The best Great Ocean Road tours pack Australia’s most dramatic coastline into well-organized day trips from Melbourne. Small-group tours (8-12 people) offer the most bang for your buck, typically including lunch and key photo stops without feeling rushed. Private tours, while pricier, allow flexibility to linger at favorite spots like the Twelve Apostles or chase koala sightings in the eucalyptus forests.
I’m particularly fond of the reverse itinerary tours – they dodge the big crowds by hitting the major sites when other groups are just starting their day. The guided nature walks are another favorite, giving you time to really understand the region’s unique ecology rather than just snap photos and move on.
Let’s look at the top tours that make the most of your precious travel time.
Good To Know
- Highly rated private full-day tours with customizable itineraries, including top attractions like Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge, and wildlife spotting.
- Small-group tours with lunch and complimentary snacks, departing from Melbourne, offering personalized exploration and amazing coastal scenery.
- Reverse itinerary tours in boutique and premium formats, featuring early access to attractions, knowledgeable guides, and a 98% traveler recommendation rate.
- Guided wildlife and nature tours, such as the 75-minute Walk With Wildlife tour, providing an immersive experience in diverse ecosystems.
- Comprehensive 3-day Melbourne to Adelaide tours showcasing natural beauty and wildlife observation in Great Otways National Park.
The Great Ocean Road Private 1 Day Tour
One of the most popular tour options for exploring the stunning Great Ocean Road is the private full-day tour from Melbourne. This intimate tour accommodates groups of 7 to 11 passengers and offers a customizable, flexible itinerary.
Travelers appreciate the convenience of hotel pickups and the inclusion of bottled water, air-conditioning, transportation, fees, lunch, and dinner.
With an impressive 4.9-star rating from 42 reviews, the tour is highly recommended by 98% of travelers. Guests rave about the knowledgeable and accommodating guides, who provide personalized recommendations and adjust the schedule to avoid crowds.
Specific guides, such as Mark, Wes, and Royce, are praised for their professionalism and local insights.
The tour showcases the iconic sights of the Great Ocean Road, including the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and picturesque eucalyptus forests. Travelers also have the opportunity to spot wildlife like koalas and kangaroos.
While a few guests noted issues with late pickups and crowded stops, the overall feedback highlights the tour’s exceptional value and diverse scenic beauty.
Read our full review: The Great Ocean Road Private 1 Day Tour Review
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Walk With Wildlife: Guided Tour in Great Ocean Road
For those seeking a more immersive experience along the Great Ocean Road, the “Walk With Wildlife” guided tour offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the region’s diverse ecosystems and spot unique flora and fauna.
Led by a conservationist, this 75-minute, 0.8-mile walk takes visitors through grasslands, forests, bushland, and tree fern gullies, allowing them to observe wildlife and birds in their natural habitat.
The tour is suitable for families and accessible to wheelchair users and strollers, with a maximum of 20 travelers per group. Participants are provided with binoculars and headsets to enhance their experience.
The tour also includes a visit to the Conservation Ecology Centre Research Hub, providing an in-depth look at the region’s conservation efforts.
With a 4.9 overall rating from 115 reviews and a 97% recommendation rate, the “Walk With Wildlife” tour is a must-experience for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife of the Great Ocean Road.
Read our full review: Walk With Wildlife: Guided Tour in Great Ocean Road Review
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Split Point Lighthouse Tours
Situated along the picturesque Great Ocean Road, the historic Split Point Lighthouse stands as a beacon of fascination for visitors. Established in 1891, this iconic landmark offers self-guided tours, allowing visitors to explore its rich history and breathtaking views.
Tours are available daily from 11 am to 2 pm, with a maximum group size of 15 travelers. Priced at just $7.88 per person, the experience promises great value, with the option of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Lighthouse enthusiasts will appreciate the informative guides who share stories of the site’s past, including its starring role in the popular TV show “Round the Twist.” While the climb to the top requires moderate fitness, the panoramic vistas from the observation deck make the effort worthwhile.
