The Great Ocean Road literally starts at Torquay. That makes this town the best place to fuel up, check the weather and decide how far you’ll realistically drive.
Don’t try to “do it all” in one hit
Torquay to the Twelve Apostles is a long day once you add photo stops, toilets and coffee queues. Many visitors enjoy Torquay → Anglesea → Lorne (or Apollo Bay) on day one, then continue west on day two. For broad planning see Visit Victoria — Great Ocean Road.
Useful official stops
- Parks Victoria — Point Addis, Port Campbell National Park, Great Ocean Walk notes.
- Surf Coast Shire — local trails including the Surf Coast Walk.
- Road conditions: check VicTraffic / official road sources before peak weekends and fire season.
Tie-ins on this site
Start with Torquay beaches, pack snacks from cafés, or book a tour / shuttle if you’d rather not drive. Local warm-up day: one day in Torquay. Rain looking ugly? Wet-weather Torquay.