Smoky Cape Lighthouse

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

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. It's the highest lighthouse in NSW, and it's well worth the trip to the top.
Visitors admire the view from the balcony at the top of Smoky Cape Lighthouse, Hat Head National
Visitors being met by an NPWS guide at the door of Smoky Cape Lighthouse, Hat Head National Park.
Two visitors listen to a tour guide in the lighthouse keeper's office, Smoky Cape Lighthouse, Hat
Visitors pause to enjoy the view from a curved lighthouse window, as they climb the lighthouse
Smoky Cape Lighthouse, Hat Head National Park. Photo: David Finnegan/NSW Government
Visitors and NPWS guide chat on the lighthouse lawn, enjoying the view of white sand beaches, lush
A guide and visitor take the 10-minute walk back down from Smoky Cape Lighthouse after the tour,
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.

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