Situated 174 kilometres (108 mi) west of Melbourne, on the Otway Coast portion of the scenic Great Ocean Road, Kennett River is a popular tourist destination 27 kilometres (17 mi) from the resort town of Lorne, Victoria.

[4] The area is known for scenic coastal views, whale watching, the Great Otway National Park, and surfing.

[5] Although koala populations have declined across the country,[6] Kennett River is still considered one of the best places in Australia to see them in the wild.

[7][8][9] The Victoria State Government has implemented plans in the Cape Otway area to manage the koala population and improve their health,[10] though some of the actions taken have been controversial.

[11] The area is also home to a variety of birds, including cockatoos, parrots, rosellas, owls, and kookaburras,[12] and to glow-worms.