The 12 Apostles, a series of stunning limestone stacks rising out of the Southern Ocean, is one of Australia’s most iconic natural wonders. These towering stacks are located in Port Campbell National Park along the Great Ocean Road, with breathtaking views of the cliffs and ocean. Although they are called the 12 Apostles, only eight remain today due to erosion. But their beauty, history and geology continues to attract millions of visitors each year.
Millions of Years
The 12 Apostles were formed 10-20 million years ago. The limestone cliffs along the Victorian coast were worn away by the Southern Ocean and caves and arches were carved out of the softer limestone. The arches collapsed and left behind isolated stacks of rock which rise above the ocean floor. The rock is limestone, a sedimentary rock formed from the skeletons of ancient marine animals. Over time wind and water have shaped these limestone pillars into the Apostles we see today.
Erosion and the Dynamic Landscape
The 12 Apostles, like many other coastal rock formations, are constantly changing. The soft limestone that makes up these formations is susceptible to erosion from the ocean and extreme weather. On average, the Apostles erode by 2cm per year. In 2005, one of the stacks collapsed and reduced the number to 8. Despite this the remaining limestone stacks still stand tall as an iconic sight along Australia’s southern coastline. Visitors are often reminded that the landscape here is always changing – new stacks may emerge in the future as the cliffs continue to erode.
Part of the Shipwreck Coast
The 12 Apostles are located on the Shipwreck Coast, a 130km stretch of Victoria’s coastline with a history of shipwrecks. Over 50 ships have wrecked along this coast, including the famous Loch Ard shipwreck near Muttonbird Island. The combination of cliffs, sand and rough seas made this area treacherous for ships in the 19th century. Many of the shipwrecks are now part of the cultural heritage and add to the area’s historical charm. A scenic drive along the Shipwreck Coast allows you to explore the history and the rock formations, including London Bridge and Bakers Oven Rock.
Cultural and Geological Significance
The 12 Apostles have cultural significance for the Eastern Maar and Gunditjmara Aboriginal people whose ancestral lands include the southern coastline and inland areas. This area has a rich cultural heritage and you can experience it through guided tours and interpretive centres. The geological time scale of the area is just as fascinating with limestone layers and marine fossils giving insight into the ancient marine life that once lived here. The Apostles are a living example of how geological processes over millions of years have shaped the land and its culture.
Day Trip Destination
As a major tourist attraction, the 12 Apostles attract millions of visitors each year. Many tourists come from Melbourne on a day trip and drive along the Great Ocean Road, which passes through coastal towns like Port Campbell, Port Fairy and the picturesque seaside towns of Apollo Bay. The Great Ocean Road itself is a wonder with stunning views of the Southern Ocean, beaches and landscape. If you have time, visit the nearby Bay of Islands, Cape Otway Lightstation and the Otway Rainforest. You can see impressive tree ferns and ancient eucalyptus trees in this coastal rainforest, which add to the adventure.
Best Time of Day to Visit
The 12 Apostles are most spectacular in the early morning and late afternoon, so sunrise and sunset are the best times to visit. The soft light at these times highlights the yellow rocks and limestone formations and casts dramatic shadows on the cliffs and ocean below. Scenic flights with Apostles Helicopters allow you to see the Apostles at dawn or dusk. The helicopter flights give you a unique perspective on the limestone rock formations and the coastal features that make this area famous. For the adventurous, walking down the Gibson Steps to the beach gives you a closer look at the Apostles from below and a true sense of their size.
Parks Victoria
Parks Victoria, the body that manages the state’s parks, is responsible for the 12 Apostles and the surrounding area in Port Campbell National Park. This includes the coastal features, marine life and cultural heritage of the area. The Victorian government and Parks Victoria work together to ensure the 12 Apostles are protected from over-tourism and environmental threats such as seismic exploration by companies like Benaris Energy. Conservation efforts are in place to preserve this spot for future generations so you can continue to enjoy the views, rugged coastline and unique geological formations.
Nearby Attractions and Adventures
While the 12 Apostles are the main event, there’s plenty more to see and do in the area. Muttonbird Island, where you can see wildlife in its natural habitat. Just a short drive away is Cape Otway Lightstation, Australia’s oldest surviving lighthouse, with views of the Bass Strait and Southern Cross. Other nearby coastal towns like Port Fairy have beautiful beaches and heritage buildings, so they are the perfect places to relax and unwind.
If you have time, a trip to Bells Beach is a must for surfers and the nearby Otway Rainforest for nature walks through eucalyptus and tree ferns. You can also visit famous shipwreck sites or join a guided 12 Apostles Tour to learn about the area’s Aboriginal life and culture.
A Changing Landscape
The landscape around the 12 Apostles is always changing. The vertical cliffs that form the backdrop to the rock stacks are slowly being eroded, and new ones will emerge as old ones collapse. Marine skeletons in the limestone layers tell the story of the area’s geological time and give you a glimpse into ancient ocean life. Ocean level changes, extreme weather and the constant movement of the Southern Ocean will continue to shape the 12 Apostles over time.
Whether you’re here to explore the history, see the cliffs or take in the views the 12 Apostles are a must see experience.
FAQ
How many of the 12 Apostles are left?
Eight of the original 9. Some have eroded over time, but more will emerge as erosion continues.
What’s the best time of day to visit the 12 Apostles?
Sunrise or sunset is best. Scenic flights during these times are magic.
Can I walk to the beach near the 12 Apostles?
Yes, you can walk down to the beach via the Gibson Steps and access the shoreline, where you can see the Apostles from the bottom.
What else is near the 12 Apostles?
Muttonbird Island, London Bridge, Bay of Islands, Cape Otway Lightstation and Otway Rainforest. Port Fairy and Port Campbell are nearby towns.
