Rain Forests and Look Outs.

The Otways are home to stunning rainforests, countless walking trails, and breathtaking lookouts that immerse you in the beauty of nature. Whether you’re trekking through lush fern gullies or exploring scenic viewpoints, there’s something for every outdoor enthusiast. With so many trails and lookouts to choose from, I don’t know where to begin! From leisurely walks through ancient forests to challenging hikes offering panoramic views, the Otways have it all. Discover the magic of these natural wonders and enjoy an unforgettable adventure.

1. Maits Rest

A Tranquil Otway Treasure

Located just a short 15-minute drive from Bimbi Park, Maits Rest is a serene rainforest walk that immerses you in the lush greenery of the Great Otway National Park. This easy 800-meter loop track meanders through a cool temperate rainforest, where ancient myrtle beech, blackwoods, and towering ferns thrive. The well-maintained boardwalk allows you to explore this peaceful haven while preserving the delicate ecosystem.

Glow Worm Magic at Night

If you visit Maits Rest after dark, you’ll be treated to an enchanting display of glow worms—though technically, they’re the larvae of fungus gnats (Arachnocampa otwayensis). These tiny bioluminescent creatures light up the banks of the creek, creating a magical glow that makes your nighttime walk even more memorable. For the best experience, keep your torches pointed down and turn them off at the bottom of the walk so your eyes can adjust, be sure to visit on a calm, dark night and firstly go during the day to plan your nights walk.

Beware of the Otway Snail (Just Kidding… Kind Of)

While you’re wandering through this magical rainforest, keep an eye out for one of the Otways’ most intriguing creatures—the glossy black carnivorous snail (Victaphanta compacta). Yes, you heard that right—carnivorous. Don’t worry, it’s not after your picnic lunch! These little critters dine on other invertebrates, like slugs and worms, making them the rainforest’s ultimate cleanup crew. And with their shiny black shells, they’re the stylish assassins of the undergrowth. Just remember: you’re in their territory now. So, step lightly!

History of Maits Rest

Maits Rest was named after Maitland Bryan, a former forestry worker and ranger in the Otways who would rest his horse in this area while patrolling the region. Over the years, this tranquil spot became a favorite for visitors, thanks to its easy access and the captivating beauty of the ancient rainforest, which dates back over 100 million years.

Today, Maits Rest offers a peaceful and educational experience, allowing visitors to step back in time and witness the majesty of the Otways’ ancient landscapes.

2. The Red Woods A Hidden Giant Among the Otways

3. Melba Gully

The Jewel of the Otways

Just past Lavers Hill, nestled deep within the Great Otway National Park, Melba Gully, often called the “Jewel of the Otways,” is a magical rainforest experience. Known for its dense, lush ferns and towering ancient trees, Melba Gully offers a short but rewarding walking trail that allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of this cool temperate rainforest. Conveniently located just off the Great Ocean Road, it’s an easy-to-reach slice of nature that feels like stepping into another world.

A Walk Through Time

The walking trails at Melba Gully take you through some of the oldest and most pristine rainforest in Victoria. With ancient myrtle beeches and towering blackwoods, the gully feels like a place untouched by time. As you walk along the trails, keep an eye out for the incredible variety of native plants and wildlife, including rare fungi, ferns, and even the elusive Otway snail—nature’s glossy black predator (don’t worry, it’s after slugs, not you!).

Glow Worms After Dark

One of the most magical aspects of Melba Gully appears after the sun goes down. At night, the gully transforms into a bioluminescent wonderland as fungus gnat larvae, commonly known as glow worms, light up the forest floor and the damp, shaded areas around the walking tracks. While Melba Gully offers an impressive glow worm display, Maits Rest, just 15 minutes from Bimbi Park, also has glow worms—though not as many—making it a closer option for those staying at the park.

A Perfect Day in Nature

Melba Gully is more than just a beautiful walk—it’s a place where you can spend hours exploring, playing, and relaxing. The cool, refreshing air and the sounds of the forest create a peaceful environment that’s perfect for a picnic. Whether you’re looking for adventure, tranquility, or a fun spot to enjoy hide-and-seek among the ancient trees, Melba Gully has something for everyone.

