Leave Melbourne at 11:00AM to avoid peak morning traffic; head south on the M1/A1 and connect to the Great Ocean Road via the Surf Coast Hwy. This times your coastal driving for afternoon light.
Stop in Torquay for fresh seafood or casual beachside lunch to fuel the drive; Torquay is the gateway to the Great Ocean Road and a good first stretch break. Check individual cafe opening hours (many open from 11:00AM).
Quick visit to the Surfing Museum to learn about surf history and local culture — interesting even if you’re not a surfer. Typical hours are roughly 10:00AM–4:00PM but confirm before you go.
Continue the scenic coastal drive from Torquay to Lorne, enjoying cliffs, beaches and lookout stops along the way; this stretch sets the tone for the trip's best views.
Stretch your legs with a walk along Lorne Beach and the pier; great spot for photos and a short coffee break if needed. Beach access is open all day; surf conditions vary seasonally.
Short drive inland to Erskine Falls for a rainforest waterfall view and easy walking trails — the falls are best in daylight and are a refreshing nature stop. The site is usually open daylight hours; check seasonal access for stairs/walkways.
Continue west along the Great Ocean Road toward Apollo Bay — enjoy coastal lookout stops if daylight remains, and arrive in town in the early evening to check in.
Check into your chosen accommodation in Apollo Bay (options range from beachfront motels to B&Bs) and relax before dinner. Try to choose a place with easy parking given you’re on a road trip.
Enjoy a hearty dinner at a popular local spot (Apollo Bay Hotel or a seafood cafe) featuring fresh local seafood and regional dishes — reservations advised on weekends. Typical dinner service from 5:30PM–9:00PM.
Start with a relaxed breakfast and good coffee; Cafe 153 serves brunch-style dishes while the bakery has quick pastries and savory pies if you prefer to get going. Many cafes open from 7:30–8:00AM on weekdays/weekends.
Explore Maits Rest rainforest boardwalk and nearby waterfall trails in Great Otway National Park for a lush, short-hike experience; trails are best during daylight and are generally open year-round (check park alerts for closures).
Head back along the Great Ocean Road towards Aireys Inlet; this stretch is scenic with possible quick lookout stops—expect roughly 1h40–2h driving time depending on stops.
Visit the iconic Split Point Lighthouse for coastal panoramas and photo opportunities; grounds are accessible most daylight hours and guided tours run at set times (often 10:00AM–4:00PM)—check tour availability if you want to go inside.
Complete the return drive to Melbourne, arriving in late afternoon to early evening depending on traffic; this wraps up the 2-day loop along the Great Ocean Road.