×
Great Ocean Walk

Australia🇦🇺 | hikesGreat Ocean Walksea stacks, coastal heath, shipwreck history, Southern Ocean | things to do and best time to go

Explore Cradle MountainExplore Heysen Trail

Backpacking in Great Ocean Walk
👍 Recommendedhike ranked #8
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated September 4, 2026

You have to choose: do you commit to the full Great Ocean Walk or cherry-pick the “postcard” day sections near the Twelve Apostles and call it done? That decision matters, because the magic here builds slowly, step after sandy, wind-blasted step. The Great Ocean Walk runs along Victoria’s southwest coast, roughly parallel to the Great Ocean Road, a half-day’s reach from Melbourne. It’s about 110 km of cliff tops, wild surf beaches, and quiet forest, with enough soft sand and short, punchy climbs to humble casual hikers. Public transport to the official start at Apollo Bay is workable but clunky compared with easier-access Aussie classics like the Overland Track or Grampians day hikes. The payoff: fewer crowds, more wallabies than people, and that first beer in Port Campbell tasting like you actually earned the view.

Discover everything you want to know in the 📖 Australia Travel Guide.
Best time to go: September - May
Duration: 8 days
Distance: 104 kilometers
Total ascent: 3,000 meters


Get your Australia guide
149 ranked highlights, routes & tips, works offline (544 pages)
Loading the map 🌍
CLICK TO FILTER
cities
towns
villages
landmarks
national parks
hikes
beaches
attractions
festivals
regions
SHOW COUNTRY’S BESTSHOW ALL
💡 Find me the best route

✨ Why go?
Ranked #8 hike in AustraliaThe unique appeal for travelers

The Great Ocean Walk is a magnet for backpackers craving a blend of challenge and reward. Stretching over 100 kilometers along Australia’s rugged coastline, it offers a scenery-to-effort ratio that’s hard to beat. You’ll trek through lush rainforests, past towering cliffs, and alongside sandy beaches that seem to stretch forever. Each step is a new vista, a fresh thrill.

Getting there is a breeze. Public transport options drop you right at the trailhead, making it accessible without a car. Plus, the low cost of camping along the way keeps your budget intact while you soak in the views.

What’s fantastic is the flexible distances; you can tackle it in sections or go all out. This adaptability means you can easily fit it into a longer backpacking route, adding a splash of adventure to your … read more 👉
The Great Ocean Walk is a magnet for backpackers craving a blend of challenge and reward. Stretching over 100 kilometers along Australia’s rugged coastline, it offers a scenery-to-effort ratio that’s hard to beat. You’ll trek through lush rainforests, past towering cliffs, and alongside sandy beaches that seem to stretch forever. Each step is a new vista, a fresh thrill.

Getting there is a breeze. Public transport options drop you right at the trailhead, making it accessible without a car. Plus, the low cost of camping along the way keeps your budget intact while you soak in the views.

What’s fantastic is the flexible distances; you can tackle it in sections or go all out. This adaptability means you can easily fit it into a longer backpacking route, adding a splash of adventure to your journey.

After a day of hiking, nothing beats that first cold beer at a local pub, savoring the satisfaction of your efforts against the backdrop of the Southern Ocean.
Want to include Great Ocean Walk in your Australia route?
Create a personalized Australia itinerary that includes Great Ocean Walk and the places that fit your trip — based on your travel style, budget, and available time. Get your route in seconds.

