12 Apostles, Otways & Great Ocean Road Day Tour – 8 person max

Exploring the 12 Apostles, Otways & Great Ocean Road Day Tour: An Honest Review

Thinking about tackling the iconic Great Ocean Road and its famous sights? This small-group tour from Melbourne offers a well-rounded, intimate experience that combines scenic views, wildlife sightings, and a bit of adventure, all in one day.

What really wins us over are the personalized attention thanks to the limited group size, the chance to see the spectacular Twelve Apostles early in the day, and the opportunity to hike through lush forests and waterfalls. Plus, the value is impressive — all entrance fees, snacks, and multiple stops included for just $148.48 per person.

That said, keep in mind that this is a long 12-hour day with quite a bit of driving, which might be tiring for some. If you’re someone who prefers a more relaxed pace or has mobility concerns, this may not be your ideal trip. But for curious travelers eager to see many highlights without the hassle of planning, this tour tends to be a hit.

This tour suits those who love nature, wildlife, and scenic drives, and don’t mind spending several hours on a comfortable minivan. It’s perfect if you’re after a small-group experience with plenty of opportunities for photos, hikes, and local insights.

• Small-group experience with a maximum of 8 travelers for a more personalized feel
• Includes all entrance fees and snacks, reducing surprises and extra costs
• Offers a mix of iconic sights and outdoor activities, including hikes and wildlife spotting
• Early visit to the Twelve Apostles means fewer crowds and better photos
• Long day of travel, so a good fit for those comfortable with a full itinerary
• Guides praised for knowledgeability and friendliness, enriching the experience

The Twelve Apostles

Kicking off the day, you’ll arrive early at the Twelve Apostles, avoiding the crowds that flock later in the day. You’ll get about an hour to stroll along the boardwalk, taking in the jaw-dropping limestone stacks rising from the ocean. Several reviewers mention how ideal the early visit is for photos, with Kristin_H noting that “we reached the Twelve Apostles before the crowds,” allowing for more relaxed admiration.

The 1km walk provides ample opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty, and the included admission makes it a hassle-free stop. Expect stunning vistas with dramatic cliffs and crashing waves, perfect for photography or just soaking in the awe-inspiring sight.

Gibsons Steps: Clifftop to Beach

Next, you’ll descend the 70m cliffside pathway at Gibsons Steps, walking down to a quiet beach below. This is a favorite among reviewers for its fantastic photo opportunities and the chance to get up close to the cliffs. Daan_H appreciated the adventure of walking down the steep steps—just be prepared for some effort and sturdy footwear.

Here, you can capture sweeping ocean views and admire how nature has sculpted the coastline. It’s also a great spot for a quick break and some relaxed beach scenery.

Beauchamp Falls: Waterfalls and Rainforests

Perhaps the most immersive part of the tour is the 3km hike through ancient rainforests to Beauchamp Falls. This trek takes around two hours and rewards you with the sight of a dreamy waterfall framed by lush greenery. Reviewers like Susanne_K loved the beautiful forest walk and the serene waterfall, describing it as a “fabulous hike” with “incredible scenery.”

Be prepared for some big steps up and down—a feature that adds excitement to the trek but may be challenging for those with mobility issues. The lush, tranquil environment makes it a perfect contrast to the coastal cliffs, giving you a full day of varied landscapes.

Great Otway National Park and Californian Redwoods

After a scenic drive, you’ll stop at the Californian Redwoods, towering giants of the forest that feel like walking in Jurassic Park. It’s a quick visit—just 30 minutes—but enough to marvel at these ancient trees. Several reviews mention how cool and awe-inspiring the redwoods are, with one traveler calling it a “fabulous stop.”

This segment offers a different side of Australia’s natural beauty, showcasing world-class forests that remind us of the importance of conservation.

Lunch and Coastal Towns: Apollo Bay & Lorne

Midday, you’ll pause at Apollo Bay, a picturesque seaside town. Reviewers rave about the delicious, well-priced lunch options at local cafes, often citing the “tasty” and “varied” menus as a highlight. You’ll have about 30 minutes here to enjoy a meal (own expense) and stroll along the pristine beaches.

