. 

Where to stay in Port Campbell

NRMA Port Campbell Holiday Park sits in a central spot with modern amenities and all the campervan essentials like water, power and a dump site. 

Day 5: Port Campbell to Warrnambool

Distance: 64 km 

Drive Time: ~1 hr 

Your next leg of this Great Ocean Road adventure is a short but memorable road-tripping experience along the Shipwreck Coast. Along this 64-km stretch, you’ll encounter fascinating rock formations carved out by ocean swells before reaching the coastal hub of Warrnambool, known for its whale-watching vantage points. 

Where to stop between Port Campbell and Warrnambool

• If you haven't already, stop by The Arch, London Bridge, and The Grotto before setting off. These are easily accessible from the highway and are perfect for taking short walks to scenic platforms to explore more of this iconic coastline. 

Best things to do in Warrnambool

• Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village – A living museum where you can delve into local maritime history, complete with re-enactments, historical buildings, and interactive displays. 

• Deep Blue Hot Springs – After days of coastal drives, treat yourself (and older children) to a relaxing dip in these geothermal pools for a restful break. 

Where to stay in Warrnambool  

Whether you’re in a campervan or motorhome, BIG4 Warrnambool Figtree Holiday Park offers clean facilities, a playground for kids, and easy access to the main attractions in town. 

Day 6: Warrnambool to Port Fairy

Distance: 29 km 
Drive Time: ~30 min 

Though short, the journey from Warrnambool to Port Fairy is packed with natural beauty. En route, you can detour through Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve, where kangaroos, emus, and even the occasional koala can be spotted in their natural habitats. Port Fairy itself is a historic fishing village with a relaxed vibe, ideal for families who want to slow down and appreciate the last leg of their Great Ocean Road itinerary 7-days experience. 

Where to stop between Warrnambool and Port Fairy

• Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve – Just outside Warrnambool, this reserve sits in a dormant volcano crater. Families love strolling its walking trails, spotting native animals, and learning about local Aboriginal culture. 

Best things to do in Port Fairy

• Griffiths Island & Lighthouse Walk – One of Port Fairy’s signature attractions, this scenic walk around Griffiths Island is well-known for sightings of fairy penguins. It’s a short loop, so younger children should find it manageable. 

• Port Fairy Beach & Wharf – If you’re wondering what beaches are good for kids on the Great Ocean Road, Port Fairy’s gentle waves often top the list. The nearby wharf is a great place for an afternoon stroll or to watch boats come and go. 

Where to stay in Port Fairy

BIG4 Port Fairy Holiday Park is equipped with spacious sites and plenty of family-friendly amenities, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing evening after a busy day of exploring. 

Day 7: Port Fairy to Melbourne

Distance: 290 km 
Drive Time: ~4 hrs (or return via inland route) 

On the final leg of your Great Ocean Road itinerary, you’ll slowly wind your way from Port Fairy back to Melbourne. The direct route along the Princes Highway spans roughly 290 km, taking around four hours. If you prefer more variety, consider an inland detour through the Grampians National Park, where you can admire impressive mountain peaks and learn about Indigenous culture, or stop in Ballarat to experience a taste of gold-rush history. 

Where to stop between Port Fairy and Melbourne

• Grampians National Park – A worthwhile detour if you have a day or two to spare. Family-friendly hiking trails, scenic lookouts, and rich cultural heritage make it a fun stop for adventurous travellers. 

• Ballarat – Sovereign Hill – Step back in time at this interactive gold-mining museum. Kids can pan for gold, watch candle-making demonstrations, and learn about 1850s colonial life before continuing your road trip to Melbourne. 

Once you arrive in the city, you can drop off your camper or motorhome at the Apollo branch or continue exploring the region at your leisure. If you’re keen to see more of the city, check out family-friendly things to do in Melbourne and be sure to check out the best family-friendly holiday parks in Melbourne. If you want to continue exploring more of the state, be sure to check out our full guide to the top family-friendly things to do in Victoria. 

Image: Visit Victoria

Planning your Great Ocean Road trip with a campervan 

A campervan hire or motorhome rental is, hands down, the best way to experience all the sights, sounds, and family-friendly activities along the Great Ocean Road. Road trips offer the adventure and freedom to explore this picturesque region of Australia, allowing you to adapt your schedule—perfect for families with young children who appreciate flexible nap times and the freedom to stop whenever a scenic lookout beckons. 

Whether you’re preparing for a laid-back one-week excursion or looking to explore shorter highlights, here’s what you need to know before you start planning: 

How many days do you need for the Great Ocean Road?

Some visitors manage a whirlwind Great Ocean Road in 2 days (or 3 days), packing in all the major stops and a few longer driving days. While this can cover the highlights, it will likely feel rushed, especially if you want to stop for walks, wildlife viewing, and beach playtime with the kids.  

This is why a Great Ocean Road itinerary in 7 days is perfect for families or first-time travellers who want a more relaxed pace. Spreading the journey over a week ensures you can spend quality time at each destination without feeling the pressure to move on too quickly. 

What month is best for Great Ocean Road travel?

From September to November and April to June, you will experience milder temperatures that will allow you to explore beaches, waterfalls, and outdoor attractions without battling the cold or extreme summer heat (and crowds!). School holiday periods can be busier, so book early if you’re travelling during this time. For further guidance on when to travel, see the best time to visit Victoria. 

What are the Great Ocean Road’s best places?

Curious about which spots are ideal for kids, scenery, or both? Here are a few top picks: 

• For Families: 

• Apollo Bay – Calm beaches and a relaxed vibe, with easy access to surrounding rainforests. 

• Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve – An exciting stop for kids eager to spot emus, kangaroos, and koalas in their natural habitat. 

• Port Fairy – A peaceful historic village known for its sheltered beaches and family-friendly walks. 

• For Scenery: 

• The Twelve Apostles – Iconic limestone stacks that are often the highlight of any great ocean road best places list. 

• Loch Ard Gorge – Dramatic cliff views and a sheltered beach cove perfect for a picnic. 

• Gibson Steps – A unique vantage point where you can walk down to the shoreline and see the towering cliffs from below. 

Tips for travelling along the Great Ocean Road with kids

We understand that road-tripping with kids requires a bit more preparation. To help, we have put together a list of our top tips for travelling with kids along the Great Ocean Road: 

• Look for attractions that offer interactive experiences, such as the Surf World Museum in Torquay or the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village in Warrnambool. 

• Pack plenty of snacks, drinks, and activities to keep the little ones occupied during the drive. 

• Consider downloading audiobooks or creating a playlist of their favourite songs. 

• Frequent breaks are crucial, so plan to stop at scenic lookouts, playgrounds, and beaches where the kids can stretch their legs and burn off some energy. 

• Opt for holiday parks and campgrounds that offer family-friendly amenities like playgrounds, swimming pools, and BBQ areas. For these, we highly recommend booking in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure you have a comfortable place to stay each night. If you’re looking for more advice on holiday parks in the area, be sure to check out the best family-friendly campsites and holiday parks in Victoria. It can help you plan further stops or decide on special features for your kids, like playgrounds and barbeque areas. 

Ready to experience this iconic travel itinerary for yourself?

From sweeping coastal views to rainforest walks and charming seaside towns, there’s no shortage of scenic corners to discover on this route. Before setting off, be sure to download the thl Roadtrip App to get access to campsite searches, video tutorials, and more—everything you need to travel safely and confidently. 

Then, once you have your dates in mind, you can book your Apollo camper online and then pick it up from any Apollo branch to begin your family-friendly Great Ocean Road adventure.