A rapid, photo-rich sweep along one of Australia’s most famous coastlines, this 12-hour backpacker-focused tour from Melbourne pairs the Twelve Apostles with beach walks, koala spotting, and seaside lunch in Apollo Bay. Expect wind, stairs, and cinematic viewpoints.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step onto the coach at dawn in Melbourne; the city blinks away and the highway begins to unwind toward the ocean. Within an hour the urban grid softens into rolling farmland, then eucalyptus-scented hills, and finally the wind of the Southern Ocean—cold, bracing, insistent—starts to tap the windows. The day is a sequence of revelations: hairline cliffs broken by towering limestone stacks, a staircase hewn into sandstone that drops to a wind-scoured beach, and a sleepy seaside town where koalas cling to gum trees as if they own the morning.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
12 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate — be comfortable with several short walks, stairs, and standing at lookouts throughout the day.
Wildlife
History
The Great Ocean Road was largely constructed by returned WWI soldiers between 1919–1932 and functions as a living war memorial.
Conservation
The limestone stacks are actively eroding; stick to boardwalks and marked trails to limit damage, and avoid disturbing wildlife or feeding animals.
Reserve your spot on the Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour for Backpackers aged 18-35 today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress in layers
Coastal winds change the temperature fast—bring a windproof shell and fleece for morning and late-afternoon stops.
Bring sturdy shoes
Boardwalks, short cliff paths and beach stairs are easiest in supportive sneakers or light hiking shoes.
Carry a refillable water bottle
Twelve Apostles lookouts and beaches have limited services—hydrate between stops to stay comfortable.
Arrive early for pick-up
Pick-up points in Melbourne are fixed and the tour keeps a tight schedule; be at your location 20 minutes before departure.
Windproof jacket
Protects against the strong coastal wind and sudden temperature shifts.
Sturdy walking shoes
Provides traction on boardwalks, stairs and sandy beach approaches.
Daypack with water bottle
Holds layers, snacks, camera, and refillable water for long stretches between services.
Camera or phone with good battery
You'll want charged gear for multiple photo stops, especially at the Twelve Apostles and lookouts.