The 12 Apostles, located on the famous Great Ocean Road in Australia, is one of the most iconic natural wonders in the state. And this amazing collection of massive limestone stacks rises out of the Southern Ocean which also has great views and heaps of activities for kids. From scenic drives to outdoor interactive fun, the area has endless fun for families. This guide will tell you where to take your kids at the 12 Apostles and other nearby spots and some tips to make it special.
The 12 Apostles: A Natural Wonder
The 12 Apostles, 8 of which are visible, are a series of rock formations that have been eroded by the Southern Ocean. Twin limestone pillars are the most impressive natural sculpture along the Shipwreck Coast. It has cultural significance for the Eastern Maar and Gunditjmara people in this country. For kids, their eyes will also pop out at the sheer scale of these natural wonders and the chance to find the weird and wonderful rock formations and rock pools.
Great Ocean Road Drive
The Great Ocean Road Drive is a popular scenic route with great views and one of the best ways to see the area with kids. The detour road trip is over 240km from Torquay in Victoria to Warrnambool and takes in adorable coastal towns like Apollo Bay and Port Campbell. You’ll also find landmarks like Erskine Falls and Otway Fly Treetop Adventures, as well as beautiful beaches like Bells Beach and Wye River. The drive allows you to take in all the coastal views and scenery the Great Ocean Road is famous for.
Getting There: Family Travel Tips
Travelling to the 12 Apostles with kids can be easy and fun if you put in a bit of effort. If driving, pack the car and bring snacks, drinks and things to keep the little ones entertained. Scenic stops are along the way and will make it more fun for the whole family. For public transport, check the timetables. To make your trip more comfortable, it’s also a good idea to book a hotel in advance, e.g. Port Fairy or Port Campbell.
Where to Stay
If the family can find a good place to stay, the holiday will be pleasant. Near the 12 Apostles, you can choose from quaint cottages or family motels. It’s good value to stay in seaside towns like Apollo Bay or Port Campbell, which have all sorts of accommodation for family holidaymakers. Places like Daysy Hill Country Cottages and Cobden Pioneer Park are good for families with kids as they have kids facilities and are close to all the attractions. There’s something for everyone in the family, whether it’s independent living or access to most attractions without a long walk.
Family Friendly Activities
There’s heaps to do with the family at the 12 Apostles. Exploring the coastline is just one option. There are also many educational activities. Families will enjoy participating in and experiencing guided tours, eco walks, and educational events that showcase the area’s culture and history. Doing these sorts of activities allows the family to have fun with some learning along the way.
Gibson Steps
Gibson Steps is a must-see for a close-up and personal look at the 12 Apostles if you can get to it. The steps that lead to the southern end of the cage go down to the beach, so you can see the rock pillars from a different angle as they are right next to the beach. The descent is fun, and the beach is great for the kids to play around the rock piles and the Southern Ocean. There’s a great reward for that little effort, and that’s the view from the bottom. The steps that lead to the sub-compressor cage go down to the beach, so you can look down upon the massive shark fin-like rock pillars from another angle which is opposite to the beachside.
The Twelve Apostles Visitor Facility
The best place to buy your tickets is The Twelve Apostles Visitor Facility. And this facility has loads of educational resources on the natural and sociocultural history of the area. There are many resources for families including exhibitions and presentations about the 12 Apostles and the area. The viewing deck has great views of the rock stacks and the Southern Ocean and is a good spot for family photos.
Great Ocean Walk
And if that’s not enough, the Great Ocean Walk is an amazing trail where families can indulge in the views of the Great Ocean Road coastline. 104kms long, it can be done in sections so suitable for all fitness levels. The trail is varied: all coastal, heathland and forest. The kids can do shorter sections while still seeing the views and enjoying the region.
Twelve Apostles Helicopter Tours
12 Apostles tour to see the Twelve Apostles from above is a once in a lifetime experience. This perspective offers amazing views of the rock stacks, the Shipwrecks Coast and the deep forest. These tours are a fun way to learn about the 12 Apostles and the wild Southern Ocean.
Explore the Shipwrecks
The Shipwreck Coast is famous for its theme with many shipwrecks along its coastline. Families can experience these historic events and learn about the maritime history of the area at places like Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village and Museum. The stories of the shipwrecks will give your visit an educational slant by highlighting the challenges faced by early sea farers and sailors.
Cape Otway Lightstation History
Cape Otway Lightstation is one of the world’s 7 free standing lighthouses that is operational and has educational and visual appeal. It’s the oldest portland cement lighthouse in Australia and is interesting in itself. Families can also climb the tower and see the coastline and Southern Ocean from above. There are exhibition displays about the history of the area and why the lighthouse was needed for navigation.
Cobden Pioneer Park
Cobden Pioneer Park is a family friendly site in Cobden. The park has playgrounds and picnic areas and walking tracks for families. Families can also relax and enjoy the outdoors in a beautiful spot. The facilities at the park make it a good place to stop when you are in the 12 Apostles area.
Apostles Bicycle Trail
Apostles Bicycle Trail is a great way for families to see the coastline. The trail takes you through the amazing scenery of the area, through cities with coastlines and beautiful bush. It’s exercise and sightseeing all in one. There are places to hire bikes so families can cycle around.
Conclusion
There is a variety of fantastic, family-friendly activities in the region of The 12 Apostles and Great Ocean Road. Activities range from looking at beautiful rock formations and taking different kinds of drives to having recreation and understanding the cultural history of the place- there is something for everyone. The Twelve Apostles serve as a wonderful setting for any family, whether there’s beachcombing, going for a helicopter ride or getting to see interesting places.
FAQ
When is the ideal period to go to the 12 Apostles?
Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) months are the best periods to pay a visit to the Twelve Apostles. It is during these months that moderate weather and less crowd can be made favorable and ideal for recreation and even sightseeing.
Are there guided family tours at the 12 Apostles?
There are people who prefer taking guided tours and so they exist for families too. Some of these trips may comprise of helicopter rides, automobile tours and educational trips to some places like the Twelve Apostles Visitor Center.
What family-friendly activities are available at the 12 Apostles?
Among the family friendly options are the exploration of the rock stacks and rock pools, beach walks, hiking the Great Ocean Walk and scenery helicopter rides. Moreover, there are also outdoor play areas and adventure parks situated within the vicinity, such as Lake Pertobe Adventure Playground.
Are there nearby attractions suitable for little kids?
Yes, the Giant Splash Park, Cobden Pioneer Park, and Daysy Hill Country Cottages are some of the nearby attractions suitable for younger children. This places have interesting and fun items for young families.
How can I find info on preserving the 12 Apostles culture?
It is possible to understand the cultural preservation of the 12 Apostles area by visiting such education establishments as the Twelve Apostles Visitor Facility or the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village or by exploring the native lands of the Eastern Maar culture or the Gunditjmara peoples.
