Blanket Bay, Great Ocean Road

Blanket Bay is a gem of natural beauty, outdoor adventure and coastal charm. Perfect for those looking for a retreat surrounded by landscape, coastline and wildlife. Whether you’re here for a short stay or long, Blanket Bay and the surrounding area – Apollo Bay, Port Campbell and Cape Otway – have something for every kind of traveller.

Where Nature Meets Serenity

Few places on earth capture raw natural beauty like Blanket Bay. Surrounded by the Great Otway National Park, the bay is a patchwork of rainforest, coastal cliffs and golden sands pounded by the Southern Ocean. The environment here is not just pretty but also ecologically important, supporting a wide range of flora and fauna. As you wander through the ferns and native wildlife habitats, you’ll be met with sights and sounds that will leave you feeling tranquil and amazed.
Beyond the immediate area, the natural beauty extends to nearby attractions like Melba Gully and the amazing Cape Otway Lighthouse, which stands watch over the coastline. Visitors are often struck by the juxtaposition of land and sea, where green hills meet the ocean and offer some of the best ocean views on the Great Ocean Road.

Explore the Best Activities at Bay

For outdoor types, Blanket Bay is a playground of natural wonders. From walking tracks to fishing spots, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this coastal haven. Whether you’re exploring the cliffs, paddling in the bay or simply sitting on the rocks and taking in the views, you’ll be mesmerised.

Walks

One of the best things about Blanket Bay is the world class walking trails. The Great Ocean Walk which stretches over 100km passes through Blanket Bay and offers some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in Victoria. Walkers can choose from shorter, easier walks or tackle longer sections that take you to iconic spots like Johanna Beach and Parker Hill.
For those who want to head inland, the forest trails around Beech Forest and Melba Gully are enchanting. These walks wind through ancient forests, past giant eucalyptus trees and hidden waterfalls like Triplet Falls, Hopetoun Falls and Phantom Falls. Along the way, you’ll find unique ecosystems teeming with life, as well as rare bird species and other wildlife.

Fishing and Boating

Fishing buffs will love the Blanket Bay campground with direct access to the best fishing spots. Cast a line and try your luck at catching some of the local fish species. If you prefer to be on the water, kayaking or boating is a great way to explore the beach and surrounding coastline.

Beach Activities

The beach at Blanket Bay is perfect for families and beach lovers. Whether you’re swimming, building sandcastles or exploring the rock pools at low tide, there’s something for everyone. For surfers, Bells Beach and the famous surf beaches along the Great Ocean Road are just a short drive away.

Marine Life and Wildlife

The area around Blanket Bay is teeming with marine and land-based wildlife. You can see dolphins, seals and even whales in the Bass Strait. On land the surrounding ancient forests and hills are home to kangaroos, koalas and many bird species. Head to Kennett River or Wye River to see these creatures in their natural habitat.

Accommodation

Blanket Bay has a range of accommodation options, from campgrounds to luxury lodges. Whether you like the simplicity of a campsite or the indulgence of a private balcony with views to die for, there’s a place to stay for you.

Blanket Bay Campground

In the middle of nowhere, the Blanket Bay Campground is for those who would like a more basic experience. It has limited facilities and is a great base for walking tracks and nearby attractions.

Great Ocean Ecolodge

For eco-tourists the Great Ocean Ecolodge offers comfortable, sustainable accommodation – perfect for those who want to get back to nature and have modern conveniences on their Great Ocean Road trip.

Cape Otway Lightstation

Stay in one of the heritage cottages at the Cape Otway Lightstation, a historic site with stunning views of the Southern Ocean. Guests can explore the Cape Otway Lighthouse and take a guided tour of this famous landmark.

Blanket Bay Lodge

For a luxurious getaway the Blanket Bay Lodge offers Lodge Rooms and Lodge Suites with private balconies, fine dining and exceptional service. The lodge is the ultimate in comfort in the middle of nowhere.

Routes and Tips

Located on the Great Ocean Road, Blanket Bay is car accessible. From Melbourne it’s a 3 hour drive, passing through lovely coastal towns and villages like Lavers Hill and Eastern View. The road winds through the coastal cliffs, Southern Ocean and famous landmarks like London Bridge and the 12 Apostles. You can also take the inland route through the green hills and extinct volcanoes for a different but equally beautiful view.

Nearby Attractions

Blanket Bay is a great base from which to explore some of Victoria’s best attractions. Visit the limestone stacks at Port Campbell National Park, or Lake Elizabeth, a hidden lake surrounded by tall trees. For history and culture buffs, the Cape Otway Lightstation and Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve are a treasure trove of information about the area.
Other nearby attractions are the Bay of Islands, Otway Fly Treetop Adventures and Childers Cove. Each has its own piece of the area’s natural and cultural heritage.