Great Otway National Park Tours and Activities

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

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
YEHS Hotel Melbourne CBD
Aussie Escape Apartments - Skyline Collins Tower
Treasury on Collins

Tours & day trips

See all 58 activities

Private & custom tours

See all 22 activities

Adventure & outdoor

See all 7 activities

History & culture

See all 6 activities

Water activities

See all 3 activities

Popular places to visit


Top Great Otway National Park Hotel & Accommodation Deals

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 range of activities for visitors, including scenic walking trails and guided tours. You can enjoy camping opportunities, explore magnificent waterfalls, and embark on overnight rides for an adventure-filled experience. For a family-friendly option, don't miss the nearby splash park, making it a perfect spot for a fun day out in nature.

Shopping

The Community Market, located 4.8km from Great Otway National Park, offers a vibrant atmosphere with local goods and unique souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, consider visiting larger shopping centres in nearby towns for a broader selection of gifts and artisanal products.

Recreation

Apollo Bay Golf Club offers a stunning outdoor experience with its picturesque course surrounded by nature. For relaxation, Lorne Sea Baths provides rejuvenating wellness facilities, perfect for unwinding. Meanwhile, Lorne Country Club delivers a touch of luxury, making it an ideal retreat for a tranquil getaway.

Adventure

The Maits Rest Rainforest Walk, located 6.4km from Great Otway National Park, offers a stunning hiking trail through lush rainforests, showcasing breathtaking scenery and a sense of adventure. For family-friendly outdoor fun, visit Skenes Creek Beachfront Park, 9.7km away, featuring camping and adventure activities. Finally, experience the Otway Fly Treetop Adventures, 17.7km from the park, where you can immerse yourself in the treetops amidst nature's beauty.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at the Apollo Bay Hotel, where you can enjoy a hearty meal and local brews. For a more relaxed vibe, visit the Great Ocean Road Brewhouse, offering craft beers and live music, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.

*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 offers a stunning array of attractions for every type of traveller, from outdoor enthusiasts to families seeking beach experiences. Explore the magnificent landscapes of the park, visit the iconic Cape Otway Lighthouse, and discover the beauty of the surroundings. With its reserves and scenic esplanades, the area promises memorable adventures and relaxation in nature, making it a perfect destination for your holiday in Victoria.

  • Great Ocean Road Waterfront: This picturesque esplanade offers a romantic setting, perfect for leisurely strolls with family or friends. With stunning ocean views and vibrant atmosphere, it’s an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the coastal vibes.
  • Apollo Bay Harbour: A serene harbour that showcases breathtaking scenery and a tranquil beach atmosphere. Here, you can watch the fishing boats return with their catch or simply soak in the beauty of the coastal landscape.
  • Great Ocean Road Visitor Information Centre: This centre is your gateway to adventure! With resources for outdoor activities and family-friendly excursions, it's the perfect starting point to discover the wonders of the Great Otway National Park and its surroundings.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Great Otway National Park

To save money during your visit to Great Otway National Park, consider travelling between June and August when accommodation prices drop. Aim for a Tuesday stay as it's the most affordable day. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly options, filter by price, and consider eco-certified hotels for sustainability. Look for package deals that combine flights, accommodation, and activities for extra savings. Don't forget to explore the park's free activities, such as walking trails and scenic lookouts, to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to customise your travel preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available at the moment. To find the most affordable prices and special offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your hotel stay at Great Otway National Park with your flights and activities by booking an Expedia package.