Whether you’re looking for that perfect Instagram photo, or a place to sit and reflect on life, somewhere beautiful to enjoy a picnic, or a place where you can simply get a great family photograph set against a magnificent backdrop, here are our top 10 favourite beauty spots on the Great Ocean Road.
Teddy’s Lookout
These viewing platforms on the outskirts of Lorne are famous for a reason: the views are simply spectacular! You’ll see the ocean meet the sky on one side, and the breathtaking mountains and valleys on the other, all at once. Definitely don’t forget your camera!
Sunset At The Twelve Apostles
Of course, no visit to the Great Ocean Road is complete without a visit to the iconic 12 Apostles, and a photo session here is almost compulsory. Come at sunset and you might also be treated to a peachy sky above. It’s hard to get a bad photo here!
Loch Ard Gorge
Arguably one of the Great Ocean Road’s most romantic locations, it is here that the only two survivors from the 1878 Loch Ard shipwreck were swept ashore. Instagram is full of photos of Loch Ard Gorge, many of which reflect the wild and haunting beauty of the area.
The Grotto
Another seriously beautiful part of the coastline, the still water here is in stark contrast to the ocean behind it, and often the spray from the waves will cause a mist that reflects in the sunshine to create rainbows. You’ll find many a photo on Instagram of this very special place.
Cape Otway Lightstation
CThere’s something undeniably intriguing and inspiring about lighthouses that makes for great photography. If you climb to the top of the lighthouse tower, you’ll get a dramatic view of the place where the Bass Strait meets the Southern Ocean. Come during the winter months, and you might even spot a whale or two!
Cape Patton Lookout
One of the highest lookout points along the Great Ocean Road, this is a great place for a quick stop to stretch your legs while you admire the panoramic ocean views out towards Apollo Bay.
Californian Redwood Trees, Great Otway National Park
CThese incredible trees were originally planted as an experiment by local foresters, around 85 years ago. Today they stand strong and tall, and have become a popular picnic spot. Play with the angles and the light here and you’ll get some great photos!
Logans Beach Viewing Platform
If you’re hoping to spot whales during your visit, this is one of the best places in the area to look. Southern Right Whales visit these waters each winter, usually between around June and October. Nothing quite beats the sight of a whale breaching out of the ocean.
Waterfalls in the Otway Ranges
There are numerous waterfalls in the Otways, most of which flow year round. Tumbling waterfalls are so pretty to photograph, especially as they catch in the sunlight. Hopetoun Falls is one of the easiest to get to, but if you feel like more of a hike, Triplet Falls, Beauchamp Falls and Little Aire Falls are all well worth the effort.
Bells Beach
Bells Beach is a bit of a surfing mecca – it’s one of the region’s most famous surf beaches and home to the annual professional Rip Curl Pro surfing competition. The views from the cliff-top car park are fantastic and it’s a great spot to watch the local surfers and photograph the rolling, crashing waves.
For more tips and advice about how to get the best photos for Instagram, read our blog post about how to take great photographs of the Great Ocean Road.
Where To Stay
Alkina Lodge offers private, luxury accommodation and is suitable for couples, families and groups. Architecturally designed and with self-catering facilities and beautiful interiors, it makes the perfect base for your Great Ocean Road holiday. View lodges here.
