36 Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Stops (Along the Coast)

If you’re planning the ultimate coastal adventure, this guide to the best Melbourne to Adelaide road trip stops will help you map out the perfect journey. Whether you’re chasing rugged cliffs, landmarks, wildlife or beaches, I think this drive is one of Australia’s most scenic coastal routes.

The challenge? With so many viewpoints, detours, and photo-worthy stops between Victoria and South Australia, it can feel overwhelming to decide where to go, how long you need, and what’s actually worth pulling over for.

That’s why I created this first-timers guide, designed to help you plan with ease. After multiple coastal road trips through here, I’ve narrowed down the very best stops for you to pick and choose from. So buckle up, and let’s turn your Melbourne to Adelaide drive (or the reverse) into an experience you’ll never forget.

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Overview & Map Driving from Melbourne to Adelaide!

A Coastal road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide is an incredibly scenic road trip. This includes the reasons the Great Ocean Road is worth seeing, with captivating beaches and rock formations along the limestone coast.

With your scheduled time, you can stop at Australia’s best surfing spots, hike through rainforests and witness the beauty of waterfalls. But, please click here for the my specially pinned map to open or apply directions from your location.

⏱️ Short on Time?

If you don’t have a lot of time to spare, or want to round down your options. Here is my short list of “Must-do” activities that you just can’t miss on your road trip between Melbourne and Adelaide!

• 1. Quick Stop at Memorial Arch
• 2. Stay overnight at Lorne for a luxury beachside destination
• 3. See the Cape Otway Light station
• 4. Take in the View of Marriners Lookout at Apollo Bay
• 5. Admire the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge & London Bridge along the Great Ocean Road
• 6. Stroll through the National Maritime Museum in Portland
• 7. See the seals at Cape Bridgewater
• 8. Visit Blue Lake and Umpherston Sinkhole in Mount Gambier
• 9. View the underground in the Naracoorte Caves
• 10. Take a day trip to Kangaroo Island

36 of My Favourite Road Trip Stops

1. Melbourne

The Victorian state capital of Melbourne is where we will start our journey today. The city is a mecca for all the foodies and those loving to shop for bargains or their favourite brands. In addition, it hosts big sporting events, find art & culture, and has a rich history. Alternatively, you can book tours from the city to the famous Puffing Billy train and seeing the Penguins down at Phillip Island. 

I tend to stay in Hotels that are close to the city, since it’s convenient to walk places to easy access to public Transport at Flinders or Spencer Street station. Otherwise, I would stay close to the purpose of my visit or what I wanted to do there.

Melbourne is suitable for those craving an indoor or outdoor lifestyle, being guided on tours and tourism thrives for all kinds of visitors. Not only that, but it’s a major international gateway city with flights arriving direct from all over Australia and overseas. 

2. Geelong

Geelong is the second largest city in Victoria, second only to its bustling capital, Melbourne. Located near the historical surf capital of Australia (mentioned below), Geelong is a vibrant and lively city that exudes energy and fun. 

You can check out the local art galleries, or visiting Barwon Heads beach on the Bellarine Peninsula. This also includes watching football matches at Simonds Stadium, the Wool Museum, or exploring the famous street art and cafes of Little Malop Street. 

3. Ocean Grove

Ocean Grove is an small surf town located on the surf coast and I actually have family that live here. This little gem is home to beautiful white sandy beaches, lush green golf courses, and vineyards, offering tourists an unforgettable holiday experience! 

With its azure surf, clean air, and miles of pristine coastline, Ocean Grove serves as a rare jewel for surfers and sun chasers. Plus, for wine enthusiasts, the nearby wineries provide the best single-grape varieties from across the country. 

4. Torquay

Torquay is renowned for its surf culture, holiday hotspot accommodation and is best known as the beach capital of Australia. Why, you ask? Well, famous surf brands like Quicksilver and Rip Curl were actually born here in Torquay. 

Even if you don’t surf, you can indulge in retail therapy at designer outlet stores or check out the National Surfing Museum. Not only that, but you can visit the local brewery and restaurants or end the evening by taking a leisurely sunset stroll on the beach.

5. Bells Beach

The iconic Bells Beach is the birthplace of one of the biggest surfing competitions in Australia – “Rip Curl Pro“. This is held around April each year and brings in talent from all over the world. It’s located about 15 minutes south of Torquay and can be used as a quick stop-off for photos or stay for longer to relax. 

Known as a surfing hotspot since the 1960s, it still draws surfers from all over the country today.

Any movie buffs here? If you remember the 1991 “Point Break” movie with Patrick Swayze and Keanu Reeves. They not only mention Bells Beach at the start of the flick, but the ending scene was filmed on the beach itself. 

