From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road Full-Day Sunset Tour

Planning a trip along Australia’s iconic coastline? This Great Ocean Road Sunset Tour from Melbourne offers a chance to enjoy the scenery with fewer crowds and a magical sunset finale. While it’s a long day — around 13 hours — many travelers find it well worth the effort.

What really makes this tour stand out is the chance to see koalas in the wild and catch the famous 12 Apostles as they glow in the evening light. Plus, the guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, which can make a big difference when you’re navigating such a packed itinerary.

However, it’s a full day — so if you’re not a fan of long excursions or have mobility considerations, this might be something to think about. But if you love scenic drives, wildlife, and iconic photo stops, this tour could be right up your alley.

This tour is especially suited for those who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of organizing multiple stops and timing themselves. If you’re after a guided day with a relaxed pace that ends with a stunning sunset, it could be a perfect choice.

Key Points

• Fewer crowds and late start: Perfect if you prefer to avoid the busy times and see the coast in a more relaxed setting.
• Wildlife encounters: Spot koalas and native birds in their natural environment.
• Expert guides: Guides sharing engaging stories, facts, and history that enrich your experience.
• Comfortable transportation: Air-conditioned coach for a smooth ride between stops.
• Long but rewarding day: Approximately 13 hours, with plenty of time at each stop.
• Ideal for sunset lovers: Ending the day at the 12 Apostles as the sun dips makes for memorable photos.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and First Stops

The day kicks off with a flexible pickup from several Melbourne locations, including the Rendezvous Hotel and The Hotel Windsor. The journey begins with about an 1.5-hour bus ride, giving you a chance to settle in and get a feel for the day ahead.

Anglesea

Your first stop is the charming seaside town of Anglesea, known for its laid-back vibe and stunning beaches. Here, you’ll get about 15 minutes — enough time for a quick walk or coffee break. This early pause sets the tone for a relaxed day along the coast.

Memorial Arch at Eastern View

Next, you’ll stop at the Memorial Arch, an iconic photo opportunity marking the start of the scenic drive. It’s the perfect spot to snap some shots and learn a bit about the historic significance of the route.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lorne (seasonal)

Passing through the lively town of Lorne, you’ll get a quick glimpse of its bustling cafes, shops, and beaches. If you love seaside towns, you’ll appreciate the energy and scenery here, but note this is a pass-by, not a long stop.

Kennett River — Wildlife Spotting

This is one of the highlights for many travelers. The stop at Kennett River offers free time to spot koalas in the trees and native birds in their habitat. Reviews often mention the joy of seeing these adorable creatures in the wild, with some guides sharing stories about their habits. As one traveler put it, “We even got to see a koala crossing the road with her baby — a moment to remember.”

Loch Ard Gorge

After a scenic drive, you’ll arrive at Loch Ard Gorge, a dramatic and historic site. You’ll have about 45 minutes here to walk along the coast, take photos, and appreciate the rugged beauty of the limestone cliffs and ocean. Many reviews mention the picturesque nature of this stop, describing it as a “must-see” with breathtaking views.

The Twelve Apostles — Sunset

The star of the show is the 12 Apostles. Arriving in the late afternoon, you’ll have ample time to explore, take photos, and settle in for the sunset viewing. The golden hour lighting makes these limestone stacks even more spectacular, and many reviewers describe the experience as “absolutely awe-inspiring.” The sunset over this iconic formation is a real highlight — one traveler called it a “moment I will never forget.”

Return Journey and Dinner

After sunset, you’ll hop back on the bus for about an hour’s drive. Then, you’ll enjoy a local restaurant dinner, giving you a chance to unwind and review the day. Some travelers mention the good value for money here, considering the number of sights visited.

Final Drop-offs

The day wraps up with drop-off at several Melbourne locations, including the same pickup points. Expect to be back around 9:00 PM to midnight, depending on the season.

What We Love About the Tour

The guides are repeatedly praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude. Reviews like “Jano was both super knowledgeable and just a joy to be around,” and “Bob was an incredible guide,” show how much their storytelling enhances the experience. Their ability to share insights about the region’s wildlife, history, and geology adds depth to the sightseeing.

Another major perk is the timed sunset view at the 12 Apostles. Many travelers find that ending the day with this natural spectacle is a perfect way to cap off the trip. The golden-hour light really brings out the rugged textures of the rocks, making for incredible photos.

The wildlife sightings at Kennett River are another highlight. Seeing koalas in their habitat feels authentic, and many reviews mention the thrill of spotting these animals in nature rather than in a zoo setting.

The comfort of the coach is also appreciated. The air-conditioned bus provides a respite from the Australian sun and a smooth ride between stops. The inclusion of audio guides in multiple languages helps international travelers feel engaged and informed.

The Cons: What to Keep in Mind

This tour is long and packed, so it may not suit everyone. Some reviews mention the narrow legroom on the bus, which can be uncomfortable if you’re tall or prone to leg cramps. It’s a full day, so patience and a good pair of walking shoes are advisable. Also, while the sunset is a highlight, the weather can sometimes be cloudy, which might limit your sunset viewing (although many reviewers still enjoyed the experience despite weather variations).

Since the tour is conducted rain or shine, be prepared with weather-appropriate clothing, waterproof shoes, or sunscreen depending on the forecast.

Price and Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, many travelers feel the price is justified given the comprehensive itinerary, expert guides, and the memorable sunset finale. It’s a good value for those wanting a guided experience that covers all the major sights without the hassle of planning each stop.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you love scenic drives, wildlife, and making the most out of a long day with expert commentary, this tour will satisfy your wanderlust. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who want to see the highlights of the Great Ocean Road without the stress of organizing logistics.

It’s also ideal if you’re a fan of sunset views and iconic landmarks like the 12 Apostles. Given the reviews praising the guides and the overall experience, it’s a good pick for first-time visitors or those wanting a relaxed, guided day. However, if you prefer a shorter trip or have mobility issues, you might want to consider other options.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 13 hours, typically returning around midnight depending on the season.

Does the tour include a meal?
Yes, there’s a dinner at a local restaurant after the sunset viewing, adding good value for a full day out.

Are the stops flexible?
Stops are structured but with enough time at each site for photos, walking, and wildlife viewing. Some reviews mention the guides are good about adjusting the pace if needed.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the stops involve walking and car travel, so consider your children’s comfort and stamina for a long day.

Can I see koalas during the tour?
Yes, at Kennett River you can see koalas in their natural habitat, which many travelers find very memorable.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, camera, weather-appropriate clothing, charged smartphone, and power bank. Luggage or large bags are not permitted.

Is the sunset guaranteed?
Weather-dependent — the sunset can sometimes be cloudy, but most travelers still find the experience worthwhile.

Final Thoughts

The Great Ocean Road Sunset Tour from Melbourne offers a well-organized, scenic, and often memorable way to experience one of Australia’s most famous coastlines. The combination of wildlife, stunning geological formations, and natural beauty makes it a standout day trip. With guides who are loved for their knowledge and friendliness, you’re in good hands, even if the day is long.

If you’re after a comprehensive, guided experience that ends with a breathtaking sunset, this tour likely fits your wishlist. Just remember to bring your patience, camera, and an appreciation for the natural world. For anyone looking to tick off a bucket list destination with ease and expert company, this could be just the trip you need.

Note: Always check current availability and confirm pickup details directly with the provider, as times and conditions may vary.

You can check availability for your dates here: