Twelve Apostles

Four large rock stacks stand out of the surf next to tall orange sandstone cliffs above a sandy beach.

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Twelve Apostles

Experience the awesome natural beauty of the world-famous Twelve Apostles. Rising abruptly from the tempestuous Southern Ocean, these seven limestone stacks are the highlight of the Great Ocean Road. They are best viewed at sunset when the yellow rock turns red, orange and every shade in between. 

Stop at the Twelve Apostles visitor centre and walk the short trail to the windswept lookouts to see the dramatic sight of waves crashing against the famous sea stacks.

The Twelve Apostles is one of Australia's most popular attractions all year round. You'll be lucky to have the lookouts to yourself, but there are likely to be much fewer people if you arrive earlier or later in the day.

If you time it right, you can view the rock stacks in their best light – at sunset. In the summer, the sun sets further out to sea, while in the winter, the sun sets closer to shore. If the clouds stay away, you’re guaranteed a memorable photographs. Get snapping and admire the results over an evening meal in nearby Port Campbell.

At dusk you may see Little Penguins coming ashore on the beach far below. The tiny tracks in the sand show where they waddle back to their burrows safe from foxes, cats and dogs.

Visitors can now enjoy a newly opened lookout with wider paths and stunning new views, offering a safer and more accessible way to explore this magnificent stretch of coastline. Find out more about the project here.

Things to do in the area

How many Twelve Apostles are left?

The Twelve Apostles can be seen as seven limestone rock stacks. Six of them are visible in the classic view enjoyed by millions of people every the year, while the seventh is located several metres away from the corner of the main viewing platform.

There were never 12 rock stacks here, and they were not always called the Apostles - Sow and Piglets did not remain as a name for long. There were nine rock stacks at the beginning of the 21st century. Then at 9:18am on 3 July 2005, one of them collapsed. Another collapsed in 2009.

The rough waves not only destroy ‘Apostles’, or rock stacks, but they form them too. The arches and bridges you will see along this stretch of coast will one day collapse and become stacks which will in turn collapse back into the ocean from where they came.
A couple walk along the beach at Gibson Steps.

Gibson Steps

A gentle 1.1km track takes you to Gibson Steps Lookout and, when open, 89 steps lead down the cliff‐face to a wild ocean beach. If the tide is low you can view the rockstacks ‘Gog and Magog’ up close.
Two young wearing dresses stroll across the beach at Loch Ard Gorge.

Loch Ard Gorge

A few minutes' down the Great Ocean Road from the world-famous Twelve Apostles, discover another mighty rock stack and a stunning sandy beach enclosed by sheer yellow coloured limestone cliffs.
Two women in chat at lookout while a man takes in the view of London Bridge in the Port Campbell National Park.

London Bridge

A short drive along the Great Ocean Road from the Twelve Apostles just beyond Port Campbell, discover these three unique and spectacular rock formations. See Little Penguins come ashore at dusk from London Bridge Lookout, coastal vistas framed by the charming Grotto and the Arch precariously balanced on a rock platform smashed by waves.
A couple take a selfie in front of the Grotto in Port Campbell National Park.

The Grotto

The Grotto is a cave and sinkhole located about halfway up the cliff, from sea level. The paved pathway leads to a decked staircase that descends into a viewing area. Enjoy the view of the rock pools carved out in the jagged edged limestone. Stay inside barriers
Snorkelling at Barwon Bluff Marine Sanctuary

Discover an underwater world

If you’re looking for the best places to see underwater ecosystems and encounter marine wildlife, look no further! We’ve rounded up some of the best ways to explore marine protected areas. So, pack your togs, wetsuit, a mask and snorkel and head to the coast!

How to get there

Twelve Apostles

The Twelve Apostles is a four-and-a-half-hour drive from Melbourne along the Great Ocean Road. There is a more direct route along the Princes Highway via Colac that takes three hours. The Twelve Apostles is a 10-minute drive from Port Campbell, where there are accommodation options and places to eat.
Twelve Apostles

When you're there

The Twelve Apostles Kiosk offers a selection of items to enhance your visit to this breathtaking location.

We have a range of hot and cold drinks, including coffee and tea. Indulge in our tempting assortment of local produce from local businesses. Don't forget to take home a piece of the experience with our wonderful selection of gifts and souvenirs.

