I think it’s fair to say that Marriner’s Lookout is likely one of the best viewpoints along the Great Ocean Road.
Firstly, a short drive from the Apollo Bay township area will land you at this stunning location that overlooks the entire town and offers a magnificent perspective over the Great Ocean Road.
With over 800 rave reviews on Google, it’s clear why this lookout is a favourite among locals and travellers. Not to mention, the straightforward accessibility makes it great for families, couples or singles.
Furthermore, this location is perfect at any time of the day, with sunrise, midday and sunset displaying unique characteristics over the region.
Finally, be sure to use the travel information below and plan your trip to this lookout ASAP! As it’s not one that you’ll want to miss!
How to Get To Marriner’s Lookout
Assuming you’re travelling from Apollo Bay township, you’ll want to head north on the Great Ocean Road towards Melbourne. Then, take a left onto Marriner’s Lookout Road and follow the road until you reach a car park. Next, park your vehicle in one of the spaces provided.
Finally, follow the signage and take a short walk to reach the lookout. You will need to walk around 150m each way, and there are a few hills to tackle.
Nonetheless, the view is worth the effort, and you’ll be shocked by the perspective. Furthermore, the walk will take around 5 minutes to complete each way.
Finally, please keep in mind that the drive up Marriner’s Lookout Road is extremely steep, and some vehicles may struggle to get up here. Therefore, don’t bring caravans, motorhomes, trucks etc. Also, there isn’t much space at the top for turning around.
Address: 155 Marriners Lookout Rd, Apollo Bay VIC 3233
Best Time to Year to Visit the Apollo Bay Lookout
For the most part, the best time of year to visit Marriner’s Lookout is anywhere from February to April. Moreover, this is when the weather is warmest and there will typically be a lot fewer families as the school holidays have finished.
I wouldn’t really recommend visiting this location during winter as the wind will be extreme and icy cold. However, if you wish to visit in the cooler months, wrap up warm and wear some waterproof clothing!
Nonetheless, this is a fantastic sunrise location, and great to enjoy on any fine day. Not to mention, a clear day is best to visit this location as you’ll want optimal clarity to see far off into the distance.
Finally, mid to late afternoon is another great time to visit this location as everything will be perfectly lit and you won’t experience the glare from the sun rising.
Note: In the warmer months, keep an eye out for snakes on the pathway and in the grass at the lookout.
Hike to Marriner’s Lookout
Alternatively, you can hike to this Apollo Bay lookout if you’re up for a bit more of a challenge. And, I would recommend doing so if you enjoy pushing yourself to the limit. Not to mention, it makes reaching the top so much more of a treat!
Firstly, you’ll need to find a starting location for your journey. Moreover, this can be anywhere along the Great Ocean Road, or you can even park along Marriners Lookout Road. I would recommend parking somewhere along the bottom of the street or parking across the road from the beach.
If you start around the base of the road, you’ll be looking at a 2km one-way journey. Also, you will gain 206m of elevation. Therefore, be prepared for the constant steep hill to reach the top.
Nonetheless, once you reach the top, the effort will be worth it. However, I recommend wearing some comfy runners or hiking boots. Do not wear thongs or attempt this hike barefoot. Also, keep an eye out for cars as multiple vehicles will use the narrow road.
What to Bring
You won’t really need much to tackle this adventure. Although, there are a couple of things you might want to bring. Firstly, I’d recommend taking a decent camera to grab some photos. Or, you could carry a telescope or binoculars to see into the distance.
Also, I’d recommend packing a water bottle, especially if you’re taking the 2km journey to reach the top. And, it might be nice to bring a couple of refreshments to enjoy at the lookout.
Finally, be sure to wear a suitable set of runners or footwear as your feet will need protection. Also, there are some dirt tracks to reach the lookout. Keep in mind that snakes are sometimes along this pathway.
Information on Marriner’s Lookout
The famous Apollo Bay lookout is set on private land. And, this location is a known hang-gliding and paragliding location. Therefore, you may get the chance to see someone take off here.
Additionally, enjoy the picturesque views while watching the waves roll onto the shore of Apollo Bay and its surroundings. The bright blue ocean is stunning, and the bushland around the area is just as beautiful!
Unfortunately, no dogs are allowed at this location. So, please leave your furry friends behind and take them on another adventure.
Finally, there are no facilities at Marriner’s Lookout. So please take any rubbish home with you and never leave litter behind. We don’t want to lose access to this absolute gem!
If you would like to find out more about Marriner’s lookout, I recommend checking out this page.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, Marriner’s lookout is easily one of the best viewpoints along the Great Ocean Road. And, it has now become one of my favourite spots in Apollo Bay.
Therefore, I’d recommend visiting this location the next time you head down the Great Ocean Road. And, allow yourself a bit of time to enjoy this magnificent place.
Finally, take lots of pictures and enjoy the tranquillity while you’re high above the township!
Who would you take to this stunning Apollo Bay Lookout? Will you dare to hike from the bottom, or will you drive to the top?
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