Great Ocean Road Tour with Instagram Sunset views of 12 Apostles

If you’re planning a trip to Melbourne and want to experience one of Australia’s most iconic coastal drives, a guided tour focusing on the Great Ocean Road is hard to beat. This particular tour promises a unique twist—arriving at the Twelve Apostles at sunset, away from the daytime crowds. It’s a full-day adventure that balances natural beauty, local flavors, and informative commentary. Based on reviews and the tour itinerary, we’ll walk you through what makes this experience stand out, along with some considerations to help you decide if it’s right for you.

What we love about this tour is how it arranges the timing. Most day trips arrive early when tourist groups are thick, but this one departs later, allowing you to enjoy twilight views of the Twelve Apostles—an Instagram-worthy moment that’s both quieter and more dramatic. Plus, the small-group size and professional guide make for a more personal, engaging experience. However, be prepared for a long day on the road, which might not suit everyone. Overall, it’s best suited for travelers eager to see the highlights in a relaxed, less crowded setting.

Key Points

• Late departure allows for sunset viewing of the Twelve Apostles, avoiding daytime crowds
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with interesting commentary on the area’s history and wildlife
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience and ease of planning
• Well-balanced itinerary combining scenic stops, wildlife sightings, and iconic landmarks
• Good value for the price considering the length, inclusions, and unique sunset timing
• Small-group experience enhances comfort and personalization

Introduction: What Makes This Tour Special?

This guided tour from Melbourne offers a chance to see the Great Ocean Road without the overwhelming crowds typical of day trips. Starting later in the day, at 11:30 am, means arriving at the Twelve Apostles at sunset—a time when the rocks are bathed in warm, fading light and most travelers have already left. This creates an opportunity for unforgettable photos and peaceful moments.

We particularly like the careful planning behind this, as it combines scenic stops with authentic experiences like visiting the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie or spotting wild koalas. The air-conditioned coach and small group (max 38 travelers) ensure comfort, and the inclusive nature of the tour means you won’t have to worry about extra costs for park entries or snacks.

One potential drawback is the long hours on the coach—about 12 hours total—so it’s best for those who are prepared for a day of travel and sightseeing. If you prefer a slower start or more flexibility, this might not be your ideal option. But for those who want a well-organized, efficient way to see key sights with expert commentary, this tour hits the mark.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

Stop 1: Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery

Your day begins at this charming spot, where you can indulge in chocolate samples and watch the art of handcrafted chocolates. It’s a delightful way to start the day, especially if you’re a fan of sweet treats. Here, you can enjoy a coffee or hot chocolate before moving on. This 45-minute stop offers a relaxed introduction to the region’s local flavors and beautiful surroundings.

Stop 2: Memorial Arch at Eastern View

Standing beneath the iconic Memorial Arch, you’ll get a sense of the historic significance of the road itself—built to honor those who served in war. The arch is a perfect photo backdrop, capturing the spirit of adventure and remembrance that surrounds this route. It’s a quick 30-minute stop but worthwhile for the history and scenery.

Stop 3: Apollo Bay

A true highlight is the seaside township of Apollo Bay. Here, you’ll have about an hour to stretch your legs, grab a bite, and visit the famous ice-creamery. This stop offers a chance to soak up some local charm, enjoy the fresh sea air, and maybe pick up a souvenir or two.

Stop 4: Twelve Apostles Marine National Park

This is the star attraction. As the tour approaches the Twelve Apostles, you’ll arrive at twilight, when the rocks glow in the fading sun—an experience highly praised by travelers. Be sure your camera is ready, as the sunset provides a perfect, Instagram-worthy backdrop. This 1-hour visit is the culmination of the journey.

Stop 5: Loch Ard Gorge

The day winds down with a visit to Loch Ard Gorge, a beautiful and somewhat hidden beach that offers a quiet moment to reflect and enjoy the pristine scenery. The 30-minute walk here reveals more about the area’s natural beauty and shipwreck history, making it a fitting end to your scenic exploration.

Stop 6: Colac Botanic Gardens

On the return journey, a quick 30-minute stop at the Colac Botanic Gardens offers a chance to stretch, refresh, and appreciate local flora before heading back to Melbourne.

Final Leg: Return to Melbourne

Expect to be back in the city between 11:30 pm and midnight. While long, this return ensures you can relax and reflect on the day’s highlights.

Deep Dive: Why Each Stop Matters

Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie is more than a sweet stop; it’s a taste of local craftsmanship in a serene setting. Travelers have noted the quality of the chocolates and the chance to relax before heading into more sightseeing. The admission is free, but the treats are tempting, and many reviews mention sampling and enjoying the peaceful landscape.

