Free koalas + juicy seafood! Apollo Bay 24-hour wild healing list

Apollo Bay is a picturesque seaside town on Australia's Great Ocean Road, nestled between the rainforest and the ocean, with both magnificent sea views and a wealth of activities. Here are its highlights, suitable for travelers with different interests: 🌊 Natural scenery & classic landmarks 1. Landscapes along the Great Ocean Road - Driving experience: Drive in from Lorne or Port Campbell, along the way there are cliff coastlines, it is recommended to stop at an observation deck (such as Marriner's Lookout) to overlook the panoramic view of the bay. - The Twelve Apostles: Although located in Port Campbell, it is a 1.5-hour drive west from Apollo Bay. It is a world-class wonder that must be checked in. 2. Beaches and coastlines - Main Beach (Apollo Bay Beach): Suitable for swimming, surfing beginners or beach walks, the water is clear and family-friendly. - Wild West Coast: There are hidden beaches (such as Blanket Bay) near Cape Otway on the west side of the town, with big waves and wild scenery, suitable for taking pictures. 🌳 Rainforest and hiking adventures 1. Great Otway National Park - Otway Fly Treetop Walk: 30 minutes drive from the town, stroll along the elevated rainforest walkway and overlook the fern valley (ticket required). - Waterfall hike: Triplet Falls or Beauchamp Falls are recommended, passing through ancient eucalyptus forests and moss-covered valleys. - Koala! Koala!: The eucalyptus forests along the Kennett River in the park are the habitat of wild koalas, and the probability of encountering them in the early morning is very high! 🐳 Wildlife and ecological experience 1. Whale watching season (May-September) - In the waters of Marengo Reefs Marine Sanctuary, southern right whales are often seen migrating. Shore lookout points or join a whale watching boat (there are operators in the town). 2. Seals and Birds - Marengo Seal Colony: Walk to the reef area at the west end of the town, where you can see Australian fur seals lazily basking in the sun. - Feeding Rainbow Lorikeets: There are often colorful parrots at the Kennett River campground, and you can bring unsalted nuts to interact with them. 🍴 Food and Local Flavors 1. Must-Try Seafood - Apollo Bay Fishermen's Co-op: Directly operated by the Fishermen's Co-op, fish and chips (local blue cod is recommended) or oyster platter, fresh and affordable. - Brae Restaurant: Located in nearby Birregurra, one of the world's 50 best restaurants, 40 minutes' drive away, experience top farm cuisine. 2. Farms and Markets - Saturday Seaside Market: Handicrafts, local honey, handmade jams (open during the summer peak season). - Chocolate & Ice Cream Shop: Dooley's Ice Cream has been family-run for 30 years, and its macadamia flavor is its signature. 🚴 Outdoor activities and leisure - Cycling the Great Ocean Road: Rent a bicycle and ride along the coastline (some sections are flat). - Surfing lessons: There is a school on the main beach that provides 1-on-1 teaching (best in summer). - Fishing/kayaking: You can rent a boat at the pier to go fishing for snapper, or kayak to explore offshore caves. ⏰ Itinerary suggestions - One-day tour: Rainforest hiking + koala tracking in the morning → seafood lunch at noon → beach leisure/observation deck in the afternoon → sail to the Twelve Apostles in the evening. Accommodation: We stayed in Motel Marengo, one room with two large beds, which can accommodate 4 people. The room is not big but clean, and all the necessary toiletries and kitchen utensils are available. There is a parking space in front of the house, which is very convenient Weather: Southern Australia is changeable, bring a windproof jacket in all seasons, and sun protection in summer. Transportation: Self-driving is the most convenient! Free parking in the town is easy, and there is no bus covering the rainforest area. Avoid the crowds: Book in advance during the peak season (December-January), and it will be quieter to go to the attractions in the early morning. Apollo Bay is the perfect supply station in the middle of the Great Ocean Road - half is the grandeur of the ocean, and half is the tranquility of the rainforest. It is worth slowing down and immersing yourself in nature! 🌊🦘 #summervacay#travel #localfood #thingstodo #beachlife #naturalwonders #apollobay