The Great Ocean Road, one of Australia’s most famous drives, has stunning views of cliffs, beaches and wildlife. While it’s famous for its coast and rock formations, it’s a nature lover’s paradise especially for kangaroo spotters. From the eucalypt forests and scrub of the Great Otway National Park to the grey bodies of eastern grey kangaroos grazing by the side of the road, the Great Ocean Road is full of native animals. Whether you’re here in summer or winter, this article will show you where to see kangaroos, what other wildlife to look out for and how to have a wildlife experience along this beautiful drive.
Kangaroo Habitat and Behaviour in the Area
Kangaroos are everywhere in Australia and the Great Ocean Road has everything they need – gum trees, beaches, diverse landscapes – rainforests, grasslands and even the famous limestone rocks sculpted by the waves. The region is home to many wild animals – red-necked wallabies to the elusive Swamp Antechinus. These kangaroos are in their natural habitat, grazing on fresh grass in the mornings and evenings, their grey colouring blending in with the landscape.
Kangaroo Species in the Area
While kangaroos are the stars of the show, the Great Ocean Road is also home to wallabies, native animals and other creatures.
Eastern Grey Kangaroo
The eastern grey kangaroo is the most common species you’ll see along the Great Ocean Road, especially at Anglesea Golf Club and Port Campbell National Park. These kangaroos have grey bodies and are often found in groups near the riverbanks or in grassy patches. The larger kangaroo species prefer the open plains where they can be seen hopping across the soil banks or resting in the undergrowth.
Red Kangaroo
The Red Kangaroo with its reddish-brown ears is more inland but can be seen occasionally along the Victorian coast. Large in size, these kangaroos are found in areas near Cape Otway where the ancient forests and extinct volcanoes provide open space to graze.
Wallabies
As well as kangaroos, swamp wallabies and red-necked wallabies are in the area, especially around Melba Gully and Lavers Hill. Smaller than their kangaroo cousins, these elusive animals are hidden in the underbrush but can be seen in the more secluded parts of the ancient rainforests or near grey riverbanks.
Best places to see kangaroos
Torquay – The start of the Great Ocean Road
It starts in Torquay where you’ll often see eastern grey kangaroos in the morning. This surf beach and wildlife icon area is a great place to see wildlife in the wild. The scrub and grassy fields make it a great spot to see kangaroos at Bells Beach and other coastal areas.
Anglesea – Kangaroo hotspot
Anglesea is a kangaroo hotspot particularly around the Anglesea Golf Club which is a known haul-out site for both kangaroos and swamp wallabies. As you walk through the eucalypt forests and past gum trees you’ll see kangaroos grazing on fresh grass shoots or hopping through the fields. It’s one of the best places for wildlife enthusiasts to have a wildlife experience.
Great Otway National Park – A wildlife retreat
The Great Otway National Park is famous for its diverse flora and fauna. It’s a great place to see kangaroos, wallabies and other native animals. The park’s giant tree ferns and ancient mossy trees provide shelter for many native animals and you can see kangaroos near the Melba Gully or along the rainforest trails.
Apollo Bay – Coastal kangaroo sightings
Just outside Apollo Bay kangaroos can be seen grazing in the paddocks along the coastal cliffs. The beaches are a beautiful backdrop for kangaroo sightings and the quieter areas near Cape Otway Lightstation are known for whale and kangaroo sightings during the cooler months.
Princetown – Kangaroos at the 12 Apostles
Near the 12 Apostles, Princetown is a great place to see kangaroos in a rock stack landscape. The limestone cliffs and the surrounding fields attract kangaroos particularly in winter when they seek shelter in the scrub and riverbanks.
12 Apostles – Bonus sighting
While the 12 Apostles are the main attraction the area is also home to several wildlife species including kangaroos. They can be seen near Port Campbell National Park where they graze in the paddock and soil banks in the morning.
Best time to see kangaroos
The best time to see kangaroos is during the cooler months, particularly in the morning and afternoon. This is when they are most active, grazing on fresh grass shoots and using the quiet hours to roam through the eucalypt forests and ancient rainforests. Avoid the midday sun as kangaroos rest during the hottest part of the day.
Safely and Respectfully
When roo spotting, always approach with respect for their environment. Keep a safe distance and don’t make loud noises that might startle or stress them. Be aware of traffic, especially where roos might be crossing roads. Use binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens to observe them without intruding on their space.
Can You See Kangaroos at Night on the Great Ocean Road?
While roos are most active at dawn and dusk, you can see them at night too, especially in areas with less human activity. But driving at night can be dangerous with roos crossing roads, especially in rural areas. If you want to see roos at night, do so safely and be extra careful on the roads.
Where to Stay
If you want to stay near kangaroo habitats there are many options along the Great Ocean Road. The larger towns have hotels and motels close to wildlife spots, while the more remote areas like the Otway Ranges have eco-lodges and camping sites for a more immersive experience with nature. Look for places near open fields or nature reserves for the best chances of seeing roos.
Conclusion
The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most beautiful drives and one of the best places to see kangaroos in the wild. From the grasslands near Torquay to the coastal cliffs near the Twelve Apostles, there are many opportunities to spot these Aussie icons. Just visit at the right times of day and respect their space and you’ll have a wildlife experience to remember on one of the world’s most beautiful roads.
FAQ Section
When to see kangaroos along the Great Ocean Road?
Summer is the best time to see kangaroos, early morning or late afternoon when they are most active, especially in areas like Anglesea Golf Club, Cape Otway and Port Campbell National Park.
Where can I see kangaroos near the Twelve Apostles?
Princetown and the surrounding area is a good spot to see kangaroos near the Twelve Apostles. The open plains around here are perfect for kangaroos to graze and hop.
Are kangaroos active in the cooler months?
Yes, kangaroos are more active in the cooler months and may even be out at night, especially in areas like Melba Gully and Wye River where they seek shelter and food.
Can I see other wildlife besides kangaroos along the Great Ocean Road?
Besides kangaroos, the Great Ocean Road has other iconic wildlife like blue whales, humpback whales, Australian fur seals and native birds, especially in areas like Logans Beach and Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve.
Where to stay to see kangaroos along the Great Ocean Road?
Kennett River, Anglesea Golf Club and Cape Otway.