For those looking for a quick bite to eat, we also offer a small range of hot and cold food options to satisfy your cravings.

We also provide essential items like sunscreen, hats, and umbrellas for purchase.

The kiosk operates 7 days a week from 10:00am until 5:00pm.

Visitors must park in the carpark and walk to the Twelve Apostles lookouts along the well-marked path. A separate well-signposted trail leads to Gibson Steps.  Walk the 1km to Gibson Steps where you can usually access a beach at low tide - and a fantastic view of two rock stacks called Gog and Magog. Allow about an hour for this side-trip. The Great Ocean Walk multi-day hike ends at the Twelve Apostles

Download the Port Campbell National park visitor guide for more information about the park and the plethora of experiences to be had within its borders.

Twelve Apostles

It is always busy here in summer. Plan you visit to be a little earlier or later in the day. No swimming in this area however the small town of Princetown is nearby and Port Campbell is just up the road. good walks in the area best undertaken morning and late afternoon.

Need to know

Twelve Apostles

Accessibility

Visiting a park can be more of a challenge for people with disabilities, however in Victoria there are a wide range of facilities to help people of all abilities enjoy our wonderful parks around the state.

To make it easier for people with limited mobility to see the all abilities access and experiences on offer at Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge walks, Parks Victoria has released this video - produced and narrated by accessibility advocate Ryan Smith, who uses a wheelchair.

Assistance dogs are welcome in Parks Victoria parks and reserves. Entry requirements apply for parks and reserves that are usually dog prohibited, such as national parks.

Tread lightly as the coast is fragile and your safety matters. Stick to marked trails to avoid injury, and to protect the delicate coastal vegetation and wildlife that call the park home.

Change of Conditions

Nature being nature, sometimes conditions can change at short notice. It’s a good idea to check this page ahead of your visit for any updates.

  • Notices Affecting Multiple Sites

    Gibson Steps Beach Closure

    Gibson Steps beach access has been temporarily closed due to recent geological movement. 
    Geological assessments and remediation works have commenced. The site will reopen once the hazard has been removed and visitor safety is assured. 

    Change of Conditions Update Notice – Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre

    General Public Information
    Due to ongoing construction works at the Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre, significant changes to access and parking arrangements will be in effect from Friday, 19th September 2025. All visitors are asked to plan ahead and be patient when travelling to the site during this busy period. High visitation is expected in-line with School and Public Holidays between 17th September and 12th October 2025
     
    Key changes and reminders for visitors include:
    • Temporary Changes to Parking:
      Construction works have resulted in temporary parking areas and altered traffic flow. Expect reduced speed limits, changed parking arrangements, and traffic management on-site.  Please see attached map.  
    • Car Parking:
      In the event of full parking capacity, visitors are encouraged to seek alternative destinations such as Port Campbell township or Bay of Islands, and encouraged to return later in the day.
    • Pedestrian Safety:
      Use designated walkways and pedestrian crossings only. Do not climb fences or viewing barriers.
    • Environmental Care:
      Protect this unique landscape by staying on paths, respecting barriers, and taking your rubbish with you.
    • Bushfire Safety:
      Stay informed by visiting emergency.vic.gov.au, downloading the VicEmergency app, or calling the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226.
    For more information, contact Parks Victoria on 13 1963 or visit parks.vic.gov.au
    Licensed Tour Operators (LTOs)
    IMPORTANT – Operational and Access Update
     
    From Friday, 19th September 2025, the following updates apply to all Licensed Tour Operators visiting the Twelve Apostles:
     
    New Access & Parking Procedures:
    • Coach/Bus/Coaster Access:
      All LTO vehicles must access the temporary parking area via Booringa Road and the new entry/exit road. Directional signage will be in place. Please see attached map. 
    • Temporary Parking Area:
      Use designated bays only. This area has been established during current construction works.
    • Drop-Off Instructions:
      • All vehicles (with or without trailers) must drop passengers at the front of the Visitor Centre.
      • Pick-ups are not permitted at the drop-off zone.
      • Drivers must proceed immediately to the designated parking area after drop-off.
      • Provide passengers with clear directions and walking instructions before they disembark.
    Traffic Management:
    • Follow Traffic Controller Instructions at all times when management is in place.
    • Be prepared for redirection to alternative parking areas based on capacity.
    • Observe on-site signage directing different vehicle sizes to specific parking bays.
    Operational Reminders:
    • Permit Display: Ensure your LTO permit is clearly displayed on your vehicle at all times.
    • Passenger Safety: Remind passengers to use designated walkways and not to climb fences or barriers.
    • Journey Planning: Allow extra time, travel safely, and prepare staff for delays due to high visitation and traffic coordination.
    Stay Informed:
     
