Johanna: Coast and Rainforest

Johanna offers a range of nature experiences for travelers: at Johanna Beach, coastal views, surf and sections of the Great Ocean Walk shape the experience; at Aire River Crossing, the focus is on rainforest and river. This gives you two distinct themes to choose from when planning your trip: open coastal scenery or a wooded riverside setting. You can plan your visit around the coast and ocean activities, or focus on forest and water.

Ridgetop and coastal views

Johanna Beach Hike-in Campground is set among casuarina trees on a ridge. One side opens onto spectacular coastal views, while the other looks out over farmland. From this location, open coastline and working farmland meet in two different directions. The vegetation and visibility depend on the weather.

Johanna Beach Campground is at the end of Red Johanna Road. Check road conditions before setting out. This location refers to that campground; Johanna Beach Hike-in Campground has a separate name and is located among casuarina trees on the ridge.

Johanna Beach: walking, surf and whales

Johanna Beach Campground provides access to Johanna Beach. Sections of the Great Ocean Walk run along the beach. You can explore them independently or on guided tours tailored to individual needs. Check route conditions before setting out. This lets you include the walking sections in your plans without assuming a particular type of tour.

Johanna Beach has west-facing surf breaks and is popular with experienced surfers. Surf conditions vary. From July to September, you may spot humpback and southern right whales offshore. Sightings are not guaranteed, so whale watching is a possible seasonal activity rather than something you can count on as a planned event.

Visitor information

Dogs are allowed on a leash at Johanna Beach Campground. If you’re traveling with a dog, check current dog restrictions and park notices before your visit. Conditions relevant to your plans vary depending on your interests: for whale watching, the possible viewing period is July to September; for sections of the Great Ocean Walk, check route conditions.

Rainforest at Aire River Crossing

Aire River Crossing has five free campsites in a secluded, peaceful rainforest setting in Great Otway National Park. Eucalypts and tree ferns surround the sites. The Aire River runs right beside them. Visitors can sit by the river, enjoy the lush forest and watch the water flow over the rocks. River conditions vary with the weather.

The scenery is very different from the open coast at Johanna Beach: at Aire River Crossing, the focus is on forest, tree ferns and water. Its five campsites offer a different natural setting from the views from the ridge at Johanna Beach Hike-in Campground. Campsite availability and conditions may change; check them before planning a stay there.

Discover more destinations: Newham, Coleraine, Gowanbrae, Lancefield, North Wangaratta, Puckapunyal, Moonambel, Newry.

Return to the main travel overview: Victoria.