Looking for things to do in the Otways? From breathtaking waterfalls to scenic hikes, this guide has all the top recommendations for your trip.
When visiting Victoria, it is highly recommended to explore The Otways. Numerous attractions in the Otways can be conveniently reached from the Great Ocean Road. Therefore, include these top activities in the Otways during your upcoming trip.
To avoid the crowds, visit Triplet Falls
Explore the picturesque Otways region on this guided Grampians tour. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and wildlife of this stunning area.
Triplet Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Otways region, which may not be as well-known as some other waterfalls but is worth a visit.
The waterfalls have three distinct sections, but only the main falls are visible due to the dense foliage surrounding the water.
You can access the falls by following a 2-kilometre circuit walking trail, which takes you through dense forest that is covered with tree ferns.
Water is always flowing at Triplet Falls, but it is most impressive after rainfall.
Explore the forest mountain bike trails
The Forest Mountain Bike Trails offer over 16 MTB trails in the region surrounding the village of Forrest, located just north of the Barwon River, making it a popular destination for adventure seekers.
The Forrest bike trails offer a scenic experience of the Otways, passing through eucalypt forests, dry shrubland, and wildlife-rich fern gullies.
When you combine the excitement of riding downhill on a rough trail, you have the ingredients for an ideal outing in the Otways.
There is a wide range of options with over 75 kilometres of single track and new flow trails to choose from.
There are tracks that are suitable for beginners, while others, like “Follow The Dog,” are more appropriate for experienced dirt riders.
Swim in Beauchamp Falls
On a hot and sunny day in the Otways, you can visit Beauchamp Falls, a beautiful 20-meters waterfall.
The waters gather in a pool surrounded by ferns, creating a tranquil atmosphere for a morning outing.
To reach Beauchamp Falls, follow a 3-kilometre trail downhill that passes through a forest with mountain ash, Blackwood, and large myrtle beech trees.
The round-trip journey typically takes about an hour and a half, but allocating enough time for a swim in the refreshing waters is recommended.
The trail is not accessible for wheelchairs or prams due to steep steps, which can become slippery when wet. It is recommended to wear shoes with good grip.
This trail is classified as a grade 2 and requires a moderate level of fitness, as well as some walking on uneven ground.
Beauchamp Falls
The location is Beauchamp Falls Road, Beech Forest 3237.
When: Always Open
Entry: Free
Attend an excursion to the Cape Otway light station
The Cape Otway Lighthouse is a well-known landmark called the “beacon of hope” on the Great Ocean Road.
A visit to the Cape Otway Lighthouse is recommended for those interested in history or lighthouses in the Otways region.
The lighthouse, built in 1848, is the oldest surviving lighthouse in mainland Australia. Visitors can walk to the observation deck and enjoy breathtaking views of Bass Strait.
Between May and October, lighthouse is also known for its whale-watching opportunities, with around 25 species passing through its waters yearly.
In addition to dolphins and seals, southern right whales, humpback whales, blue whales, and killer whales (killer whales) can be seen here.
Visitors can expand their knowledge of the area with guided tours of local plants and history, with admission costing $19.50.
Advance ticket reservations are not required. You can simply visit.
Cape Otway Lightstation
The location is Lighthouse Road, Cape Otway 3233.
The operating hours are from 9.30 a.m to 5.00 p.m daily.
The entry fees are as follows: Adult – $19.50, Child – $7.50, Family – $49.50, Concession – $17.50.
Visit the Gellibrand River Gallery to explore its offerings
To further explore the culture of the Otways, consider visiting an art gallery for inspiration.
The Gellibrand River Gallery is 20 minutes from Colac in South West Victoria and displays hand-made works from 15 local artists within the Colac Otway Shire.
The pieces include a variety of art forms, such as art glass, jewellery, paintings, photography, textiles, and woodwork.
Deb Gartland, an artist in residence, was awarded the Overall and APS Member Best Entry winner of the Australian Conceptual Photography Award in 2019.
Additionally, there is a fully self-contained two-bedroom cottage available that can accommodate up to four individuals.
It is an ideal starting point for exploration, situated near Gellibrand in the northern part of the Otways.
Gellibrand River Gallery
The address is 14 Main Street, Gellibrand 3239.
The operating hours are from 10.00 a.m to 4.00 p.m, from Friday to Sunday.
You can have a meal at the Forrest Brewery
If you’re in the area, consider visiting the Forrest Brewery for a local craft beer.
Located in the centre of Forrest, it is conveniently close to Lake Elizabeth and Yeodene.
The Forrest Brewery is a welcoming place for bikers and locals alike, known for its friendly charm.
