3 Days

Explore the Surf Coast’s Greatopia

No visit to Greatopia would be complete without a visit to the Surf Coast. Base yourself in Anglesea and get exploring!

  • The seaside town of Anglesea lies along the Surf Coast on the Anglesea River. With its dramatic cliffs and a forest featuring native wildlife and picture-perfect beaches, Anglesea is a traveller’s paradise. Conveniently located between Torquay and Aireys Inlet, the town is a great central base from which to explore the official start of the famed Great Ocean Road.

  • The gentle Anglesea River is perfect for paddling a kayak with the kids. Boat rentals from Anglesea Paddle Boats and Canoe Hire include equipment and safety gear, so just bring your sunscreen!

  • Explore Anglesea by bike on one of the 120 biking trails meandering through epic scenery. Hire a mountain bike from Trailhead Bike Co or drop by the Anglesea Bike Park to enjoy a day out with the whole family.

  • Grab your board, or hire a board from Go Ride a Wave, and head out for a surf. The beaches are perfect for all skill levels–Anglesea is one of the best places along the Great Ocean Road for beginner surfers.

  • When you have paddled to your hearts content and it’s time to put your feet up then look no further than Lux Spa and Wellness at Great Ocean Road Resort.

  • Walk part of the Surf Coast Walk or stroll along the esplanade. Breathtaking landscapes with endless photo opportunities surround you along the way.

  • There are too many good cafes with excellent coffee in Torquay. Beer lovers can make a beeline for Blackman’s Brewery or Bells Beach Brewing. Try a beer made with the finest ingredients, with a delicious burger or pizza.

  • Shop for great bargains at the outlet and second-hand stores in Baines Crescent. Pick up discounted surf clothes, swimwear and wetties, then check out Surf City’s latest gear from the big surf brands.

  • Dine out at one of the many restaurants or bars– our tip is to check out Number One Restaurant at RACV Torquay Resort.

Day 3

Aireys Inlet

  • After strolling along the beach, pop into one of the cafes for breakfast and coffee. The Lighthouse Tea Rooms has a great breakfast and brunch selection, accompanied by ocean views.

  • Take a tour of the Split Point Lighthouse and climb to the top for panoramic views of the coastline. The tour guides you through maritime history, where you’ll learn about the hundreds of shipwrecks over the years. You might even get to spot a pod of whales or dolphins from the topmost balcony!

  • Take your mountain bike–or hire one in Anglesea–and hit the 20-kilometre Currawong Falls trail, starting from the Distillery Creek Picnic Area trailhead. It’s an easy route that takes about three hours.

  • If walking is more your style or you’re looking for something shorter, take one of the other walks signposted at the trailhead.

  • Wrap up your day with a visit to the newly established Indie Spa and relax those aching muscles after an active few days and then dine at Santara Restaurant.

  • From the very popular seaside town of Lorne, you can enjoy the majestic coastal (and very Instagrammable) views from Teddy’s Lookout, or wander the main street brimming with boutique gift stores, cafes and galleries.

  • Just 10 kilometres away is Erskine Falls, the closest waterfall in the Otways, with water cascading down into a gorgeous ferny valley. Nearby are the pretty Kalimna Falls where the water trickles over a rocky ledge.

  • For the thrillseekers, get amongst some adventure-filled fun at Live Wire Park set amongst the treetops of the Otways. Try the 525-metre Shockwave Zipcoaster, Super Circuit ropes course, Short Circuit ropes course, Canopy Circuit walk or the Spring Circuit trampolines.

  • After a day of outdoor adventure, return to Lorne for a sundowner at the local Lorne Hotel with its stunning coastal views, then try one of Lorne’s great dining options.

Accommodation Nearby

Things To Do Nearby

Places To Eat & Drink

Let us inspire you

Sign up to get the latest deals, tours & events along the Great Ocean Road

Thank you for subscribing!

Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the Great Ocean Road region the Wadawurrung, Eastern Maar & Gunditjmara. We pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging. We recognise and respect their unique cultural heritage and the connection to their traditional lands. We commit to building genuine and lasting partnerships that recognise, embrace and support the spirit of reconciliation, working towards self-determination, equity of outcomes and an equal voice for Australia’s first people.