Great Ocean Walk 12 Apostles Section
Hike Victoria's iconic coastline, from farmland to dramatic cliffs, culminating at the majestic 12 Apostles.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Mild weather, fewer crowds
Great Ocean Walk 12 Apostles Section
Best Time
Mild weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike Victoria's iconic coastline, from farmland to dramatic cliffs, culminating at the majestic 12 Apostles.
"Amazing! Incredible views! It offers breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and diverse wildlife."
💧 Check Water Status
Water tanks can be empty. Always verify before your hike and plan accordingly.
🚶♀️ East to West Recommended
Many hikers prefer walking East to West for the best views and logistics.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 12 Apostles
End of the walk (or start, depending on direction)
Iconic limestone stacks rising from the sea, a truly breathtaking natural wonder.
Rugged Coastal Cliffs
Various sections
Dramatic cliff-top views offering panoramic vistas of the Southern Ocean.
Secluded Beaches
Johanna Beach, Milanesia Beach
Discover pristine, often empty beaches with powerful surf and natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Water Availability
Walk Direction & Sections
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Check Water Status
Water tanks can be empty. Always verify before your hike and plan accordingly.
🚶♀️ East to West Recommended
Many hikers prefer walking East to West for the best views and logistics.
🥾 Choose Your Section
The full walk is 100km+, but day sections offer amazing experiences too.
📱 Spotty Mobile Service
Expect limited phone signal in many areas; download offline maps.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Check Water Status
Water tanks can be empty. Always verify before your hike and plan accordingly.
🚶♀️ East to West Recommended
Many hikers prefer walking East to West for the best views and logistics.
🥾 Choose Your Section
The full walk is 100km+, but day sections offer amazing experiences too.
📱 Spotty Mobile Service
Expect limited phone signal in many areas; download offline maps.
🏕️ Campsite Bookings
Book campsites in advance, especially during peak season.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Great Ocean Walk for its breathtaking coastal scenery, diverse terrain, and incredible wildlife encounters. The 12 Apostles are a major highlight, offering unforgettable views. Some find the water availability challenging and certain sections quite strenuous, requiring good fitness.
"Amazing! Incredible views! It offers breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and diverse wildlife, providing an unforgettable hiking experience."
Iryna Kabanchuk
"The Great Ocean Walk is simply amazing. It varies from farmland, beach walks, sandy trails in the brush, manicured stone trails and cliff top access in places. Some of the most amazing views can be had on this walk and you need to experience it to believe it. I've done the entire walk. It's advised to walk East to West. Campgrounds are available (most are carry in, some have road access). Walking is free, campgrounds are $32 per night including water. Research the section of the walk you're going to do, some are really hard with a lot of climbing, others are fairly gentle. There are accessible portions here and there."
Paul Pavlinovich
"Fantastic walk from Johanna Beach To Milanesia Beach (approximately 20.5km return).
Will need to be reasonably fit due to some steep inclines and unlevel terrain but if if you enjoy a challenge I recommended a low to moderate run."
Jayson Killick
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The 12 Apostles are the western end of the Great Ocean Walk. You can drive from Melbourne, which takes about 4-5 hours. Public transport options are limited, so many visitors opt for a car or organized tours. If walking the full track, you'll need to arrange transport to your starting point (e.g., Apollo Bay) and from your endpoint.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the 12 Apostles Visitor Centre and surrounding viewpoints. This is a common starting or ending point for those doing sections of the walk.
Public transport directly to trailheads can be challenging. Buses run along the Great Ocean Road, but you may need to arrange local transfers or taxis to reach specific access points for the walk.
For the full walk, shuttle services or private transfers are popular options to connect the start (Apollo Bay) and end (12 Apostles) points. Some hikers arrange car drop-offs.
Yes, several tour operators offer guided walks, which often include accommodation and transport, making logistics much simpler.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Walking the Great Ocean Walk itself is free. However, there are fees for using the designated campgrounds along the route, which typically include access to water.
The 12 Apostles are accessible 24/7, as they are a natural landmark. The Visitor Centre has specific operating hours.
Campground fees are around $32 per night, which usually includes water access. It's essential to book these in advance.
Access to the main viewing platforms at the 12 Apostles is free. The Visitor Centre may have associated costs for specific facilities or tours.
Yes, you can do day walks or multi-day hikes staying in nearby towns like Apollo Bay or Port Campbell, or opt for guided tours that include accommodation.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
The terrain varies significantly, including farmland, beach walks, sandy trails, and cliff-top paths. Some sections involve steep inclines and uneven ground.
The full walk is approximately 100-110 km and typically takes 6-8 days. Shorter sections can be completed in a few hours to a full day.
You might spot kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, diverse birdlife, and marine life like seals and dolphins.
While some sections are gentle, others are challenging. Beginners might prefer to tackle shorter, well-maintained sections or go with a guided group.
Pack layers for varied weather, sturdy hiking boots, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, plenty of water, and snacks. A first-aid kit is essential.
📸 📸 Photography
The 12 Apostles at sunrise or sunset are iconic. Also, look for dramatic coastal vistas, secluded beaches, and wildlife opportunities along the entire walk.
Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) offers the best light for dramatic landscapes. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing details.
Drone usage is restricted in national parks and sensitive coastal areas. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can capture wildlife. A sturdy tripod is useful for low-light conditions.
Yes, the walk provides unique perspectives of the 12 Apostles from different angles, often with fewer crowds than the main viewing platforms.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider sections with easier terrain, such as parts of the walk near Apollo Bay or shorter beach walks. Always prioritize safety, ensure adequate supervision, and pack plenty of snacks and water. The experience of seeing wildlife like kangaroos and diverse birdlife can be particularly engaging for children.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save on transport, consider carpooling with other hikers or utilizing public buses where feasible, though this may require more time and flexibility. Packing your own food and cooking at campsites will also significantly reduce expenses compared to dining out.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for the 'golden hours' – sunrise and sunset – to capture the most dramatic light and colors. Don't forget to pack a versatile lens kit, including a wide-angle for sweeping vistas and a telephoto for wildlife. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as dramatic skies and moody light can add incredible atmosphere to your photographs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Water Sources
For longer sections or if water tanks are empty, consider carrying a water filter or purification tablets. Natural water sources like streams or creeks can be found, but filtering is essential to ensure safety. Some hikers opt for water drop-offs, where supplies are strategically placed along the route, though this requires significant pre-planning and coordination.
Always err on the side of caution and carry more water than you think you'll need, especially during warmer months. Staying hydrated is paramount for a safe and enjoyable experience on this challenging coastal trek.
Choosing Your Great Ocean Walk Experience
For those with less time, numerous shorter sections can be explored. Popular day walks include segments around Johanna Beach or the dramatic coastline leading to the 12 Apostles. These shorter hikes still provide incredible views and a taste of the walk's beauty without the commitment of the full trek.
Consider your fitness, available time, and desired experience when choosing your route. Whether you opt for the full journey or a day excursion, the Great Ocean Walk promises unforgettable coastal scenery and a rewarding adventure.
The Majesty of the 12 Apostles
While the main viewing platforms offer iconic vistas, walking sections of the Great Ocean Walk provides unique perspectives. You can witness the Apostles from different angles, often with fewer crowds, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light paints the rock formations in breathtaking hues. The walk allows for a more intimate connection with this magnificent natural wonder.
Experiencing the 12 Apostles is a highlight for many visitors, whether they complete the entire walk or just visit the viewpoints. Their sheer scale and dramatic presence against the vast ocean make them an unforgettable sight.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit