Top 5 Lookout Spots Along the Great Ocean Road (That Aren’t Swarming with Tourists)
Planning a road trip down the Great Ocean Road? Sure, the 12 Apostles are epic, but let’s be real—so is dodging busloads of tourists. If you’re after the kind of views that make your jaw drop without the selfie-stick chaos, you’re in the right place.
Here are our top 5 lookouts that are just as breathtaking (maybe even more so), and a little more low-key.
1. Teddy’s Lookout – Lorne
A bit of a local secret, Teddy’s Lookout offers sweeping views of the Saint George River meeting the sea, with that classic windy road carving through the cliffs. It’s just a short drive from Lorne’s main strip and 100% worth the detour.
Why go: Unreal coastal views, close to town
Best time: Sunset or early morning
Facilities: Small car park, short walk to viewing platform
2. Marriners Lookout – Apollo Bay
Perched on a hill just outside of Apollo Bay, Marriners Lookout gives you one of the best panoramic views over the coast and town. On a clear day, you can see for kilometres.
Why go: Perfect picnic spot with insane views
Best time: Sunrise! Watch the town wake up
Facilities: Small parking area, short uphill walk
3. Cape Patton Lookout – Skenes Creek
This one’s a blink-and-you-miss-it stop right off the main road. Cape Patton offers uninterrupted views of the rugged coastline. No walk required—just pull over and take it in.
Why go: Super easy stop with dramatic scenery
Best time: Midday when the ocean is sparkling
Facilities: Roadside parking bay
4. The Grotto – Port Campbell
Okay, this one’s technically a lookout and a geological formation. It’s a natural sinkhole you can walk down into, and the view from the top (and inside) is unlike anything else on the coast.
Why go: Otherworldly landscape, great photo spot
Best time: Golden hour, when the light hits the water
Facilities: Car park, short steps down to the grotto
5. Bay of Martyrs Lookout – Peterborough
Less hyped than the 12 Apostles, but just as striking, the Bay of Martyrs gives you those same dramatic cliffs and stacks, without the crowd-control fencing. Peaceful, raw, and underrated.
Why go: Feels wild and untouched
Best time: Dusk, when it’s quiet and moody
Facilities: Parking and walking trail
Planning Your Trip?
Bookmark this post or pin it for later! You’ll want to keep these lookout spots in your back pocket when the crowds start to get a bit much. And if you’ve already visited them—drop us a comment with your favourite!