Generate my trip

💡 HighlightsThe experiences that define the visit

  1. Cape Otway Rainforest & Lighthouse — A rare mash-up of temperate rainforest that runs right down to wild coastline, with a historic 19th-century lightstation on top. You get ancient mossy gullies, easy koala sightings in the eucalyptus, and a slice of maritime history all within a few kilometres of the track.
  2. Blanket Bay & Johanna Beach — Long, empty surf beaches framed by towering cliffs and dramatic sand dunes. It feels properly remote: wind, surf, and some of the best sunset angles on the route—bring a windproof jacket and a camera that can handle spray.
  3. Bay of Islands Coastal Park — A less-crowded alternative to the usual postcard shots, this stretch is full of limestone stacks, arches and tidal platforms that change by the season. Great for close-up geology, quiet sunrise photography
… read more 👉
  1. Cape Otway Rainforest & Lighthouse — A rare mash-up of temperate rainforest that runs right down to wild coastline, with a historic 19th-century lightstation on top. You get ancient mossy gullies, easy koala sightings in the eucalyptus, and a slice of maritime history all within a few kilometres of the track.
  2. Blanket Bay & Johanna Beach — Long, empty surf beaches framed by towering cliffs and dramatic sand dunes. It feels properly remote: wind, surf, and some of the best sunset angles on the route—bring a windproof jacket and a camera that can handle spray.
  3. Bay of Islands Coastal Park — A less-crowded alternative to the usual postcard shots, this stretch is full of limestone stacks, arches and tidal platforms that change by the season. Great for close-up geology, quiet sunrise photography and watching seabirds wheel around the stacks.
  4. Moonlight Head & the Shipwreck Coast lookouts — The coastline here drops off in sheer, ancient cliffs with panoramic views that make you feel small in a good way. The area is littered with shipwreck history and dramatic erosion features—powerful scenery that reminds you why this stretch has its own name.
  5. The Twelve Apostles & Gibson Steps — The classic crescendo: towering limestone stacks rising from the Southern Ocean and the steep steps down to a beach-front view. It’s touristy for a reason—sunrise/sunset light on the stacks is cinematic—and the contrast to the quieter parts of the walk is part of the experience.
Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.

Things to do around Great Ocean Walk

Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary Boutique Tour - Max 12 Guests

Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary Boutique Tour - Max 12 Guests

4.9(4715) 12h
From €87
per personViator
Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary PREMIUM Tour - Max 12 Guests

Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary PREMIUM Tour - Max 12 Guests

4.9(790) 13h
From €100
per personViator
Walk with Wildlife: Guided Tour in Great Ocean Road

Walk with Wildlife: Guided Tour in Great Ocean Road

4.9(166) 1h 15m
From €37
per personViator
Learn to Surf at Torquay on the Great Ocean Road

Learn to Surf at Torquay on the Great Ocean Road

5.0(110) 2h
From €53
per personViator
Learn to Surf at Anglesea on the Great Ocean Road

Learn to Surf at Anglesea on the Great Ocean Road

4.9(108) 2h
From €53
per personViator
2-Hour Deep Blue Hot Springs in Warrnambool

2-Hour Deep Blue Hot Springs in Warrnambool

4.5(174) 2h
From €29
per personViator
2-Hour Private Surfing Lesson in Torquay

2-Hour Private Surfing Lesson in Torquay

5.0(75) 2h
From €116
per personViator
Learn to Surf at Lorne on the Great Ocean Road

Learn to Surf at Lorne on the Great Ocean Road

5.0(53) 2h
From €53
per personViator
Dusk Discovery Tour

Dusk Discovery Tour

5.0(38) 1h 30m
From €60
per personViator
Great Ocean Road Classic Tour 10 Stops & London Bridge Sunset

Great Ocean Road Classic Tour 10 Stops & London Bridge Sunset

4.3(45) 13h
From €52
per personViator

Ratings based on Tripadvisor reviews. When you book through this link, you support our work at no extra cost to you.

example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for Australia
example page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for Australia
example page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for Australia
example page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for Australia
example page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for Australia
example page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for Australia
example page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for Australia
example page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for Australia
Stop researching. Start exploring.
Discover all 149 highlights,ranked
and organized into practical routes.

Get instant access

🌤️ When to go?Seasonal considerations and timing


  • Weather: The best window is late spring to early autumn (October to April). Expect mild to warm days, around 15-25°C (59-77°F), with less chance of rain. Winter months bring cold, wet conditions that can turn trails muddy and slippery.

