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

Seafarers Getaway

Seafarers Getaway

4 out of 5
6080 Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay, VIC
Seafarers Getaway
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
Sandpiper Motel Apollo Bay

Sandpiper Motel Apollo Bay

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

Motel Marengo

3.5 out of 5
26-28 Great Ocean Road, Marengo, Marengo, VIC
Motel Marengo
Apollo Dream Suites

Apollo Dream Suites

2.5 out of 5
15 Tuxion Rd, Apollo Bay, VIC
Apollo Dream Suites
Blue Ocean Motel Apollo Bay

Blue Ocean Motel Apollo Bay

3 out of 5
65-71 Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay, VIC
Blue Ocean Motel Apollo Bay
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 tourists, including scenic walking trails and guided tours. Visitors can discover the park's stunning landscapes, with fantastic trails suited for all levels. Camping options are available for those seeking an unforgettable outdoor experience, making it one of the top parks in Victoria to explore nature and enjoy the beauty of the Australian wilderness.

Shopping

For a unique shopping experience, check out the Community Market, located 4.8km from Great Otway National Park, offering a vibrant local atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, visit local artisan shops in nearby towns for more distinctive gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

At Apollo Bay Golf Club, enjoy a refreshing round of golf surrounded by stunning landscapes, just 4.8km from Great Otway National Park. Lorne Sea Baths offers relaxation with its wellness-focused facilities, located 40.2km away. For a touch of luxury, visit Lorne Country Club, 41.8km away, for a serene retreat.

Adventure

At Live Wire Park, experience the thrill of ziplining through the treetops and navigating exciting ropes courses, all within outdoor adventure vibes, located 40.2km from the park. For a unique challenge, join the Lorne Surf Life Saving Club, also 40.2km away, and embrace the ocean's excitement.

Discover the beauty of Maits Rest Rainforest Walk, a scenic hiking trail located 6.4km from the park, where you can immerse yourself in lush greenery and the sounds of nature, perfect for adventure seekers.

Find the best attractions near Great Otway National Park

Great Otway National Park offers a blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, featuring popular spots like reserves, esplanades, and harbours. Visitors can enjoy activities such as camping at Cape Otway, exploring the lush Otway rainforest, and soaking in the stunning coastal views. For a comfortable stay, consider local hotels around Otway National Park that provide easy access to these natural wonders.

  • Great Ocean Road Waterfront: This scenic esplanade offers breathtaking views and is perfect for families and couples alike. Enjoy leisurely strolls by the water, with plenty of outdoor spaces to relax and soak in the beautiful coastal ambiance.
  • Apollo Bay Harbour: A picturesque harbor that captures the essence of beach life, Apollo Bay Harbour is ideal for enjoying stunning vistas and a laid-back atmosphere. It's a great spot for photography and watching the local fishing boats come and go.
  • Great Ocean Road Visitor Information Centre: A hub for adventure seekers, this visitor centre provides valuable insights and resources for families looking to explore the region. Engage in outdoor activities and discover the area's natural treasures.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Great Otway National Park

To save money on your visit to Great Otway National Park, consider travelling during the off-peak months of June to August, when accommodation prices are lower. Wednesdays offer the best rates for staying, while Saturdays tend to be the most expensive. Take advantage of free attractions like Marriners Lookout and Hopetoun Falls. Use Expedia to compare hotel deals, refine searches by budget and eco-certification, and consider package deals that combine flights and activities for additional savings.

  • 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 Wednesday. 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 options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel stay at Great Otway National Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.