Gibson Steps
Prepare to be amazed by the magnitude of the cliff-line and offshore stacks. The sheer scale of natural sculpting evident at this site is humbling.
In local vernacular, Gog and Magog are the names given to the two offshore stacks that may be viewed from both the viewing platform and (tide and sea permitting) from beach level. These are not considered part of the 12 Apostles. The steps were carved into the cliff by local settler Hugh Gibson who worked on traditional access used by the traditional owners, the Kirrae Whurrong people of the Eastern Maar nation.
The limestone cliffs and offshore stacks at Gibson Steps are a testament to the powerful forces of nature that have shaped this coastline over millions of years. The cliffs, composed of sedimentary rock, reveal layers that tell the story of the Earth’s geological history. The offshore stacks, Gog and Magog, stand as sentinels against the relentless waves of the Southern Ocean, showcasing the area’s dynamic erosion processes.
Gibson Steps beach is within the protected area of the Twelve Apostles Marine National Park. An exclusion zone is in place that allows for recreational fishing east of the steps towards Princetown (Clifton Beach). Anglers intending to fish here need to be aware of tide times and predicted ocean conditions as the ocean can push right up to the cliff line in all tides.
Location: Great Ocean Road, Princetown (5 km west of Princetown township)
Why not Park at the 12 Apostles?
Visitors are advised it is illegal to park on the Great Ocean Road (or any road) adjacent to a solid yellow line.
You can now park your car at the 12 Apostles and walk to Gibson Steps via a 1.1km section of the Great Ocean Walk. The walk departs from the back of the kiosk at the 12 Apostles and safely underpasses the Great Ocean Road near the Gibson Steps viewing platform and beach access.
From 12 Apostles car park
Distance: 2.2 km return to clifftop viewing area
Time: 60 – 80 minutes
From Gibson Steps car park
Length: 50m return to lookout 86 steps and ramped walkway to beach (5 mins)
Time: 30 — 45 minutes
Access Information
Gibson Steps car park has a designated accessible parking space. The viewing platform is accessible and the access to the descent can be negotiated for a short distance. Access via the Great Ocean Walk from the 12 Apostles is via a narrow gravel path and is not advised for prams wheelchairs or mobility scooters.
Beach Safety
- Gibson Steps is open to the full force of ocean swell from the Southern Ocean; conditions can change dramatically in a short period of time
- The beach is not accessible in all conditions
- Knowledge and careful observation of tide times and ocean swell are necessary for safe experiences here
- Stay clear of the cliff in case of rock fall