  • Temperature: Summer (December-February) heats up to 20-25°C (68-77°F), perfect for beach breaks but can get humid. Shoulder seasons offer cooler, more comfortable hiking temps, ideal for steady pacing without overheating.

  • Daylight Hours: Longer days from November to February mean up to 14-15 hours of light, giving you more time to cover ground and soak in views before dusk. Shorter winter days limit hiking time and can rush your pace.

  • Crowds: Peak summer draws tourists and weekend warriors, especially around popular spots like Apollo Bay. For quieter
… read more 👉

  • Weather: The best window is late spring to early autumn (October to April). Expect mild to warm days, around 15-25°C (59-77°F), with less chance of rain. Winter months bring cold, wet conditions that can turn trails muddy and slippery.

  • Temperature: Summer (December-February) heats up to 20-25°C (68-77°F), perfect for beach breaks but can get humid. Shoulder seasons offer cooler, more comfortable hiking temps, ideal for steady pacing without overheating.

  • Daylight Hours: Longer days from November to February mean up to 14-15 hours of light, giving you more time to cover ground and soak in views before dusk. Shorter winter days limit hiking time and can rush your pace.

  • Crowds: Peak summer draws tourists and weekend warriors, especially around popular spots like Apollo Bay. For quieter trails and campsites, aim for shoulder seasons when the buzz drops but conditions stay friendly.

  • Seasonal Activities: Spring and summer bring wildflowers and whale watching along the coast, adding extra layers to your trek. Autumn offers crisp air and fewer bugs, but fewer wildlife sightings.

  • Price Fluctuations: Accommodation and transport costs spike in summer and school holidays. Booking ahead during these times is essential. Off-peak months offer better deals but come with trade-offs in weather and daylight.


Pro-tip: Start your hike in late spring to catch blooming wildflowers, avoid the summer crush, and enjoy long, sunlit days that make every step feel earned and every view a reward.


source: climatestotravel.comJANJanuary: highly recommended for travelingFEBFebruary: highly recommended for travelingMARMarch: excellent for travelingAPRApril: excellent for travelingMAYMay: good for travelingJUNJune: fair for travelingJULJuly: below average for travelingAUGAugust: fair for travelingSEPSeptember: good for travelingOCTOctober: excellent for travelingNOVNovember: excellent for travelingDECDecember: highly recommended for traveling
Australia - the Great Ocean Walk

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutAustralia Travel Guide

An offline-friendly backpacking guide with optimized travel routes, ranked highlights, transport advice, and the best areas to stay.
example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for Australia
example page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for Australia
example page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for Australia
example page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for Australia
example page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for Australia
example page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for Australia
example page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for Australia
example page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for Australia
The digital guide (544 pages) contains:
✅ 149 highlights, ranked by travel appeal
✅ Optimized 14, 21 & 30-day travel routes
✅ Cities, national parks, landmarks, beaches
✅ How to get around
✅ Offline-friendly for travel without Wi-Fi
👉 Click to see all 30+ guide features

📅 Plan smarter in minutes, not weeks
✅ Month by month travel advice
✅ Festivals & national holidays
✅ Budget expectations

🗺️ Go to the right places, skip the overrated ones
✅ Honest pros & cons of destinations
✅ Top hikes, parks & viewpoints
✅ Lesser-known places most travelers miss
✅ Clear “worth it vs skip it” guidance

🛏️ Travel smoothly without rookie mistakes
✅ Best areas to stay
✅ Transport systems explained simply
✅ Common scams & safety advice
✅ SIM cards, money & practical tips

🌍 Understand the country, not just visit it
✅ Culture & traditions
✅ Local customs
✅ Festivals worth planning around
✅ Traveler-friendly historical context
✅ Insights that make places more meaningful

📱 Built for real travel conditions
✅ Fully downloadable PDF
✅ Works completely offline
✅ Optimized for phone use
✅ Useful in remote areas & buses
✅ Everything in one place
Save weeks of stressful planning
Get instant access to your full guide. 30‑day money-back guarantee.
+ Add another guide for just US$7.80

