Cultural sites
Smoky Cape Lighthouse
Fire/closure alerts currently apply to this location. See details below.
Standing high on a narrow headland, Smoky Cape Lighthouse is surrounded by the stunning coastal scenery of Hat Head National Park. The lighthouse itself is as beautiful as the views – check out its winding staircase and octagonal tower.
Built in 1891, this heritage lighthouse is one of the last designed by the Colonial Architect, James Barnet. Smoky Cape headland was so named by Captain Cook after he saw Aboriginal fires burning there in 1770. Guided tours of the lighthouse are available if you would like to find out more.
Smoky Cape is a fantastic spot for whale watching, birdwatching and picnicking, and you can stay overnight at the lighthouse keepers’ cottage. Don’t miss the views at nearby Captain Cook’s lookout.
Activities: whale watching, birdwatching, picnicking, playing and socialising
Location:
shown on Smoky Cape map
Getting there: Smoky Cape lighthouse is in the Smoky Cape precinct of Hat Head National Park. To get there:
- Take Arakoon Road from South West Rocks
- Turn into Lighthouse Road and follow the signs to Smoky Cape Lighthouse
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Bookings: Guided lighthouse tours are available on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 1pm – contact (02) 6586 8300.
Events, activities and alerts at this location
| Hazard reduction burn | Hazard reduction burn A hazard reduction burn is planned for the park during the first fortnight in May, weather permitting. Some delays may occur on Lighthouse Road.
See details on the Rural Fire Service website (Borefields burn) or call the park office on 6566 6621. | |