With free parking nearby and easy access, the Split Point Lighthouse is a must-visit attraction for those exploring the Great Ocean Road. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking stunning coastal views, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Read our full review: Split Point Lighthouse Tours Review
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Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary ECO Tour (Max 22 People)
Exploring the picturesque Great Ocean Road in reverse, this Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary ECO Tour (Max 22 People) offers travelers a comprehensive eco-friendly tour packed with stunning natural wonders.
Accommodating a maximum of 22 participants, the tour boasts an impressive 97% traveler recommendation based on 59 reviews. Operated in all weather conditions, the almost 12-hour journey includes 11 stops showcasing the region’s iconic limestone formations, picturesque beaches, and lush rainforests.
Guests travel in air-conditioned minibuses, with pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, excluding children under 7 due to safety regulations.
To ensure a safe and hygienic experience, the tour adheres to “Covid Clean Tour” practices, including symptom checks, regular sanitization, and social distancing measures.
Reviews highlight the knowledgeable and entertaining driver-guides, though some note the tour can feel rushed, particularly on busy days.
Read our full review: Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary ECO Tour (Max 22 People) Review
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Cruise Ship Shore Excursion – Private Great Ocean Road Full Day Tour (12 Hour)
This 12-hour Private Great Ocean Road Full Day Tour offers cruise ship passengers a comprehensive exploration of the iconic Great Ocean Road. Covering over 500 kilometers, the tour provides 8-9 hours of driving to visit the region’s most breathtaking natural sights.
Guests will be picked up at 7:00 am from the Station Pier in Melbourne and travel in a comfortable air-conditioned private vehicle.
The itinerary highlights include the famous 12 Apostles, as well as natural wonders in the Great Otway and Port Campbell National Parks. Travelers will also have the opportunity to spot koalas on the Kennet River Koala Walk.
The tour includes stops in coastal towns like Port Campbell, and guests can opt to end the day at the Eureka Skydeck for an additional cost.
With knowledgeable guides, exceptional service, and memorable experiences, this private tour is an ideal way for cruise ship passengers to make the most of their time on the Great Ocean Road.
The tour operates in all weather conditions, and travel insurance is strongly recommended.
Read our full review: Cruise Ship Shore Excursion – Private Great Ocean Road Full Day Tour (12 Hour) Review
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Private Small-Group Great Ocean Road Tour Lunch Included
Travelers seeking an in-depth exploration of the Great Ocean Road can embark on a private small-group tour that includes a delectable lunch. This premium experience, limited to up to 7 participants, promises a comprehensive journey along the iconic coastal route.
Equipped with an air-conditioned vehicle, Wi-Fi, and knowledgeable guides, the tour ensures a comfortable and seamless experience. Highlights include spotting local wildlife, indulging in a variety of sandwiches or wraps for lunch, and enjoying complimentary snacks and bottled water throughout the day.
The tour departs from the centrally located St Paul’s Cathedral in Melbourne, with a 7:00 AM start time, and returns to the same point at the end of the day. Priced at $756.23 per group, the tour offers excellent value, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a “Reserve Now, Pay Later” option available.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with infant seats. With a 4-star review from a previous participant praising the “amazing scenery,” this private small-group tour is an exceptional way to explore the wonders of the Great Ocean Road.
Read our full review: Private Small-Group Great Ocean Road Tour Lunch Included Review
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Small Group Great Ocean Road Full Day Tour Lunch Included
A premier small-group Great Ocean Road tour with lunch included offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of this iconic coastal route. This 18-review, 100% recommended experience departs at 7 a.m. and returns to the starting point, catering to a maximum of 11 guests for a more intimate journey.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy morning tea or coffee by the beach, a delicious included lunch, and a bonus photo stop, time permitting.
The tour’s highlights include scenic views, diverse wildlife encounters, and ample time to capture photos at the Twelve Apostles. Travelers consistently praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the small-group format, which allows access to areas inaccessible to larger buses.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a “Reserve Now, Pay Later” option, this tour offers convenience and flexibility. At €98.18 per person, it’s a well-reviewed, all-inclusive way to experience the breathtaking Great Ocean Road.
