Smoky Cape Lighthouse
Hat Head National Park
Overview
Hat Head National Park on the mid-north coast of NSW near South West Rocks is a natural paradise. Explore the lighthouse, camp by the beach and go fishing and swimming.
- Type
- Historic buildings/places
- Where
- Hat Head National Park
- Price
- Free
- Entry fees
- Park entry fees apply
- Please note
It’s a short but steep climb to the lighthouse – be sure to wear sturdy shoes.
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.
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 nearbyCaptain Cook’s lookout.
Tours and events at this location
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Smoky Cape Lighthouse: Reach the top
Explore the tallest lighthouse in NSW at Hat Head National Park near South West Rocks. Learn about the 'highway of light' and climb the steep stairs to enjoy the spectacular ocean views from the top.
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Operated by
- Trial Bay Gaol Visitor Centre
- 9am to 4.30pm daily. Closed Christmas Day.
- 02 6566 6168
- npws.hastingsmacleay@environment.nsw.gov.au
- Trial Bay Goal Access Road, Arakoon, NSW 2431
Park info
- in Hat Head National Park in the North Coast region
Hat Head National Park is open sunrise to sunset but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.
Park entry fees:
$8 per vehicle per day at Hungry Head and Smoky Beach. The park has coin-operated pay and display machines - please bring correct coins.
Buy a pass-
- Kempsey office
02 6561 6700
Contact hours: Monday to Friday, 9am to 4.30pm. - 247 Old Station Rd, Verges Creek NSW 2440
- Email: npws.hastingsmacleay@environment.nsw.gov.au
- Kempsey office
What's nearby:
Things to do (21)
- Birdwatching and wildlife encounters (8)
- Cafes and kiosks (1)
- Canoeing/paddling (2)
- Cultural heritage (2)
- Fishing (2)
- Historic heritage (9)
- Photography (1)
- Picnics and barbecues (5)
- Sailing, boating and cruises (1)
- Sightseeing (12)
- Snorkelling and scuba (1)
- Swimming (3)
- Walking (9)
- Wildflowers (seasonal) (1)
