The Twelve Apostles, along the Great Ocean Road, are one of Australia’s most popular natural attractions. These iconic limestone stacks rise out of the Southern Ocean, giving you breathtaking views and memories to last a lifetime. In the Port Campbell National Park, this world-famous collection of limestone stacks is a sight to see and a place of historical and cultural significance. If you want an adventure with cliffs, coastal views and history, put the Twelve Apostles at the top of your list.
Iconic Natural Wonders of Victoria
The Twelve Apostles are a group of limestone stacks carved out by wind and waves along the Great Ocean Road. Up to 45 metres tall, these towering rock formations were once part of the mainland cliffs before the Southern Ocean wore them away. Over time, the cliffs fell away, and these magnificent structures were left standing, a reminder of the power of nature.
Current Count and History
Although the Twelve Apostles are named as such, there are only eight stacks left after two of the stacks fell in the early 2000s, reducing the group from twelve to eight. Despite this, the name “Twelve Apostles” is still widely used, giving a nod to the original group. The history of the Twelve Apostles is a slow geological process that has been happening for thousands of years. Early European settlers named them in the 19th century, but Indigenous Australians had been here and knew the land and its wonders for thousands of years before that.
Getting to the Apostles
Getting to the Twelve Apostles is easy, Port Campbell is the nearest town. From here it’s a 45 minute drive along the Great Ocean Road, with views of the coast, beaches and the Southern Ocean. Alternatively you can walk to the Apostles via one of the many walking trails and get up close and personal with the area. If you just want a quick beach visit the marked paths from the visitor centre make it easy to get there in a few hours.
You can stop at the charming towns of Apollo Bay and Cape Otway along the way, both have great dining options including a breakfast to start your day. Both towns also have local service providers if you need a scenic flight or Parks Victoria info.
The Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Twelve Apostles is early morning or late afternoon when the light is golden on the limestone cliffs and rock formations. If you want to avoid the crowds, visit during the off-season (Autumn and Spring). The weather can be unpredictable, so check the forecast before you go. The cliffs are soft light during sunrise and sunset, so those times are perfect for photography. A 12 Apostles tour often includes these golden hour views and can help you make the most of your visit. And in the cooler months you can venture into the remote parts of the surrounding parks like Melba Gully where the rainforest gully and the understory of tree ferns is magical.
Things to Do Around
While the Twelve Apostles are the main event, there’s plenty more to do in the area. If you’re a nature lover, you can explore the deep gullies and gullies with tree ferns that surround the Twelve Apostles. The section of the track near the Apostles is a great way to walk in the area, with well-formed paths that take you to views of the cliffs and the ocean.
If you love wildlife then Mutton Bird Island is a must see. This rocky outcrop is home to a large colony of mutton birds and is great for birdwatching. The surrounding coastal environment is full of other wildlife too, seals and dolphins so it’s a nature lover’s paradise.
Another must do is the Twelve Apostles Lookout, it’s got some of the best views of the rock formations. The lookout is easy to get to, just need to enter an email address to book during peak times. You can also walk to Wreck Beach where the views of the Apostles from the beach are dramatic and up close.
See the Apostles from the Air
Explore the Surrounding Beauty
The Twelve Apostles are just one part of a whole area of beauty and adventure. Close by is Thunder Cave, a series of caves carved into the coastline and Wreck Beach, where you can see historic shipwrecks. Moonlight Head and Blanket Bay are great for a day of walking and have stunning ocean views. If you’re interested in local history, then Gibson Beach and Milanesia Beach will give you a glimpse into the past, which has remnants of shipwrecks along the coast.
If you like natural rock walls or want a more peaceful visit to secluded beaches, the Apostles Marine National Park has plenty of sandstone cliffs and lime rock islands to explore.
FAQ
How do I get to the Twelve Apostles?
The Twelve Apostles are 45 minutes drive from Port Campbell along the Great Ocean Road. There are also walking tracks and scenic flights if you want to take a more adventurous route.
When should I visit the Twelve Apostles?
Best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon in the off season when the crowds are smaller. The golden light at sunrise and sunset is great for photos.
Are there any walking tracks near the Twelve Apostles?
Yes, there are several around the area, including the Twelve Apostles Lookout. You can also walk to Melba Gully, Ryans Den and other parts of the Port Campbell National Park.
Can I get to the Twelve Apostles by public transport?
While public transport options are limited there are tour operators that offer transport from Apollo Bay or Port Campbell to the Twelve Apostles so you can get to this remote area easily.
Is there an entry fee for the Twelve Apostles?
There is no entry fee to visit the Twelve Apostles themselves but there may be parking or guided tour fees in Port Campbell National Park. Check the Parks Victoria website for more info.
