Great Otway National Park

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

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Tours & day trips

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Popular places to visit


Top Great Otway National Park Hotel Deals

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
 Apollo Bay Motel and Apartments

Apollo Bay Motel and Apartments

4 out of 5
2 Moore Street, Apollo Bay, VIC
Apollo Bay Motel and Apartments
Beachfront Motel

Beachfront Motel

3 out of 5
163 Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay, VIC
Beachfront Motel
Motel Marengo

Motel Marengo

3.5 out of 5
26-28 Great Ocean Road, Marengo, Marengo, VIC
Motel Marengo
Marengo Family Caravan Park

Marengo Family Caravan Park

2 out of 5
Off Great Ocean Road, Marengo Crescent, Marengo, VIC
Marengo Family Caravan Park
Coastal Motel

Coastal Motel

3.5 out of 5
171 Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay, VIC
Coastal Motel
Apollo Bay Seal Apartments

Apollo Bay Seal Apartments

3 out of 5
3/15 Great Ocean Rd, Marengo, VIC
Apollo Bay Seal Apartments
Apollo Dream Suites

Apollo Dream Suites

2.5 out of 5
15 Tuxion Rd, Apollo Bay, VIC
Apollo Dream Suites
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 including scenic walking trails and guided tours. Enjoy day trips amidst stunning landscapes, idyllic picnic spots, and adventurous pursuits. For those seeking relaxation, indulge in a spa experience or unwind at nearby golf courses. With its diverse options, you're sure to find something enjoyable during your visit.

Shopping

The nearest shopping option is the Community Market, located 4.8km from Great Otway National Park, offering a vibrant atmosphere with local goods and crafts. If you're up for a drive, head to Geelong's Westfield Shopping Centre, where you'll discover a variety of retail stores and dining options.

Recreation

Lorne Country Club offers a luxurious retreat with scenic views, ideal for relaxation and leisure activities. Apollo Bay Golf Club provides a sports-oriented environment, perfect for golf enthusiasts amid stunning landscapes. Lorne Sea Baths delivers a rejuvenating experience with wellness treatments and relaxation options by the coast.

Adventure

Embark on the Maits Rest Rainforest Walk, a scenic hiking trail 6.4km from the park, where lush greenery and towering trees create a serene atmosphere. For a thrilling experience, head to Live Wire Park, a zipline ropes course 40.2km away, promising outdoor adventure and excitement.

Take a leisurely stroll along the Kennet River Koala Walk, located 20.9km from the park, where you can spot koalas in their natural habitat amidst beautiful scenery. Each activity offers a perfect blend of adventure and the stunning natural beauty of Great Otway National Park.

Nightlife

Explore the charming Great Ocean Road Hotel for a relaxed evening with local wines and hearty meals. For a lively night, visit Apollo Bay Hotel, where you can enjoy live music and a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for mingling with fellow travellers and locals alike.

*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 range of attractions for outdoor enthusiasts, including the magnificent Otway Fly and the historic Otway Lighthouse. Visitors can explore the stunning reserves, scenic esplanades, and tranquil harbours, perfect for adventure seekers and beach lovers alike. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of this national park and its surrounding areas, ensuring a memorable experience in Victoria, Australia.

  • Great Ocean Road Waterfront: Stroll along this picturesque esplanade, where you can enjoy stunning ocean views and create lasting memories. The romantic atmosphere is perfect for couples, while families can relish the outdoor activities available.
  • Apollo Bay Harbour: Experience the charm of this vibrant harbour, famous for its beautiful beaches and breathtaking scenery. Enjoy fresh seafood at local eateries or simply soak in the picturesque views of the boats bobbing in the water.
  • Shelly Beach: A tranquil spot just a short distance from the park, Shelly Beach offers a relaxing beach vibe. It's ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or exploring the rock pools teeming with marine life.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Great Otway National Park

To save money during your visit to Great Otway National Park, plan your trip between June and August for lower accommodation prices, with Tuesdays being the cheapest day to stay. Utilise Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly hotel options and consider eco-certified accommodations for sustainable choices. Look for deals that allow you to bundle your hotel, flights, and activities for greater savings. Additionally, explore free activities in the park to enhance your experience without straining your wallet.

  • 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: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organise your results by price, starting from the lowest, to easily find the most affordable hotels. Furthermore, you can refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly accommodations available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your hotel reservation at Great Otway National Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Book Flight + Lodging, save up to 100% of flight price - Savings based on flight + lodging package prices as compared to the price of the same components available for booking separately before all discounts and rewards applied. Your bundled savings cover up to 100% of your flight. Savings vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and travel suppliers. Savings not available on all flight + lodging package bookings.