So, if you’re ready to experience one of the Otways’ most beautiful and enchanting spots, head to Melba Gully, just past Lavers Hill, where nature comes alive both day and night.

4. Over 200 Waterfalls

With over 200 waterfalls scattered throughout the Otways, it’s hard to know where to start! Each one offers its own unique beauty, from hidden gems tucked deep in the forest to well-known favorites. To make things easier for you, I’ve created a dedicated page highlighting my top picks. Whether you’re after an easy stroll or a more challenging hike, these waterfalls showcase the very best of the Otways’ stunning landscape. So head over to my list of favorites and start planning your next waterfall adventure!

5. Mariners’ Lookout

Marriners Lookout in Apollo Bay offers spectacular views of the coastline and town below. A short but steep walk from the car park leads to the lookout, making it a rewarding spot for photography, whale watching, and enjoying the stunning Great Ocean Road scenery. The lookout is on private property, which the owners kindly allow the public to access.

6. Gable Lookout

The Gables Lookout is a stunning destination, offering an easy 400m return walk through a serene grove of Casuarina trees to one of mainland Australia’s highest sea cliffs. As you meander along the trail, you’ll be surrounded by the calming sounds of nature, before arriving at the breathtaking clifftop viewpoint. From here, the sweeping views of the ocean and the rugged reefs surrounding Moonlight Head are truly spectacular, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.

The lookout is also an excellent location for wildlife enthusiasts. Keep an eye out for various seabirds soaring overhead, and if you visit between June and September, you might be lucky enough to spot whales migrating along the coast. The walk is easily accessible, starting from The Gables car park and leading directly to this awe-inspiring lookout, offering a rewarding experience for all visitors.

7. Wreck Beach

Wreck Beach at Moonlight Head along the Great Ocean Road is a hidden gem. It’s home to two shipwreck anchors (Marie-Gabrielle and Fiji). Access to Wreck Beach is via a walking trail from a car park located at the end of a gravel road that forks off the Great Ocean Road at Moonlight Head, and it’s easily accessible by any car. The peaceful car park accommodates around 40 vehicles, and because it’s off the main tourist route, it’s usually quiet. The 35 to 45-minute hike to the anchors includes 366 wooden stairs, which can become slippery when wet. Once on the beach, a 15-minute walk brings you to the Marie-Gabrielle anchor, encrusted in rocks and surrounded by tide pools, with the Fiji anchor visible further up the coast. To see both anchors and access some parts of the beach, visiting during low tide is essential. The best time to visit is late spring to early autumn, especially at sunrise or sunset. The tides, particularly around the Marie-Gabrielle anchor, create dramatic effects, making it an ideal spot.

8. Parker Hill to Crayfish Bay

Park your car at the Parker River car park and follow the track to the left. The walk begins with a 300-step, 90-meter descent that leads you to a secluded beach at the mouth of Parker River. From there, head right and follow the shoreline towards Point Franklin. Once you reach the rocks just outside Parker Inlet, assess the swell—if it’s too high, crossing can be risky. On most days, you can continue along the shoreline, walking over rocks and beaches while taking in the stunning coastal views.

As you cross Point Franklin and continue along the shore, you’ll start to see the Cape Otway Lighthouse in the distance, standing tall on the cliffs above.

About halfway along the route is where Museum Victoria discovered 107-million-year-old flying dinosaur bones—the oldest ever found in Australia.

As you approach Seal Point, walk around it, and you’ll be rewarded with the sight of Crayfish Bay, a hidden gem on the coast. After enjoying the beauty of Crayfish Bay, take the track in the middle that ascends towards the left, connecting with the Great Ocean Walk on the cliff top. The elevated trail offers sweeping ocean views as you walk past Point Franklin and continue back to your car at Parker River. This adventure offers a mix of dramatic landscapes, historical significance, and the untamed beauty of the Great Otway National Park.

