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
- 446 Lighthouse Road, Arakoon, NSW, 2431 - in Hat Head National Park in North Coast
- 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 nearby Smoky Cape picnic area.
Tours and events at this location
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Smoky Cape Lighthouse tour
Walk alongside a NPWS ranger on a fascinating tour of Smoky Cape lighthouse, the highest lighthouse in New South Wales. Take in the stunning coastal scenery along the way.
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General enquiries
- National Parks Contact Centre
- 7am to 7pm daily
- 1300 072 757 (13000 PARKS) for the cost of a local call within Australia excluding mobiles
- parks.info@environment.nsw.gov.au
Operated by
- Trial Bay Gaol Visitor Centre
- 9am to 4.30pm daily. Closed Christmas Day.
- 02 6566 6168
- npws.hastingsmacleay@environment.nsw.gov.au
- 73 Trial Bay Gaol Road, Arakoon NSW 2431
Park info
- in Hat Head National Park in the North Coast region
Hat Head National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.
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Park entry fees:
$8 per vehicle per day.
Buy annual pass
What's nearby:
Things to do (22)
- Birdwatching and wildlife encounters (7)
- Cafes and kiosks (1)
- Canoeing/paddling (2)
- Cultural heritage (2)
- Fishing (3)
- Historic heritage (10)
- Photography (1)
- Picnics and barbecues (6)
- Road trips and car/bus tours (1)
- Sightseeing (10)
- Snorkelling and scuba (1)
- Surfing (1)
- Swimming (4)
- Walking (8)