Forrest Brewing Company is a small-scale family business that brews everything on-site, bottles everything by hand, and labels everything by hand.
The product is made with pure Otways water, select grains, local and international hops, and quality yeasts, which results in a flavorful taste.
All beers are free of preservatives and suitable for vegans.
Additionally, it is a convenient location to enjoy meals throughout the day, offering an international menu that caters to various tastes.
The Brewers Sharing Board offers a selection of the region’s best produce, including house-made ‘beer-fed’ beef jerky and house-smoked cheddar cheese, for those looking for something local.
Forrest Brewing Company
The address is 26 Grant Street, Forrest 3236.
The operating hours are Friday to Saturday from 9.00 a.m to 9.00 p.m, and Sunday to Monday from 9.00 a.m to 5.00 p.m.
One can glow worm hunting at Melba Gully
Melba Gully, located near the Great Ocean Road, is a popular destination to visit in the evening.
Visit Madsen’s Track Nature Walk to observe the Melba Gully glow worms illuminating the area in large numbers.
A 1.5-kilometre walking track through the rainforest guides you alongside banks of bioluminescent light.
This natural phenomenon is highly captivating and offers a wonderful experience for individuals of all ages.
Experience the Otways at night and gain knowledge about these intriguing creatures.
Melba Gully
The address is 5 Melba Gully Road, Lavers Hill 3238.
When: Always Open
Entry: Free
Visit the Otway Estate Cellar Door for a tasting experience
The Otway Estate Prickly Moses brewing facility and distillery can be found in the Otway Rainforest of Southwestern Victoria.
In addition to the region’s finest wines, visitors can taste local craft beers, Forbidden Fruit ciders, and five unique gins that are all made on-site.
The Otway Estate Winery is open for visits every day of the week, making it convenient to visit at any time.
The cellar door provides tasting paddles, pizzas cooked in an Italian wood-fired oven, and local cheese platters on weekends.
Guests can choose from a variety of comfortable seating options, including the couch by the fire, the café area, or the outdoor undercover deck with scenic views.
Otway Estate
The location is 10 Hoveys Road, Barongarook West.
The operating hours are Monday through Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Consider making a stop at Stevenson's Falls
Stevenson’s Falls is a beautiful waterfall that is easily accessible to visit in the Otways.
It is often overlooked by visitors who tend to prioritize the waterfalls around Lorne and the Aire Valley despite its proximity to Barramunga.
The 4.6 km return Stevensons Falls Walk begins at the car park, going through Californian redwood trees and crossing the Gellibrand River.
The final section of the walk follows the river until you reach a viewing platform situated at the base of the falls.
The walk is moderately easy, with intermittent steps and gradual inclines. Adjacent to the Gellibrand River, there is an expansive grassy space complete with a picnic shelter, public restrooms, and a campground.
Experience the finest local produce on the Otway Harvest Trail
The Otway Harvest Trail highlights top dining and drinking spots in the Otway hinterlands, showcasing the area’s finest local produce.
The driving route is known for its scenic views of the Otway Ranges, characterized by fertile volcanic soil and a pure water supply.
Discover various local businesses and food producers, including breweries, wineries, markets, and farm gates.
The Otway Harvest Trail offers a selection of high-quality wine, gourmet and artisan products, accommodations, and dining options. It brings together the region’s finest suppliers and culinary experts to provide you with top-notch offerings.
Bring your entire family to Treetops Adventures in Yeodene
Bring your entire family to Treetops Adventures Yeodene, located in the northern part of Otway Forest Park.
Experience the thrill of zip lining and adventure courses in the Otway Forest, offering panoramic views of the Otways.
The park offers a variety of courses and challenges, including junior courses, high ropes courses, aerial challenges, and zip lines. There are plenty of options for everyone.
Courses are ranked according to different levels, making it simple to select the appropriate method for your needs.
The 2.5-hour session through the aerial challenges includes the necessary gear and safety briefings.
The admission prices are $59 for adults, $49 for children aged 8-15, and $32 for 3-7-year-olds. Onsite adult supervision is required for anyone under 18.
Treetops Adventure
The address is 70 Possum Ridge Road, Yeodene 3249.
The session times are from 10.00 a.m to 2.00 p.m daily.
The entry prices are as follows: Adults – $59.00, Children (ages 8-15) – $49.00, Children (ages 3-7) – $32.00.
You may be able to spot a platypus at Lake Elizabeth
Lake Elizabeth Otways is known for its abundance of wild platypus sightings in Victoria.
Guided canoe trips of Lake Elizabeth offer a high likelihood of spotting a platypus in the wild despite their typically shy and elusive nature.
