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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
Bookings
Guided lighthouse tours are available on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 1pm – contact 02 6566 6301.
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. 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 nearbyCaptain Cook’s lookout.

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info

Tours and events at this location

  • Smoky Cape Lighthouse, Hat Head National Park. Photo: David Finnegan/NSW Government

    WilderQuest Smoky Cape Lighthouse: Reach the top

    On this WilderQuest adventure we'll explore the tallest lighthouse in NSW in Hat Head National Park near South West Rocks. Will you make it all the way? Climb the steep spiral stairs to the top!

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A family walk a boardwalk section of Bouddi coastal walk, Bouddi National Park. Photo: John Spencer/OEH.

Conservation program:

Saving our Species conservation program

Saving our Species is an innovative conservation program in NSW. This program aims to secure as many threatened species that can be secured in the wild as possible, for the next 100 years.

Mountain pygmy possum (Burramys parvus). Photo: Cate Aitken

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Park info

See more visitor info

What's nearby:

Things to do (15)

Camping and accommodation (4)

Smoky Cape Lighthouse, Hat Head National Park. Photo: David Finnegan/NSW Government