Twelve Apostles
Iconic limestone stacks on the Great Ocean Road, offering dramatic coastal vistas and a testament to nature's power.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour light
Twelve Apostles
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic limestone stacks on the Great Ocean Road, offering dramatic coastal vistas and a testament to nature's power.
"The Twelve Apostles are absolutely breathtaking as one of the most stunning natural sights I’ve ever seen."
🧥 Dress for the Elements
It's often windy and cold here, even on sunny days. Pack layers, a windbreaker, and a hat!
🚗 Self-Drive for Freedom
Renting a car offers the best flexibility to stop at viewpoints and enjoy the Great Ocean Road.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Twelve Apostles
Great Ocean Road
Iconic limestone stacks rising from the Southern Ocean, a testament to nature's artistry.
Loch Ard Gorge
Near Twelve Apostles
A stunning shipwreck site with dramatic cliffs and a picturesque beach, perfect for exploring.
Gibson Steps
Twelve Apostles Viewing Area
Descend to the beach for a unique perspective of the towering apostles from sea level.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Getting There: Drive or Tour?
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Dress for the Elements
It's often windy and cold here, even on sunny days. Pack layers, a windbreaker, and a hat! +1
🚗 Self-Drive for Freedom
Renting a car offers the best flexibility to stop at viewpoints and enjoy the Great Ocean Road. +1
⏳ Allow Ample Time
The drive from Melbourne is long. Consider an overnight stay to truly enjoy the journey. +1
📸 Capture the Magic
Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting and fewer crowds.
Visiting 12 Apostles
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Dress for the Elements
It's often windy and cold here, even on sunny days. Pack layers, a windbreaker, and a hat! +1
🚗 Self-Drive for Freedom
Renting a car offers the best flexibility to stop at viewpoints and enjoy the Great Ocean Road. +1
⏳ Allow Ample Time
The drive from Melbourne is long. Consider an overnight stay to truly enjoy the journey. +1
📸 Capture the Magic
Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting and fewer crowds.
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the View
Don't miss nearby Loch Ard Gorge and Gibson Steps for different perspectives.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Twelve Apostles as a breathtaking natural wonder and a highlight of the Great Ocean Road, with spectacular coastal views and unique limestone formations. However, some note that facilities could be improved, and food options are limited, making it advisable to plan ahead for meals and be prepared for windy conditions.
"A breathtaking scenic drive from Melbourne to the 12 Apostles. We were lucky to get an hour of rain-free weather, although it was quite windy. The limestone stacks and coastal views are truly spectacular and worth the visit. However, the facilities could use improvement, urinals were not well maintained, and there’s only one shop in the area, which limits food and drink options. Still, a memorable stop along the Great Ocean Road."
Junaith Aboobaker
"An Unforgettable Coastal Masterpiece
Visiting the Twelve Apostles was an absolute dream, and it stole our hearts completely!
From the moment we arrived with our friends from Melbourne, we were captivated by the spectacular scenery.
The vibrant blue water, the powerful waves crashing against the majestic rock formations, and the raw beauty of the coastline made the entire experience feel like stepping into a postcard. We couldn't stop taking pictures and soaking in the peaceful yet inspiring atmosphere.
It was a day filled with laughter, great company, and unforgettable memories. If you're searching for a scenic escape that will leave a lasting impression, the Twelve Apostles is an absolute must-see.
We're already planning our next trip back :)"
Abid Iqbal
"The highlight of the Great Ocean Road for sure. The majestic Twelve Apostles are incredibly unique and the view on the coastline is incredible. One of the most memorable sights in Australia for sure.
The best thing is that you can visit this place for free still, and the parking is for free too. I hope it stays this way!"
Fan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular and recommended way is to rent a car and drive the Great Ocean Road, which takes about 4-5 hours one way. This allows for stops at various scenic points. Day tours are available but can be rushed. Public transport options like V/Line coaches exist but are less convenient for a day trip. +2
Yes, it's possible, but it's a very long day with significant driving. Many advise against it, suggesting an overnight stay to truly enjoy the Great Ocean Road. If you must do a day trip, leave Melbourne extremely early (around 3-4 AM) and be prepared for a rushed experience. +1
Driving the Great Ocean Road takes approximately 4-5 hours one way. The inland route is faster, around 3 hours, but misses the coastal scenery.
While V/Line coaches run along the Great Ocean Road, they are not ideal for tourists wanting to stop and explore. They offer limited breaks and can be time-consuming. Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility. +1
Tours can be convenient if you don't want to drive, but many find them rushed. If you opt for a tour, research companies that offer longer stops and a good itinerary. Some Redditors suggest tours are better than trying to navigate the long drive yourself if you're not used to Australian roads. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to view the Twelve Apostles. Parking is also generally free.
