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The Great Ocean Road is one of the most popular drives in Australia. Unfortunately, this makes the accommodations astronomical! Here are my favourite free stops along the road, to save you money without sacrificing activities.
Along the drive, you will see plenty of roadside turnouts to stop and check out views! I didn’t list any here but I highly recommend pulling over every safe chance you get. Also, don’t forget to look up! You might get lucky and spot some koalas.
When to Visit the Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road is most popular during the summer months (November-March). This is when it helps to book accommodation ahead of time. Since, the Great Ocean Road can be done in a weekend, it tends to be quite busy on weekends as well.
Free Stops
- Memorial Arch at Eastern View- This Arch is actually a bit of a drive down the Great Ocean Road. Dedicated to the builders, it is worth checking out as you pass by!
To the left, you’ll see the monument for the workers. - Teddy’s Lookout- This is my favourite view along the entire road!
Breathtaking! - Erskine Falls- To break up some of the stunning views, head inland and check out some free waterfalls. Erskine Falls have a 30 metre drop down into lush Greenland.
- Marriner’s Lookout- This is another popular lookout that gives captivating views of Apollo Bay.
- Castle Cove Lookout- Are you stick of jewel blue waters yet? No? Perfect, then head over to Castle Cove Lookout!
- 12 Apostles- These are considered the main sight to see along the Great Ocean Road!
Everywhere I go in Australia, someone always tells me about how great the weather was LAST week. - Loch Ard Gorge- Located next to the 12 Apostles, this little view is a great place to have lunch.
- The Grotto- The Grotto is a rock pool, which is pretty and less visited than a lot of other stops along the road.
I love a rock pool.
Where to Stay on the Great Ocean Road
- Bonus: We found a free campsite called Bill Hill Campground, located just outside of Lorne. This is a good place to stop for a night but as it is near the beginning of the road, you will likely want somewhere else to stay further along.
- The Port Campbell Recreation Reserve is a low-cost campground near the 12 Apostles. It is one of the only low-cost options along the road.
For more on Australia, check out my other blog Canadians Down Under, which is all about living in Australia.
Have you ever done the Great Ocean Road? What were your favourite stops?
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