Melbourne: 12 Apostles, Otways & Great Ocean Road Day Tour

When it comes to iconic Australian landscapes, the Great Ocean Road stands out as a must-see. This tour promises a full day of stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and unique stops, all packed into approximately 12 hours. While we haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a picture of a carefully curated experience that balances popular sights with some lesser-known gems.

What we love about it? First, the chance to see the famous 12 Apostles early in the day—before the crowds arrive—is a real highlight. Second, the variety of landscapes, from rugged coastlines to ancient rainforests, keeps the day dynamic. Third, the small-group setting (limited to 8 people) promises a more personal, flexible experience compared to busier tours. A possible consideration? While the tour doesn’t include lunch or hotel pickup, the logistics are straightforward for many travelers. This trip is ideal for those who love nature, wildlife, and scenic drives but prefer a manageable, well-organized day.

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Key Points

Early access to 12 Apostles means fewer crowds and better photos
Variety of stops including waterfalls, redwoods, beaches, and wildlife sightings
Small group size enhances the experience and allows for more interaction
Value for money considering the many sites covered in one day
Comfortable transportation via minivan suited for relaxed sightseeing
Tour guides praised for their knowledge, passion, and spotting skills

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What’s Included and What to Expect

This tour is operated by Hike and Seek, focusing on delivering a well-rounded day through the natural wonders along Victoria’s coast. Expect a guided trip in a small group of up to 8 participants, which is perfect for those who dislike large, noisy busloads.

The day begins early, with pickup at a central Melbourne meeting point, just a short walk from Flinders Street Station. From there, the adventure kicks off with a drive straight to the famous 12 Apostles, arriving before the majority of visitors. Here, you’ll stroll along a short boardwalk, snapping photos of these limestone stacks rising from the ocean, with no crowds in sight—a clear bonus highlighted by reviewers.

Next, you’ll visit Gibson Steps, where a 70-meter cliffside pathway takes you down to the beach below. The views from here are spectacular, and the walk provides a different perspective of the coastline. Plenty of time is allocated for photos and soaking in the scenery, making this stop a photographer’s dream.

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Exploring the Otways and Redwood Forest

Leaving the coast behind, the tour ventures into the Otways National Park, known for its ancient rainforests and waterfalls. You’ll go on a Grade 2 hike—easy enough for most fitness levels—leading to a pristine waterfall. Reviewers, like Nora, appreciated this added touch as it offers a chance to connect with the lush environment away from the crowds.

The next stop is the Redwood Forest, where towering Californian Redwoods create a peaceful, almost forested cathedral experience. The quiet majesty of these trees is a stark contrast to the rugged coast and provides a calming break in the day’s journey.

Wildlife Encounters and Town Visits

One of the tour’s real gems, according to guests, is spotting koalas in their natural habitat. The stop at Kennett’s River is frequently praised for wildlife sightings, as guides are attentive and experienced at locating these charming creatures. Reviewers loved how Shane, one of the guides, was a keen observer, often pointing out koalas and kangaroos that might otherwise be missed.

The tour includes a 30-minute stop in Lorne, a picturesque seaside town. Visitors can browse local shops, enjoy a quick swim, or just relax by the beach, taking in the fresh ocean air and quaint vibe.

The Day’s Pacing and Value

At $145 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. It covers the major highlights—12 Apostles, Gibson Steps, waterfalls, redwoods, wildlife, and charming towns—without feeling rushed. Plus, the small group setup means more flexibility and potential for personalized stories from guides like Marcus or Shane, who are often praised for their knowledge and passion.

While lunch isn’t included, the tour’s structure allows flexibility for you to bring snacks, pick up local fruit, or enjoy the cafes during stops like Lorne. The timing is generally well-paced, with enough time at each location to explore without feeling hurried.

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The Experience of the Tour

From the reviews, it’s clear that guides make a difference. Guests repeatedly mention how guides like Jeremy, Marcus, and Shane are attentive, friendly, and highly observant—spotting koalas, kangaroos, and other wildlife. Their local knowledge elevates the experience, helping visitors understand what makes each stop special.

The transportation in a minivan provides a comfortable, intimate environment—better suited for sightseeing than large coach tours. The early departure from Melbourne is another highlight, allowing you to beat the crowds at the 12 Apostles, which is often the most crowded spot on similar tours.

Participants rave about the good food provided at stops, describing it as “delicious” and “well presented,” with plenty of snacks and local fruit. The diverse scenery, from dramatic cliffs to lush forests, ensures that you’ll never get bored, making every mile a joy.

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Practical Tips for Travelers

Bring comfortable shoes suitable for short hikes and walks.
Pack warm clothing and a sun hat—the weather in Victoria can be unpredictable.
Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and swimwear if you plan to swim or relax on the beaches.
Carry cash or credit card for optional purchases or snacks.
Since hotel pickup isn’t included, plan to meet at the designated spot easily accessible from Melbourne’s CBD.
Luggage should be kept small; large bags aren’t allowed on the tour.

It’s also worth noting that no bushwalking experience is required for the rainforest hike; it’s suitable for most fitness levels, with gentle terrain and some steps.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts who want to see a variety of landscapes in a single day. It’s great for travelers who prefer a small, intimate group and enjoy guided storytelling. If you’re short on time but want to tick off the 12 Apostles, waterfalls, redwoods, and koala sightings**, this tour delivers.

Because it doesn’t include hotel pickup or lunch, it’s best suited for those comfortable organizing their own transport to the meeting point and bringing snacks or planning to dine in Lorne or other stops.

The Sum Up

This Melbourne-based day trip offers a comprehensive, scenic, and well-organized exploration of Victoria’s coastal and forest treasures. With early access to the 12 Apostles, opportunities to see koalas in the wild, and walks through ancient rainforests, you’ll leave with a sense of having experienced the best of the region in just one day.

The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it a personal, engaging adventure that balances iconic sights with quieter, natural moments. While it doesn’t include lunch or hotel pickup, the overall value and quality of stops make it a compelling choice for travelers eager to see a diverse range of landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler wanting a taste of Victoria’s natural beauty, this tour offers a memorable, authentic experience worth considering.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available for this tour? No, guests meet at a designated central Melbourne location near Flinders Street Station.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts approximately 12 hours, usually starting in the morning.

What is included in the price? The tour covers visits to the Apostles, Gibson Steps, waterfalls, Redwood Forest, and stops at Apollo Bay and Lorne, along with a small group guide.

Do I need hiking experience? No, the hike to the waterfall is a Grade 2 walk on a hardened surface, suitable for most fitness levels.

Can I bring my luggage? Large luggage or oversize bags are not permitted; small backpacks are recommended.

Is this suitable for children or people with mobility issues? It’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments, but families with children comfortable with walking will enjoy it.

Do I need to bring anything special? Comfortable shoes, sun protection, warm clothing, and optional swimwear for beach stops are advisable. Snacks and cash are also recommended for optional purchases.

This tour offers an authentic, scenic, and engaging way to see the highlights of Victoria’s coast—an experience that balances adventure, wildlife, and natural beauty in a single, well-paced day.