The Memorial Arch marks the start of the journey, and when standing beneath it, travelers often feel connected to Australian history and the pioneering spirit that built this coastal route. It’s a quick but meaningful photo opportunity.

Apollo Bay offers a glimpse of local seaside life. The free time here means you can choose to eat, wander, or simply enjoy the views. Its reputation as one of Victoria’s most beloved towns makes it a worthwhile stop.

The Twelve Apostles at sunset is what makes this tour special. Most visitors see them during the daylight hours, but arriving at sunset transforms the experience into something more intimate and atmospheric. The twilight lighting and fewer people make for compelling photos and a more relaxed viewing.

Loch Ard Gorge provides a scenic, quieter alternative to the more crowded viewpoints. Many reviews talk about the pristine beach and hidden beauty of this spot, making it a peaceful conclusion to your scenic journey.

The Colac Botanic Gardens is a quick refresh, perfect for stretching legs before the final stretch back to Melbourne.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Perspectives

One reviewer shared, “Great day tour, so much to see and very knowledgeable drive. A must as you get to know the history of the area too.” This highlights how the guide’s commentary adds value beyond just sightseeing.

Another mention was, “It is a very long day trip with long hours sitting on the coach. However, it is absolutely worthwhile for this long sitting and waiting as the scenery along the Great Ocean Road is breathtaking and amazing.” Clearly, the experience justifies the hours spent traveling, especially with the breathtaking views and sunset timing.

The guide’s personal touch also gets praise, with one traveler noting, “The guide made each of us feel like he was giving an individual tour,” which enhances the overall enjoyment and connection to the places visited.

Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Transportation is in a modern, air-conditioned coach, which is essential for comfort on a long day. With a maximum group size of 38 travelers, you get a more intimate experience compared to larger bus tours.

Cost-wise, at $107.59 per person, the tour offers good value considering the inclusions—park fees, chocolate samples, and the guided commentary. The hotel pickup and drop-off at centrally located Melbourne hotels make it convenient, saving you time and hassle.

Weather should be considered. Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, dressing appropriately—layers, rain jacket, sun protection—is advised.

Booking can be canceled free of charge up to 24 hours before, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive, guided experience of the Great Ocean Road without the stress of driving themselves. It suits those interested in photography, especially for the sunset at the Twelve Apostles, and for anyone eager to learn about the area from an experienced guide.

It’s a good fit for people who don’t mind a long day on the road and prefer a small-group setting over large bus tours. If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic, and informative trip that highlights the most famous spots with a special sunset experience, this tour is worth considering.

However, if you prefer more flexibility or a shorter trip, you might want to explore other options or customize your own experience.

The Sum Up: Why Choose This Tour?

This guided tour offers a well-rounded day of sightseeing, with the added magic of arriving at the Twelve Apostles at sunset—a rare opportunity to enjoy this iconic formation with fewer crowds and more atmospheric light. The knowledgeable guides and local stops like Apollo Bay and Loch Ard Gorge add depth and flavor to the experience.

For travelers eager to capture memorable photos, enjoy authentic Aussie scenery, and learn about the area’s natural and cultural highlights, this tour provides excellent value. The small-group setting fosters a relaxed environment where questions are welcomed, and personal attention enhances the trip.

While it’s a long day, the combination of scenic beauty, interesting stops, and the sunset finale makes it a memorable journey. It’s especially suitable for those who want a stress-free, guided experience that balances sightseeing with comfort.

Whether you’re an Instagram enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply someone wanting to tick off a bucket list item, this tour delivers a beautiful, authentic taste of Victoria’s coast. Just be prepared for a full day, and you’ll come away with stunning pictures and stories to tell.

FAQs

What is the starting time of the tour?
The tour begins at 11:30 am, which allows for a later, more relaxed start compared to other trips.

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
Yes, it includes hotel pickup and drop-off at centrally located Melbourne hotels, making logistics easier for travelers.

Are park entry fees included?
Yes, all national park entry fees are covered in the tour price, so there are no extra charges for visiting the attractions.

Can I see the Twelve Apostles during the day?
Yes, but arriving at sunset provides a different experience—fewer crowds, atmospheric lighting, and the chance for better photos.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour operates in all weather conditions. It suits families, but be mindful of the long hours on the coach.

What should I bring?
Dressing in layers, sunglasses, and sunscreen is recommended. Don’t forget your camera or smartphone for capturing the stunning scenery.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 38 travelers, which strikes a balance between social atmosphere and comfort.

What’s the best time to book?
Booking in advance is advisable, especially if you want to secure a spot during peak seasons or for the sunset experience.

This tour stands out as a balanced, value-packed option for anyone looking to enjoy the magnificent sights along the Great Ocean Road with a special sunset touch. It’s a fantastic way to make your Melbourne trip truly memorable.