6. Anglesea Mines

The Anglesea Mines is a former coal mine covering an area of 325 Hectares. The mine left a huge hole when it was closed in 2015, but it is earmarked to be transformed into a lake. 

More recently, it has been proposed to transform the site in the footsteps of the Eden Project in Cornwall, UK. By changing it into a Rainforest, which currently attracts more than one million visits annually in the UK.

On the way through Anglesea, keep an eye out for the local golf coarse, which is a favourite place to bask in the sun by the local kangaroos.

7. Eagle Rock

The magnificent Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary consists of 17 hectares of ocean waters, protecting about 300 metres offshore. The Rock itself is a tall volcanic stack not far from the cliff edged coast and very similar to what you’ll see along the Great Ocean Road. 

Nearby is Table Rock, which has been levelled over the years, but you’ll find all these rocky areas surrounded by sponges, sea tulips, and bull kelp. Plus, it’s also home to cat sharks, rays, and skates.

8. Split Point Lighthouse

The Split Point lighthouse at Aireys Inlet is famous for featuring in the tv show “Round The Twist,” which is so much more than a TV landmark. Built in 1891, she is still a fully functioning lighthouse that offers breath taking views over the coast. 

They have 30-minute tours run on weekends and summer school holidays, so it’s worth the short stopover if you’re around. However, you are advised to book ahead to avoid disappointment, otherwise you can just look from a distance.

9. Memorial Arch

There are so many things to see along the Great Ocean Road and all starts here, at the Memorial Arch. This is about 7 minutes south of Airley’s Inlet, and essentially a massive carved wooden arch positioned over the highway.

If you didn’t know, the entire road trip stretches 244 kilometres from here to Allansford near Warrnambool, and it can be a road trip on its own!

If you’re coming from Melbourne, there is a small car park on the left-hand side of the road which is effortless to via off the highway for those happy snaps.

Surprisingly, the Arch was built by returned soldiers and dedicated to those killed in World War 1 (making it the world’s largest war memorial).

10. Lorne

The town of Lorne in Victoria is one of Australia’s premier beachside holiday accommodation destinations. Famous for its fantastic view of the southern ocean coast: you can enjoy days swimming at nearby beaches or take a leisurely stroll through Lorne’s rainforest.

You can also explore the small shopping district with its local bars, restaurants, and tourist boutiques. 

Lorne offers a range of accommodation options for the perfect beach holiday. It’s also home to the Falls Festival every New Year’s Eve when huge crowds attend the 2-day festival of popular rock, hip hop, electronic and indie bands.

Along with the Pier to Pub race, which is an open water swim across 1.2 km of water. Interesting that, In 1998 the Pier to Pub entered the Guinness Book of World Records with 3071 swimmers in the largest ever open water swim.

Tip: As you drive further south, do a quick stop at the Kennett River Nature walk to spot Koalas in the wild.

11. Erskine Falls

About 9kms or 15 minutes inland from Lorne are the incredible Erskine Falls, nestled within the lush ferns of The Otway Ranges. On a hot day, the mist and spray coming from the 30-metre drop of the falls is a welcome relief from the heat. Obviously, it’s better to visit in the summertime rainfall affecting the size of the falls (December to March).

It has easy access with a 5-minute walk from the car park to the upper lookout point. However, if you want to get to the bottom of the falls, you must tackle a more strenuous walk down 240 steps to the base.

12. Apollo Bay

Apollo Bay is an incredibly budget-friendly destination for a beach holiday in Victoria and why I would generally use it as my first stop for a nights stay along this Melbourne to Adelaide road trip. It has all the charm of a classic coastal town but with fewer crowds and beautiful white sand beaches perfect for swimming or sunbathing. 

This is a perfect base if you wish to explore Cape Otway and the surrounding Otway Ranges. I also recommend heading to Marriner’s Lookout to capture the bay’s beauty, spectacular scenery, and the best photo spot. 

Just south of Apollo Bay is one of my favourite scenic areas on this coastal route. The road zig-zags around the mountains, with the waves crashing beside you. But, know that there are only a couple of car parking bays along this section.

This means that at times, they can be full and not always available for you to stop. 

Note: In 2004 the official Great Ocean Walk was opened, offering 104km of walking trails that start in Apollo bay and finish at the 12 Apostles. Brilliant for the avid Hiker!

13. Cape Otway Light station

The Cape Otway Lighthouse is located in the Great Otway National Park. This is your most southern point of Australia’s mainland, and it shouldn’t be missed. It was built in 1848 and provided critical navigation for ships traversing these treacherous waters.

