Great Otway National Park Tours and Activities

Great Otway National Park
Great Otway National Park which includes rainforest
Great Otway National Park which includes rainforest
Great Otway National Park featuring rainforest
Great Otway National Park which includes rainforest


Marvel at the natural beauty of this Cape Otway reserve as you camp in dense rainforest, walk atop coastal cliffs or bike down trails flanked by ferns and waterfalls.

The Great Otway National Park is a fertile coastal reserve that includes a range of natural landscapes. Hike or bike through lush rainforests and bushland to find romantic waterfalls, striking lookouts and campsites lit up by glow worms.

Bushwalkers come to the park to make the most of the huge network of trails suitable for all fitness levels. Stroll the Maits Rest boardwalk, an easy trail that passes over lush rainforest gullies and alongside moss-covered trees. The Otway Fly treetop walk offers the opportunity to see the forest from above. Take an exhilarating ride along its zip line section.

Walk through a forest of sheoak trees to reach The Gables, a lookout with commanding views of Moonlight Head and the surrounding oceans. Look for humpback whales migrating from June to September.

Hike to Phantom Falls, where water streams 15 metres (50 feet) down into the St. George's river. Triplet Falls is another impressive Otway cascade, featuring three streams snaking through a forest of myrtle beeches.

For a challenging and unforgettable experience, conquer the Great Ocean Walk. This 104-kilometre (65-mile) trail stretches through Cape Otway, between Apollo Bay and the Twelve Apostles near Princetown.

Go to the Grey River area or Melba Gully and delight in a host of glow worms, casting their biological lights on the surrounding blackwoods and tree ferns. Camp near peaceful Lake Elizabeth or set up your tent in Blanket Bay, which features wind-weathered rock landscapes. Bookings are necessary for most campsites.

Specified mountain bike trails also crisscross the park. Zip along the Old Beechy Rail Trail, a 45-kilometre (28-mile) pathway that is suited to beginners and advanced riders alike.

Be sure to stop by the Cape Otway Lightstation during your visit. This colonial tower was the first sight of land for many early immigrants after leaving Europe. It is open daily for visitors.

Great Otway National Park is 3-hour's drive southwest of Melbourne, along the Great Ocean Road.

Plan a trip to see Great Otway National Park

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Best Lodging Options Near Great Otway National Park

Apollo Bay Waterfront Motor Inn

Apollo Bay Waterfront Motor Inn

3.5 out of 5
173 Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay, VIC
Apollo Bay Waterfront Motor Inn
Seaview Motel and Apartments

Seaview Motel and Apartments

4 out of 5
6 Thomson Street, Apollo Bay, VIC
Seaview Motel and Apartments
Beachfront Motel

Beachfront Motel

3 out of 5
163 Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay, VIC
Beachfront Motel
Coastal Motel

Coastal Motel

3.5 out of 5
171 Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay, VIC
Coastal Motel
Motel Marengo

Motel Marengo

3.5 out of 5
26-28 Great Ocean Road, Marengo, Marengo, VIC
Motel Marengo
Apollo Bay Seal Apartments

Apollo Bay Seal Apartments

3 out of 5
3/15 Great Ocean Rd, Marengo, VIC
Apollo Bay Seal Apartments
Sandpiper Motel Apollo Bay

Sandpiper Motel Apollo Bay

4 out of 5
3 Murray Street, Apollo Bay, VIC
Sandpiper Motel Apollo Bay
Apollo Dream Suites

Apollo Dream Suites

2.5 out of 5
15 Tuxion Rd, Apollo Bay, VIC
Apollo Dream Suites
Amaroo House - Marengo

Amaroo House - Marengo

Marengo
Amaroo House - Marengo
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Great Otway National Park

Great Otway National Park offers a variety of activities for visitors, including scenic walking trails and guided tours. You can enjoy camping in designated areas, have a relaxing picnic amidst nature, and embark on the stunning Great Ocean Walk. Day trips provide a chance to explore the park's diverse landscapes, while the best trails cater to both casual walkers and avid hikers, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Shopping

The Community Market is a vibrant spot located 4.8km from Great Otway National Park, offering local crafts and fresh produce. If you're up for a drive, head to Lorne's main street for charming boutiques and unique souvenirs that showcase the area's artistic flair.

Recreation

The Apollo Bay Golf Club offers a scenic golfing experience with stunning views, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Lorne Sea Baths invites you to unwind with its rejuvenating wellness facilities, while Lorne Country Club provides a luxurious retreat, combining relaxation with high-end amenities amidst beautiful surroundings.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of soaring through the treetops at Live Wire Park, a zipline ropes course 40.2km from Great Otway National Park. Alternatively, enjoy the surf and sun with the Lorne Surf Life Saving Club, also 40.2km away. For a serene hike, explore the Maits Rest Rainforest Walk, located 6.4km away, surrounded by stunning scenery.

Nightlife

Experience the charm of the Apollo Bay Hotel, offering a cozy atmosphere with local wines and hearty meals. For a lively night, visit the Great Ocean Road Brewhouse for craft beers and live music, creating a vibrant community vibe under the stars.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Great Otway National Park

Great Otway National Park in Victoria offers a variety of captivating attractions, including scenic reserves, esplanades, and harbours. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, visitors can explore the stunning Otway Lightstation, the beautiful coastline at Cape Otway, and the diverse landscapes within the national park. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, there's something for everyone in this spectacular natural setting.

  • Great Ocean Road Waterfront: This picturesque esplanade offers a romantic setting perfect for leisurely strolls with family. Enjoy stunning views of the coastline and vibrant local flora, as well as outdoor activities that make it a delightful stop along your travels.
  • Apollo Bay Harbour: A charming harbor that showcases breathtaking beach scenery. Take a moment to relax by the water, watch local fishermen at work, or indulge in fresh seafood at nearby eateries while soaking in the coastal atmosphere.
  • Shelly Beach: Just a short distance from the park, Shelly Beach invites you to unwind on its sandy shores. Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or beachcombing, this serene spot embodies the essence of a classic beach day.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Great Otway National Park

To save money on your trip to Great Otway National Park, plan your visit between June and August when accommodation prices are lower. Tuesdays are the most cost-effective days to book your stay, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter options by budget and preferences, and consider package deals that combine flights, lodging, and activities for better rates. Opt for free activities like hiking and exploring nature to further stretch your budget while enjoying the park's stunning landscapes.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Great Otway National Park are June to August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Great Otway National Park is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Great Otway National Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you’re looking for. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Great Otway National Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.