Kick off your road trip at the town of Torquay Beach, where you can sign up for a surf class at Bells Beach, go mountain biking along the coast, or hire a trike to explore independently. Adventurous travelers can challenge themselves to a skydive for aerial views of the Great Ocean Road beaches.

Continue along the coast, stopping for a tour of the Split Point Lighthouse—book your tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line—and visit Lorne to take in views from Teddy’s Lookout. A guided bush walk along the banks of the nearby Kennet River offers the chance to spot wild koalas in their natural environment.

Arrive in Apollo Bay in time to watch the sunset; Marriners Lookout offers panoramic views of the bay. Afterwards, head to one of the oceanfront restaurants to sample fresh fish and seafood, then walk it off with a moonlit stroll around the marina.

The Great Otway National Park has plenty of options for hiking and bushwalking, and it’s even possible to hike part of the Great Ocean Walk, one of Australia’s most renowned long-distance hiking trails. Alternatively, scenic short trails run to Triplet Falls, the Redwoods, or the Red Rock Lookout.

This afternoon, follow the Shipwreck Coast to the Twelve Apostles, one of the most-photographed sights in Australia. For incredible aerial views, opt for a helicopter flight over the ocean. Nearby, Loch Ard Gorge, with its sandy beach framed by dramatic limestone sea cliffs, is a must-see for nature lovers.

Continue along the coast to the London Arch in the Port Campbell National Park—the striking rock formation is even more atmospheric at sunset and draws fewer crowds than Apollo Bay and Loch Ard Gorge. Nearby, the seafront town of Port Campbell is the traditional end point of Great Ocean Road trips and has a number of bars, restaurants, and hotels to choose from.