A calm coastal town along the Great Ocean Road, with beaches for swimming and surfing. The surrounding Otway rainforest has walking trails and waterfalls.
Apollo Bay sits between the Otway Ranges and the Southern Ocean in Victoria. You can watch southern right whales breach the surface from Marriners Lookout, walk through ancient moss-covered trees in Great Otway National Park, or eat fresh-caught fish at the harbor. Located 90 minutes from the Twelve Apostles along the Great Ocean Road, the town makes a practical base for exploring Victoria's southwest coast.
Getting to Apollo Bay
Apollo Bay sits halfway along the Great Ocean Road, making it an ideal stopping point between Melbourne and the Twelve Apostles. The coastal drive takes about 2.5 hours from Melbourne, following a winding road through coastal cliffs and eucalyptus forests.
Beaches and Swimming
The main beach extends for 3 kilometers, with calm waters near Point Bunbury and the harbor. Lifeguards patrol the southern section during summer months, making it safe for families. At Marengo Beach, 3 kilometers west, you'll find fewer people and can spot Australian fur seals swimming around the Marengo Reefs Marine Sanctuary.
Marine Wildlife Watching
Southern right whales swim through these waters from May to September, often visible from Marriners Lookout or the beach. The whales come to breed and raise their calves in the warmer waters. You can kayak near the seal colony at Marengo Reefs, where Australian fur seals live year-round.
Great Otway National Park
Walk through rainforest paths and to waterfalls in the national park surrounding Apollo Bay. You can spot glow worms at Melba Gully after dark, watch for platypus at Lake Elizabeth, or climb to Cape Otway Lightstation, Australia's oldest mainland lighthouse, standing 90 meters above the Bass Strait.
Local Food Scene
Buy fresh fish directly from fishing boats at the Fisherman's Co-Op by the harbor. The Saturday foreshore market brings local farmers and artisans selling produce, crafts, and prepared foods. In February, the Apollo Bay Seafood Festival includes cooking demonstrations and seafood tastings.
Walking Trails and Viewpoints
From Marriners Lookout, you can see the curve of the bay and the Otway Ranges. The Great Ocean Walk runs through Apollo Bay, with options for short walks or multi-day hikes. Follow the Barham River Trail through rainforest to several waterfalls.
Local Culture
The Eastern Maar People have lived in this area, traditionally known as Krambruk, for thousands of years. They continue to fish and gather shellfish along the coast, maintaining their connection to significant cultural sites throughout the region.
Weather and Timing
Summer temperatures stay mild, rarely going above 25°C (77°F). Winters bring more rain but also whale watching opportunities. The town gets busy during school holidays and the February seafood festival.
