The Great Ocean Walk is a walking track of roughly 100 km that follows the coast from Apollo Bay through Great Otway National Park to the Twelve Apostles. It passes beaches, headlands, forest and clifftops and is the slow way to see the stretch of coast that most visitors drive past in a day. Many walkers take about a week to complete the whole route, staying in campsites along the way, while others walk a single section as a day trip and arrange transport at each end. Walking the track is free, though camping needs to be planned and booked through the park authority, and the conditions need respect. The walk is for people who want to get properly out of the car, and a short section adds a lot to a drive-based trip.
Walking sections
You do not have to commit to the whole route. A day walk on a section near Apollo Bay, the Otway coast or the end near the Apostles gives you a taste of the track, and the 7 km section from Princetown towards the Apostles is a popular choice. Check the park page for track conditions, distances and any closures before you plan a section, because storms and tracks maintenance can change what is open.
Preparing
Carry plenty of water, food, sun protection, a wind and rain jacket and sturdy shoes, and tell someone your route. Weather can change quickly, tides affect beach sections and there is little mobile coverage in places. Fire danger days and extreme weather can close tracks, so check warnings before you set out. If you plan to camp, book campsites ahead for the dates you want, and expect basic facilities.
Who it suits
It suits fit walkers, photographers and anyone who prefers quiet coast to busy lookouts. It is a poor fit if you have only a single day for the whole coast, in which case take a day walk and then drive. If you are short on time but want some walking, combine a section with a visit to Cape Otway Lightstation or the Twelve Apostles, and choose a start and end point that make transport simple. A night in Apollo Bay or Port Campbell makes logistics easier.
What to expect
The experience
A coastal walking track that you can walk as a multi-day trek with camping or as a single day section.
Best time
Autumn and spring usually give milder walking weather. Check warnings on fire danger and storm days.
How long
About a week for the whole route, or a few hours for a single section.
Tips
Carry water, food and weather layers, check track conditions, tell someone your plan and book campsites ahead.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Fit walkers and nature lovers who want to see the coast on foot rather than from the car.
- Families
- Short sections can suit active families, but the whole route is a serious multi-day walk.
- Couples
- A day section with a picnic is a good way to see the coast without the crowds.
- Pair with
- Pair a section with Cape Otway Lightstation or the Twelve Apostles precinct.
- Time needed
- A few hours for a section, or about a week for the full route.
Good questions
How long is the Great Ocean Walk?+
About 100 km from Apollo Bay towards the Twelve Apostles, usually walked over about a week.
Can I walk just part of it?+
Yes. Many visitors walk a single section as a day trip, such as the section from Princetown towards the Apostles, and arrange transport at each end.
Is it free?+
Walking the track is free. Camping needs to be planned and booked through the park authority.
What should I carry?+
Water, food, sun protection, a wind and rain jacket and sturdy shoes, and let someone know your route.
Where do I check conditions?+
Check the park authority page for track conditions, closures and fire danger warnings before you go.
