Blanket Bay, on the famous Great Ocean Road, is a hidden coastal treasure calling out to you with its dramatic views, beaches and serenity. This secluded bay, surrounded by lush rainforest and the Southern Ocean, is the ultimate escape for those who want to chill out and get back to nature. Whether you’re an adventurer, a beach lover, or just looking to unwind, Blanket Bay has got you covered.
Nature
In the heart of the Great Otway National Park, Blanket Bay is a nature lover’s heaven. Surrounded by old growth rainforest and the Southern Ocean, this place is home to an abundance of flora and fauna, including native wildlife like koalas, kangaroos and many bird species. The forest, eucalyptus trees and ocean views make it a photographer and nature’s favourite spot.
If you love the coast, Blanket Bay’s beach is a gem. The turquoise water is perfect for swimming, and the soft sand is gentle underfoot. The bay is remote, only accessible via Blanket Bay Road so it’s quiet and untouched where the only sounds are the waves and native birds.
Activities at Blanket Bay
Walks
There are many walks that wind through the beautiful landscapes of the Great Otway National Park. One of the most popular is the Blanket Bay to Parker Inlet track, which has coastal views and rainforests to discover. If you want a longer walk, the track connects to other tracks that go to the historic Cape Otway Lightstation and Aire River, which have ocean views and hidden waterfalls. Another track is the Great Ocean Walk, which passes through Blanket Bay and goes to the coastal towns of Apollo Bay and Port Campbell. It has ocean views and native wildlife.
Fishing and Beach Activities
The calm water of Blanket Bay is perfect for beach activities. Fishing from the shore, you can catch Australian salmon and flathead. The beach is great for beachcombing, swimming and snorkelling. If you want a more adventurous experience a short drive will get you to the famous surf beaches of Bells Beach and Johanna Beach where you can surf or just watch the surfers tackle the waves.
Wildlife
Blanket Bay is a great spot for wildlife. Keep an eye out for koalas in the eucalyptus trees or kangaroos in the open grasslands. Birdwatchers will love the variety of birds that visit the area including kookaburras, rosellas and the elusive Rufous bristlebird. The coastal tracks around Blanket Bay and Cape Otway lighthouse offer many opportunities to see these and other native animals in their natural habitat.Discover the beauty of nature with wildlife tours Great Ocean Road! Experience koalas in eucalyptus trees, kangaroos in grasslands, and diverse birdlife.
Accommodation
Blanket Bay Campground
If you want to get up close and personal with the area then Blanket Bay Campground is the spot for you. Basic facilities include toilets and picnic tables and is right on the sandy beach and walking trails. Perfect for those who want a rustic camping experience in the Great Otway National Park.
Great Ocean Ecolodge
Just a short drive away is the Great Ocean Ecolodge. An eco-friendly option that offers luxury accommodation with a focus on sustainability and wildlife conservation. Comfortable rooms, meals made from local produce and guided tours to see native wildlife. Staying here supports conservation and is a unique experience in the heart of the Otways.
Cape Otway Lightstation
For a real treat stay at the Cape Otway Lightstation. Accommodation ranges from historic cottages to guest rooms within the lighthouse precinct with stunning coastal views and history. Explore the lighthouse museum, learn about the maritime history of the area and enjoy the panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the rock stacks offshore.
When to Visit Blanket Bay
Getting to Blanket Bay
Blanket Bay is off the Great Ocean Road, just past Cape Otway. The drive itself is lovely, passing through some of the most beautiful country in Australia, with coastal towns like Apollo Bay, Lavers Hill and Eastern View along the way. Each of these towns has its own attractions and views. To get to Blanket Bay, follow Lighthouse Road to the Cape Otway Lightstation, then turn onto Blanket Bay Road. 4WD is recommended, especially in wet weather, as the road can be slippery.
From Melbourne, it takes about 3.5 hours, but take your time and enjoy the coastal towns, rock stacks and rainforests of the Otways. Along the way, stop at London Bridge and the Bay of Islands, both of which have stunning views of the limestone stacks carved by the Southern Ocean.
Nearby
While at Blanket Bay, there’s heaps of other stuff to see. Just down the road is the Cape Otway Lightstation, a must-do, with stunning views and an insight into Australia’s maritime history. For the adventurous, the Otway Fly Treetop Adventures is a blast from which to walk among the treetops of the ancient rainforest. Apollo Bay is just a short drive away for lunch or dinner, with heaps of cafes and restaurants serving up fresh seafood and local produce. Don’t miss the coastal walks around Kennett River, spot koalas, and take in the views of the ocean.
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