About this experience
Explore Victoria’s spectacular Surf Coast and more must-see destinations near the city of Melbourne. Don't miss the iconic Twelve Apostles limestone rock formation that dramatically rises out of the ocean, as well as the picturesque coastal hamlets that line this rugged and world-famous coastline. Soak up the fascinating history of iconic sites, including the Loch Ard Gorge in Port Campbell National Park.
Why you'll love it
What's included
What's included
Not included
What to expect
Hotel pickup — Melbourne
Varies by hotel locationPick-up from your Melbourne hotel between 7:00–8:00 AM (Standard Tour) or 9:00–11:00 AM (Sunset Tour).
Torquay / Anglesea — Surf Coast start
The Standard Tour stops at Torquay beach for morning tea; the Sunset Tour pauses at Anglesea to ease into the coastline.
Great Ocean Road Memorial Archway
A brief stop at the iconic archway built by returned soldiers — the perfect first photo opportunity on the road itself.
Lorne (Sunset Tour, summer only)
A scenic stop in the charming coastal town of Lorne, available during the summer season on the Sunset Tour.
Kennett River — koala spotting
Pull over in the roadside eucalyptus forest for one of the tour's most popular moments: searching for wild koalas in the tree canopy.
Apollo Bay (Standard Tour)
Explore this relaxed fishing town on the standard route, with time to stretch your legs and grab lunch at your own expense.
Great Otway National Park (Standard Tour)
A stroll through ancient temperate rainforest, ferns and towering myrtle beeches in one of Victoria's most biodiverse parks.
Gibson Steps (Sunset Tour, summer only)
Descend the carved clifftop stairs to the beach for a close-up view of the Apostles rising from the shoreline.
Loch Ard Gorge — Port Campbell National Park
Walk the gorge trail and hear the guide recount the dramatic 1878 shipwreck survival story in the shadow of the sandstone walls.
Twelve Apostles
The centrepiece of the day — a clifftop viewing platform overlooking the limestone stacks, timed for sunset on the evening tour.
Return to Melbourne
Head back via Colac (Standard Tour includes a dinner stop at your own expense), arriving at your hotel by approximately 8:30 PM (Standard) or 9:30–11:00 PM (Sunset).
Meeting point
Your Melbourne hotel (shared pickup)
Your pickup time will be confirmed after booking. Ensure you are ready in your hotel lobby at the designated time. The tour vehicle will collect you directly.
Open in Google MapsWhat to bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Weather-appropriate layers (coastal weather can change quickly)
- Sun protection — hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
- Cash or card for meals
- Go West Tours app downloaded before departure
Know before you go
Good to know
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Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the Standard Tour and the Sunset Tour?
The Standard Tour departs earlier (7:00–8:00 AM pickup) and visits Apollo Bay and the Great Otway National Park, returning around 8:30 PM. The Sunset Tour departs later (9:00–11:00 AM) and is timed so you reach the Twelve Apostles at dusk for the golden-hour light, returning between 9:30–11:00 PM. Some Sunset Tour stops (Lorne, Gibson Steps) are available in summer only.
Where exactly do I get picked up?
Pickup is from your Melbourne hotel. Your exact pickup time will be confirmed after you book. Make sure you are waiting in the hotel lobby at the confirmed time.
Are meals included?
No — lunch and dinner are at your own expense. The Standard Tour includes time to eat in Apollo Bay (lunch) and Colac (dinner). Bring a card or cash for these stops.
Can I bring a pram or large luggage?
Prams, strollers, and large bags cannot be accommodated on the tour vehicle due to limited storage space. Please travel with a small day bag only.
Is the tour available in languages other than English?
Yes. Download the Go West Tours app before departure to access audio commentary in 15 languages including Mandarin, Cantonese, French, German, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, Arabic, and more.
Can children travel on this tour without an adult?
Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. If travelling without a parent or guardian, a signed consent form is required.
Go West Tours
Go West Tours is a Melbourne-based operator specialising in small-group day trips along the Great Ocean Road, with their own app platform offering multilingual commentary and curated Discovery Clips.