Once you arrive, there is a wealth of activities, whether exploring the aboriginal centre, walking down to the beaches, or touring the light station. It stands on a cliff looking out into the Southern Ocean, providing panoramic views in more ways than one!

Tip – Another walking trail in the Great Otway National Park would be the Maits Rest Rainforest Walk

14. Triplet Falls

Located deep within the Great Otway National Park, this area is notoriously wet and rainy, which means the Triplet Falls are spectacular at most times of the year. 

As the name suggests, the water falls into three water columns, plunging down through dense rainforest of ferns. Walking around the area is easy with a 2-kilometre constructed walking loop-track along suspended boardwalks.

15. Otway Fly Treetop Adventures

For those who are feeling adventurous, the best way you can explore Otway’s nature is by walking the Otway Fly Tree Top Walk. This rainforest & Tree Top Walk is 1.9 kilometres long and can be completed in 1 hour. 

Meander over suspended metal bridges while you gaze below at the untouched flora and fauna in the rainforest. Climb up the Tower and get 360-degree views above the trees. 

Or, if you want that extra adrenalin? Then the Zip Line Tour fly’s you from tower to tower, 30 metres above the rainforest floor.

16. Helicopter Flights

The Great Ocean Road has organised tours to and from Melbourne, or others opting for a self-drive option. Either way, the section between Princetown and Peterborough is one of my personal favourites, and I’ve completed it numerous times over the years.

The Limestone Coast is awe-inspiring from the ground but it’s even better from the air. You can grab a 10 to 30-minute flight, but please read the review of my Great Ocean Helicopter Tour, so you understand the expectations and make the most of your experience. 

Note: as the photo suggests below, the weather was not the absolute best for me!

17. The 12 Apostles

The biggest highlight of the Great Ocean Road is viewing The 12 Apostles’ rock formations. Conveniently, the parking station is located at the tourist information centre and the viewpoint is only a short 5-minute walk from there. 

It’s often windy in this region, even on the hottest day. However, the ocean’s strength, power, and years of erosion are the most dramatic in this spot and what created these impressive pillars we all see today. 

While they are still called the 12 Apostles, there are, in fact, only 8 currently standing. From the official viewpoint, 2 of them can be seen on one side and 6 on the other. This means photographing them all in one shot can only be done from the air.

18. Gibson Beach

Looking for a beachside view of the Apostles, then look at taking the Gibson Steps down to the beach. Unfortunately, it can only be done at low tide, and a security gate will stop you if it’s too dangerous. But, the view from the ground is magnificent and well worth the effort to schedule in. 

Note: Due to the positioning of the rock formations, only 2 Apostles are viewable from here.

19. Loch Ard Gorge

A short drive further east will bring you to the iconic Loch Ard Gorge, which was named after the “Loch Ard” ship that wrecked off the coast in 1878. It’s a cul-de-sac beach, has limestone-lined cliffs and striking turquoise waters.

I used to play cricket here when I was a child and have fond memories of playing beach cricket with my cousins. There isn’t a lot of swimming, with the rough seas and a strong undertow, but it can be possible in the calm weather. However, that’s if you can brave the freezing cold waters!

Fun Fact: This beach was also used in filming the 1982 flick, “The Pirate Movie,” starring Kristy McNicol and Christopher Atkins.  

20. Thunder Cave

The Thunder Cave is approximately 550 metres from the car park, making it an easy track to hop on and navigate. It has a gradual slope the entire way, with a smooth concrete path suitable for wheelchairs and prams. 

This is where you’ll see the strength and hear the power of the ocean waters crashing and filtering through the caves. Essentially creating a blow-hole effect through the carved-out cliffs. 

21. Port Campbell

If you want to concentrate on this region more or see it slower, then Port Campbell is the closest and best option to base yourself. I have stayed here multiple times and the “Primo” Great Ocean Road pit-stops are all within 15 kilometres on either side of town.

However, it’s only a tiny town and ensure you book accommodation well in advance to avoid disappointment.

22. London Bridge or London Arch

The London Bridge rock formation is precisely that, a popular archway or Bridge that tourists used to walk out on. It was even used as another viewpoint for the 12 Apostles (albeit too far away for me).

However, in 1990, the bridge collapsed unexpectedly, with 2 visitors needing rescuing and you obviously can’t walk out there anymore.

Consequently, It’s now known as the London Arch and is still an extraordinary sight to see with tracks leading to the lookout points. However, the collapse reiterates how delicate this coastline is and how quickly it can change.

