Beyond the icons: Fresh stops along the Great Ocean Road
Let’s be clear - the icons of the Great Ocean Road are iconic for a reason. They’re dramatic, beautiful and absolutely worth the stop. But if you’re the kind of traveller who likes to wander a little further, take the quieter turn-off, or find the view without the crowds, there’s a whole other side of this coastline waiting for you.
Love the Great Ocean Road icons? Go beyond them.
1. Famous Split Point Lighthouse
If you’re fascinated by the historic charm of Cape Otway Lightstation, make time for Split Point Lighthouse. You might recognise it from the TV show ‘Round the Twist’, but you’ll remember it for the 360-degree panoramic views from the top of this still-working lighthouse.
2. Beautiful Bay of Islands
If you are drawn to the drama of the Twelve Apostles, you’ll find Bay of Islands equally impressive. It easily holds its own with ocean-carved cliffs and towering limestone stacks – but has a tranquil atmosphere thanks to fewer visitors. Even on cloudy days, the pale cliffs seem to glow, making it easy capture the moment with a perfect pic.
3. Towering Californian Redwoods
Got a feel for the lush rainforest of Maits Rest? Then you’ll appreciate the unexpected magic of the Californian Redwood Forest. Walking among these towering giants feels almost otherworldly. The air is cool, the forest is hushed, and the sheer size of the trunks is nothing short of awe-inspiring.
4. Chilled-out Childers Cove
Captivated by the towering cliffs at Loch Ard Gorge? Try the quieter beauty of Childers Cove. This small, crescent-shaped cove is accessible via wooden steps leading down to the secluded beach. The reward? Expansive ocean views, rolling surf, sandstone stacks and richly coloured dramatic cliffs that you don't have to share with anyone else.
5. The dramatic Razorback
If you’re fascinated by the scale of London Bridge, don’t miss The Razorback. It’s a narrow, jagged slice of limestone carved by the ocean, and it looks almost too exaggerated to be real. Stand there for a moment and just take it in - it’s a “wow” moment.
6. Spectacular Triplet Falls
If Erskine Falls is on your waterfall list, add Triplet Falls too. A scenic stroll through a Mountain Ash and Myrtle Beech forest leads from the lower cascades to the spectacular view of all three falls. It’s peaceful, lush and incredibly photogenic.
7. Untamed Johanna Beach
And if the energy of Bells Beach calls to you, head to Johanna Beach for something wilder. It’s wide, windswept and wonderfully untamed - perfect for long beach walks and stunning photos. Surfers love it too, thanks to swells that can be even more powerful than its famous coastal counterpart.
The Great Ocean Road will always have its headline acts. But sometimes the best moments come from the places just off to the side - the quieter lookouts, the hidden coves, the unexpected forests. Experience these lesser-known alternatives and you might just find your new favourite stop.
Great Ocean Road Parks make the perfect base to explore and discover a different side of the iconic Great Ocean Road coastline.