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.

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Reviews of Great Otway National Park

4.6
Top destination
5 - Excellent
216
5 - Excellent 66%
4 - Good
105
4 - Good 32%
3 - Okay
7
3 - Okay 2%
2 - Disappointing
0
2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
0
1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Some great hiking in the National Park.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

The treetop walk is excellent but be warned if not good with heights.

5/5 - Excellent

Linda

Visited the Otway fly. It's a long drive, but worth it. Treetop walk is amazing

Popular places to visit


Top Great Otway National Park Hotel & Accommodation Deals

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
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
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
Apollo Dream Suites

Apollo Dream Suites

2.5 out of 5
15 Tuxion Rd, Apollo Bay, VIC
Apollo Dream Suites
Coastal Motel

Coastal Motel

3.5 out of 5
171 Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay, VIC
Coastal Motel
A Great Ocean View Motel

A Great Ocean View Motel

3 out of 5
1 Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay, VIC
A Great Ocean View Motel
Sandpiper Motel Apollo Bay

Sandpiper Motel Apollo Bay

4 out of 5
3 Murray Street, Apollo Bay, VIC
Sandpiper 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 variety of activities for visitors including walking, guided tours, and stunning coastal scenery. Popular options include the Great Ocean Walk, ideal for day trips, as well as camping for those seeking an overnight adventure. Explore local attractions and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the park, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Shopping

The nearest shopping spot is the Community Market, located 4.8km from Great Otway National Park, offering a vibrant atmosphere with local crafts and goodies. If you're up for a drive, head to Lorne's shops for a broader selection of souvenirs and gifts.

Recreation

Apollo Bay Golf Club offers a delightful outdoor experience with its lush greens and stunning coastal views, perfect for a relaxing round of golf. For rejuvenation, Lorne Sea Baths provides a tranquil setting to unwind and indulge in wellness treatments, while Lorne Country Club presents a luxurious atmosphere for an upscale retreat.

Adventure

Maits Rest Rainforest Walk offers a stunning hiking trail surrounded by lush greenery and diverse wildlife, located 6.4km from Great Otway National Park. For family camping adventures, Skenes Creek Beachfront Park, 9.7km away, provides outdoor fun. Experience breathtaking views at the Otway Fly Treetop Adventures, 17.7km from the park.

Nightlife

In Great Otway National Park, experience the serene beauty of night-time walks under the stars, or enjoy local craft beers at nearby pubs. For a unique adventure, join guided night tours to spot wildlife, immersing yourself in the park's tranquil and enchanting atmosphere.

*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 and families alike, featuring beautiful reserves, scenic esplanades, and charming harbours. Key highlights include the lush Otway Forest Park, the thrilling Otway Fly treetop walk, and the historic Otway Lightstation. Whether you're seeking beach experiences or immersing yourself in nature, you'll find plenty to explore in this stunning region of Victoria.

  • Great Ocean Road Waterfront: This picturesque esplanade offers a romantic and family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for leisurely strolls along the coast. Enjoy stunning views of the ocean while relishing the outdoor vibes, making it an ideal spot to wind down after exploring the national park.
  • Apollo Bay Harbour: A scenic harbour that captures the essence of coastal beauty. With its stunning beach views and vibrant scenery, it’s a fantastic place to relax, enjoy fresh seafood, and watch the boats come in, immersing yourself in the local maritime culture.
  • Shelly Beach: A beautiful beach renowned for its serene atmosphere and soft sands. Just a short distance from the national park, it’s a perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying the calming sound of the waves.

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 are lower. Aim to book your stay on a Tuesday for the best rates. Use Expedia to find and sort affordable accommodation options, including eco-friendly stays. Bundling your accommodation with flights and activities can further reduce costs. Don't miss out on free activities like hiking and exploring the park's natural beauty. Also, check for last-minute deals to snag great rates on your stay.

  • 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 gives you the flexibility to choose your budget, ideal location, and other preferences. You can easily sort the results to display the most affordable hotels first by arranging the prices from low to high. Additionally, you have the option to filter your search by hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will show you sustainable and eco-friendly accommodation options that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save on costs by combining your accommodation at Great Otway National Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.