5 Things to Do around Port Campbell & Princetown

Stay in Port Campbell or Princetown and you'll be perfectly placed to explore some of the Great Ocean Road's biggest icons, local flavours and natural wonders. Here are five experiences to add to your stay.

1. Visit the Twelve Apostles

Alright, let’s get the obvious one out of the way early. The iconic Twelve Apostles are the main reason why people find themselves in Port Campbell or Princetown, and it is just a ten-minute drive up the Great Ocean Road. 

Free tip: Get there nice early before the swarms of day trippers spoil your photos. The best part? It’s absolutely the most rewarding time to go. There’s something magical about the way the early morning light hits the iconic limestone stacks.

You really have to see it for yourself.

2. Descend the Gibson Steps

Everyone knows about the Twelve Apostles - the tourist buses are a dead giveaway, and fair enough too. It’s a breathtaking spot. But fewer people know about the Gibson Steps.

Once you descend the 80 odd steps that criss-cross their way down to the beach, you’ll be rewarded with a close up view of the Apostles, as well as Gog and Magog. Two bonus rock formations that despite their striking resemblance aren’t an official part of the Apostles gang.

The Gibson Steps are also a great thing to tackle if you’ve spent the day indulging in the Twelve Apostles Food Artisans Trail.

Speaking of which..

3. Indulge in the 12 Apostles Food Artisans Trail

It sounds fancy, and it is. Located within easy driving distance from both Port Campbell or Princetown Parks, the trail takes you on a journey inland, winding through rugged and picturesque scenery that is worth the price of admission alone.

As you wind through rolling hills, lush farmland, and sprawling pastures, the scenery is calming, but the real magic happens when you step out of your car. Here, you'll encounter local wines, cheeses, beef, berries, and even ice cream. And no visit to the region is complete without stopping at Timboon Fine Ice Cream—it’s a treat you won’t want to miss.

4. Close Encounters of the Wild Kind

If you have young kids in tow, they may not care for the majesty of the Twelve Apostles, but they will love a visit to the Great Ocean Road Wildlife Park.

The park is a privately run wildlife park (not a zoo), offers a chance for kids and grown ups alike to get up close and personal with some of Australia’s iconic wildlife.

Whether it be kangaroos, emus, koalas or even Brumby’s, you’ll love wandering the 40 acres at your own pace. A 20-minute stroll will take you through the park, but with a large petting zoo to visit, you’ll easily fill up an hour.

5. Visit the Cape Otway Lightstation

For a blend of history and spectacular coastal views, head to the Cape Otway Lightstation. Located about an hour's drive from Princetown, and a little over an hour's drive from Port Campbell, this historic lighthouse dates back to 1848 and is the oldest surviving lighthouse on the Australian mainland.

Take a guided tour to learn about its fascinating history, including the role it played in guiding ships safely along the treacherous coastline. The panoramic views from the top are awe-inspiring, with sweeping vistas of the Southern Ocean and the rugged cliffs that define the region. 

It’s a perfect day-trip for history buffs and anyone looking for a unique, less crowded experience.

Make Port Campbell or Princetown your base

Stay at Port Campbell Recreation Reserve or Princetown Recreation Reserve and spend your days exploring the icons, food and natural beauty of this spectacular part of the Great Ocean Road.