Australia — Melbourne
Walk Australia's Great Ocean Walk, a 104km coastal odyssey through Victoria's rugged wilderness. This moderate, 8-day route winds from Apollo Bay to the iconic Twelve Apostles, traversing Gadubanud country. Expect dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and ancient eucalyptus forests along this spectacular shipwreck coast.
Distance: 104.0 km
Elevation Gain: 3500 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 8 days
The Great Ocean Walk is Australia’s iconic long-distance coastal trail, stretching 104 kilometres along the rugged and spectacular shipwreck coast of Victoria. Traversing the traditional lands of the Gadubanud people, the walk begins in the charming seaside town of Apollo Bay and weaves its way westward to the world-renowned Twelve Apostles. Unlike the Great Ocean Road, which clings to the cliffs for motorists, the Great Ocean Walk takes hikers deep into the heart of the Great Otway National Park and the Port Campbell National Park, offering access to remote beaches, hidden shipwrecks, and ancient rainforests that remain invisible from the bitumen. This is a journey of immense geological scale, where the relentless Southern Ocean has carved a landscape of towering limestone stacks, sheer cliffs, and sweeping sandy bays.
Over the course of eight days, walkers experience a profound transition in ecology and atmosphere. The journey begins under the canopy of tall mountain grey gums and lush tree ferns, eventually emerging onto windswept heathlands and dramatic clifftops where the salt spray of the Antarctic-born swells hangs heavy in the air. The trail is designed to be flexible, allowing for short day-walks or the full end-to-end experience, with purpose-built hike-in campsites situated at strategic intervals. It is a walk that demands a moderate level of fitness but rewards the traveller with some of the most photographed and awe-inspiring coastal scenery on the planet. From the koalas of Cape Otway to the haunting history of the Loch Ard Gorge, the Great Ocean Walk is a masterclass in Australian natural beauty and maritime heritage.
The Great Ocean Walk is often described as a "step-by-step" revelation of the Victorian coastline. While the Great Ocean Road is famous for its driving views, the walk provides a much more intimate and visceral connection to the landscape. The trail was officially opened in 2004 and has since become a bucket-list destination for international and domestic hikers alike. It is not a wilderness track in the purest sense—you are rarely more than a few kilometres from the road—but the clever routing ensures a sense of profound isolation. You will find yourself standing on deserted beaches like Milanesia or Ryan’s Den, where the only footprints in the sand are your own, and the only sound is the rhythmic thundering of the Southern Ocean.
The walk is divided into sections that vary significantly in character. The eastern end, near Apollo Bay and Elliot Ridge, is defined by the wet sclerophyll forests of the Otways. Here, the air is cool and damp, and the scent of eucalyptus is pervasive. As you move west towards Cape Otway, the forest thins into coastal scrub and heathland, providing expansive views of the Bass Strait. The central section, around Johanna Beach and Milanesia, is arguably the most challenging, featuring significant elevation changes as the trail climbs over high ridges and drops down to sea level. The final stretch towards the Twelve Apostles is a dramatic finale, where the limestone plateau has been eroded into the iconic stacks that rise like sentinels from the sea.
Wildlife is a constant companion on the Great Ocean Walk. It is almost a guarantee that you will spot koalas wedged into the forks of manna gums around Cape Otway. Eastern grey kangaroos are frequently seen grazing in the clearings at dawn and dusk, while echidnas often forage in the leaf litter beside the track. For birdwatchers, the region is a paradise, home to the vibrant crimson rosella, the elusive ground parrot, and the majestic white-bellied sea eagle. Between June and October, the walk also serves as a prime vantage point for whale watching, as southern right whales and humpbacks migrate along the coast to their breeding grounds.
The Great Ocean Walk traverses the traditional country of the Gadubanud (King Parrot) people of the Maar nation. For thousands of years, the Gadubanud lived as coastal specialists, utilising the rich resources of both the rainforest and the sea. Evidence of their long occupation is scattered throughout the walk in the form of shell middens—ancient mounds of discarded abalone, mussel, and oyster shells—found in the dunes and clifftops. These sites are of immense cultural significance and are protected by law; walkers are reminded to view them with respect and never disturb the ground. The Gadubanud people maintained a complex relationship with the land, using fire to manage the heathlands and creating pathways that the modern trail often follows.
