Great Otway National Park: Best Things to Do and Travel Guide for 2026

The Great Otway National Park is one of Victoria's most beautiful natural destinations, stretching across a remarkable landscape of cool temperate rainforest, towering forests, waterfalls, rugged coastline, beaches and tranquil lakes. Located along the Great Ocean Road, the park offers a refreshing contrast to the region's famous coastal viewpoints.

For travelers, the Otways are not simply somewhere to stop briefly between Melbourne and the Twelve Apostles. The landscape rewards slower exploration, whether you want to chase waterfalls, walk through ancient-looking rainforest, search for wildlife, cycle through forest trails or watch the sunset along the coast.

There are plenty of things to do in the Great Otway National Park, making it an excellent destination for a day trip, weekend escape or longer Great Ocean Road itinerary.

What Makes Great Otway National Park Special?

The Great Otway National Park covers more than 1,000 square kilometres and combines several dramatically different environments. Along its coastline, visitors encounter rugged cliffs, beaches and windswept heathland. Inland, dense forests, fern gullies, waterfalls and lakes create a cooler, greener landscape.

This variety is what makes the park so appealing. You can spend the morning looking over the Southern Ocean and the afternoon walking beneath towering trees surrounded by ferns and moss.

The park is also closely connected with the wider Great Ocean Road region, making it easy to combine with destinations such as Lorne, Apollo Bay and the Twelve Apostles.

The list of activities around Great Otway National Park is endless

Best Things to Do in the Great Otway National Park

1. Chase the Otways' Waterfalls

Waterfalls are among the biggest attractions in the Great Otways.

The region receives significant rainfall, helping create the lush forests and numerous waterfalls that make the landscape so distinctive. Popular waterfalls include Hopetoun Falls, Beauchamp Falls, Triplet Falls and Stevensons Falls.

Hopetoun Falls is particularly accessible, with a viewing platform close to the car park. Beauchamp Falls requires a longer walk, while Triplet Falls provides a beautiful forest setting around its cascades.

If waterfalls are your priority, allow enough time to visit more than one rather than rushing between them.

Winter can be particularly rewarding for waterfall lovers, when rainfall can make the cascades more dramatic. However, wet conditions can also make tracks slippery, so appropriate footwear is essential.

2. Walk Through the Redwoods

One of the most unusual things to do in the Great Otway National Park is visiting the Redwoods near Beech Forest.

This plantation of Californian redwoods creates an almost surreal landscape. The enormous trees rise above the forest floor, creating long vertical corridors of trunks and filtered light.

The trees were planted in the 1930s and have developed into one of the region's most recognizable natural attractions.

The Redwoods are particularly impressive for photographers, but you do not need specialist equipment to appreciate them. Simply walking quietly through the forest provides an immersive experience.

Combine the Redwoods with nearby waterfalls and rainforest walks to create a full day in the inland Otways.

You can enjoy great Redwood forests right here in the Otways

3. Explore Maits Rest Rainforest

For a shorter rainforest experience, Maits Rest is an excellent choice.

The rainforest circuit is approximately 800 metres and passes through lush vegetation, giant trees and fern gardens. Some trees along the trail are hundreds of years old.

Unlike some of the longer hikes in the region, Maits Rest can fit easily into a Great Ocean Road itinerary.

The forest is often cool and damp, with dense greenery creating a completely different atmosphere from the exposed coastline.

Take your time rather than treating it as a quick photo stop. Listen for birds, look closely at the ferns and mosses, and pay attention to how dramatically the temperature and environment change as you enter the forest.

4. Take on the Great Ocean Walk

For serious walkers, the Great Ocean Walk offers one of the most rewarding ways to experience the coastline.

The trail follows the coast between Apollo Bay and the Twelve Apostles, passing through forests, coastal heathland, beaches, cliffs and other dramatic landscapes. Tourism information currently describes the route as approximately 100–110 kilometres depending on the source and route description.

