Tourists must pay and book ahead to see iconic Twelve Apostles

Tourists wanting to visit one of Australia's iconic natural wonders, the Twelve Apostles, will now have to book ahead and pay an entry fee.

Each year, more than 2 million people travel down the Great Ocean Road to visit the remaining seven limestone rock stacks that rise out of the Southern Ocean, about four hours' drive west of Melbourne.

The Victorian government has revealed from October 16, visitors will need to book ahead to enter a newly constructed $126 million visitor centre and see the sights.

In April, the government will start charging tourists an entry fee.

Local residents and traditional owners will be exempt from paying.

Acting Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Minister Catherine King said the new visitor centre would support sustainable tourism along Victoria's south-west coastline.

"The redevelopment is already playing an important part in the local economy and will encourage even more visitors to spend time in the region, boosting local jobs and businesses," Ms King said.

The government said the new booking system would help manage overcrowding at peak times, with money collected from the entry fees used to help fund visitor infrastructure and environmental projects.