Otway Eco tours offers trips throughout the year, with possible variations in schedule. Canoe tours are priced at $95 for adults and $60 for children under 18, with a minimum age requirement of 5.
Additionally, it is a scenic location for leisurely strolls, where one may have the opportunity to come across these unique creatures even without a guided tour.
The lake is located one kilometre away from the parking area, and there are some steep sections that may pose challenges for individuals with reduced mobility.
Visitors have the option to walk around the entire lake, which spans approximately 5 km and offers stunning views, making it an ideal location for a leisurely nature walk.
Lake Elizabeth is a popular destination for visitors looking to enjoy a few hours or a full day of relaxation by the water.
Lake Elizabeth
The location is Forrest – Apollo Bay Road, Barramunga 3249.
When: Always Open
Entry: Free
Tours: Adult: $95.00, Child: $60.00
Enjoy the beauty of nature at Hopetoun Falls
Among the Otways waterfalls, Hopetoun Falls is the most popular if you had to choose just one to visit.
The top viewing platform is easily accessible, making it convenient for everyone.
The 30-meter cascade flows into the Aire River in a fern-covered opening within the forest. The force of the water is captivating as it travels over the exposed rock.
To access the lower viewing area and have a closer view of the falls, you need to descend 200 steps. Please note that the lower viewing area is not accessible for prams or wheelchairs.
Hopetoun Falls
The location is Hopetound Falls Road, Beech Forest 3237.
When: Always Open
Entry: Free
Experience farm-to-table dining at the Brae Restaurant
When discussing the Harvest Trail, mentioning a highly regarded restaurant in the Otways is essential.
Brae Restaurant is highly regarded as one of the top dining destinations in the Otways, named after the hillside it is situated on.
The organic farm operates as a working farm and creates menus based on seasonal and fresh produce from their farm and local, ethical, and sustainable producers.
Their goal is to highlight the distinctive Australian cuisine of the Otways, which is influenced by nature and the changing seasons.
Gain a more comprehensive understanding of the origin of your food by taking a leisurely walk around the premises.
Brae Farm utilizes regenerative farming techniques to cultivate various seasonal produce, including vegetables, stone fruits, citrus, nuts, berries, olives, honey, and wheat grain.
Brae Restaurant
The location is 4285 Cape Otway Road, Birregurra 3242.
The schedule is as follows: dinner on Wednesday and lunch from Thursday to Saturday.
Experience the treetops on Otway Fly
Otway Fly Treetop Adventures is a recommended activity for families visiting the Otways.
There are activities suitable for individuals of all ages, from infants to adults.
The Otways Treetop Walk offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the canopy and observe the local nature and wildlife from a bird’s-eye view.
The one-hour experience includes a 1.9-kilometer elevated platform through the forest, concluding with a 47-meter tall Spiral Tower that provides excellent views of Young’s Creek.
The Otway Fly is a zip-lining course in the Otway Ranges that offers a thrilling experience for children navigating through the dense treetops.
Travel between ‘Cloud Stations’ to experience the breathtaking views and scenery.
There is also an Enchanted Forest for younger children to experience the magic of tiny fairy-tale homes hidden in the forest.
The Treetop Walk has an admission fee of $27.50 for adults and $21.50 for children aged 3-15. Children under three can enter for free, and strollers are welcome.
Zip line tours are priced at $120 or $99 when booked in advance online.
Otway Fly Treetop Adventures
The address is 360 Phillips Track, Weeaprioniah 3237.
The museum is open from Thursday to Monday, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with the last entry at 3:30 p.m. It is also open every day during school holidays.
The entry fees are as follows: $27.50 for adults, $21.50 for children, and $80.00 for families.
Explore the Maits Rest Rainforest Walk to search for wildlife
In the Otways, Maits Rest is a popular attraction in Apollo Bay and a must-visit spot in the national park.
Stroll on the Maits Rest Rainforest Walk, a 30-minute self-guided loop through dense rainforest habitat.
The area contains a diverse range of native wildlife, plant life, ancient beech trees, and approximately 43 species of birds exclusive to the region.
Visitors can explore the biodiverse area by combining gravel paths and elevated wooden boardwalks, which have been implemented to protect the delicate rainforest floor ecosystem.
During the day, you can observe swamp wallabies, ring-tailed possums, koalas, and grey kangaroos. At night, you can explore the Maits Rest Glow Worms Trail.
At Maits Rest in the Otways, there are numerous opportunities to observe the unique wildlife in the area, making it a great destination for nature enthusiasts.
Maits Rest
The Great Ocean Road is located 15 minutes west of Apollo Bay.