European history in the region is inextricably linked to the "Shipwreck Coast." During the 19th century, the Bass Strait was a treacherous gateway for immigrant ships bound for Melbourne. The combination of unpredictable Southern Ocean storms, jagged limestone reefs, and the lack of navigational lights led to hundreds of maritime disasters. The Great Ocean Walk passes several sites of these tragedies. At Wreck Beach, the anchors of the *Marie Gabrielle* (1869) and the *Fiji* (1891) are still embedded in the rock platform, visible at low tide as rusted monuments to the power of the sea. The Cape Otway Lighthouse, built in 1848, was the first sight of land for many immigrants after months at sea, and its history is a central pillar of the walk’s narrative.
The construction of the Great Ocean Road itself, built by returned soldiers after World War I as a memorial to their fallen comrades, also looms large in the local history. While the walk is a newer addition, it honours this spirit of endurance and connection. The trail was developed by Parks Victoria to provide a sustainable way for people to experience the coastline without the environmental impact of increased vehicle traffic. Today, the walk stands as a bridge between the ancient indigenous heritage, the colonial maritime struggle, and the modern conservation movement.
Want more background? Read extended notes on history and cultural context → Learn more
The Great Ocean Walk is located in a temperate maritime climate, meaning weather can be highly unpredictable and can change within minutes. The "Roaring Forties"—strong westerly winds that circle the globe—hit this coastline directly, bringing moisture and wind from the Southern Ocean. Understanding the seasons is crucial for a successful trek.
Spring (September to November): This is arguably the best time to walk. The heathlands erupt in a spectacular display of wildflowers, including native orchids, wattles, and peas. The weather is generally mild, though spring showers are common. The waterfalls in the Otways are at their most impressive after winter rains, and the birdlife is particularly active during the breeding season.
Summer (December to February): Summer offers the most stable weather and the best conditions for beach walking. However, temperatures can occasionally soar above 35 degrees Celsius, and the risk of bushfires is a serious consideration. Walkers must be prepared for intense UV radiation and carry significantly more water during these months. The trail is also at its busiest during the summer school holidays.
Autumn (March to May): Autumn brings stable, golden days with less wind than spring. The sea temperatures are at their warmest, making a quick dip in the ocean (where safe) more appealing. The light in autumn is particularly beautiful for photography, especially in the late afternoon over the Twelve Apostles. This is a popular time for experienced hikers seeking quieter trails.
Winter (June to August): Winter is for the hardy. While the temperatures rarely drop below freezing, the wind chill and persistent rain can make for challenging conditions. The track can become muddy and slippery, particularly in the forested sections. However, winter offers the best chance for whale spotting and the unique experience of seeing the Southern Ocean at its most wild and powerful. You will likely have the campsites to yourself, but you must have high-quality waterproof gear.
Day 1: Apollo Bay to Elliot Ridge
Day 2: Elliot Ridge to Blanket Bay
Day 3: Blanket Bay to Cape Otway
Day 4: Cape Otway to Aire River
Day 5: Aire River to Johanna Beach
Day 6: Johanna Beach to Ryan’s Den
Day 7: Ryan’s Den to Devils Kitchen
Day 8: Devils Kitchen to Twelve Apostles
Important Notes:
The Great Ocean Walk requires careful logistical planning, particularly regarding transport and campsite bookings. Most walkers base themselves in Melbourne, which is approximately a 3-hour drive or a 4-hour public transport journey from the start point in Apollo Bay. It is highly recommended to spend a night in Apollo Bay before starting to ensure an early departure on Day 1. The town has full services, including supermarkets, outdoor stores, and pharmacies, making it the ideal place for a final gear check and food resupply.
Fitness is a key consideration. While the trail is well-marked and maintained, walking 10 to 16 kilometres a day with a full pack (15–20 kg) is physically demanding. The sections between Johanna Beach and Ryan’s Den are particularly steep. Training with a weighted pack on varied terrain in the weeks leading up to the walk is strongly advised. Additionally, you must coordinate your finish at the Twelve Apostles. There is no public transport directly from the Apostles back to Apollo Bay; you will need to pre-book a private shuttle or arrange for a friend to pick you up. Some walkers choose to park their car at the end and take a shuttle to the start.
There are seven dedicated hike-in campsites along the Great Ocean Walk: Elliot Ridge, Blanket Bay, Cape Otway, Aire River, Johanna Beach, Ryan’s Den, and Devils Kitchen. These sites are for the exclusive use of walkers and must be booked in advance through the Parks Victoria website. Each site features a limited number of individual tent pads (usually 8 to 12 per site).
