About Kennett River
Kennett River is a small coastal hamlet on the Great Ocean Road in the Colac Otway Shire, Victoria, between Lorne and Apollo Bay. It is notable for its sandy river-mouth beach where Kennett River meets the Southern Ocean, and for reliable koala sightings in eucalyptus trees along Grey River Road. The settlement is a popular short stop for Great Ocean Road travellers for wildlife viewing, surfing and beach walks.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a quiet coastal settlement with a sandy beach at the mouth of the Kennett River, backed by forested hills of the Otway Ranges. The main visitor experience is walking or driving slowly along Grey River Road to spot koalas resting in manna gums, along with colourful parrots and other birds. The beach offers swimming and surfing conditions, a small car park, cafe and caravan park, and scenic views of the Great Ocean Road coastline.
Key highlights
- 01
Reliable wild koala sightings along Grey River Road in eucalyptus trees
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Kennett River Beach at the river mouth with sandy shoreline and surf break
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Scenic Great Ocean Road coastal drive location between Lorne and Apollo Bay
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Birdwatching for king parrots, rosellas and kookaburras
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Access to Great Otway National Park hinterland and rainforest walks
History of Kennett River
Kennett River developed as a small timber-milling and fishing settlement in the early 20th century along the Otway coast. Its name derives from the Kennett River which flows from the Otway Ranges to the sea. The construction and opening of the Great Ocean Road in the 1920s-1930s made the hamlet accessible and established it as a coastal stopover and holiday location.
Culture & Context
The area lies within Eastern Maar Country and is part of the broader Great Ocean Road cultural landscape valued for its coastal scenery, natural environment and outdoor recreation. It is recognised as a nature-based tourism locality where wildlife viewing, particularly koalas, is a central visitor experience.
Route
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