Located on the Shipwreck Coast of Victoria, Australia, the 12 Apostles are one of the most popular tourist attractions along the Great Ocean Road. These towering limestone stacks rise up from the Southern Ocean, offering visitors breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and millions of years of history. But what makes this place so special? Why do millions of people visit every year?
In this article we’ll explore the beauty, history and the best ways to experience the 12 Apostles and the surrounding wonders of Port Campbell National Park. We’ll also touch on nearby attractions like Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge and Bakers Oven Rock and give you tips to make the most of your visit to this must see destination.
The History and Geology
The 12 Apostles started forming over 20 million years ago when the area was underwater. The soft limestone was worn away by the elements, and over time, the rock stacks have continued to erode. Today, these amazing rock formations are all that’s left of a much larger coastline, with only 8 of the original limestone sea stacks remaining.
This part of the coast is known as the Shipwreck Coast and has been treacherous for sailors, with many ships meeting their fate along this southern coastline. One of the most famous shipwrecks is the Loch Ard, which sank in 1878. Nearby, you can visit Loch Ard Gorge, where survivors Eva Carmichael and Tom Pearce washed up. This area is steeped in history and geological wonders, making it a must-see for anyone interested in natural beauty and local history.
Port Campbell National Park
The 12 Apostles are located within Port Campbell National Park, a protected area that showcases the rugged beauty of Victoria’s south coast. The park is home to not only the 12 Apostles but also other natural wonders like London Bridge, a once double-spanning bridge that collapsed in 1990, leaving a coastal rock formation. You can also see Bakers Oven Rock another amazing formation within the park.
Port Campbell National Park is also home to Muttonbird Island, an area known for its natural habitat and significant bird life, including the short-tailed shearwater. The park’s landscapes, from limestone cliffs to soft sand beaches, are the perfect place to explore and connect with nature.
Cultural Heritage
Beyond their geological value the 12 Apostles and surrounding areas hold deep cultural significance for the Eastern Maar & Gunditjmara people, the traditional owners of this land. For these Indigenous communities the rock stacks and the natural environment around them are not just part of their cultural heritage but also a reminder of their ongoing connection to the sea and land.
Conservation groups like Parks Victoria are working to protect both the environment and cultural values of these lands. The partnership between Indigenous communities and conservationists is about equity of outcomes and building long term partnerships that protect the environment and the history of the region.
Best Time to Visit
When you visit the 12 Apostles, make sure to make your visit the best experience possible. The yellow limestone stacks glow yellow at sunrise and sunset and are perfect for photographers. Allow extra time to explore the area and take in the other coastal views and walking trails around the site.
While the 12 Apostles are the main attraction, the entire Great Ocean Road is full of natural wonders. The drive takes you through picturesque towns like Apollo Bay and Port Fairy, where you can dine at gourmet restaurants, stay in budget accommodation and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking in the Otway Rainforest or relaxing on the beaches of Bells Beach.
Things to Do Around
In addition to visiting the 12 Apostles, there are plenty of sightseeing activities and tourist attractions in the area. One of these is to take a scenic flight with Apostles Helicopters. A private helicopter ride gives you a bird’s eye view of the rock stacks, coastal road and the ocean floor below. This luxury experience gives you a new perspective on the area’s natural beauty and allows you to see the full extent of the limestone cliffs and the stacks from above.
If you prefer to get up close and personal, there are walking trails around Port Campbell and the surrounding coastal towns. The trails take you through coastal scrub and giant tree ferns and along the rugged coastline to places like Sentinel Rock and Moonlight Head, where you’ll find stunning coastal views. Along the way, you may see wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and even marine life, such as dolphins and whales.
Day Trip
12 Apostles tour from Melbourne or nearby seaside towns like Port Fairy. If you’re on a budget then consider a self guided tour or a group day tour that covers all the highlights of the Great Ocean Road. Don’t forget to pack a waterproof jacket (it can get pretty wild weather wise), cold drinks and snacks to keep you fueled along the way.
For a more fun experience, the Port Campbell Visitor Information Centre is a great resource for local knowledge, maps and info on the area’s outdoor activities. Whether you like hiking, bird watching, or just taking in the views, the region has something for everyone.
Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge and more
While the 12 Apostles are the main event the surrounding natural attractions shouldn’t be missed. Loch Ard Gorge is one of the most beautiful spots along the Shipwreck Coast, with towering limestone cliffs and a secluded beach that feels like a hidden paradise. The gorge is named after the famous shipwreck of the Loch Ard and you can learn more about this piece of history at the nearby cemetery and lookout.
The Bay of Islands is another must see in the area, a series of offshore rock islands that are just as impressive as the 12 Apostles. Port Campbell is the perfect base to explore these nearby attractions, with plenty of accommodation options, gourmet food, and shops for all your needs.
Conservation and Sustainable Tourism
As one of Australia’s most visited tourist spots, the 12 Apostles and surrounding areas are under pressure from natural erosion and human impact. Conservation efforts by Parks Victoria and other organisations are focused on protecting the area’s natural beauty and promoting sustainable tourism. Visitors are asked to respect the environment, stay on the paths and help preserve this amazing place for future generations.
Beautiful scenery, history and natural wonders, the 12 Apostles and Port Campbell National Park is a must-see if you’re driving along the Great Ocean Road. Whether you’re here for a day or a week the combination of geological wonders, cultural significance and coastal views will make for an unforgettable experience.
FAQ
How many are left?
There are eight left. Natural erosion will continue to wear away the softer limestone, and this will change over time.
How do we see the 12 Apostles?
A scenic flight with Apostles Helicopters is the best way to see the 12 Apostles and surrounding attractions. Or visit the lookouts from the ground and walk the trails.
What else is nearby?
Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge, Bay of Islands, Bakers Oven Rock. The whole area is part of Port Campbell National Park with many more stunning landscapes and coastal rock formations.
What time of day is best to visit the 12 Apostles?
The best times to visit are sunrise and sunset when the yellow limestone rocks are golden.
Is it cheap?
Yes. Self-guided public transport and budget accommodation are available in Apollo Bay and Port Fairy.