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Twelve Apostles: Iconic Limestone Stacks on Victoria’s Great Ocean Road
- Wander * Explore * Discover
- Nov 6, 2022
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 18
Twelve Apostles: Iconic Limestone Stacks on Victoria’s Great Ocean Road
Rising dramatically from the wild Southern Ocean, the Twelve Apostles are one of Australia’s most iconic natural landmarks and a highlight of any Great Ocean Road journey. Located within Port Campbell National Park, these towering limestone stacks stand up to 45 metres high and create one of the most breathtaking coastal landscapes in Victoria.
Carved by wind and waves over millions of years, the Twelve Apostles are a powerful reminder of nature’s ability to shape the land — and a must-see destination for visitors from around the world.
Where Are the Twelve Apostles?
The Twelve Apostles are located in Port Campbell National Park, approximately 275 kilometres south-west of Melbourne and around 10 minutes’ drive east of the town of Port Campbell. They are easily accessed from the Great Ocean Road, with a dedicated Visitor Centre and well-maintained viewing areas.
Viewing the Twelve Apostles
The main viewing area is reached via a short, easy walk from the Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre. The sealed concrete path is approximately 1 kilometre return and is flat, making it suitable for prams and wheelchairs.
The path passes under the Great Ocean Road via an underpass and leads to a series of well-positioned lookouts. From here, you’ll enjoy sweeping views along the rugged coastline and uninterrupted views of the limestone stacks rising from the ocean below.
Each lookout offers a slightly different perspective, making it well worth taking your time and stopping at them all.
How the Twelve Apostles Were Formed
The Twelve Apostles were formed over millions of years through the constant erosion of soft limestone cliffs by the powerful Southern Ocean. This natural process began with the formation of caves in the cliffs. Over time, these caves expanded into arches, which eventually collapsed, leaving isolated rock stacks standing offshore.
Although they’re known as the Twelve Apostles, there have never been twelve stacks at one time. Coastal erosion continues today, meaning the number and shape of the stacks will keep changing over time.
A Bird’s-Eye View: Scenic Helicopter Flights
For a truly unforgettable experience, you can also see the Twelve Apostles from above on a scenic helicopter flight. These flights provide a unique aerial perspective of the limestone stacks, dramatic cliffs, and turquoise waters of the Southern Ocean.
Twelve Apostles Helicopters are located directly behind the Visitor Centre and offer a range of short scenic flights that also take in nearby coastal highlights. It’s an incredible way to appreciate the scale and beauty of this iconic landscape.
Best Time to Visit
The Twelve Apostles are spectacular at any time of day, but early morning and late afternoon are particularly popular for photography, when softer light highlights the textures of the cliffs and ocean. Sunset is especially magical, as the stacks glow with warm golden tones. Visiting outside peak hours can also provide a quieter, more relaxed experience.
Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre Facilities
The Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre is well-equipped and makes a convenient stop along the Great Ocean Road.
Facilities include:
Plenty of parking, including bus and caravan parking bays
Public toilets, including accessible facilities
A café and gift shop (check opening hours)
Information displays and maps for the area
As the Twelve Apostles are located within a National Park, dogs are not permitted.
A Must-See Stop on the Great Ocean Road
The Twelve Apostles are more than just a photo stop — they’re a powerful and ever-changing coastal landscape that perfectly captures the raw beauty of Victoria’s southern coastline. Whether you view them from the clifftop lookouts or soar above them on a helicopter flight, this iconic destination is an unforgettable highlight of the Great Ocean Road.
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