On the way back, there’s a stop at Lorne, another charming coastal spot. You might indulge in ice cream from Dooleys, or simply enjoy the ocean breeze. Several travelers have found these breaks refreshing after a long morning of sightseeing, with Daan_H calling the walk along Lorne beach “beautiful.”

Wildlife Spotting at Kennett River

The final highlight involves a chance to see native Australian wildlife. Kennett River is renowned for koalas, parrots, and kangaroos, which you might observe in their natural habitats. Reviewers like Patricia_J describe it as “exciting to spot koalas in the wild,” and others mention birds fluttering around, making it a delightful nature encounter before heading back to Melbourne.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The admission fees for key sites, snacks, and a few scenic stops are included, making this tour straightforward and transparent. You just need to bring cash or card for lunch, plus any optional extra activities. The tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll meet at Hamer Hall and return there at the end of the day.

The Guide and Experience

Guides frequently receive praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to tailor the trip. Kristin_H notes Aaron’s expertise, making the long ride more engaging, while others like Shane and Jeremy are celebrated for their entertaining commentary and wildlife spotting skills. With a maximum of 8 travelers, you benefit from personalized attention and a more relaxed experience.

Timing and Duration

Starting early at 7:30 am, the tour spans approximately 12 hours, which means a sizeable chunk of your day is spent on the road. Reviewers mention the long drive but agree that it’s worth it to see so many highlights. Be prepared for some tired legs after the rainforest hike and for the hours of scenic cruising.

Absolutely, if you’re after a comprehensive, well-organized day trip that covers the essential sights of the Great Ocean Road, combined with outdoor activities and wildlife encounters. The small-group format means you’ll enjoy more personal interaction, better photo opportunities, and in-depth local insights.

The value for money is evident, considering all entrance fees, snacks, and the variety of stops. Reviewers repeatedly mention the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, which turns what could be just a sightseeing drive into a memorable adventure.

However, be aware that the long hours and physical activities might not suit everyone. If you prefer a more leisurely pace or have mobility concerns, this may be a demanding day.

• Nature lovers eager to see waterfalls, forests, and coastal scenery
• Travelers interested in wildlife spotting in the wild, especially koalas and parrots
• Those wanting a small-group experience for more interaction and personalized attention
• Visitors looking for a full-day adventure that covers multiple iconic sights
• Anyone comfortable with long drives and outdoor hikes

Does this tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
No, the tour starts and ends at Hamer Hall in Southbank, Melbourne. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable trainers or hiking boots are recommended, along with a water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, warm layers, and possibly a swimsuit and towel if you plan to swim in summer months.

How physical is the hike to Beauchamp Falls?
The hike is about 3 km and includes some big steps up and down. It’s suitable for travelers with moderate fitness levels, but those with mobility issues might find it challenging.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is at your own expense, typically around $35. The tour makes a stop at a local café in Apollo Bay, known for good food and variety.

What wildlife might I see?
Kennett River is your best chance to see koalas, kangaroos, and king parrots in their natural surroundings, with many reviewers highlighting memorable wildlife sightings.

How long is the drive?
The trip involves a long drive from Melbourne, but it’s broken up with scenic stops and hikes. Expect a full 12-hour day, including travel time.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While the guide’s commentary is engaging, the outdoor activities and long hours mean it’s best suited for those in moderate physical condition. Always consider individual mobility and stamina.

Final Thoughts

This small-group full-day tour from Melbourne packs in an impressive range of sights — from the iconic Twelve Apostles to lush rainforests and native wildlife. It offers value, personalization, and plenty of photo-worthy moments that will stay with you long after your trip.

Ideal for adventurous travelers who love nature, outdoor activity, and scenic drives, this tour delivers a comprehensive taste of Victoria’s natural wonders without the stress of planning. The knowledgeable guides, well-organized itinerary, and inclusion of entrance fees make it a smart choice for those wanting a hassle-free, memorable experience.

While the long hours and physical activity might not suit everyone, the variety of stops and engaging storytelling make it a rewarding journey for most travelers craving a genuine Australian adventure.