By proceeding you agree to our terms.
Sent to your inbox immediately after payment • 100% Secure Checkout
Best Backpacking Travel Advisor 2025 tourism awardBest Backpacking
Travel Advisor
2025
What others say about Take Your Backpack Guides:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fantastic, amazing amount of information!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My goodness this is amazing, it's what I've been looking for hats off too you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I think this is absolutely BRILLIANT
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Very complete and informative. It's still missing places, but I gotta to commend you
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is truly amazing, thank you, can't wait to explore it with my kids!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Awesome resource, thank you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is amazing! Can't wait to explore the ones I haven't seen
⭐⭐⭐⭐
I love this! Well done, great idea.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thanks for taking the time to make this gem!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This might be the best website I've ever seen.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Congratulations, and thank you so much for your work; it's incredibly valuable.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
In all seriousness I think you did a great job pointing out the important spots
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
10/10 very good
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
As someone who's only just starting to visit regularly this is awesome, thank you.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you very much! I'm going to visit my dad, it's going to be very useful!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is really cool! We'll be travelling for the first time and this definitely come in handy.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
You are now our minister of culture, congratulations 👨‍💼
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Just wanted to tell you that this is a pearl! Going to follow your recommendations.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is so cool. I'll definitely be using the resource for my travels soon.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is very impressive! Good work.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is an amazing and informative site. Very well done!

🛏️ Where to stay?How to pick the right area

If you enjoy meeting fellow travelers, consider choosing hostels with high ratings for atmosphere. On the other hand, if you prefer having your own space, a hotel might be a better option.

Best hostels in Australia


Best quality hotels in Australia

🥾 Hike detailsRoute, distance, and difficulty explained

Total Distance: The Great Ocean Walk stretches about 104 kilometers (around 65 miles) along the stunning coastline of Victoria.

Estimated Duration: Most hikers take around 8 days to complete the trail, but you can adjust this based on your pace and how much time you want to spend soaking in the views.

Difficulty Level: This trail is generally rated as moderate. While there are some challenging sections, especially with elevation changes, it’s manageable for those with a reasonable fitness level.

Starting Point: The walk begins in Apollo Bay. You can reach Apollo Bay by taking a bus from Melbourne, … read more 👉
Total Distance: The Great Ocean Walk stretches about 104 kilometers (around 65 miles) along the stunning coastline of Victoria.

Estimated Duration: Most hikers take around 8 days to complete the trail, but you can adjust this based on your pace and how much time you want to spend soaking in the views.

Difficulty Level: This trail is generally rated as moderate. While there are some challenging sections, especially with elevation changes, it’s manageable for those with a reasonable fitness level.

Starting Point: The walk begins in Apollo Bay. You can reach Apollo Bay by taking a bus from Melbourne, which takes roughly 3 to 4 hours. Look for V/Line services that run regularly to this coastal gem.

Major Landmarks Along the Route:
  • 12 Apostles: Iconic limestone stacks that rise dramatically from the ocean.
  • Loch Ard Gorge: A stunning beach with a rich shipwreck history.
  • Cape Otway Lighthouse: The oldest surviving lighthouse in mainland Australia, offering breathtaking views.
  • Otway Rainforest: A lush, green area filled with towering trees and diverse wildlife.

Type of Terrain and Scenery: Expect a mix of coastal cliffs, sandy beaches, and dense forests. The trail winds through lush rainforests, open grasslands, and along rugged coastlines, giving you a little bit of everything.

Typical Vegetation and Wildlife: The area is rich in biodiversity. You’ll see eucalyptus trees, ferns, and wildflowers. Keep an eye out for kangaroos, koalas, and a variety of bird species, including the colorful rosellas and cockatoos. The coastal areas are also a haven for marine life, so you might spot dolphins or even whales during migration season.
⚠️ Hiking info can sometimes be outdated or inaccurate. Before you hit the trail, check the latest conditions with locals. If you do spot anything that's off, I'd love to hear from you, so I can update it for fellow travelers.