23. Warrnambool

Warrnambool is located on the southwest coast of Victoria and offers activities and sights to explore. The whale watching season between May and October is not to be missed, with humpback whale pods passing through in a spectacular fashion.

The Flagstaff Maritime Village is often a highlight, as well as the Lake Pertrobe parklands for the kids.

Notably, Warrnambool is a great place to base yourself for a night’s stay before setting off on the rest of the road trip.

24. Codrington Wind Farm

Located not far after Port Fairy, you will find yourself surrounded by a ‘forest’ of wind turbines. There are 14 massive turbines, standing 50m tall, which are all taking advantage of the strong winds blowing in from the Southern Ocean. 

Admire from afar or use a long-range camera lens for photos. Getting as close as possible allows you to hear the gentle sound of the blades turning.

I find it mesmerising to listen to and watch!

25. Portland

Still situated in Victoria, we next come to the small town of Portland and the site of Victoria’s first permanent European settlement.

I’ve stayed here a couple of times over the years, as it’s home to the National Maritime Museum. This claims to be Australia’s largest and there are also more than 200 historic buildings and a Cable Tram.

It’s not unusual to encounter relics from the shipwreck era scattered along its lush coastline, like fossils and extinct sea creatures. Plus, during the winter months (June to August), Southern Right Whales can be seen as part of their annual migration to warmer waters.

26. Petrified Forest

The Petrified Forest is located just south of Cape Bridgewater, at the end of Blowholes Road. The formations are out of this world and remind me of the movie “Pitch Black” with Vin Diesel, or the Pinnacles in Western Australia. 

There is only a 10-minute leisurely walk from the car park, and you’ll undoubtedly see it on your own, because it’s not well known. The petrified forest is formed from sand that engulfed ancient coastal trees over time.

Seeing them, I imagine visiting an alien planet!

27. Cape Bridgewater

Cape Bridgewater is a remote coastal town about 15 minutes from Portland. The area has spectacular cliff views and offers unique opportunities to observe seals. I actually did a small rubber boat seal tour here, with hundreds of Australian seals swimming around you.

This was a definite highlight!

Visitors can take walks along the magnificent cliffs, relax on one of the beaches, or just enjoy the peaceful sound of waves lapping at the shore. Above all, Cape Bridgewater will leave you feeling refreshed with its stunning views and unforgettable wildlife sightings.

28. Princess Margaret Rose Caves

The Princess Margaret Caves are located within the Lower Glenelg National Park and our last stop on the Victorian side. Tours are conducted by expert guides that will point out the caves’ unique features and history. You will need to book in advance, and due to the 65 stairs down into the cave, it’s not wheelchair accessible. 

Know that the caves closed in 2021 for upgrades after the owners retired, and there is hope it will reopen in the future. In the meantime, the campgrounds are still open for bookings and use.

29. The Blue Lake

We have now crossed the border into South Australia and into the town of Mount Gambier. It has a population of over 30 thousand and the second-largest city in its state. Plus, I suggest staying here for a couple of nights to check out the next few items in the blog posts

One of its main tourist attractions is the magnificent Blue Lake, and said to be a result of an extinct volcano that formed craters millions of years ago.

If you visit from December to March, you will be rewarded with the most striking cobalt blue water before turning to grey colour in winter. It’s an impressive site to drive around and views from various lookout points.

Fun Fact: It is estimated 4,300 years since the Blue Lakes last eruption, making it the most recent eruption on the Australian mainland. 

30. The Umpherston Sinkhole

Umpherston Sinkhole is also a frequently visited spot in Mount Gambier and is named after James Umpherston. It’s situated in a former shallow limestone cave that has sunk into the earth.

And today, it has been transformed into magnificent green gardens where visitors can wander past ponds and manicured lawns. 

Access to the gardens is via steps, so they are NOT wheelchair accessible. However, once you descend to the cave floor, you will be rewarded with a fountain, tree ferns, and hydrangeas. 

It’s open daily, as well as into the evening. In fact, if you bring nibbles with you, you might be able to feed the possums when they emerge at dusk.

31. Naracoorte Caves National Park

The Naracoorte Caves are over 800,000 years old and are one of Australia’s most significant fossil sites. It has been listed as a World Heritage Site since 1994, serving as an irreplaceable reminder of Australia’s prehistoric history for generations to come. 

The caves are open daily for visitors to explore the captivating limestone formations, gather interesting insights into Australian wildlife from centuries ago, and witness the ancient underground lakes and rivers.

32. Robe

Robe is a bright and beautiful seaside town situated on the stunning Coast of South Australia. It was founded in 1846 and named after Governor Robe, who arrived on the cutter ship Lapwing.

