Great Otway National Park

Visiting Cape Otway Lightstation felt like stepping into a dream I didn’t know I had. The drive there—rolling hills, endless greens, and glimpses of the ocean—already felt cinematic. The Twelve Apostles were grand but crowded; Otway, on the other hand, was quiet and peaceful, the kind of place where time seems to slow down. Standing there, with the lighthouse in front, the hills in the foreground, and the vast ocean behind, it honestly felt like being inside a postcard. The scenery is so damn picturesque - it’s a feast for the eyes and a balm for the mind. The wind was strong, the air was cold, and yet it all felt grounding. Even the Lightkeeper’s Café added its own warmth. Their scones with cream and jam were unforgettable - comfort on a plate after the sea breeze. It's the best I've tasted in all honesty. For a first-time visitor to Australia, Cape Otway wasn’t just another stop; it was a quiet kind of magic that lingers long after you leave.

The park is beautiful, with popular sections around the waterfall, but it actually extends much further. Visiting Castle Rock can be quite challenging, with steep uphill sections, but the effort is rewarded with stunning views. If you’re just making a stop along the Great Ocean Road, the waterfall is easily accessible from the main street.

Great Otway National Park (also known as Cape Otway) stretches from Torquay, along the world-famous Great Ocean Road and up through the Otways hinterland in Victoria, Australia 🇦🇺. This is a beautiful place to visit. The amazing views of the coastline along with the gorgeous waterfalls and beauty of the rainforest makes for a wonderful experience. The beauty of the huge trees is so memorable. Some of the giant beech trees are over 300 years old. If you are looking to camp, you can either park your caravan or pitch a tent ⛺️. You can camp at either Johanna, Aire River or Blanket Bay. There’s an abundance of wildlife, you might be lucky to spot a koala 🐨 or two like we did. It’s also worth making a trip to the light station if you have the time. The views are amazing. You can also have a look in the lighthouse and the lighthouse keepers house. There’s tables there to sit and rest. There are pretty good walking paths through the forest. The park is situated approximately 162 kilometres southwest of Melbourne. It has a very diverse range of landscapes and vegetation types. It’s very popular with local, interstate and international visitors. If you go at night, you might be able to see glow worms along the stream banks and walking trails. Particularly at Beauchamp Falls. It’s definitely worth a visit, wouldn’t hesitate to recommend. Thumbs up!!! 👍👍👍

lots of cool things to explore: The cape Otway lighthouse, the Melba Gully (you can see glow worms here at night), redwoods, scenic views of the forest and the expansive ocean to drive around and picnic. stayed here for a night at the Bimbi park where animals roamed freely.

Great Otway National Park, located along Victoria’s iconic Great Ocean Road, is a breathtaking natural sanctuary that stretches from Torquay to Princetown and inland through the Otway Ranges. This vast and ecologically diverse park features lush rainforests, dramatic coastlines, scenic waterfalls, and abundant native wildlife, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers, hikers, and road-trippers. Rainforest Trails and Waterfalls The park is celebrated for its cool temperate rainforests, home to towering Mountain Ash trees, moss-covered logs, and ancient tree ferns. A must-visit is the Maits Rest Rainforest Walk, an easy 800-meter boardwalk circuit near Apollo Bay that winds through dense greenery, offering an immersive forest experience. For waterfall enthusiasts, Erskine Falls near Lorne provides a stunning 30-meter drop into a fern-lined valley, with access to viewing platforms above and below the falls. Other beautiful waterfalls in the region include Triplet Falls, Hopetoun Falls, and Beauchamp Falls—each surrounded by rich forest and ideal for photography, picnics, or peaceful contemplation. The Great Ocean Walk Stretching 104 kilometers from Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles, the Great Ocean Walk is one of Victoria’s premier long-distance hiking trails. This coastal trek takes hikers through ever-changing landscapes—from secluded beaches and clifftops to eucalyptus woodlands and river valleys. With well-marked sections and designated campsites, the walk caters to both short day hikes and multi-day adventures. Along the way, hikers may spot koalas, wallabies, echidnas, and an array of native birds. Wildlife and Unique Experiences Great Otway National Park is a wildlife hotspot. The Cape Otway region, in particular, is renowned for its wild koala sightings in the treetops along roadside eucalyptus groves. Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting unique species like the pink robin and powerful owl. For a rare treat, take an early morning canoe tour at Lake Elizabeth to try spotting a wild platypus in its natural habitat. For those exploring after dark, Melba Gully offers a magical experience with glow worms lighting up the forest floor—a quiet, enchanting walk under a starlit canopy. Coastal Attractions The park’s southern edge borders a rugged coastline dotted with historic and scenic landmarks. The Cape Otway Lightstation, built in 1848, stands as Victoria’s oldest surviving lighthouse and offers sweeping views of the Bass Strait. Nearby, the Castle Cove Lookout delivers panoramic ocean views and is a popular spot during whale migration seasons. Visitor Amenities and Access Open year-round, Great Otway National Park changes character with the seasons. Winter brings misty forests and powerful waterfalls, while spring welcomes wildflowers and vibrant greenery. Numerous campgrounds and picnic areas are available, with trails catering to all fitness levels. The nearby towns of Apollo Bay, Lorne, and Forrest serve as convenient bases, offering visitor centers, accommodation, and park information. Conclusion Whether you’re seeking a tranquil walk through ancient forests, a challenging coastal hike, or a chance to observe unique Australian wildlife, Great Otway National Park delivers an unforgettable and diverse outdoor experience. It’s a must-stop along the Great Ocean Road and a cherished gem in Victoria’s natural landscape.

Cape Otway National Park is a fantastic diversion off the Great Ocean Road and well worth the drive. The scenery is breathtaking, with plenty to explore for nature lovers and adventurers alike. We only had time for a quick visit but were captivated by its beauty and can’t wait to return. A highlight was spotting a koala right by the roadside and watching it climb into a tree—an unforgettable experience!

Amazing place to stop for a forest walk on your way to the 12 apostles. I was visiting all the way from America and staying in Melbourne when I took this car trip out to the 12 apostles. This park was smack on the way to and from. I also stopped at Bells Beach (featured in Point Break) which is a bit further east of the park along the coast (Near Geelong). So serene, bunch of walkways that leads you through fern forests. Like out of a movie.

Loved everything about this extensive park. The trees, the history, the beautiful coast road, the beaches and the wildlife. Perfect.