    Thank you for your cooperation in maintaining a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors while works are underway. Your support is essential in protecting the Twelve Apostles and surrounding areas.

    Attachments: Twelve Apostles Map UPDATED CONDITIONS (116KB)

    Event = Great Ocean Walk - Saturday, 25 October 2025

    NOTICE TO PARK VISITORS
    A permitted trail running event will be operating on the Great Ocean Walk trail system on Saturday, 25 October 2025.

    Event: Great Ocean Trail Ultra
    Date: Saturday, 25 October 2025
    Time: 5:00 AM - 1:00 AM (20 hours)
    Route: Apollo Bay to Princetown Recreation Reserve via Great Ocean Walk
    Participants: Up to 400 registered runners (100km and 45km events)
    ________________________________________
    AFFECTED AREAS AND TIMES
    Morning Activity (Higher Impact Period)
    • Apollo Bay vicinity: 4:30 AM - 5:30 AM
    • Blanket Bay Day Use Area: 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM
    • Cape Otway Lightstation Car Park: 8:30 AM - 9:00 AM
    • Aire River West Campground: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
    Peak Activity Period
    • Castle Cove Lookout: 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
    • Johanna Beach Day Use Area: 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM (includes 45km event start)
    • Parker Access Track/Great Ocean Road: 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM
    Evening Activity
    • Princetown Recreation Reserve: 1:00 PM - 11:00 PM (finish line area)
    • GOW Lookout Car Park (near 12 Apostles): 1:30 PM - midnight
    ________________________________________
    WHAT TO EXPECT
    For Great Ocean Walk Users:
    • The Great Ocean Walk remains fully open to public use
    • You may encounter trail runners throughout the day
    • Participants are required to give way to walkers and be courteous
    • Event marshals positioned at key locations to assist
    Facility Access:
    • All public toilets and facilities remain available
    • Car parks accessible (brief periods of increased activity expected)
    • Campground facilities protected - event routes bypass overnight camping areas
    • Walk-in campsites not affected by event operations
    Traffic Considerations:
    • Minimal road impact - event follows walking trails
    • Brief activity at Great Ocean Road crossings with marshal supervision
    • "Event in Progress" signage displayed at key locations
    ________________________________________
    ENVIRONMENTAL MEASURES
    Parks Victoria confirms the following protective measures are in place:
    • Mandatory compliance with cinnamon fungus prevention protocols
    • Leave No Trace principles enforced for all participants
    • Waste management systems - all event waste removed from parks
    • Professional medical support and emergency response procedures
    • Regular monitoring by experienced event management team
    ________________________________________
    WEATHER AND CONDITIONS
    This event is subject to cancellation or modification due to:
    • South West District Fire danger ratings (Extreme or Catastrophic conditions)  
    • Severe weather warnings
    • Track closure requirements
    • Emergency service direction
    Event organisers monitor conditions closely and will cancel if necessary to ensure public and participant safety.
    ________________________________________
    FOR MORE INFORMATION
    Parks Victoria Information Centre:
    📞 13 1963
    Great Ocean Road Coast & Parks Authority (GORCAPA):
    📞 1300 736 533
    Event Information:

    Emergency Services: 000
    ________________________________________
    This notice will remain in effect until Monday, 27 October 2025

    Parks Victoria acknowledges the Eastern Maar People as Traditional Owners of these lands and waters and recognises their ongoing connection to Country.

  • Loch Ard Gorge (Twelve Apostles Marine National Park, Port Campbell National Park)

    Loch Ard Gorge Beach Access Steps Closed

    Loch Ard Gorge beach access steps are currently closed due to geological instability. The site will remain closed until remediation works are completed to remove the hazards and ensure visitor safety.

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