Top 4 Hostels and Budget Stays in Great Ocean Road
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Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka
21/08/2025
Mr Ozturk, Pexels
Along the Great Ocean Road, affordable accommodation primarily consists of hostels and caravan park cabins, providing welcoming environments for budget-conscious travelers to connect and share experiences.
1. YHA Apollo Bay Eco
Type: Hostel
Nestled just a block from the main street, this eco-certified hostel truly feels like a home away from home. I found the facilities modern and impeccably clean, featuring two well-equipped communal kitchens and spacious common rooms that invite mingling. The rooftop terrace is a highlight, perfect for sharing travel stories while enjoying scenic views. There's a friendly atmosphere, attracting a diverse range of travelers, including backpackers and families.
2. Anglesea Backpackers
Type: Hostel
This smaller hostel in Anglesea offers a wonderfully intimate and homely feel. I appreciated the encouragement for guest and staff interaction, which fosters a genuine sense of community. The upgraded kitchen and outdoor patio with a barbecue are great spots for socializing and preparing meals, making it ideal for those seeking a more personal and cozy stay.
3. Sow and Piglets Guesthouse
Type: Guesthouse/Hostel
Located conveniently in Port Campbell, this guesthouse provides a lively and engaging atmosphere. The common areas are distinctively decorated, making them inviting spaces to relax and meet fellow travelers. It offers great value for money with a focus on providing top-tier facilities, including a clean kitchen and lounge, perfect for those exploring the iconic Twelve Apostles nearby.
4. Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park
Type: Caravan Park (Cabins)
Situated across five park areas along the river and beachfront in Lorne, the cabins here offer a comfortable and affordable base. I found the location exceptional, with easy walks to shops and the beach. While not a traditional hostel, the availability of communal barbecues and camp kitchens facilitates interaction among guests, especially those staying in the various cabins and sites.
At TFA Travel we believe in travel for all. Our mission is to enable people to explore the world as easily as possible without having to pay a travel agent a huge commission.
Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.