You do not need to complete the entire trail to enjoy it.

Shorter sections can be incorporated into a road trip, allowing travelers to experience the scenery without committing to a multi-day hike.

If you are planning a longer walk, research accommodation, transport and trail conditions carefully before departure.

5. Search for Platypus at Lake Elizabeth

Lake Elizabeth is one of the quieter attractions in the Otways and a great option for travelers who enjoy wildlife.

The lake was formed after a major landslide in 1952 dammed the East Barwon River, creating the forest-fringed lake visible today. Parks Victoria notes that a colony of shy platypuses lives in the area.

Dawn and dusk can be good times to look for platypuses because they are generally elusive and difficult to spot.

Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, so approach the lake quietly and avoid disturbing the environment.

The Lake Elizabeth area is also suitable for a peaceful walk or, where available and conditions permit, a canoe experience.

6. Go Mountain Biking in Forrest

The Great Otways are not only for hikers.

Forrest has developed a strong reputation as a mountain-biking destination, with an extensive network of formed trails through the forest landscape. Parks Victoria currently notes more than 60 kilometres of formed mountain-bike tracks in the Forrest area.

The trails cater to different levels of experience, so riders can choose a route appropriate for their ability.

Forrest itself is also a useful base for exploring the surrounding area. After a ride, you can relax in the township and refuel before continuing your Otways adventure.

If you are bringing your own bike, check current trail conditions before setting out, particularly after heavy rainfall.

Beauchamp Falls, a stunning 20-metre waterfall, is a must-see attraction in the region

7. Explore Melba Gully

Melba Gully is another beautiful rainforest area in the Otways.

Often referred to as the “Jewel of the Otways,” the area features lush vegetation and dense rainforest. Regional tourism information also highlights the possibility of seeing glow worms after dark.

If you are visiting at night, bring appropriate clothing and a torch where permitted, but avoid shining bright lights directly at wildlife or glow worms.

The experience is particularly atmospheric after sunset, when the forest feels completely different from the daytime landscape.

Always check current access conditions before planning a night visit.

8. Visit Cape Otway and the Coast

The Great Otway National Park is not exclusively a rainforest destination.

The southern and western sections reach the rugged coastline, where travelers can combine forest scenery with ocean views.

Cape Otway is particularly significant. The surrounding area provides opportunities for coastal walks, wildlife viewing and visits to the historic Cape Otway Lightstation.

The coastline can be dramatically different from the sheltered rainforest, with strong winds, exposed cliffs and sweeping Southern Ocean views.

If you are driving the Great Ocean Road, Cape Otway makes a worthwhile detour rather than simply passing through the region.

9. Walk the Wye River to Kennett River Track

The Wye River to Kennett River Walk is a good choice if you want to combine forest and coastal scenery.

The track is approximately 4.6 kilometres and follows the steep edge of the Otway Ranges between the two coastal communities. Parks Victoria notes that the route includes steps, creek crossings and some challenging sections, with views through the eucalypts toward the Southern Ocean.

The walk also offers opportunities to observe birdlife while learning about the area's history through interpretive storyboards.

Kennett River itself is also well known as a wildlife-viewing area, making it possible to combine the walk with further exploration of the coast.

10. Experience the Otway Fly Treetop Adventure

For a different perspective on the forest, head above the ground.

Otway Fly Treetop Adventures provides visitors with an opportunity to experience the forest canopy from elevated walkways, while zipline experiences offer a more adventurous way to move through the trees. Regional tourism information describes treetop experiences at around 25 metres above the forest floor and zipline activities even higher.

This is particularly appealing to families and travelers who want something more active than a conventional rainforest walk.

It also gives you a different perspective on the scale of the Otways. From ground level, the forest can feel enclosed; from the canopy, the structure of the forest becomes much easier to appreciate.

The Cape Otway Lightstation is the oldest surviving lighthouse on the Australian continent

Wildlife in Great Otway National Park

The diversity of habitats makes the Great Otways an excellent place for wildlife encounters.

