Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch
Commemorating WWI soldiers who built the Great Ocean Road, this iconic arch is a historic gateway and photo stop.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour light
Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Commemorating WWI soldiers who built the Great Ocean Road, this iconic arch is a historic gateway and photo stop.
"A must-see when visiting the Great Ocean Road, as it's literally the entrance!"
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture the arch with the ocean as a backdrop. Early or late light is best!
🅿️ Parking Patience
Parking is available but can fill up quickly. Be patient or visit during off-peak times.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Memorial Arch
Eastern View
Iconic wooden arch commemorating WWI soldiers who built the Great Ocean Road.
Commemorative Plaques
Base of the Arch
Read about the history and the soldiers who constructed this magnificent road.
Eastern View Beach
Adjacent to the Arch
Access the beach for stunning coastal views and a different perspective of the arch.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to the Arch
Understanding the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture the arch with the ocean as a backdrop. Early or late light is best! 
🅿️ Parking Patience
Parking is available but can fill up quickly. Be patient or visit during off-peak times.
📜 Read the History
Take time to read the commemorative plaques; they tell a powerful story.
🚶 Beach Access
You can access the beach from here for a different view and a stroll.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture the arch with the ocean as a backdrop. Early or late light is best!
🅿️ Parking Patience
Parking is available but can fill up quickly. Be patient or visit during off-peak times.
📜 Read the History
Take time to read the commemorative plaques; they tell a powerful story.
🚶 Beach Access
You can access the beach from here for a different view and a stroll.
🚗 Gateway to the Road
This arch marks the official start of the scenic Great Ocean Road drive.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Memorial Arch as an iconic and historically significant landmark on the Great Ocean Road. It's a popular photo spot and a meaningful tribute to the soldiers who built the road. While parking can be challenging during busy periods, the free entry and beach access make it a worthwhile stop.
"This Memorial Arch, the gateway to the Great Ocean Road along Victoria coast. The arch was built in honour of the returned soldiers who worked on the road and its creation during World War I. Construction on the Great Ocean Road started in 1919 and they completed the 243 kilometres stretch of road in 1932. It is a popular destination stop and there is a large car park to park your vehicle. Easy terrain, lot of easy walking. You can access the beach from here. Free entry. Great place for photography. Popular with tourists especially."
s vivekananda
"2025/10 Memorial Arch at Eastern View
The Memorial Arch at Eastern View is one of the most famous landmarks along Victoria’s Great Ocean Road. It was built to honor the soldiers who served in World War I, many of whom helped construct the road upon their return. The Great Ocean Road itself is considered the world’s largest war memorial.
The arch marks the official gateway to the scenic coastal route and features commemorative plaques explaining its historical significance. Visitors often stop here to take photos and learn about the heroic efforts of the soldiers who turned the rugged coastline into one of Australia’s most beautiful drives."
Paul Wu
"A great place for photos. Always crowded with tourist and can be difficult to get parking with tour busses randomly parked. Must not just join the crowd to take pictures and go but really read the plagues and understand the history"
Joey Lee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Memorial Arch is located at Eastern View, marking the official start of the Great Ocean Road. If driving from Melbourne, it's approximately a 2-hour drive. Many visitors stop here as part of a larger Great Ocean Road itinerary.
Public transport options directly to the Memorial Arch are limited. It's best accessed by car as part of a road trip.
There is a dedicated car park adjacent to the Memorial Arch. However, it can get busy, especially during peak season and weekends.
Yes, the Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch is a prominent landmark situated at the beginning of the Great Ocean Road, near Eastern View.
Many travelers use the Arch as a starting point for a multi-day road trip, heading towards the Twelve Apostles and beyond. It's recommended to allow at least 3 days for the full experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch and its surrounding area is completely free.
The Memorial Arch is an outdoor landmark and is accessible at any time, day or night. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience and photography.
There is no entrance fee for driving the Great Ocean Road itself. The Memorial Arch is a free point of interest along the route.
Yes, you can access the beach from the Memorial Arch area, offering a different perspective and a chance for a walk.
There are no specific restrictions for visiting the Memorial Arch, but always be mindful of the environment and historical significance.
📸 📸 Photography
The best times for photography are early morning or late afternoon. The 'golden hours' offer soft, beautiful light and fewer crowds.
You can capture classic shots of the arch itself, the commemorative plaques, and the scenic coastline. Many visitors also take photos on the beach.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check current Australian and Victorian aviation rules and local park regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the arch and the expansive coastal views. A standard zoom lens will also be versatile.
Absolutely! The beach access allows for stunning photos with the arch and the vast ocean.
🎫 📜 History & Significance
The Memorial Arch commemorates the returned soldiers of World War I who constructed the Great Ocean Road, which is considered the world's largest war memorial.
The Great Ocean Road was built by returned soldiers from World War I between 1919 and 1932.
The original arch was built in 1932, though it has been rebuilt and maintained over the years.
The plaques detail the history of the Great Ocean Road, the soldiers who built it, and its significance as a war memorial.
Yes, the entire Great Ocean Road is recognized as the world's largest war memorial, honoring the service and sacrifice of WWI soldiers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a good opportunity to break up the driving and talk about Australian history in a tangible way. The visual of the arch against the ocean is also quite engaging for younger visitors.
🚗 Road Trippers
+1Many travelers recommend allowing ample time for stops along the entire route, and the Arch is a key one. Consider it your first historical marker before heading towards Lorne and beyond. Don't forget to check out the beach access for a different perspective.
+1📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the grandeur of the arch and its surroundings. The beach provides a different angle, and the commemorative plaques offer a chance for detail shots that tell a story.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Story Behind the Arch
Visitors can read commemorative plaques at the base of the arch, which detail the history of the road's construction and the soldiers' contributions. This stop offers a chance to connect with the profound history embedded in the landscape. The easy terrain around the arch allows for a comfortable visit, and access to the beach provides a beautiful vantage point to appreciate the arch against the backdrop of the Southern Ocean.
While the arch is a significant historical marker, it also signifies the beginning of an unforgettable journey. Many travelers use it as a starting point for exploring the dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and charming towns that define the Great Ocean Road. The arch is a reminder of the human spirit and the creation of one of Australia's most celebrated scenic drives.
+1Experiencing the Memorial Arch and Surrounds
Beyond the arch, the Eastern View Beach provides a beautiful extension to your visit. You can easily access the beach from the arch area, allowing for a refreshing walk along the sand and stunning views of the coastline. It's a great spot to stretch your legs, feel the ocean breeze, and capture some memorable photographs with the arch and the sea.
While the arch is a quick stop for many, it's worth taking a moment to absorb the atmosphere. The large car park makes it convenient, though it can get busy. The easy terrain ensures accessibility for most visitors, making it a welcoming point on your Great Ocean Road adventure.
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