Great Otway National Park — Attraction in Cape Otway

Great Otway National Park, located along Victoria’s iconic Great Ocean Road, is a breathtaking natural sanctuary that stretches from Torquay to Princetown and inland through the Otway Ranges. This vast and ecologically diverse park features lush rainforests, dramatic coastlines, scenic waterfalls, and abundant native wildlife, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers, hikers, and road-trippers.

Rainforest Trails and Waterfalls

The park is celebrated for its cool temperate rainforests, home to towering Mountain Ash trees, moss-covered logs, and ancient tree ferns. A must-visit is the Maits Rest Rainforest Walk, an easy 800-meter boardwalk circuit near Apollo Bay that winds through dense greenery, offering an immersive forest experience.

For waterfall enthusiasts, Erskine Falls near Lorne provides a stunning 30-meter drop into a fern-lined valley, with access to viewing platforms above and below the falls. Other beautiful waterfalls in the region include Triplet Falls, Hopetoun Falls, and Beauchamp Falls—each surrounded by rich forest and ideal for photography, picnics, or peaceful contemplation.

The Great Ocean Walk

Stretching 104 kilometers from Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles, the Great Ocean Walk is one of Victoria’s premier long-distance hiking trails. This coastal trek takes hikers through ever-changing landscapes—from secluded beaches and clifftops to eucalyptus woodlands and river valleys. With well-marked sections and designated campsites, the walk caters to both short day hikes and multi-day adventures. Along the way, hikers may spot koalas, wallabies, echidnas, and an array of native birds.

Wildlife and Unique Experiences

Great Otway National Park is a wildlife hotspot. The Cape Otway region, in particular, is renowned for its wild koala sightings in the treetops along roadside eucalyptus groves. Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting unique species like the pink robin and powerful owl. For a rare treat, take an early morning canoe tour at Lake Elizabeth to try spotting a wild platypus in its natural habitat.

For those exploring after dark, Melba Gully offers a magical experience with glow worms lighting up the forest floor—a quiet, enchanting walk under a starlit canopy.

Coastal Attractions

The park’s southern edge borders a rugged coastline dotted with historic and scenic landmarks. The Cape Otway Lightstation, built in 1848, stands as Victoria’s oldest surviving lighthouse and offers sweeping views of the Bass Strait. Nearby, the Castle Cove Lookout delivers panoramic ocean views and is a popular spot during whale migration seasons.

Visitor Amenities and Access

Open year-round, Great Otway National Park changes character with the seasons. Winter brings misty forests and powerful waterfalls, while spring welcomes wildflowers and vibrant greenery. Numerous campgrounds and picnic areas are available, with trails catering to all fitness levels. The nearby towns of Apollo Bay, Lorne, and Forrest serve as convenient bases, offering visitor centers, accommodation, and park information.

Conclusion

Whether you’re seeking a tranquil walk through ancient forests, a challenging coastal hike, or a chance to observe unique Australian wildlife, Great Otway National Park delivers an unforgettable and diverse outdoor experience. It’s a must-stop along the Great Ocean Road and a cherished gem in Victoria’s...

This is definitely a must visit. It's just so beautiful out here. The county is basically rain forest with some beautiful farms and properties dotted amongst it. There's plenty of hiking, camping and lots of waterfalls, some at the end of a good hike. The hiking caters for the novice and the hardcore hikers. The fishing in the rivers is good so don't forget your fishing gear if you like fishing. It's close to Apollo Bay which offers access to Bass Straight for outstanding deep water fishing, tuna fishing as well as land base fishing for all skill sets. There's some good fishing charter businesses that will put you on the fish. Apollo Bay offers shops for supplies, boutique shops that offer local local made goods and art. There's plenty of cafes, accommodation and hotels. It also offers great boat ramps and amenities. Colac isn't far and has all the standard shopping centres and shops you need to stock up on supplies at non tourist price's. It has a maccas, KFC and other fast food outlets. Its offer lots of boutique shops with local made goods and art. There is no shortage of great cafes and restaurants. The small township of Gellibrand amongst the other small towns are definitely worth a visit. The small township of Gellibrand is an absolutely gorgeous little town. It has a general store/cafe/post office and wow they do an outstanding expesso. It has a picturesque caravan park and has a beautiful old pub with great ambience. The publican and staff are friendly and welcoming and their meals are good proper old school counter meal. The servings are large. The Parma's are a must try but leave plenty of room to fit it in and the prices are very reasonable. The Gellibrand River runs though the township of Gellibrand with offers beautiful hikes, picnic/bbq areas and of course fishing. The Great Otway National Park rates 5 stars in my eyes. I love the area as most will. So much if so, Im looking to buy property in the area around or...

Great Otway National Park (also known as Cape Otway) stretches from Torquay, along the world-famous Great Ocean Road and up through the Otways hinterland in Victoria, Australia 🇦🇺. This is a beautiful place to visit. The amazing views of the coastline along with the gorgeous waterfalls and beauty of the rainforest makes for a wonderful experience. The beauty of the huge trees is so memorable. Some of the giant beech trees are over 300 years old. If you are looking to camp, you can either park your caravan or pitch a tent ⛺️. You can camp at either Johanna, Aire River or Blanket Bay. There’s an abundance of wildlife, you might be lucky to spot a koala 🐨 or two like we did. It’s also worth making a trip to the light station if you have the time. The views are amazing. You can also have a look in the lighthouse and the lighthouse keepers house. There’s tables there to sit and rest. There are pretty good walking paths through the forest. The park is situated approximately 162 kilometres southwest of Melbourne. It has a very diverse range of landscapes and vegetation types. It’s very popular with local, interstate and international visitors. If you go at night, you might be able to see glow worms along the stream banks and walking trails. Particularly at Beauchamp Falls. It’s definitely worth a visit, wouldn’t hesitate to recommend. Thumbs...