Alright, this stretch of the Great Ocean Walk is seriously something else. It’s often called the most beautiful section of the hike, and after doing it, I’d have to agree—it’s absolutely magic! It’s 10km each way (so 20km return), and while that might sound cruisy, don’t underestimate it. The terrain is super varied, and there’s a fair bit of incline, especially between Parker Inlet and Parker Hill Campground. Let’s just say my legs were well and truly feeling it by the end!

Otway Lighthouse - Blanket Bay:

We started at the Otway Lighthouse, left our car at the carpark there, and hiked our way to Blanket Bay, which is such a lovely little campsite. If you’re into overnight hikes, there are heaps of campsites along the way, so it’s super flexible depending on how far you want to trek each day. You could also do it the opposite way, starting at Blanket Bay & heading to the Lighthouse.

One of the absolute highlights was Crayfish Bay—it’s honestly like something straight out of Western Australia! The water is so blue and clear, and it’s the perfect spot for a swim (pack your swimmers!!). It’s one of those places you just have to stop at.

The hike itself took us a fair few hours—it’s not a quick walk in the park. There’s a mix of forest, coastline, and some more rugged bits, which keeps it interesting but definitely adds to the effort. We only camped one night, but it was such a fun little adventure and felt super accessible. It’s popular with both day trippers and overnight hikers, so you’ll probably see a good mix of people along the way. Oh, and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife! We saw an echidna and lots of kangaroos x

After finishing up, we treated ourselves to a massive feed in Apollo Bay—well deserved, right? Apollo Bay is about 30 minutes’ drive from the lighthouse, and if you’re coming from Lorne, it’s closer to 1.5 hours.

Campsites along the way:

1. Cape Otway Campsite: Located approximately 600 meters from the Cape Otway Lighthouse, this hike-in campsite offers a convenient spot for overnight stays.

2. Parker Hill Campsite: Situated near Parker Inlet, this site provides a scenic setting close to the coastline.

3. Blanket Bay Campground: While primarily a drive-in site, it serves as a starting or ending point for this section of the walk.

These campsites are equipped with basic amenities, including untreated rainwater tanks and environmentally friendly toilets. Remember, campfires are not permitted within Great Ocean Walk hike-in campsites at any time.

It's essential to book your campsites in advance through Parks Victoria, as spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak hiking seasons. Always carry sufficient water and be prepared for varying weather conditions along the trail.

Oh, and just a heads-up—this stretch of the walk isn’t pet-friendly since it’s in the Great Otway National Park.

If you’re looking for a mix of stunning views, a solid workout, and a little dip in paradise at Crayfish Bay, this part of the Great Ocean Walk is a must-do. Just pack plenty of water (I had about 3L which only just got me through)!