Three days around Cape Otway — Part One of our Split Trail Series.

Bay to Beach

Three days from Apollo Bay to Johanna Beach, tracing the wild coastline of Cape Otway. This section of the Great Ocean Walk blends forest, lighthouse, rivers, and open surf beaches into a complete short-form journey — designed to stand alone, or as the first step in completing the trail.

3 Days

Trip Duration

59km

Total Length

15-22km

Daily Hike

Difficulty

moderate

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Starting at $1350 AUD per person

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About this Hike

The Bay to Beach is Part One of our Split Trail Series, a three-day journey from Apollo Bay to Johanna Beach. It follows the Great Ocean Walk through the forests and headlands of Cape Otway, one of the most varied and dramatic sections of the trail.

The walk begins on the shoreline of Apollo Bay before climbing into tall forest and cool temperate rainforest. From there it traces the coast past Blanket Bay and Parker Inlet, rounds the Cape Otway Lighthouse, crosses the Aire River, and finishes on the sweeping sands of Johanna Beach.

Over the course of the hike you'll spend two nights at our home base, Captain's at the Bay. Returning here each evening keeps logistics simple, with transfers and daily support arranged for you, while allowing you to walk light on the trail and enjoy comfort and hospitality each night.

Every detail is considered: transport, safety equipment, and guidance from our local team. Tier Two guests also enjoy premium room upgrades, curated meals, and small touches that reflect our quietly elevated approach to hiking.

The Bay to Beach is a complete three-day hike in its own right, and the beginning of our Split Trail Series.

All the Details

Itinerary

Packages

Accommodation

Transportation

Guides

Day 1

Apollo Bay → Blanket Bay

22km

Arrive in Apollo Bay by 10am for a welcome, luggage drop and orientation at Captain's at the Bay. You begin walking at midday from the Great Ocean Walk official starting point on the Apollo Bay foreshore. The track follows the shoreline past Marengo before climbing through tall eucalypt forest and cool temperate rainforest, then descends to the sheltered haven of Blanket Bay. Return to Captain's in the evening for a relaxed dinner and a comfortable night in Apollo Bay.

Day 2

Blanket Bay → Aire River

17km

This stage carries you around the coast of Cape Otway and through some of the walk's most celebrated highlights. The trail begins along rocky headlands before crossing Parker River, then skirts the hidden cove of Crayfish Bay — a perfect spot for a rest or even a dip on warmer days. Continuing on, you'll pass the historic Cape Otway Lighthouse precinct and make your way onto Station Beach, a remote stretch of sand that feels far from civilisation. An optional side trip leads to Rainbow Falls, a freshwater spring tumbling over algae-covered rock into the sea. The day concludes at the Aire River estuary, where the river meets the ocean against a backdrop of wide prehistoric floodplains.

Day 3

Aire River → Johanna Beach

14km

The final stage is among the most striking of the Great Ocean Walk. The track climbs to Castle Cove, where dramatic cliffs rise above the Southern Ocean, then continues through rolling farmland and descends to the vast sweep of Johanna Beach. Known for its powerful surf and open horizon, it provides a memorable conclusion to your three-day journey. After time to take in the views, you'll return to Apollo Bay for onward travel or an additional night's stay if arranged.