Brazil
Argentina
Bolivia
Chile
Colombia
Ecuador
Guyana
French Guiana
Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
Paraguay
Peru
Suriname
Uruguay
Venezuela
Germany
Austria
Belgium
Croatia
Denmark
Spain
Finland
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Hungary
Ireland
Iceland
Italy
Luxembourg
Norway
Poland
Portugal
the United Kingdom
the Czech Republic
Sweden
Switzerland
Turkey
Canada
the United States
Mexico
the Dominican Republic
South Africa
Fiji
New Zealand
Papua New Guinea
Viewpoint · Port Campbell, Victoria
Twelve Apostles
Limestone stacks up to 50 meters high rising from the sea in front of the cliffs of Port Campbell National Park, the best-known point on the Great Ocean Road.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Twelve Apostles
The Twelve Apostles are limestone stacks rising from the sea in front of the cliffs of Port Campbell National Park, about 12 km from the village. They formed by erosion: the sea carved caves in the cliffs that became arches and then isolated stacks. The tallest reach about 50 meters.
Despite the name, they were never twelve. Fewer than ten remain, and erosion continues: in 2005 one of the stacks collapsed. Over time others will fall and new ones may form along the coast.
Boardwalks and viewpoints, reached from the car park and visitor centre, show the stacks from different angles. Nearby, the Gibson Steps staircase descends to the beach at the base of the cliffs. Scenic helicopter flights operate from there.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
1 to 2 hours.
Best time
At sunrise or sunset, with low light on the limestone and fewer people. Tour groups arrive around midday.
How to get there
Via the Great Ocean Road, about 12 km east of Port Campbell, with parking beside the visitor centre and a pedestrian underpass beneath the road to the viewpoints.
Tip
Go in the late afternoon and bring warm clothing: it is very windy on the cliffs. Descend the Gibson Steps to see the stacks from beach level.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Twelve Apostles
How many of the Twelve Apostles still exist?
Fewer than ten. Erosion continues, and one of the stacks collapsed in 2005.
What is the best time to visit the Twelve Apostles?
Sunrise or sunset, with low light and fewer people.
Is there an entry fee to see the Twelve Apostles?
There is no charge for the viewpoints. Helicopter flights are paid services.