Campsite Facilities:
What Campsites Don't Provide:
Booking Requirements:
While you do not need a "permit" to walk the trail as a day hiker, any overnight stay requires a confirmed campsite booking. This booking acts as your permit. Parks Victoria rangers frequently patrol the campsites and the trail to check for valid bookings. You should carry a printed copy of your booking confirmation or have a digital version saved on your phone (though batteries can fail).
Booking Process:
Group Sizes:
Seasonal Availability: The trail and campsites are open year-round. However, during periods of extreme fire danger, the National Park may be closed entirely. It is your responsibility to check the "Change of Conditions" or "Alerts" section of the Parks Victoria website before you set off. If the park is closed due to fire risk, all bookings for that period are typically cancelled and refunded.
Detailed route notes, maps, logistics & tips for the Great Ocean Walk (PDF).
Precisely traced GPX for the Great Ocean Walk, ready for your GPS or favourite mapping app.
The Great Ocean Road region is a major tourism hub, and there are plenty of ways to supplement your walk or relax afterwards:
Tides and Ocean Safety: This is the most critical safety factor on the Great Ocean Walk. Several sections of the trail offer a choice between a beach route and an inland clifftop route. Beach routes (such as Wreck Beach or Johanna Beach) can become impassable and extremely dangerous at high tide or during heavy seas. Always check the tide charts before starting your day. If in doubt, take the inland route. Never attempt to "race" the tide around a headland.
Bushfire Risk: The walk passes through fire-prone vegetation. During the summer months, "Total Fire Ban" days are common. On these days, no fires of any kind (including gas stoves) are permitted. In "Extreme" or "Catastrophic" fire weather, the park will be closed. Always have a "Bushfire Survival Plan" and know your escape routes to the nearest beach or cleared area.
Snake Safety: Tiger snakes and Lowland Copperheads are common in the Otways and along the coast. They are venomous but generally shy. Wear gaiters, stay on the path, and watch where you step, especially in long grass or near water. If you encounter a snake, stop, remain calm, and allow it to move away. Carry a dedicated snake bite kit and know how to apply a pressure immobilisation bandage.
Cliffs and Erosion: The limestone cliffs are inherently unstable. Stay well back from the edges, as undercut sections can collapse without warning. Always stick to the marked trail and obey all safety signage, particularly around the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge.
Weather Extremes: Hypothermia is a risk even in summer if you are caught in a cold Southern Ocean storm without adequate gear. Conversely, heat exhaustion is a threat on the exposed clifftop sections. Carry at least 3 litres of water on hot days and wear appropriate clothing.
Emergency Communication: Mobile coverage is unreliable. It is highly recommended to carry a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or a satellite communication device (like a Garmin inReach). In an emergency, dial 000 (or 112 from a mobile).
Rainbow Falls: Located between Cape Otway and Aire River, this is a short but steep detour from the main track. The falls are unique because the water trickles over a cliff face covered in lush green algae and moss, which, when hit by the sun, creates a shimmering rainbow effect. The rock here is "tufa"—a form of limestone created by the mineral-rich spring water.
Wreck Beach Anchors: A must-visit for history buffs. At the base of a long staircase near Devils Kitchen, you can walk out onto the rock platform at low tide to see the massive rusted anchors of the *Marie Gabrielle* and the *Fiji*. It is a sobering reminder of the "Shipwreck Coast" and the lives lost in these waters.
The Gables Lookout: This lookout provides one of the most dramatic vistas on the walk. Standing on a platform perched 130 metres above the ocean, you look out over the Great Ocean Road Marine Sanctuary. It is one of the best spots for whale watching during the winter months.
Loch Ard Gorge: While technically at the very end of the walk (near the Twelve Apostles), it is worth spending extra time here. Explore the "Razorback" formation, the "Island Archway," and the beach where the only two survivors of the *Loch Ard* shipwreck washed ashore in 1878. The storytelling at this site is exceptional.
Parker Inlet: A tranquil and beautiful spot where the Parker River meets the sea. It’s a great place for a break, with rock pools to explore and a sheltered beach that feels worlds away from the rugged cliffs nearby.
The Great Ocean Walk passes through fragile ecosystems that are under constant pressure from tourism and climate change. As a walker, you have a responsibility to minimise your impact so that future generations can enjoy this pristine coastline.
The Seven Principles:
By following these principles, you help protect the biodiversity of the Great Otway National Park and ensure the Great Ocean Walk remains a world-class hiking destination.
