Johanna Beach to Ryans Den

This is a roughly 14 km, one-way section of the Great Ocean Walk from Johanna Beach to the remote Ryans Den hike-in campground. The route climbs through coastal scrub to a hilltop lookout over the Johanna River, farmland and ocean, then follows Old Coach Road and Melanesia Track to the beach. From there, expect repeated climbs and descents before the wooded campsite. Allow about 5–6 hours; this is a long, hard day.

The first stretch winds through coastal scrub before opening onto a broad view across the river valley and coast. It then follows Old Coach Road and turns down Melanesia Track to the beach. Take a break at the lookout, where the river’s path through the farmland makes the scale of the coast easier to see.

After Melanesia Beach, the route rolls through repeated ups and downs toward Ryans Den. The second half is the more demanding part, so leave enough time and energy for it. The stage ends at a hike-in campground; vehicles cannot reach the campsite.

This is a point-to-point walk, not a loop. The 14 km stage ends at Ryans Den. Day walkers can continue on the separate Ryan’s Den Track to the Great Ocean Road, about 1.5 km farther, and should arrange their pickup there in advance. If staying at the campsite, check current booking arrangements before setting out.

Beach sections around Johanna and Milanesia depend on tide and surf conditions. Check that the foreshore is safe before committing, and wait or turn back if the tide or swell makes it unsafe. Dogs and other pets are not permitted in Great Otway National Park.