The Great Ocean Road in Australia is one of the most beautiful coastal drives in the world. 240km from Torquay to Allansford it has stunning views of the rugged coastline, beaches and natural attractions including the famous Twelve Apostles. While this road is spectacular all year round the best time to visit depends on your preference and what you want to experience. Whether you want a trip full of water activities, a quiet retreat to enjoy the natural scenery or an experience to spot native wildlife each season has something different to offer. Many people opt for a Great Ocean Road trip from Melbourne making it a convenient and scenic drive from the city to the coast.
Summer (December to February)
Summer is peak travel time along the Great Ocean Road. Warm temperatures of 20-30°C (68-86°F) make it perfect for beachgoers and water activities. The beaches are stunning and sandy so it’s an ideal time for surfing, swimming and exploring surf beaches. The coastal towns are buzzing with tourists and the beaches are full of people looking for an iconic beach experience. The warm weather makes it a great time for outdoor activities including hiking, lookouts and day trips to must-see attractions along the coast. If you’re doing a 2 day Great Ocean Road trip, summer is an action-packed itinerary, but it’s also the busiest time of the year, especially during school holidays, so the coastal towns are busy and hotel bookings are high. If you’re planning to visit during this busy time it’s best to book your accommodation in advance.
Autumn (March to May)
Autumn has temperatures of 12-22°C (54-72°F) making it a great time for road trips with no crowds. The landscapes turn orange and red and wildlife encounters including wild koalas become more frequent. The shoulder season is a fantastic time to experience the natural habitat without the rain of the winter months. With fewer tourists, accommodation is more affordable, and there’s more time to visit must-see attractions like lookouts, wine regions and cultural attractions. Inland routes offer stunning views of the countryside so if you want to see the region from a different perspective a Great Ocean Road trip in autumn is perfect for you if you want to see beautiful scenery, coastal views and a more relaxed experience.
Winter (June to August)
Winter might not be the peak season but it has its own magic. The cooler weather (8°C to 15°C or 46°F to 59°F) creates a dramatic atmosphere, especially around the Port Campbell National Park where the misty air and rough seas make the coastal views more epic. This park is home to some of the most stunning rock formations, the Twelve Apostles, Gibson Steps and Loch Ard Gorge. The colder months are the quietest time to visit so it’s an intimate travel experience. Plus the winter months are the best time for whale watching as the southern right whales migrate along the southern coast. But there’s more rain and heavier rain can make access to beach views tricky.
Pack waterproof shoes and warm clothes. Winter is also a great time for wine tasting in the nearby wine regions where you can have a cultural experience while staying warm indoors. Many seaside cottages offer cozy retreats where you can enjoy the soft sunsets of winter over the incredible coastline. A Twelve Apostles tour in the winter months is a unique experience with fewer tourists and stunning coastal landscapes under moody skies.
Spring (September to November)
Spring is an amazing time to visit, pleasant weather and moderate temperatures 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). This season brings beautiful blooms, lush greenery and lots of activities, from hiking in national parks to wine tasting in the nearby wine regions. The natural scenery is at its best and spring is the most affordable time to visit before the summer holidays. With fewer speed traps and quieter roads spring is also the perfect time for longer coastal drives. Coastal towns start to fill with visitors but it’s still one of the best times to enjoy the beaches without the crowds of summer. Wildlife encounters are common so it’s a great time to spot koalas and other native wildlife in their natural habitat. If you’re planning a Great Ocean Road trip from Melbourne spring is the perfect balance of good weather and fewer crowds.
Which Season Is Best for You?
- If you like warm weather and beach activities summer is the best time but expect crowds during peak season.
- For good weather, fewer tourists and picturesque beaches autumn is the way to go.* Whales and quiet coast, winter.
- Mild weather, natural scenery wildflowers, spring.
FAQ
When is the best time to visit the Great Ocean Road?
March to May (autumn) and September to November (spring) are the best.
Is winter a good time to drive the Great Ocean Road?
Yes, winter is the quietest with amazing coastal views, fewer crowds and whale watching.
How many days do I need to see the Great Ocean Road?
At least 2-3 days to see the main attractions and seaside towns without rushing. More time is even better. A 2 day Great Ocean Road tour is a great option if you are short on time.
Are there any seasonal road closures on the Great Ocean Road?
The road is open all year round but may be closed due to weather or heavy rain. Always check the weather forecast before you go.
What do I need to pack for a Great Ocean Road trip?
Comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing for milder weather, sunscreen, rain jacket for cooler months and a camera to capture the views and scenery is a must, no matter the time of year.