The Great Ocean Road With Kids
A natural family road trip — wild koalas, calm swimming beaches, a treetop canopy ride and the wow of the Twelve Apostles, all along one scenic coast.
The Great Ocean Road With Kids
The Great Ocean Road is a natural family road trip — wild koalas, calm swimming beaches, easy rainforest walks, a treetop canopy ride and the wow of the Twelve Apostles, all strung along one scenic coast. The trick is to keep the driving in short legs and mix up the stops. Here’s how to plan an easy, memorable trip with children.
What to Do
Koala Spotting
Wild koalas and king parrots at Kennett River — a guaranteed hit with kids.
Calm Town Beaches
Patrolled swimming at Lorne, Apollo Bay and Anglesea in summer.
The Otway Fly
A treetop walkway through the rainforest — a fun, easy adventure.
Twelve Apostles
The big finale — an easy boardwalk to the famous stacks.
Tips for Travelling With Kids
- Break the drive into short legs — stop often at beaches and lookouts
- Base at Lorne or Apollo Bay and take two days — see where to stay
- Koala spotting at Kennett River is easy and reliable — don’t feed the parrots
- Swim between the flags on patrolled beaches; mind rips elsewhere
- Keep waterfall and rainforest walks short with little ones
- Prefer it handled? A guided 2-day tour takes care of the driving
With Kids — FAQ
Is the Great Ocean Road good for families?
Very — wild koalas, calm swimming beaches, easy rainforest walks, the Twelve Apostles and the treetop Otway Fly make it a great family road trip.
How many days do families need?
Two to three days keeps the pace gentle — base at Lorne or Apollo Bay, break up the driving, and mix beaches, wildlife and short walks. See where to stay.
What are the best things to do with kids?
Koala spotting at Kennett River, the beaches at Lorne and Apollo Bay, the Otway Fly treetop walk, short waterfall walks, and the Twelve Apostles boardwalk. Keep walks short and bring snacks.
Are the beaches safe for children?
The patrolled town beaches (Lorne, Apollo Bay, Torquay, Anglesea) are best in summer — always swim between the flags. Many beaches are unpatrolled with rips, so take care.
Is it a lot of driving for kids?
It can be — the road is winding. Break it into short legs, stop often at lookouts and beaches, and consider two days so no single drive is too long.
The Great Ocean Road, Planned Around You
The Twelve Apostles, the surf coast, the Otway rainforest and the wildlife — with the driving and bookings handled by the family that’s toured Australia since 1974.
Call 0409 661 342 Plan My Trip — Free Enquiry