The Great Ocean Road is a famous destination for more than just its stunning views. It’s also a haven for family fun. Running along Victoria’s wild coastline, the journey is a mix of adventure, relaxation and learning for all ages. Whether you’re on a 5-day family adventure or a quick family Great Ocean Road Trip, there’s something for everyone – from beaches to rainforests to historic sites. In this article, we’ll look at the top family attractions for kids, with a focus on the coastal towns, parks and natural wonders that make this region so special.
Apollo Bay: The Family-Friendly Hub
Apollo Bay, a beautiful seaside town between the Southern Ocean and the Otway National Park, is the perfect base for your family road trip along the Great Ocean Road. This coastal town has plenty of family fun activities, from water sports to wildlife encounters.
At Apollo Bay Surf & Kayak, your family can go on a guided kayak tour, paddle board, or even take surfing lessons. The Apollo Bay Distillery is a great place for parents to relax while the kids can get a treat from the famous Apollo Bay Bakery. The beaches here are perfect for swimming and beachcombing, and the nearby Bimbi Park has camping and plenty of activities for the whole family, such as horse riding and glowworm tours.
Cafes, shops and an Ice Creamery in the town centre. Perfect for a quick stop during your Great Ocean Road Tour.
Otway Fly Treetop Adventures & Melba Gully
If you love adventure, you must visit Otway Fly Treetop Adventures. Located in the Otway National Park, this treetop walk gives you a bird’s eye view of the forest below, with elevated trampolining bridges and lookouts. Older kids can do the zip-line tours and get a unique view of the ancient rainforest.
Not far from here is Melba Gully, where you can do a peaceful rainforest walk through a dense rainforest canopy and see some of the region’s most beautiful waterfalls, including Hopetoun Falls and Beauchamp Falls. This area is home to loads of native wildlife, and if you’re lucky, you might spot some wild animals like koalas, echidnas and various bird species.
Erskine Falls: A Family Friendly Spot
One of the most beautiful natural attractions along the Great Ocean Road is Erskine Falls near Lorne. The 30-metre drop into a fern-lined gully makes this one of the region’s most stunning waterfalls. A short and easy walk takes you to the base of the falls and is suitable for younger kids.
While at Erskine Falls don’t forget to take in the surrounding stunning coastline and rugged coastline that makes the Great Ocean Road such a great drive. The whole family will love taking photos and fresh air.
Port Campbell National Park & London Bridge
Port Campbell is a must-stop on your family-friendly Great Ocean Road trip. This scenic stop is famous for its limestone pillars, most notably the London Bridge rock formation, which used to be a natural arch before it partially collapsed in 1990. Now, it’s a great place to bring the kids and see how nature has shaped the landscape over millions of years.
Within Port Campbell National Park you’ll find Wreck Beach, a hidden gem with shipwreck remains and dramatic rock formations. The trails in the park are great for families with plenty of easy walks and boardwalks with safe viewing platforms for kids. Boat tours are also available if you want to see the limestone formations from the sea and get a unique view of the rugged coastline.
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village
Located in Warrnambool, Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village is an immersive experience where history comes alive. This living museum takes you back to the 19th century and shows what life was like for sailors and settlers in the region. Kids will love the miniature train rides, and the Discovery Centre has interactive exhibits and footage of historic shipwrecks.
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village is also a great place to learn about the spirit of reconciliation as it tells the story of the local Indigenous people and their connection to the sea. Building lasting relationships between cultures is a theme throughout the exhibits so it’s an educational experience for all ages.
Tower Hill Reserve
Just off the Great Ocean Road is Tower Hill Reserve, an old volcano with plenty of Aussie wildlife. This reserve has kangaroos, emus, koalas and many bird species. A walk around Tower Hill is a great way for families to explore the volcanic landscape and see wildlife in the wild.
Guided tours are available and will give you an insight into the natural and cultural history of the area. Tower Hill is also an important Indigenous site and the guided tours often talk about the importance of looking after the land and equity for future generations.
Bells Beach
If you have older kids or teens, Bells Beach is a must-stop. This world-famous surf beach is known for its big swells and annual surf competitions. Even if you’re not surfing yourself, watching the pros ride the waves is an awesome experience for anyone.
Near Torquay, Bells Beach has great coastal views and is a great spot for a family picnic. From here, you can continue your road trip along the coast and stop at some of the seaside towns like Kennett River and Wye River, which have Australian animals, including koalas.
Lake Pertobe Adventure Playground
For a day of activities for younger kids head to Lake Pertobe Adventure Playground in Warrnambool. This massive park has giant slides and flying foxes, mini golf and paddleboats. It’s a safe and big space for kids to run, play and explore while parents chill by the lake.
This park is also a great spot for a picnic, with BBQ facilities. Don’t forget your camera as the area has great views of the lake and gardens.
Cape Otway Lightstation
The Cape Otway Lightstation is a must see for families who love history and adventure. As the oldest surviving lighthouse on mainland Australia, it has stunning ocean views from the top. Kids can learn about the history of the lighthouse and its role in guiding ships along the Great Ocean Road.
The surrounding area is full of native wildlife, and you may even see koalas in the trees as you approach the lighthouse on the mainland. The Cape Otway Lightstation is a great educational stop for history and wildlife, as well as a great spot for family photos.
Hopetoun Falls & Beauchamp Falls
No trip along the Great Ocean Road is complete without seeing Hopetoun Falls and Beauchamp Falls. These falls are in the ancient rainforest of the Otway National Park and are kid friendly. The walks to the falls are short and sweet and you can take in the surroundings and spot wildlife along the way.
FAQ
When should you visit Great Ocean Road with the kids?
November to March is the best time when the weather is warm and perfect for swimming and nature walking.
Are there family-friendly places to stay along the Great Ocean Road?
Yes, places like BIG4 NRMA Warrnambool Riverside Holiday Park, Caravan Parks and Gardens Caravan Park have playgrounds and family rooms.
Can we do the Great Ocean Road with the kids in one day?
You can, but spreading it over a few days allows you to enjoy attractions like Port Campbell National Park, Apollo Bay, and Otway Fly Treetop Adventures fully without feeling rushed.
What to pack for a family trip along the Great Ocean Road?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, swimwear, snacks and a camera to capture all the views.
Is Apollo Bay a good base for the Great Ocean Road with kids?
Yes! Apollo Bay has plenty of family friendly activities from water sports at Apollo Bay Surf & Kayak to exploring the nearby Otway National Park and Bimbi Park.