This small town is an increasingly popular holiday hotspot for those seeking waterfront holiday getaways with its long sandy white beaches and spectacular sunsets. 

Robe offers visitors unique wildlife to an array of walking trails, restaurants, bars, and shops in the heart of the main street. Or, for those looking for relaxation, check out the day spa.

Otherwise, historic buildings in the original streets have stayed the same since their construction in the 1860s.

33. Kingston SE

Further along the Limestone coast and 300 kilometres from Adelaide is Kingston SE, in Lacepede Bay. Kingston’s beaches offer safe, calm waters to swim in or enjoy a spot of fishing. In addition, they offer up stunning ocean sunsets in the evenings and I’ve always stayed in the Lacepede Bay Motel near the beach.

This is also where you get to meet “Larry, the lobster,” (pictured below) especially if you’re following the “Big things in Australia”. He was erected as a tribute to the seafood caught in the local waters, and you’ll find him on the way out of town.

Added tip: Stop in the Coorong National Park and see the saline lagoon which extends for 140 kilometres along the coast

34. The d’Arenberg Cube

The d’Arenberg Cube in McLaren Vale is a multi-award-winning architectural masterpiece and optical illusion. When viewed from the road, it appears to be a perfectly cubic building fully suspended in the air. 

Yet, when seen up close, it’s built out of five stories, with each one leaning against the next, creating a cantilevered cube structure.

Its restaurant features South Australian wines and combines them with delicious degustation menus. At the same time, its immersive art gallery takes visitors on a journey through the picturesque hills of Willunga.

35. Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island is worth adding to your list, since it’s located off the coast of South Australia and is an ideal spot for anyone looking for a scenic getaway. 

You can get there with organised tours taking the ferry from Cape Jervis (about 1.5 hours south of Adelaide) or from a flight from Adelaide Airport.

Here, you can explore nature’s most majestic landscapes, such as its secluded beaches, lush forests, and remote hiking trails. Some of my favourites are Remarkable rocks, Seal Beach, Scotts Cove and Kelly Hill Caves.

It also boasts a remarkable wildlife population, ensuring an thrilling experience and means you have the opportunity to come up close and personal with native species. This includes sea lions, koalas and of course the kangaroo. 

Note: If you’re taking the ferry over from Cape Jervis, then Victor Harbor might be another ideal stop (before or after), famed for it’s horse drawn tramway.

36. Adelaide

Adelaide is the Capital of South Australia, with a population of over 1.3 million people. It’s often referred to as the wine and festival capital, which makes sense with all the wineries nearby. Along with it being a nice size to stay in for a few nights, without it being too overwhelming. 

Tourists will visit Adelaide for the food and drinks scene, to explore the walking trails, museums, and the zoo, or to visit the wineries. You can book organised tours from the city to Kangaroo Island mentioned above, Wineries in the Barossa Valley, or sightseeing cruises.

Additionally, you can take advantage of the southern beach lifestyle at Glenelg Beach and drive 30 minutes away to the little German village of Hahndorf.

Do you need Car Hire

Hiring a car is an ideal way to start your road trip and this can be done for either Melbourne or Adelaide. Plus, booking with an all-inclusive rental package makes it easy, whether you’re collecting your car at one of the airports or other convenient locations. 

➡Find your favourite brand & compare prices for your Rental Car HERE

Enjoy the flexibility and convenience of having your own car, especially considering that most places mentioned today, doesn’t have public Transport. Plus, it would definitely be more time efficient and able to save on taxi services in the city’s. 

When is the Best Time to Travel?

Summer (November to March) is the best time to travel along the coast of Victoria and South Australia. Of course, it can be cooler in the southern areas of Australia, but still, summer is when you’ll get the warmest weather. 

That being said, you can complete this road trip at any time of year – Just expect to bring layers or winter clothing for the unpredictable cold fronts. 

Is the Inland Route better?

Choosing between the coastal and inland routes is a tough decision when traveling from Melbourne to Adelaide.

The inland route will get you there much sooner as it only travels about 800 kilometres along the Western Highway. But, it’s only highlights would include the amazing Grampians National Park.

However, the coastal road between Melbourne and Adelaide is over 1280 kilometres long and definitely more scenic. Therefore, if time isn’t of the essence, then it’s worth opting for this path.

Wrap up & Read More!

I hope you enjoyed reading this blog post today on my best Melbourne to Adelaide Road trip stops along the Coast. Plus, I hope you found the information you were looking for.

However, if you’re still researching, please check out other Victorian Blogs HERE, or find the rest of my South Australian articles HERE for planning and inspiration.

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