Full Day Tour of Great Ocean Road and 12 Apostles from Melbourne

Traveling along Australia’s famous Great Ocean Road is often heralded as a must-do experience when visiting Melbourne. This full-day tour promises to take you through some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery, iconic landmarks like the 12 Apostles, and encounters with native wildlife—all while leaving the logistics to the experts. While we haven’t personally been on this exact trip, reviews, detailed itineraries, and firsthand insights make it clear this is a well-rounded option for those wanting a comprehensive, guided experience.

What we love about this tour is its well-thought-out itinerary, the emphasis on authentic encounters with wildlife, and the friendly, knowledgeable guides who make the long day both fun and informative. The scenic stops are carefully chosen to showcase the best of the coast, and the price point—around $105 per person—appears to offer solid value considering all the included sights and the expert guiding. That said, it’s a full day, which could be a lot for some travelers, especially if you’re not used to long bus journeys.

This tour suits travelers eager to see the highlights without the hassle of planning, those interested in nature and wildlife, and anyone craving a genuinely informative day out from Melbourne. If you’re after a relaxed, well-organized experience with plenty of opportunities for photos and wildlife spotting, this could be an excellent choice.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Itinerary: Carefully curated stops to experience the best of the coast, wildlife, and natural wonders.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable commentary and stories that enhance the scenery and history.
• Flexible Meeting Points: Four convenient pick-up and drop-off locations in Melbourne.
• Wildlife Encounters: Opportunities to see koalas, kookaburras, and parrots in their natural habitat.
• Value for Money: Includes park fees and key attractions, with optional personal expenses for meals and snacks.
• Long but Rewarding Day: Around 12 hours of sightseeing, ideal for dedicated travelers.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Morning Starts with a Scenic Drive and Cultural Highlights

The tour kicks off early at 6:30 am, with pick-up from one of four central Melbourne locations. As the bus departs, you immediately feel the promise of an adventure ahead. The first stop is Anglesea, a charming coastal town perfect for a quick coffee or breakfast—bring your own, as this break is at your own expense but gives you a chance to stretch and take in the fresh sea air.

Next, you’ll visit the Great Ocean Road Memorial Archway—a powerful sight commemorating those who built this stunning route after World War I. It’s a quick yet poignant photo stop, ideal for snapping the iconic arch with the ocean in the background. The guide will share stories that add context to this historic landmark, enriching your appreciation of the journey.

Mid-Morning: Breathtaking Coastal Scenery and Wildlife

The scenic drive along the Great Ocean Road is the core of the experience, with multiple stops to admire the rugged coastline, crashing waves, and sweeping vistas. Reviewers consistently praise guides like Andy, who shared engaging stories and unique insights about each location, making the journey feel personal and informative.

A highlight here is Kennett River, renowned for wildlife spotting. You might see koalas peacefully resting in eucalyptus trees or parrots and kookaburras filling the air with lively calls. Multiple reviews note how enchanting this stop is: one reviewer specifically appreciated how the guide pointed out wildlife and provided interesting facts, elevating what might otherwise be just a scenic stop.

Afternoon: Forests, National Parks, and Lunch

Continuing through Apollo Bay, you’ll enjoy the town’s laid-back atmosphere and stunning views. The tour then takes you into Mait’s Rest, a lush spot where winding paths lead past towering trees and vibrant wildlife. Reviewers mention how peaceful and immersive this walk is, with one describing it as “an idyllic setting” to reconnect with nature.

Next, the scenic drive through Great Otway National Park offers tranquil forest vistas—another highlight for nature lovers. The tour provides a chance to appreciate Australia’s ancient trees and untouched landscapes.

Lavers Hill becomes your lunch break, giving you around an hour to refuel at a local café. While dining expenses are on your own, this break offers a good chance to relax and absorb the scenic surroundings.

Late Afternoon: The Main Attractions – The Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge

The tour’s centerpiece is the 12 Apostles, where towering limestone stacks rise majestically from the ocean. Reviewers often mention how stunning these formations are, especially when the setting sun casts changing colors across the rocks. The 45-minute stop allows plenty of time for photos, soaking in the scenery, and contemplating the power of nature.

