The 3 Closest Airports to 12 apostles

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The 3 Closest Airports to 12 Apostles

Planning a trip to the iconic 12 Apostles rock formations along the Great Ocean Road? While the drive itself is a major part of the experience, you’ll likely be flying into a nearby airport first. Knowing your options can help you plan the most convenient route.

Here are the three airports geographically closest to the 12 Apostles site, ordered from nearest to furthest. It’s important to note that the closest airport has very limited flight options, making Melbourne Airport (MEL) the closest major airport most visitors will use.

  1. **Warrnambool Airport (WMB)**

    Warrnambool Airport is technically the closest airstrip to the 12 Apostles. However, it primarily serves general aviation, charter flights, and occasional limited regional services, which may not always be operational or convenient for typical tourist travel. Always check for current scheduled flights well in advance, as they are infrequent or non-existent.

    • Distance to 12 Apostles: Approximately 70 km (around 1 hour drive)

    • Address: Airport Rd, Warrnambool VIC 3280, Australia

    • Pros: Shortest driving distance to the 12 Apostles. Cons: Very limited or no scheduled passenger flights, minimal facilities, car rental options scarce and require pre-booking/delivery. Airlines: Primarily general aviation; scheduled services are rare/variable (check current operators). Car Rental: Limited availability, must be arranged well in advance.

    • Official Website: (Managed by Warrnambool City Council – search their site for Airport info)

    • Phone: Check Warrnambool City Council website for contact.

    • Rating: N/A (Not typically rated like commercial airports)

  2. **Avalon Airport (AVV)**

    Avalon Airport is located between Melbourne and Geelong and is significantly closer to the 12 Apostles than Melbourne’s main airport. It primarily serves low-cost carriers and offers a potentially quicker starting point for your Great Ocean Road journey if flight schedules align with your plans.

    • Distance to 12 Apostles: Approximately 165 km (around 2 hours drive)

    • Address: 80 Beach Rd, Lara VIC 3212, Australia

    • Pros: Closer to the Great Ocean Road than Melbourne Tullamarine, less busy, easier exit towards the GOR. Cons: Fewer airline choices and destinations (mostly domestic budget carriers), fewer amenities than MEL. Airlines: Primarily Jetstar, potentially Bonza (check current schedules). Car Rental: Several major companies available (e.g., Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, SIXT).

    • Official Website: https://www.avalonairport.com.au/

    • Phone: +61 3 5227 9100

    • Rating: Typically rated around 3.5-4.0 stars (e.g., Google Reviews)

  3. **Melbourne Airport (MEL) – Tullamarine**

    Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) is the primary international and domestic gateway to Victoria. While it’s the furthest of these three options, it offers the widest range of flight options, airlines, car rentals, and facilities, making it the most common and practical choice for most international and many domestic visitors heading to the 12 Apostles.

    • Distance to 12 Apostles: Approximately 235 km (around 2 hours 45 mins – 3 hours drive, depending on traffic)

    • Address: Departure Dr, Melbourne Airport VIC 3045, Australia

    • Pros: Extensive domestic and international flight options, wide choice of airlines, numerous car rental companies, extensive airport facilities. Cons: Furthest drive to the 12 Apostles, exiting Melbourne can involve city traffic. Airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar, Rex, numerous international carriers. Car Rental: All major companies available (e.g., Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Europcar, Hertz, SIXT, Thrifty).

    • Official Website: https://www.melbourneairport.com.au/

    • Phone: +61 3 9297 1600

    • Rating: Typically rated around 4.0 stars (e.g., Google Reviews)

Conclusion:

The closest airport geographically to the 12 Apostles is Warrnambool Airport (WMB). However, due to its very limited flight schedule (if any), it is not a practical option for most travellers.

The closest major airport, and the one most commonly used by visitors flying in to see the 12 Apostles, is Melbourne Airport (MEL – Tullamarine), offering the widest range of flights and services despite the longer drive. Avalon Airport (AVV) presents a viable alternative, potentially saving driving time if flight availability and cost suit your needs.

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