LENGTH:  About 6.6km return

BEST TIME:  3 Hours either way of low tide

DIFFICULTY:  Medium

9. Bimbi Park to Station Beach Then The Light Station

Start the walk from Bimbi Park between Cabins 4 and 5, located behind the Bimbi Park camp kitchen. The hike to Station Beach takes about 45 minutes one way, mostly downhill. Make sure to take water, wear hats, and cover up, as it can get hot in the dunes.

Follow the track to our cyclone fence spring, staying on the path, after you cross the great Ocean Walk track you’ll reach a timber walkway. Continue over the sand dune, and as you crest the dune, Station Beach will reveal itself, a place where you’ll feel both the power of nature and your own insignificance. Leave your bags and shoes (if you want to walk barefoot) here and turn left walking approximately 1 kilometer to Rainbow Falls. Rainbow falls is beautiful and worth the walk.

Now turn back to your stuff, walk over the dune and to the timber walkway. Your about 5km from the lightstation. When you get to the Great Ocean Walk track turn right and follow it to the lighthouse passing the Cape Otway Cemetery. There is an entrance fee at the lighthouse but it’s worth visiting, it’s a very significant light station, so get a map at reception and do a self-guided tour. Don’t forget to have scones and a cupachino at the café. MY WEAKNESS.

Getting Back To Bimbi Park

When you exit the light station turn left (same way as you came in). You’ll see the cemetery, do not go through the cemetery as this will take you to Station Beach, stay on Bracks Access. You are about 2km from Bimbi Park from here, now you’ll start seeing Bimbi Park signs. On your left you’ll go past the Geelong College Camp (please don’t go in there-It’s Private Property) and then you’ll get to the back of Bimbi Park, follow the road to the front.

LENGTH:  About 12km loop

BEST TIME:  3 Hours either way of low tide

DIFFICULTY:  Medium

10. Aire River Bridge to River Mouth

Park at the Aire River Bridge, but don’t cross it—there are toilets on the other side and at the campground you passed on the way in. From there, take the 4WD track towards the ocean. As you walk, you’ll soon start to hear the sound of the waves, and after about 1 kilometer, you’ll reach the beach. The dramatic landscape may have you feeling like you’ve stepped into a Sir David Attenborough documentary.

While the area past the river mouth isn’t safe for swimming due to strong currents, it’s a great spot for experienced surfers to catch waves. On the river side, however, the water is calm and serene, offering a peaceful place to unwind. Whether you’re taking a dip, letting the kids splash around, or fishing for bream, Aire River is a perfect break from the more energetic coastal surf. The track can be driven most of the way, but if the sand is too soft, only seasoned 4WD drivers will make it to the beach without trouble.

11. The Great Ocean Walk

The Great Ocean Walk is a breathtaking 110-kilometer trail that stretches from Apollo Bay to the 12 Apostles, showcasing Victoria’s stunning coastline. Hikers journey through diverse landscapes, from rugged cliffs and beautiful beaches to lush rainforests, while enjoying incredible views of the Southern Ocean and its abundant wildlife. You can do the whole lot at once or in day walk section.

Bimbi Park is perfectly situated about one-third of the way through the walk, making it an ideal base for those tackling the walk as day walks with our convenient shuttle service. We have also worked for over a decade with 2 excellent tour companies that use Bimbi Park for part of the walk,

Walk 91 which is great for self-guided walks and some guided

and

Auswalk for guided and self-guided walks.

Both companies provide exceptional guides and services, and we highly recommend them.

Our Great Ocean Walk Service

12. Lake Elizabeth

Lake Elizabeth is a tranquil gem nestled within the lush forests of the Great Otway National Park. Formed by a natural landslide in 1952, the lake is surrounded by towering ferns and ancient trees, creating a serene and secluded atmosphere. The still, reflective waters are home to one of Australia’s most elusive creatures, the platypus, making it a prime spot for wildlife watching, especially during the early morning or late evening.

Accessible via a peaceful walking trail, the 4-kilometer loop around Lake Elizabeth offers stunning views of the water and surrounding forest. The walk is easy and family-friendly, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature. With opportunities for canoeing tours, which often bring you closer to the lake’s platypus population, Lake Elizabeth is a must-visit destination for those seeking tranquility, wildlife, and the beauty of the Otways.