The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most beautiful coastal drives, stretching 240 kilometres along the southern coast of Victoria. Famous for its stunning landscapes, beautiful beaches and the Twelve Apostles, this road is also home to diverse wildlife – including the koala. So can you spot wild koalas along the Great Ocean Road? Yes you can! But knowing where and when to look will increase your chances of seeing these little cuties in the wild.
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Where to See Koalas
Koalas are found in eucalyptus trees and gum trees where they spend most of their time resting. Along this stretch of road, some of the best places to see them are:
1. Kennett River
Kennett River is one of the most reliable places to see a population of koalas in the wild. Only a minute’s drive from the main road between Lorne and Apollo Bay, this little town is famous for its wildlife. Take a walk along Grey River Road and you’ll likely see them hanging in the trees. The peacefulness and wildlife are magical for wildlife lovers. Nearby you can also enjoy the beach and wild birds that frequent the area, making it a bird lover’s paradise.
2. Cape Otway
The Cape Otway area, around the Cape Otway Lightstation, is another great place to see wild koalas. The drive along the coast to the lighthouse offers stunning views of eucalyptus forests where koalas can be seen in the trees. There are facilities nearby including a café and visitor centre so it’s a convenient stop for travelers. While you’re here, keep an eye out for the glow worms that light up certain areas at night; it’s magic! If you’re taking a Great Ocean Road tour, Cape Otway is often included in the itinerary as a prime spot for wildlife.
3. Great Otway National Park
This national park is a wildlife hotspot with walking trails, bike trails, waterfalls and peacefulness. While you’re here look up into the trees as koalas are often seen hanging in the canopy. At night it’s famous for its glow worms, so camping here is magic. Wildlife lovers will also love the native wildlife, wild birds and bird species such as parrots and cockatoos. Many Great Ocean Road travelers stop here to experience the rainforests and wildlife.
4. Lorne and Surrounds
The forests around Lorne and Wye River have a decent number of wild koalas. If you’re doing the Great Ocean Road trip from Melbourne, these are a great first stop to see wildlife in their natural habitat. The nearby beaches and coastal views make it a perfect destination for family travel blogs looking for amazing views and travel tips. The area has beautiful beaches, limestone stacks and Australian wildlife.
Best Time to See Koalas
Koalas are most active at dawn and dusk, so these are the best times to look for them. During the day they tend to be resting or sleeping in the trees as they conserve energy due to their low-nutrient eucalyptus diet. From the passenger seat you can also spot them while driving through gum tree areas. If you’re in a caravan park nearby you might even wake up to the sounds of these lovely creatures in the treetops.
Tips for Seeing Koalas
- Look for round grey shapes in the trees, especially where branches fork.
- Be patient and quiet to not disturb them.
- Bring binoculars to get a better view as koalas often sit high up.
- Respect their habitat by keeping a safe distance and not making loud noises.
- If you’re in a caravan park near the forest you might even hear them at night.
- Enjoy the views and quiet spots while searching for koalas.
Other Wildlife You May See
While looking for koalas you may also see other amazing creatures including kangaroos, echidnas and native wildlife such as wild birds. Bird lovers will love the variety of bird species including crimson rosellas and king parrots. The area is a wildlife and animal park heaven. The coastline also has stunning coastal views, sandy beaches and beautiful sights to enhance your road trip. While looking for koalas don’t miss out on the other natural wonders of this stretch of road. The famous limestone stacks of the Twelve Apostles are a must-see against the ocean. Loch Ard Gorge for the rock formations and the scenic drives for the views. If you like a mix of nature and adventure stop at a caravan park along the way for a quiet spot under the stars. Port Campbell National Park will reward you with coastal rock formations and one of the most beautiful spots on the route.
Awesome Night Camping and Glow Worms
If you’re looking for an adventure, night camping in the forests near Cape Otway and the Great Otway National Park is a must-do. As the sun sets blue lights and bright spots appear from glow worms and it’s magic. Camping here allows you to take in the beauty of the Great Ocean Road drives fully. If you’re lucky you’ll even get to see a Great Ocean Road sunset with the sky turning pink and orange over the ocean and cliffs.
Conclusion
If you’re driving this way and want to see koalas, your best bet is to visit Kennett River, Cape Otway and the Great Otway National Park. With a bit of patience and observation you’ll likely spot these little critters in the wild. The drive time along this coast offers many opportunities to see wildlife, beaches and dramatic sights like the limestone stacks of the Twelve Apostles. Whether you’re doing a day trip or a 3 day Great Ocean Road tour this drive is an experience not to be missed.
FAQ
Where is the best spot to see koalas on the Great Ocean Road?
Kennett River is the most popular and reliable spot to see wild koalas.
When is the best time of day to see koalas?
Koalas are most active at dawn and dusk so these are the best times to spot them.
Can I touch or feed koalas on the Great Ocean Road?
No, koalas are wild animals and it’s important to respect their space. Touching or feeding them is not recommended and can be harmful to them.
Are there guided tours for koala spotting?
Yes, there are wildlife tours along this road that specialise in koala and other native wildlife spotting.
What other animals can I see while looking for koalas?
In addition to koalas you might see kangaroos, echidnas and a variety of wild birds including parrots and cockatoos. The rock formations, peaceful spots and beauty of this region are a nature lover’s paradise.