When: Always Open
Entry: Free
You can go koala spotting in the Otways
Kennett River in the Otways is one of the top places to spot koalas.
If you take the Kennett River Nature Walk and go up Grey River Road, you will likely see wild koalas in the trees.
Visitors are advised to arrive early or late as koalas tend to rest and sleep during the hottest parts of the day.
If you’re interested in experiencing nature, consider staying at Bimbi Park, known for its unique “sleeping under the koalas” experience.
The campground is surrounded by tall manna gums, creating a perfect habitat for these marsupials.
The site is abundant with native wildlife, including possums, echidnas, and approximately 70 species of birds.
Lighthouse Road
When travelling to the Cape Otway Lightstation, it is advised to remain attentive and observe the surrounding foliage while driving along Lighthouse Road.
There may be resident koalas in the trees that line either side of the road.
Experience a more relaxed ride with the Otway E-Bikes
One recommended activity in the Otways is to participate in an e-bike tour of the area.
You can visit Beech Forest and participate in a group tour with Otway E-Bikes to gain knowledge about the ecology and history of the area.
The ‘Ol’ Beechy Introduction Tour is a recommended way to explore the Otways and experience e-bikes.
From Beech Forest, you will travel along the Old Beechy Rail Trail to enjoy panoramic views from the Otway ridgeline. From here, you can see the Great Southern Ocean to the south and the Western Volcanic plains to the north.
The round trip distance is 7.5 km and typically takes about 1.5 hours to complete. Riders of all levels can participate, although it is recommended for ages 8 and over.
The ride is made easier with the assistance of electricity and the tour guarantees a lack of physical exertion.
Otway E-Bikes
The location is CNR Main Road and Cliff Young Drive, Beech Forest 3237
When: Daily from 10.00 a.m
Tours: Adult $65.00, Child $45.00
One can enjoy a stroll along the Old Beechy Rail Trail
For those with extra time to explore the Otways, the 50 km Old Beechy Rail Trail is a highly recommended option for hikers and cyclists.
The trail follows the narrow gauge railway line, formerly known as “The Beechy,” between Colac and Ferguson.
The railway line played a significant role in the settlement of much of the Western Otways. It holds a significant place in local history, operational from 1902 until 1962.
The trail can be broken up into smaller sections, allowing you to discover pockets of lush rainforest, wind through scenic pine forests and bushland, and cycle through rolling fields of farmland.
Discover a variety of simple delights at the Forrest General Store
The Forrest General Store is located across the road from the brewery, providing a suitable option for a more light lunch.
In addition to the local products in the store, they also offer a variety of homemade pies, sausage rolls, toasties, and soups.
If none of those options appeal to you, freshly brewed coffee and homemade cakes are also available.
If you are fortunate enough to be nearby, you may visit this place frequently due to the constant availability of new experiences.
The staff at this location are friendly and welcoming, making it a hidden gem of the Otways.
Enjoy the majestic beauty of the Redwoods Otways
The Otways Redwood Forest, located nearby, is a section of the park that contains Californian Redwoods, which are the tallest tree species in the world.
The Otways Redwoods were planted in 1936 by Victorian foresters and were never harvested, which may seem a bit out of place here.
The giant trees in this warm-climate have continued to thrive and are expected to grow larger over time. They may eventually surpass their American counterparts in size.
The Otway Rainforest walk is a 500-meter return pathway through the Otway Forest Park.
Visitors have the opportunity to observe the Californian Redwoods in the Otways and admire their impressive size.
The Redwoods Otways
The location is Binns Lane, Aire Valley 3237.
When: Always Open
Entry: Free
FAQ
What are some must-visit natural attractions in the Otways?
Triplet Falls, Beauchamp Falls, Hopetoun Falls, and the Redwoods Otways are standout spots, offering scenic hikes, lush forests, and spectacular views.
Can I see wildlife in the Otways?
Yes — you can spot wild koalas at Kennett River, platypus at Lake Elizabeth, and glow worms at Melba Gully. Maits Rest is also great for birdwatching and marsupial sightings.
Are there cultural or food experiences in the Otways?
Absolutely — visit Gellibrand River Gallery for local art, dine at Brae Restaurant for farm-to-table meals, and explore the Otway Harvest Trail for gourmet produce and drinks.
Is the Otways suitable for adventure activities?
Yes — try mountain biking in Forrest, zip lining at Treetops Adventure, or exploring the canopy on the Otway Fly Treetop Walk.
How much does it cost to visit major attractions?
Many natural sites like waterfalls and rainforest walks are free. Paid experiences include Cape Otway Lighthouse ($19.50 adult), Otway Fly ($27.50 adult), and Treetops Adventure ($59 adult).
