Known for its spectacular coastal scenery, world-class surf and picturesque beaches, Victoria’s Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most popular tourist trails for good reason. If you’re planning a family trip, this is one of the best spots to go and to help you, we’ve compiled a list of activities that the little adventurers in your life will love.
1. LIVE WIRE ADVENTURE PARK: LORNE
Nestled in the lush treetops of the Great Ocean Road, this unique adventure park contains several circuits allowing you to take in breathtaking views whilst walking along pathways suspended in the trees. For thrill-seekers, there are also some higher-intensity offerings that include zip lines.
Top Tip: If your kids are of primary school age, we’d only recommend the “Short Circuit” on top of the standard circuits included in admission. If you intend to go on this, purchase ahead of time as the cost also includes general admission.
2. AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL SURFING MUSEUM: TORQUAY
Whilst a museum wouldn’t usually be high on a list of activities for kids, we know that they’ll love this one which provides a look into the rich history of surf culture in Australia. There’s plenty of interactivity throughout the visit, and kids always love their opportunity to design and colour their surfboard at the interactive digital design table.
Top Tip: Call ahead and see when one of the live surfboard shaping exhibitions is taking place, these are great and make for a particularly good time to visit.
3. KOALA WALK: KENNETT RIVER
This lush green walk is one of the best places in Australia to see Koalas in their natural habitats. Whilst the full walk is 15km, you’re likely to start spotting the Koalas that live in abundance in this area just a few minutes into the track.
Top Tip: Don’t forget to look up! Koalas can often be found sleeping on the fork of branches and most commonly, you’ll find them on Eucalyptus trees.
4. GLOW-WORM COLONIES: MELBA GULLY
As night descends on Melba Gully, it comes alive with the light of thousands of glow worms. You won’t have to walk too far to enjoy this fairytale-like experience, with glow worm colonies present from about 100m into the Melba Gully walking trail.
Top Tip: Whilst the glow worms are present year-round, they are at their peak numbers after rainfall, so if you can, choose a time to visit where there’s recently been some good rain.
5. KID-FRIENDLY BEACHES: SEVERAL
It seemed completely wrong for us to have a list of kid-friendly activities on the Great Ocean Road and not mention one beach! Whilst this stretch of coastline is home to some world-renowned surf breaks, there are also plenty of safer, kid-friendly beaches.
Top Tip: We couldn’t narrow it down to one so we’ll give you three to explore that all have our kid-friendly seal of approval - Torquay Front Beach, Anglesea Beach and Port Campbell Bay.