Depending on where and when you visit, you may encounter:

• Koalas
• Kangaroos and wallabies
• Echidnas
• Platypuses
• Native birds
• Possums
• Wombats
• Reptiles and amphibians

Lake Elizabeth is particularly associated with platypus sightings, while the coastal forests around Kennett River can provide opportunities to see native birds and koalas.

The best wildlife experiences are responsible ones. Never feed wild animals, maintain a safe distance and avoid making excessive noise around animals.

If you see sick or dead wildlife, do not touch it. Parks Victoria is currently managing H5 bird-flu impacts in Victoria and advises visitors to keep their distance from sick or dead birds and wildlife.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Great Otway National Park?

The Great Otways can be visited throughout the year, but different seasons offer different experiences.

Summer

Summer is popular for Great Ocean Road road trips, coastal walks and longer outdoor activities.

However, popular areas can become busy, particularly during weekends and holiday periods.

Autumn

Autumn brings cooler temperatures and changing forest colors. It can be a pleasant period for hiking and exploring waterfalls without the intensity of summer.

Winter

Winter is particularly attractive for waterfall enthusiasts. Higher rainfall can make the Otways' waterfalls more dramatic, and the forest can feel especially lush. Regional tourism information specifically highlights winter as a rewarding period for waterfalls and whale watching around the coast.

Bring waterproof clothing and shoes with good traction.

Spring

Spring is a great time for wildflowers and fresh vegetation, particularly around the coastal heathlands.

Great Otway National Park Travel Tips

Check conditions before you travel. Parks Victoria recommends checking current conditions because access can change.

Wear proper footwear. Rain can make forest tracks slippery.

Carry water. Even relatively short walks can feel demanding in changing conditions.

Allow extra driving time. Roads between attractions can be winding and slower than they appear on a map.

Do not rely on mobile reception. Coverage can vary throughout the park.

Respect wildlife. Observe animals without feeding or approaching them.

Stay on designated tracks. This protects both visitors and the fragile environment.

Check management information for 2026-2027. From 1 July 2026, some parks and campsites along the Great Ocean Road are transitioning to management by the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority, while other areas remain under Parks Victoria. Public access is not changing because of the transition.

For the best views, you may walk around the entire Lake Elizabeth

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Great Otway National Park famous for?

Great Otway National Park is known for its lush temperate rainforest, waterfalls, tall forests, rugged coastline, wildlife, walking trails and connection with the Great Ocean Road.

What are the best things to do in the Great Otway National Park?

Popular experiences include visiting Hopetoun Falls and other waterfalls, walking through the Redwoods and Maits Rest, exploring Lake Elizabeth, mountain biking around Forrest, visiting Cape Otway and hiking sections of the Great Ocean Walk.

How long should I spend in Great Otway National Park?

One day is enough for a highlights-focused visit, but two or three days allows you to experience more waterfalls, rainforest, wildlife and coastal attractions without rushing.

Can you see a platypus in Great Otway National Park?

Yes. Lake Elizabeth is known for its shy platypus population. Dawn and dusk can be good times to look, although sightings are never guaranteed.

Is Great Otway National Park worth visiting in winter?

Yes. Winter can be particularly rewarding for waterfall viewing because rainfall helps create stronger flows. However, visitors should be prepared for wet, cold and slippery conditions.

Planning Your Australian Adventure

The Great Otway National Park is an excellent addition to an Australian itinerary, particularly if you are already planning to travel along the Great Ocean Road. Its combination of rainforest, waterfalls, wildlife and dramatic coastline makes it easy to spend several days exploring at your own pace.

If you are preparing for a trip to Australia and need help with visa-related procedures, Australia Visa Services can assist with travel visa applications and related documentation. Australia Visa Services is a Travel Visa Agency supporting travelers who are preparing for their Australian journey.