The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most famous roads, known for its rugged coastline, limestone stacks and beaches. It runs 243kms along the Australian coast through major towns like Torquay, Lorne, Apollo Bay and Port Campbell to Port Fairy.
While most people drive, there are public transport options for those without a car. But bus services and train services along the route are limited. This guide will help you navigate the best transport options to visit some of the Great Ocean Road’s top attractions including the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge, Cape Otway Lighthouse and Split Point Lighthouse.
Great Ocean Road by Public Transport
You can take a combination of trains, buses and shuttle services to visit parts of the Great Ocean Road but it requires some planning.
Step 1: Train from Melbourne to Geelong or Warrnambool
Your journey starts at Melbourne Southern Cross Station, the city’s busiest train station. From here take a V-Line service to:
- Geelong Station – Approx. 60-90 minutes
- Warrnambool Station – Approx. 3.5 hours
Trains run frequently but train times may vary so check the bus timetable and train times in advance with Public Transport Victoria.
Step 2: Bus from Geelong to Key Stops on the Great Ocean Road
After arriving in Geelong City you can take a V-Line bus to several coastal towns along the scenic route:
- Torquay (Surfing Capital, Bells Beach) – Approx. 45 minutes
- Aireys Inlet (Split Point Lighthouse) – Approx. 60 minutes
- Lorne (Lorne Hotel, Lorne Main Street) – Approx. 90 minutes
- Wye River – Approx. 2 hours
- Apollo Bay – Approx. 3 hours
Bus stops are limited and bus services don’t always align with train services so plan for possible wait times.
Step 3: Apollo Bay to Port Campbell by Bus or Tour
From Apollo Bay, the bus route heads to Port Campbell National Park, which has:
- The Twelve Apostles – Breathtaking views of rock formations
- Loch Ard Gorge – A famous shipwreck site on the Shipwreck Coast
- London Bridge – One of the region’s most popular natural wonders
Public Transport Victoria runs buses to Port Campbell but bus 2 day Great Ocean Road tour from Apollo Bay are a better option.
Step 4: Reaching Warrnambool, Port Fairy & Beyond
If you want to go further, a V-Line service can take you from Port Campbell to:
- Warrnambool – Approx 60-90 minutes
- Port Fairy (Beautiful bluestone town) – Approx 20-30 minutes
- Budj Bim Tours – Learn about the ancient trees and Indigenous history
- Mount Gambier – A good alternative route for those going to South Australia
Closest Airports to the Great Ocean Road
If you’re flying in, here are the closest airports:
- Melbourne Tullamarine Airport (Busiest Airport) – The main airport in Victoria
- Avalon Airport – Closer to Geelong City and a good option for regional flights
From Melbourne Airport, you can take a shuttle service to Southern Cross Station and then catch the train or bus. Airport accommodation is also available if you need an overnight stay before you start your journey.
Things to Keep in Mind When Taking Public Transport
While public transport will get you to parts of the Great Ocean Road, there are challenges:
- Limited services – Buses run only a few times a day, check the bus time table beforehand.
- Longer travel times – A driving route is much faster than relying on bus services.
- No direct transport between attractions – To get to Shelly Beach, Johanna Beach, Wreck Beach, Aire River, Blanket Bay and Otway National Park you may need a bus route coordinator or hire options like a private Great Ocean Road day tour.
- Drinking water & food – Some areas have limited drinking water and food stops, bring your own supplies.
Other Ways to Explore the Great Ocean Road
If public transport seems too hard, here are other transport options:
- Guided Tours – Many companies offer bus Great Ocean Road Tour 2 days and day trips from Melbourne city centre.
- Car Rentals – The most flexible way to go at your own pace.
- Bike Hire – Good for short trips between beautiful views.
- Airport Shuttle or Private Transport – If you land at Avalon Airport or Melbourne Tullamarine Airport you can book a private transfer.
Is Public Transport the Cheapest Option?
If you’re looking for the cheapest options, V-Line services are budget friendly compared to car rentals. However, with limited afternoon services and long travel times, a rental car or tour may be more practical for those on a tight schedule.
Final Thoughts
You can take public transport to the Great Ocean Road, but it’s not the best option. If you’re short on time or want to visit multiple coastal towns in one day, a driving route or guided tour is a better choice.
If you want a hassle-free way to visit, companies like Autopia Tours offer guided trips to multiple locations so you don’t miss out on the sights.
FAQ
Can you take a train directly to the Great Ocean Road?
No, there is no train to the Great Ocean Road. The closest you can get by train is Geelong Station or Warrnambool Station, then a V-Line bus to key locations like Torquay, Lorne, and Apollo Bay.
What is the cheapest transport option to visit the Great Ocean Road?
The cheapest option is a V-Line train from Melbourne to Geelong and then a V-Line bus to the Great Ocean Road. However, due to limited bus routes and schedules, it may not be the most convenient option.
How long does it take to get to the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne by public transport?
- Melbourne to Geelong by train: 60-90 minutes
- Geelong to Torquay by bus: 45 minutes
- Geelong to Apollo Bay by bus: 3 hours
- Apollo Bay to Port Campbell by bus: 2-3 hours
Are there public transport options to visit the Twelve Apostles?
Yes, but bus services are limited. You can take a V-Line bus from Apollo Bay or Warrnambool to Port Campbell, then a short taxi ride or walk to the Twelve Apostles. Or a guided tour is a better option.
Are guided tours better than public transport?
If you’re short on time or want to visit multiple locations in a day, a guided tour is the way to go. Companies like Wayoutback Tours offer multi-day tours to the Twelve Apostles, Otway National Park and coastal towns in one trip.