The Twelve Apostles are accessible 24/7 as it's an outdoor natural attraction. However, the visitor centre and facilities have specific operating hours. It's best to visit during daylight hours for the best views.
No, tickets are not required as there is no entrance fee. However, if you are booking a guided tour, you will need to book that in advance.
The main cost will be transportation (car rental, fuel, or tour price). There are no entry fees for the Twelve Apostles themselves.
Access to the beach via Gibson Steps is sometimes closed due to rockfall or safety concerns. Always check local conditions before planning to descend.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. Early mornings also tend to have fewer crowds, allowing for unobstructed shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast coastal scenery. A tripod can be useful for sunrise/sunset shots. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance the blues of the ocean and sky.
Yes, there are several well-maintained viewing platforms along the boardwalks that offer excellent vantage points of the Twelve Apostles.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks and coastal areas to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Always check current regulations before flying a drone.
Besides the Twelve Apostles, consider Loch Ard Gorge, The Grotto, and various lookouts along the coast for stunning photography opportunities.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
You can see the main viewpoints in about 30 minutes to an hour. However, to truly appreciate the area and nearby attractions like Loch Ard Gorge, allocate at least 2-3 hours.
Yes, there is a visitor centre with car parking, toilets, and a small shop. However, food and drink options are limited.
The main viewing platforms are accessible via paved boardwalks, making them suitable for most visitors, including those with mobility challenges.
Nearby attractions include Loch Ard Gorge, The Grotto, and the Bay of Islands. These are all part of the dramatic coastline along the Great Ocean Road.
Stick to the designated paths and viewing platforms. The cliffs can be unstable, and the ocean is powerful. Never venture beyond safety barriers.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a small shop at the visitor centre, but options are limited. It's highly recommended to pack your own snacks and drinks or plan to eat in nearby towns like Apollo Bay or Port Campbell.
Apollo Bay and Port Campbell offer more dining choices. Apollo Bay is known for its seafood, while Port Campbell has several cafes and restaurants. +1
There are picnic areas available, but it's best to bring your own food as dining options are scarce at the Twelve Apostles site itself.
Many travelers recommend stopping in Apollo Bay for fish and chips or lobster, or Wye River for its pub with great views. +1
It's advisable to eat before you arrive or plan to stop in a town afterwards, as food options at the Twelve Apostles are very limited.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making it an overnight trip to break up the long drive and allow for more relaxed exploration. Towns like Apollo Bay offer family-friendly accommodations and activities. Nearby attractions like Loch Ard Gorge also provide opportunities for exploration and storytelling about shipwrecks.
🚗 Budget Travelers
Pack your own food and drinks to save money on expensive tourist-trap cafes. Consider staying in more affordable towns further from the immediate Twelve Apostles area, or opt for camping if available. While tours can seem convenient, they often add up in cost.
💑 Couples Retreat
Watching the sunset or sunrise over the Apostles can be a truly magical experience. Renting a car allows for spontaneous stops at picturesque viewpoints and a more intimate exploration of the Great Ocean Road.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Great Ocean Road Journey
Consider driving one way along the coast and returning via the inland route through the Otway Ranges for a varied experience. The inland route offers lush rainforests and a different perspective of the region. Driving yourself provides the ultimate freedom to stop at spontaneous lookouts and hidden gems.
Key stops along the way include Bells Beach for surfing culture, Erskine Falls near Lorne, and the koala spotting opportunities near Kennett River. Planning your stops in advance can help maximize your time and ensure you don't miss out on the highlights.
Understanding the Twelve Apostles
Interestingly, the number of apostles has never actually been twelve. The formations were originally named 'Sow and Piglets' and later renamed to attract more tourists. Due to ongoing erosion, some stacks have collapsed over time, meaning there are now fewer than twelve visible.
These geological marvels are a stark reminder of the dynamic forces of nature. Visitors can view them from well-maintained boardwalks, offering spectacular panoramic vistas of the coastline. For a different perspective, consider a scenic helicopter flight, though this is an additional cost.
Navigating Transportation Options
Day tours from Melbourne are available and can be a convenient choice if you prefer not to drive. However, be aware that these tours often involve long hours of travel and limited time at each stop, making it a rushed experience for many. Some Redditors suggest that a day trip is barely worth the travel time if you only have a few hours at the site.
Public transport options, such as V/Line coaches, are available but are generally not ideal for tourists. They have fixed schedules, limited stops, and can be time-consuming, making it difficult to experience the full Great Ocean Road. Relying solely on public transport for a day trip is not recommended.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit