Ease into the day at Grassroots Deli Café. It’s warm, welcoming and exactly the kind of café you want on a coastal trip. The breakfast bruschetta is the standout — stacked with fresh tomatoes and finished with their house-made pesto. Pair it with a flat white and you’re set for a day exploring the Great Ocean Road.

For lunch, we often wander over to 12 Rocks Beach Bar Café, which sits right on the water. On a sunny day, the deck is the place to be. Their fish and chips hit that perfect balance of crisp batter and flaky fish, and the views across the bay make you truly feel like you’re on holiday.

Dinner in Port Campbell offers a great range of choices considering it’s a small town. Port Campbell Hotel is the classic choice — a proper country pub with generous servings and a lively, friendly atmosphere. It’s where we go when we want a schnitty, a steak or an unfussy end to the day. If you’re in the mood for something different yet still casual, Sow and Piglets Brewery does great pizzas and cold local brews. It’s an easy option after a big day of sightseeing or adventures on the coast.

For those who prefer to self-cater, the Park has ample space in the fully-equipped camp kitchen and shared BBQs, with space to enjoy a meal together outdoors.

If you’re here for the Great Ocean Road icons, you’re in the right spot. Start with the Port Campbell Discovery Walk, an easy loop that gives you a feel for the coastline without needing to jump in the car. The 4km track winds along the clifftops, with sweeping views of Sentinel Rock and the 12 Apostles, it’s a great way to stretch the legs after settling into camp. Head around dawn and dust for the most spectacular photos and the opportunity to see local wildlife when it is most active.

For a deeper dive into nature, head inland to the Great Otway National Park. It’s a complete shift in atmosphere — towering tree ferns, waterfalls hidden in cool gullies and long, quiet stretches of rainforest track. Whether you’re wandering to Hopetoun Falls or spending a few hours on one of the longer circuits, it’s a refreshing break from the salty air and a nice option for families or couples wanting a slower-paced outing.

Food lovers should absolutely make time for the 12 Apostles Gourmet Trail. It’s a self-drive tasting loop featuring local cheese, ice-cream, fudge, honey, spirits and fresh farm produce. The trail is easy to tailor to however long you want to be out and works well if you’re travelling with kids or doing the drive with friends.

Port Campbell is one of those places where you can pack your days with exploring or keep things simple — a coastal walk in the morning, a dip in the bay in the afternoon and a slow wander into town for something to eat.

The village is only a few minutes away from the Park on foot, but things close earlier compared to the city (as you might expect for a coastal town). If you’re planning dinner out, it’s worth checking opening hours before you stroll over.