Following this, you’ll visit Loch Ard Gorge, a site that’s both visually dramatic and historically interesting, as it’s named after a famous shipwreck. The cliffs, beach, and water create a picture-perfect scene, and many guests express how this area’s raw beauty leaves a lasting impression.

Finally, a short descent at Gibson’s Steps provides a different perspective—walking down to a pristine beach framed by cliffs with the iconic Twelve Apostles in the distance. Reviewers note how this area captures the rugged majesty of Australia’s coastline and offers incredible photo opportunities.

End of Day: Return to Melbourne

The tour wraps up with a relaxed journey back, arriving at the meeting point in Melbourne around 6:30 pm. The long day can be tiring but rewarding—many describe it as “long but worth it,” thanks to the stunning scenery and guides’ storytelling.

Transportation, Group Size, and Overall Comfort

This tour uses a comfortable bus with a maximum of 21 travelers, which strikes a good balance between social atmosphere and personal space. Multiple reviews mention the professionalism and friendliness of guides like Leah and Shane, who managed groups efficiently and kept everyone engaged and informed. The pick-up service from central Melbourne is convenient, with four options, reducing the hassle of transport planning.

The duration of approximately 12 hours might seem long, but the itinerary is packed with diverse stops, giving you a mix of scenic drives, walks, and wildlife encounters. This makes it ideal if you’re prepared for a full-day adventure rather than a brief overview.

Price and Value

At about $105 per person, this tour offers good value considering the included park fees, the variety of sites visited, and expert guiding. It does not include meals or snacks, so budget accordingly, but the opportunity to see wildlife and iconic landmarks in a single day makes it a compelling package. Reviewers consistently mention how well the day is managed, with some noting the tour’s effort to avoid large bus groups and maximize quality experiences.

Authentic Perspectives from Reviewers

Andy, one of the guides, is frequently praised for his storytelling and knowledge—”He had a lot of unique stories that he shared,” a guest remarked. Leah’s management was also highly appreciated, with her clear instructions and enthusiastic attitude making the day smoother and more enjoyable. Guests mention that the stops at viewing areas are well-chosen, giving plenty of time to take photos and appreciate the scenery.

Wildlife sightings, particularly koalas, are a highlight, with some guests lucky enough to spot them in their natural habitat. One reviewer noted, “We appreciated her positive attitude sounding enthusiastic about the wildlife we’ve encountered,” emphasizing the importance of a passionate guide in elevating the experience.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour of the Great Ocean Road and 12 Apostles offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and cultural landmarks. With knowledgeable guides and a thoughtfully curated itinerary, it’s particularly suited to travelers who want a comprehensive and hassle-free way to experience this iconic stretch of coast. The value for money is evident, especially with included park fees and major attractions.

While the long day may be tiring, the breathtaking views, fascinating stories, and unique wildlife sightings make it worthwhile. It’s ideal for those eager to see Australia’s natural wonders without the stress of self-guided travel or multiple day plans.

For anyone looking for a mix of adventure, education, and stunning scenery—all in one day—this tour delivers on all fronts, making it a standout option for visitors to Melbourne.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 6:30 am, giving you plenty of time to explore the coast with daylight on your side.

Are there multiple meeting points?
Yes, you can choose from four convenient pick-up locations in Melbourne, making it easy to join the tour without extra travel.

Is food included?
Lunch is not included, but there is a stop at Lavers Hill where you can purchase food and drinks at your own expense.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see koalas, kookaburras, parrots, and other native animals. Many guests are delighted to spot koalas in the wild at Kennett River.

How long is the total drive?
The entire day is approximately 12 hours, including stops and sightseeing.

Are children allowed?
Yes, child seats are available for kids aged 4 to 7 upon request, making it family-friendly.

Can I cancel if necessary?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this suitable for all fitness levels?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking at stops like Mait’s Rest and Gibson’s Steps.

This tour offers a fantastic, well-organized way to experience the highlights of one of Australia’s most scenic coastlines. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or simply seeking stunning views, it’s an experience worth considering.