🛡️ SafetyStaying Safe: What Travelers Should Know

The Great Ocean Walk is a feast for the senses, but it demands respect. Weather can shift quickly; sunny skies can morph into rain in an instant. Dress in layers and pack a lightweight rain jacket. The terrain varies from well-maintained paths to rugged sections with steep inclines. Watch your footing, especially on the coastal cliffs where a misstep can lead to a tumble.

Wildlife is part of the charm here. You might spot kangaroos or koalas, but keep your distance. Respect their space; they’re not your hiking buddies.

Timing is crucial. Start early to avoid the midday heat and give yourself ample daylight. Hydration is key—carry enough water, as some stretches lack reliable sources.

Trail etiquette matters. Share the path, and if you’re moving faster, give a friendly heads-up. The journey … read more 👉
The Great Ocean Walk is a feast for the senses, but it demands respect. Weather can shift quickly; sunny skies can morph into rain in an instant. Dress in layers and pack a lightweight rain jacket. The terrain varies from well-maintained paths to rugged sections with steep inclines. Watch your footing, especially on the coastal cliffs where a misstep can lead to a tumble.

Wildlife is part of the charm here. You might spot kangaroos or koalas, but keep your distance. Respect their space; they’re not your hiking buddies.

Timing is crucial. Start early to avoid the midday heat and give yourself ample daylight. Hydration is key—carry enough water, as some stretches lack reliable sources.

Trail etiquette matters. Share the path, and if you’re moving faster, give a friendly heads-up. The journey is as rewarding as the destination, so embrace the challenge and soak in those breathtaking views.
Check Country Safety

FAQTraveler FAQ

The Great Ocean Walk typically takes 6 to 8 days to complete, covering approximately 104 kilometers from Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles. Most hikers plan for 7 days to allow for a moderate pace and rest. Daily distances range from 12 to 20 kilometers depending on the itinerary.
The hike is considered moderate in difficulty, with some sections featuring steep climbs and uneven terrain. Hikers should be prepared for variable weather and carry sufficient water and supplies. Fitness level should allow for sustained walking over multiple days with a loaded backpack.
No guide is required to hike the Great Ocean Walk, and permits are not mandatory for the walk itself. However, booking campsites or accommodation along the route in advance is essential, especially during peak season from October to April.
⚠️ Things can change over time, so always validate details locally before you go.

Other Australian hikes near Great Ocean Walk

Explore more nearby:

  • O’Shannassy Aqueduct Trail—fern gullies, historic aqueduct, Yarra Ranges forest, gentle gradients| 199 km away
  • Cradle Mountain—alpine plateau, glacial lakes, button grass moorland, rugged peaks| 363 km away
  • Overland Track—rainforest gullies, alpine moors, glacial valleys, endemic wildlife| 402 km away

💡 Not sure where to go next?
Create a personalized itinerary for Australia including Great Ocean Walk and the places that fit your trip.

Generate my itinerary

👉 Discover all hikes

Or checkout all Australia has to offer (think cities, towns, villages, national parks, hikes, beaches, festivals)
Explore Australia
Country photo of Australia
© Google Images

We 💚 feedbackFinal thoughts on hiking the Great Ocean Walk

The Great Ocean Walk is a feast for the senses. Picture this: rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and the smell of eucalyptus in the air. It’s a wild ride that leaves you breathless, especially when you hit those iconic viewpoints. But here’s the kicker: the weather can turn on a dime. Be ready for rain or sun, often in the same hour. Pack smart, and you’ll savor every moment of this epic trek.

✈️ When did I visit Australia?
On my trip to New Zealand in 1993, I had a short stop in Australia as well.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on my own backpacking experience in Australia, supplemented with up-to-date research and feedback from other travelers. Travel details can change, so if you notice anything outdated or incomplete, feel free to let me know.



🙋‍♂️ Give feedback

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpackHi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

The goal is to provide realistic, experience-driven guidance — not generic itineraries — so you can explore destinations with better context, clearer expectations, and more confidence.

Read the full story
Get full Australia guide •
Instant download • 149 highlights • Full Offline guide