Port Campbell, a small coastal town along the Great Ocean Road, primarily serves as a practical overnight stop for those wanting to experience the Twelve Apostles at both sunset and sunrise. Its proximity to these iconic rock formations is its key advantage.

Practical Accommodation:

We stayed at the Loch Ard Motor Inn, a straightforward motel offering clean, basic rooms. The deck overlooking the inlet was a pleasant, if not for the road construction happening just in front of our room. Check Loch Ard Motor Inn on TripAdvisor. It served its purpose as a place to rest after a day of driving and sightseeing.

Functional Dining Options:

Dining in Port Campbell is adequate but not particularly memorable. We had dinner at the Port Campbell Hotel, which provided standard pub meals. The 12 Rocks Reach Bar Cafe also offered a selection of typical cafe fare. Both were perfectly acceptable for a casual meal.

For breakfast, we tried Waves and the Grassroots Deli Cafe. Both provided standard breakfast options that were well prepared. The Grassroots Deli Cafe had a significantly wider selection baked goods and lots of grab-and-go items, which was useful for a quick start to the day.

Strategic Location, Not a Destination in Itself:

The primary draw of Port Campbell is its location. It’s the closest town to the Twelve Apostles, making it easy to catch both the sunset and sunrise views. The town itself is quite small and offers limited attractions beyond its convenience.

In essence, Port Campbell is a functional base for exploring the region’s natural wonders. While it may lack the charm of larger coastal towns, its proximity to the Twelve Apostles makes it a logical choice for those prioritizing easy access to this iconic site.