When you’re driving along the Great Ocean Road, one of the most popular stops is the 12 Apostles. These limestone stacks are breathtaking and rise up from the rugged coastline, a postcard-perfect view that attracts visitors from all over the world. But where should you stay to see this natural wonder up close? The closest town to the 12 Apostles is Port Campbell, a charming coastal town just 12 km from the stacks. With its perfect location, scenery and proximity to other natural attractions, Port Campbell is the ideal base for travellers who want to explore the Shipwreck Coast.
Port Campbell: The Perfect Base
In the heart of the Port Campbell National Park the town of Port Campbell is a small coastal village with a range of accommodation, restaurants and shops for travellers. Its small town charm and relaxed atmosphere makes it the perfect place to stay to explore not only the 12 Apostles but also the other key attractions along this coastal road, Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge and the Bay of Islands.
Being so close to the 12 Apostles, you can visit the stacks at any time of day – sunrise, late afternoon or sunset. The town centre is alive with activity and has everything you need for a comfortable stay. If you’re staying longer, Port Campbell is a great base for a longer Great Ocean Road trip, with easy access to other towns like Apollo Bay, Port Fairy and Warrnambool.
Port Campbell National Park
One of the best things about Port Campbell is being in the Port Campbell National Park. The park is home to some of the Great Ocean Road’s most famous attractions, the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and London Bridge. The dramatic cliffs and unique rock formations are the result of millions of years of wind and wave erosion, and the yellow rock is a feature of the landscape. The park has a number of walking trails that take you along the coastal road and offer breathtaking views of the coastline and the rock formations.
For the history buffs Loch Ard Gorge is where the famous shipwreck of the Loch Ard ran aground in 1878. Visitors can walk the gorge, see the historic shipwreck display and see the artefacts from the survivors. The area also has the Sherbrook River and Mutton Bird Island where you can see thousands of birds nesting in the cliffs.
Other Nearby Attractions
You can book 12 Apostles tour, while the 12 Apostles are the main attraction, the area has more to see. Take a drive along the Great Ocean Road to visit London Bridge (now called London Arch after part of it collapsed in 1990), one of the most famous natural sights along the coast. The Gibsons Steps are just a short walk from the 12 Apostles and allow you to walk down to the beach and stand at the base of the cliffs. Great spot to get up close to the stacks and see the ocean working its magic on the coast.
If you want to go further, Apollo Bay is a lovely coastal town with a beautiful beach, scenic drive, and lush surroundings. A popular stop on the coastal drive, and you can relax or explore the nearby rainforest with waterfalls and temperate rainforest walks. Further west is Port Fairy, another charming village that combines history with modern relaxation. This seaside village has historic lighthouses and beautiful beaches, perfect for those who want adventure and chill.
Cape Otway: A Gem of the Great Ocean Road
No trip on the Great Ocean Road would be complete without a visit to Cape Otway, home to the Cape Otway Lightstation—the oldest surviving lighthouse on mainland Australia. Between Apollo Bay and Port Campbell, Cape Otway has stunning ocean views and scenery and a glimpse into the region’s maritime history. You can tour the lighthouse and learn about the challenges faced by early settlers and mariners navigating the busy shipping route. The walking trails around Cape Otway also take you through lush forests, where you can spot koalas in the wild.
How to visit the Apostles
If you’re doing a day trip to the 12 Apostles, make sure you time it right. The 12 Apostles are most beautiful at sunrise and sunset when the light is soft, and the limestone stacks and coastline are at their best. The Apostles Lookout is a popular viewing platform with amazing views of the sea stacks. If you want to get extra special, book a scenic flight with Apostles Helicopters, which departs from the Apostles Helicopters Heliport and takes you over the Shipwreck Coast and its dramatic rock formations.
Whether you’re staying in Port Campbell, Apollo Bay or further afield, make sure you look at the many accommodation options along the Great Ocean Road, including family cabins, hotels and Campbell Holiday parks. Many of these are within a short drive of the 12 Apostles, so you can easily get out and about and explore the surrounding coastline and natural beauty.
This guide has all the information you need to explore the 12 Apostles and the surrounding natural beauty of the Great Ocean Road, so your trip will be epic.
FAQ
Where is the nearest town to the 12 Apostles?
Port Campbell is the nearest town 12km from the 12 Apostles. It’s a great base to explore the surrounding attractions and has many accommodation options.
What else is near the 12 Apostles?
Loch Ard Gorge, London Arch, Gibsons Steps and the Bay of Islands are nearby.
When should I visit the 12 Apostles?
The 12 Apostles are most beautiful at sunrise and sunset when the light is magic on the limestone stacks. But they’re beautiful at any time of day.
Is there accommodation in Port Campbell?
Yes, Port Campbell has many accommodation options from family cabins to hotels and holiday parks. It’s the perfect base to explore the area.
What other towns should I visit on the Great Ocean Road?
Apollo Bay, Port Fairy, Warrnambool and Aireys Inlet are other popular towns along the Great Ocean Road each with their own attractions from historic lighthouses to beautiful beaches.