Written by Ben Cole· Updated Apr 2026Quick Actions
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About Gibson Steps
Gibson Steps are a set of steep stairs carved into towering limestone cliffs that provide rare access to the beach directly beneath the Twelve Apostles. The beach sits between 70-metre sheer cliffs and the Southern Ocean, offering a unique ground-level perspective of the sea stacks. The steps were originally hand-cut by local settler Hugh Gibson in the 19th century.
About
Gibson Steps are a set of steep stairs carved into towering limestone cliffs that provide rare access to the beach directly beneath the Twelve Apostles. The beach sits between 70-metre sheer cliffs and the Southern Ocean, offering a unique ground-level perspective of the sea stacks. The steps were originally hand-cut by local settler Hugh Gibson in the 19th century.
Warnings
Getting There
Directly on the Great Ocean Road, 1.5km east of the Twelve Apostles visitor centre. Signed car park on the ocean side.
Visitor Tips
- •Checking tide charts before visiting is essential. A low tide visit gives access to the widest section of beach and the best views looking back up at the cliffs. Do not swim here.
Quick Facts
At a Glance
The Place
- Significance
- State
Plan Your Visit
- Entry
- Free
- Duration
- 30-60 minutes
- Best Time
- Low tide for the widest beach; morning for fewer crowds
- Hours
- {"sunday":{"open":"00:00","close":"23:59"},"monday":{"open":"00:00","close":"23:59"},"tuesday":{"open":"00:00","close":"23:59"},"wednesday":{"open":"00:00","close":"23:59"},"thursday":{"open":"00:00","close":"23:59"},"friday":{"open":"00:00","close":"23:59"},"saturday":{"open":"00:00","close":"23:59"}}
Location
- Region
- Great Ocean Road
- State
- Victoria
Highlights
Activities
Features
Facilities
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