When Is the Great Ocean Road Marathon?

So you’ve driven the Great Ocean Road and thought, “I’d love to run this,”? Well, you’re not alone. Every year a mob of runners – from elite marathoners to fancy-dressed fun-runners – lace up to take on one of the most scenic courses in the country. But when exactly does it happen? And what should you know before you sign up, or even just come to watch?

Let’s break it down – Aussie style.

The Marathon Date: Mark Your Calendar

The Great Ocean Road Running Festival is usually held in mid-May. In 2025 it’s scheduled for 18–19 May, a weekend of road closures, sore quads and spectacular sea views. Race day energy is unbeatable.

That’s the simple answer. But there’s more to it than just writing it in your diary. If you’re thinking of running (or cheering from the sidelines) a bit of forward planning will make all the difference.

What’s the Big Deal About This Marathon?

There are plenty of road races around Australia so why does this one attract thousands of keen beans every year?

For starters:

• No city noise. No taxis honking or sirens wailing. Just waves crashing and birds squawking.
• The scenery’s unbeatable. You’re running along a clifftop coastal road carved into the hills, with coastal views, seaside views and the Southern Ocean as your running mate.
• It’s a point-to-point course. You start in Lorne and finish in Apollo Bay – no looping back like a lost GPS signal.

Plus, there’s the sheer novelty of racing on a road that’s normally packed with caravans and tourists chasing photo ops of the Twelve Apostles. It’s a stunning running event on a truly iconic stretch of road. And if you’re not ready to race just yet, it still makes for a cracking Great Ocean Road day trip.

Events on Offer

The festival isn’t just for the marathon masochists. There’s something for all fitness levels and experience levels:

• 60km Ultra Marathon – For the crazy people who think 42km is a warm-up.
• 44km Great Ocean Road Marathon – The classic. Starts in Lorne, ends in Apollo Bay.
• 23km Half Marathon – From Kennett River to Apollo Bay. Still hilly, still scenic.
• 14km Paradise Run – Starts from the aptly named Paradise. 6km & 1.5km Family Runs – For tiny legs and newbies.
• Trail runs and yoga sessions – If you just want to stretch without running.

Each event has different distances and experience levels so it’s something for everyone. Even if you’re just coming to spectate it’s a great excuse to turn it into a weekend getaway or a Great Ocean Road trip.

What’s the Weather Like in May?

May along the coast is crisp. Think: long-sleeve running tops, beanies at the start line and steaming coffee in reusable cups. Temps can be 6-15°C — not quite frost on the grass cold but you’ll feel it if you’re hanging about pre-run in shorts.

Rain’s always a maybe. The Otways get plenty of it so bring a light spray jacket. And the wind? Yep, she can howl. But that’s part of the wilderness experience, right?

Road Closures and Access

It’s a running festival — not a drive-by. So yes, the Great Ocean Road is closed to traffic for most of Sunday between Lorne and Apollo Bay.

Expect:

• Major delays if you’re not in town early
• Detours inland through Forrest or Beech Forest if you need to move between towns
• No access to some beach carparks and lookouts until the race clears
• Watch for non-event traffic signs and safety marshals

If you’re coming for the weekend book accommodation early and plan to park your car and leave it there.

Running It: What to Expect

I ran it once. And when I say “ran” I mean I shuffled, sweated and swore my way from Lorne to Apollo Bay.

Here’s the honest scoop:

• The hills are brutal. It’s not flat. At all.
• Views are distracting. You’ll want to stop and take a photo. Don’t — you’ll never start again.
• Support crews are top-notch. Locals bang drums, ring cowbells and cheer like mad.
• It’s emotional. That final stretch into the event finish in Apollo Bay hits differently.

But you don’t need to be a pro athlete. You just need grit, decent shoes and a love of doing hard things in beautiful places.

Festival Atmosphere

This isn’t just a race. It’s a whole weekend of celebration. Think live music, market stalls, yoga by the sea, food trucks and thousands of lycra-clad legends comparing blisters.

Apollo Bay turns it on with:

• Live music stages
• A finish line hub packed with energy
• Local cafes serving strong coffee and well-earned brekkies
• Ice baths for the brave (or the broken)

Finish lines are more than markers — they’re victory laps with a view. Bring your crew, your kids, your mum — it’s a real annual event and a great weekend out. Even people just visiting for a Melbourne Great Ocean Road tour end up staying longer than planned.

Respect Country

The Great Ocean Road runs through the lands of the Eastern Maar and Wadawurrung Peoples. If you’re visiting here do it with respect.

The landscapes we run through aren’t just pretty backdrops — they’re Country, with cultural stories and significance that predate the bitumen.

Look up local cultural experiences. Visit Indigenous run galleries. Acknowledge Traditional Owners. And leave no trace — not even a sweaty sock.

What to Bring

If you’re running:

• Running shoes with grip — wet tarmac can be slippery
• Layers — cold start, warm finish
• Water bottle or running vest with sports drinks
• Sunscreen — yes, even in May
• Race bib and safety pins
• Band-aids (trust me)
• Sense of humour

If you’re spectating:

• Camp chair
• Thermos
• Cowbell
• Rain jacket
• Snacks

Keep an eye out for drink stations along the course to stay hydrated.

Tips for First-Timers

• Train for hills. This isn’t your local park loop.
• Get there early. Parking is limited and the vibe starts before sunrise.
• Check the race office hours. The event race offices in Lorne and Apollo Bay are where you pick up your race bib before race time.
• Don’t go out too hard. The road will humble you.
• Enjoy it. You’re running on one of the most iconic roads in Australia with surreal views and panoramic views that you won’t get anywhere else.

FAQ

When is the 2025 Great Ocean Road Marathon?

The main race day is Sunday, 18 May 2025, with other events running across the weekend.

Can I drive the Great Ocean Road during the marathon?

Not really. Major sections between Lorne and Apollo Bay are closed on Sunday. Plan ahead or take the inland detour to avoid non-event traffic issues.

Do I need to be a pro runner to enter?

Not at all. There are events for every fitness level — from the 1.5km Kids’ Gallop to the full 60km Ultra. International competitors also take part.

What’s the best way to get to the start line?

Stay local the night before. Lorne fills up fast, so book early. Check the race office details and arrive well before your race time.

Is it worth coming just to watch?

Absolutely. The views are wild, the community buzz is brilliant, and the sausage sizzles are top-notch. It’s a proper enjoyable experience in a seaside location.