Read our full review: Small Group Great Ocean Road Full Day Tour Lunch Included Review
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Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary Boutique Tour – Max 12 People
Although the Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most iconic coastal routes, this boutique small-group tour takes a reverse itinerary to beat the crowds and offer a more immersive experience.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, the Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary Boutique Tour provides an intimate and personalized way to explore the region’s natural wonders.
The tour’s highlights include the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and the lush rainforests of the Great Otway National Park. Guests can enjoy early arrival at key attractions, scenic stops, and the opportunity to spot wildlife like koalas.
The itinerary is well-paced, with ample time at each location to soak in the stunning scenery. Knowledgeable guides provide live commentary, sharing local insights that enhance the overall experience.
With included national park fees, pickup and drop-off, and a guaranteed skip-the-line policy, this tour offers excellent value and convenience.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, the Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary Boutique Tour promises an unforgettable journey along one of Australia’s most breathtaking coastal routes.
Read our full review: Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary Boutique Tour – Max 12 People Review
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Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary PREMIUM Tour
Catering to a maximum of 11 guests, the Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary PREMIUM Tour offers an immersive and personalized exploration of one of Australia’s most iconic coastal routes.
Boasting an impressive 98% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour showcases the stunning beauty of the Twelve Apostles, Apollo Bay, and the iconic London Bridge, among other key attractions.
Leveraging a reverse itinerary to avoid crowds, the tour takes guests on a 12-hour journey, returning around 7 PM. Included in the experience are hotel pickups, national park fees, live commentary, and an air-conditioned vehicle with bottled water.
While food and drinks aren’t included, the tour’s positive reviews highlight the professionalism and knowledge of the guides, as well as the ample opportunities for wildlife sightings and stunning coastal vistas.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a lowest price guarantee, this premium tour offers a well-rounded and efficient exploration of the Great Ocean Road.
Read our full review: Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary PREMIUM Tour Review
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3-Day Melbourne to Adelaide Tour Including the Great Ocean Road
Embarking on a 3-day journey from Melbourne to Adelaide, this tour offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of the iconic Great Ocean Road.
Traversing the rugged Australian coastline, the tour showcases the region’s stunning natural beauty, from the picturesque Apollo Bay to the majestic Twelve Apostles.
Along the way, guests can observe wildlife, including kangaroos and koalas, in the Great Otways National Park.
The tour’s inclusions provide a well-rounded experience, with 2 nights’ accommodation, national park fees, and a selection of meals, including local wine sampling in Adelaide.
Praised for its knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation, the tour caters to a range of travelers, with infant seats and wheelchair accessibility available.
With an overall rating of 4.8 based on 10 reviews, this tour promises a relaxing and informative journey, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Great Ocean Road.
Read our full review: 3-Day Melbourne to Adelaide Tour Including the Great Ocean Road Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Suitable for People With Disabilities?
Many Great Ocean Road tours accommodate individuals with disabilities. Tour operators often provide services like accessible transportation, guided assistance, and modified activities to ensure an enjoyable experience for all participants. It’s best to inquire about specific accessibility accommodations when booking a tour.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour, providing they don’t interfere with the experience. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to confirm their specific policies.
Is There an Option for a Private Tour?
Yes, many tour providers along the Great Ocean Road offer private tours. Travelers can opt for a personalized experience with a small group or even a private car or van to explore the stunning coastal scenery at their own pace.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Preferences?
Yes, many tour providers offer customizable itineraries to fit your preferences. You can choose the sights you’d like to see, adjust the pace, and personalize the experience to suit your interests and needs on a private tour.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tours?
The cancellation policy varies by tour operator, but most allow free cancellation up to 24-48 hours prior to the tour. Fees may apply for last-minute cancellations. It’s best to check the specific policy when booking a Great Ocean Road tour.
The Sum Up
The Great Ocean Road offers a diverse range of tours, catering to various interests and preferences. From private tours to group experiences, visitors can explore the stunning coastal scenery, wildlife, and iconic landmarks along this iconic Australian route. Whether you’re seeking a comprehensive day trip or a multi-day adventure, there’s a tour option to suit your needs and provide an unforgettable experience.