Where In The World Are ... 'The Twelve Apostles'?

Somewhere in the world, a group of majestic limestone sentinels rises dramatically from the ocean.

Named “The Twelve Apostles” long ago by locals, over time, their number has been reduced by erosion, including one dramatic collapse in 2005 that eyewitnesses described as sounding "like a building imploding." Indigenous people tell stories of these formations being creator beings, petrified in place while crossing sacred waters. Can you guess where in the world these magnificent sea stacks are located?

One of the most breathtaking ways to experience these natural wonders is from above, with helicopter tours offering an eagle's perspective of how these isolated pillars align along the coastline. Sunrise and sunset transform the golden limestone into glowing beacons, creating what photographers call the "magic hour" when the structures appear to be lit from within.

These spectacular formations began taking shape approximately 20 million years ago when limestone cliffs were gradually eroded by a relentless ocean. The process begins with caves forming in the cliffs, which eventually become arches, and when these arches collapse, isolated limestone stacks up to 150 feet high remain standing.

Located along Victoria's dramatic coastline in Australia, these icons are the centerpiece of Port Campbell National Park and the Great Ocean Road. What makes these formations particularly unique is the rate at which they continue to transform — the harsh weather conditions cause erosion at approximately 2 centimeters per year, meaning visitors today witness a different landscape than those who came before, and future generations will see something altogether new.

Would you like to visit the Twelve Apostles? Let us know in the comments!

Senior writer Chris DeWeese edits Morning Brief, The Weather Channel’s newsletter.