If you’re planning a trip along the Great Ocean Road, chances are the Twelve Apostles are already near the top of your list.
Rising from the Southern Ocean along Victoria’s rugged Shipwreck Coast, these famous limestone stacks are one of Australia’s most recognisable natural landmarks and one of the highlights of a Great Ocean Road journey.
But what exactly are the Twelve Apostles? Why are they called the Twelve Apostles? How many are still standing, and when is the best time to visit?
Here’s what you need to know before seeing them for yourself.
Quick Answer: What Are the Twelve Apostles?
The Twelve Apostles are a group of limestone sea stacks located along the Great Ocean Road in Port Campbell National Park, Victoria. Despite their name, there are currently seven stacks recognised as the Twelve Apostles. They were formed over millions of years as wind, waves and rain gradually eroded the surrounding limestone coastline.
What Are the Twelve Apostles and How Were They Formed?
The Twelve Apostles are limestone rock stacks standing just offshore along Victoria’s dramatic Shipwreck Coast.
They were created through a long process of coastal erosion. Over time, powerful Southern Ocean waves, wind and rain gradually wore away the softer limestone cliffs.
This erosion first created caves in the cliffs. As the caves became larger, they formed arches. Eventually, sections of the arches collapsed, leaving isolated columns of limestone standing in the ocean.
The process is still happening today, which means this coastline continues to change.
For many visitors, seeing the Twelve Apostles in person feels quite different from seeing them in photos. The height of the cliffs, the sound of the Southern Ocean and the scale of the surrounding coastline are difficult to fully appreciate until you’re standing at the viewing area yourself.
Why Are They Called the Twelve Apostles?
The formations haven’t always been known as the Twelve Apostles.
Historical records show that formations along this stretch of coastline were once referred to by names including the “Sow and Pigs” and the “Pinnacles”. The name “Twelve Apostles” had begun appearing by the late nineteenth century, although there isn’t one clearly documented moment when the formations were officially renamed.
Interestingly, there were never exactly twelve limestone stacks at the main Twelve Apostles viewing area.
The name has simply remained and is now recognised around the world.
How Many of the Twelve Apostles Are Left?
There are currently seven limestone stacks recognised as comprising the Twelve Apostles.
Six can be seen in the classic view from the main viewing area, while another is located slightly around the coastline.
Natural erosion continues to reshape the cliffs and stacks. One of the most well-known changes occurred in July 2005, when a limestone stack approximately 45 metres high collapsed into the ocean.
It is a reminder that the Twelve Apostles aren’t a fixed landscape. The same natural forces that created these formations are continuing to shape the coastline today.
When Is the Best Time to Visit the Twelve Apostles?
There’s no single best time to see the Twelve Apostles, and the experience can feel completely different depending on the time of day and weather.
During the day, you’ll generally have clear views of the limestone formations and surrounding coastline.
Sunrise can be quieter, while sunset is especially popular as the changing light brings out different colours in the cliffs and creates a dramatic backdrop over the Southern Ocean.
Weather also plays a big part in the experience. Clear days offer sweeping coastal views, while cloudy or windy conditions can make the coastline feel even more dramatic.
The Twelve Apostles can be visited throughout the year, so there’s really no bad season to experience them.
Can You Take a Helicopter Flight Over the Twelve Apostles?
Yes. Scenic helicopter flights operate from near the Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre and offer a completely different perspective of the coastline.
From the air, you can see the limestone stacks, towering cliffs and surrounding Shipwreck Coast stretching along the Southern Ocean.
If you’re joining one of our Great Ocean Road tours and are interested in flying, your guide may be able to assist with arranging a flight on the day, subject to weather conditions, availability and the timing of the tour.
Please note that helicopter flights cannot be pre-booked through Go West Tours, and availability may vary depending on operational conditions.
Are the Twelve Apostles Worth Visiting?
For most travellers exploring the Great Ocean Road, absolutely.
The Twelve Apostles are one of the most famous stops along the route, but the experience is about more than simply taking a photo of the rock formations.
The surrounding cliffs, powerful Southern Ocean and constantly changing coastline make this one of the most memorable landscapes in Victoria.
Whether you’re interested in photography, coastal scenery, geology or simply seeing one of Australia’s best-known natural landmarks, the Twelve Apostles deserve their place on a Great Ocean Road itinerary.
Visit the Twelve Apostles on a Great Ocean Road Tour
For many visitors, seeing the Twelve Apostles is one of the highlights of a Great Ocean Road adventure.
If you’re thinking about joining a tour, we’d love to have you along. Whether you choose our Great Ocean Road Day Tour or experience the coastline later in the day on a Sunset Tour, you’ll have the opportunity to see this remarkable part of Victoria for yourself.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at info@gowest.com.au. Our team is always happy to help.
