
Point Cartwright Lighthouse
Iconic lighthouse with panoramic ocean views, vibrant marine mural, and scenic walking tracks on the Sunshine Coast.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic

Point Cartwright Lighthouse
Best Time
Golden hour magic

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic lighthouse with panoramic ocean views, vibrant marine mural, and scenic walking tracks on the Sunshine Coast.
"Stunning spot offering breathtaking coastal views and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for walks and photography."

๐ Limited Parking Alert
Parking is scarce! Arrive early or park further down and enjoy the walk.
๐ฅพ Easy, Scenic Walk
The path to the lighthouse is well-maintained and offers beautiful ocean views.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Iconic Lighthouse Views
Lighthouse summit
Panoramic ocean vistas, Mooloolaba coastline, and potential whale sightings. A photographer's dream!

Marine Mural Masterpiece
Water tank near lighthouse
A vibrant, large-scale marine-themed mural that adds a splash of color and art to the natural landscape.

Whale Watching Vantage Point
Headland
During migration season, this is a prime spot to observe majestic whales breaching offshore.

Rock Pool Exploration
Foreshore at low tide
Discover fascinating marine life and unique rock formations revealed by the receding tide.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Views
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
๐ Limited Parking Alert
Parking is scarce! Arrive early or park further down and enjoy the walk.
๐ฅพ Easy, Scenic Walk
The path to the lighthouse is well-maintained and offers beautiful ocean views.
๐ธ Mural Photo Op
Don't miss the vibrant marine mural on the water tank โ a unique photo spot!
๐ณ Whale Spotting Gem
Visit during migration season for a chance to see whales from the headland.
Tips
from all over the internet
๐ Limited Parking Alert
Parking is scarce! Arrive early or park further down and enjoy the walk.
๐ฅพ Easy, Scenic Walk
The path to the lighthouse is well-maintained and offers beautiful ocean views.
๐ธ Mural Photo Op
Don't miss the vibrant marine mural on the water tank โ a unique photo spot!
๐ณ Whale Spotting Gem
Visit during migration season for a chance to see whales from the headland.
๐งบ Picnic Perfect
Plenty of shaded spots to relax and enjoy a picnic with stunning coastal views.
๐ Rock Pools at Low Tide
Explore fascinating rock pools and marine life when the tide is out.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Point Cartwright Lighthouse is celebrated for its stunning panoramic ocean views, especially at sunrise and sunset, and its accessible walking tracks. Visitors appreciate the vibrant marine mural and the chance to spot whales during migration season. While parking is limited and the lighthouse interior isn't accessible, the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere make it a highly recommended free destination.
"Point Cartwright Lighthouse is a stunning and peaceful destination on the Sunshine Coast that offers breathtaking views, a relaxing atmosphere, and a touch of maritime history. Located near Mooloolaba, this scenic spot is perfect for nature lovers, walkers, and photography enthusiasts. The walking track leading up to the lighthouse is easy and well-maintained, making it accessible for people of all ages. Along the way, you'll pass through beautiful bushland and might even spot some local wildlife.
Once at the top, you're rewarded with panoramic views of the ocean, beach, and river mouth. Itโs a great place to watch surfers, fishing boats, or just enjoy a coastal breeze. Sunrise and sunset from here are particularly magical โ a must-see if you're visiting the Sunshine Coast.
There are also plenty of shaded spots to sit and enjoy a picnic, and the nearby beach is clean and inviting. The lighthouse itself is automated and not open to the public, but the surrounding area more than makes up for it in beauty and serenity.
Overall, Point Cartwright is a hidden gem and well worth a visit. Whether you're a local or a tourist, itโs a place that offers peace, views, and connection with nature."
kabir hossain
"Absolutely stunning spot!
Point Cartwright Lighthouse offers one of the best coastal views on the Sunshine Coast. The short walk up is easy and well-paved, and once you reach the top, youโre rewarded with panoramic views of Mooloolaba, the ocean, and even whales during the migration season if youโre lucky! ๐
The area is perfect for a quiet sunset stroll, a picnic, or just relaxing while listening to the waves crash against the rocks below. Thereโs plenty of parking nearby and good spots to sit and unwind. Definitely worth a visit if you love photography, nature, or simply breathtaking views. ๐
"
Anjana Iroshan
"We went to Point Cartwright today on a low tide, so we could check out thr foreshore and rock pools. The carpwrk nesr the Lighthouse is small, so parked down on the Mooloolaba Passage. A nice easy walk around to the ocean side.
We loved the ocean mural on the water reservoir up top also. Tye Passage was nive to swim in, as the ocean side was a little windy woth big waves. A bit much for my young kids. Recommend heading up on a low tide to make the most of looking through the rock pools."
Tim Hunter
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
๐ ๐บ๏ธ Getting There
Point Cartwright Lighthouse is located in Buddina on the Sunshine Coast. You can drive there, but parking is very limited. Many visitors opt to park further away and enjoy a scenic walk along the coast.
Yes, there is free parking available near the lighthouse, but it is quite limited and can fill up quickly, especially during peak times.
Absolutely! The walk to the lighthouse is a popular activity, offering beautiful ocean views and a well-maintained path. It's a great way to experience the surrounding natural beauty.
The paths leading to the lighthouse are generally smooth and well-maintained, making them suitable for prams and many wheelchairs.
From Mooloolaba, it's a relatively short drive or a longer, scenic walk/bike ride to Point Cartwright. Taxis or ride-sharing services are also an option.
๐ซ ๐ซ Tickets & Entry
No, Point Cartwright Lighthouse and the surrounding reserve are free to enter and explore.
The lighthouse itself is automated and not open to the public for tours. However, the surrounding headland and walking tracks offer spectacular views.
Point Cartwright Lighthouse and its reserve are accessible at all times, as it's an outdoor public space. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
No booking is required as it's a free public access area. Just show up and enjoy the scenery!
Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but always be mindful of the natural environment and any local signage. Dogs are permitted on leash.
๐ซ ๐งญ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy scenic walks, photography, whale watching (in season), exploring rock pools at low tide, picnicking, and simply soaking in the breathtaking coastal views.
The summit near the lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Mooloolaba, and the coastline. Sunrises and sunsets are particularly stunning.
Yes, it's a photographer's paradise! The lighthouse, the marine mural, the coastal landscapes, and the ocean views provide endless opportunities for stunning shots.
Yes, toilet facilities are available at the site for visitors.
While the ocean side can have strong waves, the Mooloolaba Passage nearby offers calmer waters for swimming, especially at low tide.
๐ฝ๏ธ ๐ฝ๏ธ Food & Dining
There are no cafes or restaurants directly at the lighthouse. It's recommended to bring your own picnic or visit nearby Mooloolaba or Buddina for dining options.
Yes, Point Cartwright is an excellent spot for a picnic. There are many shaded areas and benches available to enjoy your meal with a view.
Nearby Mooloolaba and Buddina offer a variety of cafes, restaurants, and takeaway options. You can find everything from casual brunch spots to seafood restaurants.
Definitely! Bringing your own food and drinks is highly recommended, especially if you plan to stay for a while and enjoy a picnic.
While not a regular occurrence, food trucks can sometimes be found in the general Sunshine Coast area. It's best to check local listings or social media for any temporary setups.
๐ธ ๐ธ Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. Golden hour provides beautiful soft light for landscapes and portraits.
The lighthouse itself, the marine mural on the water tank, the coastal paths, and the ocean views from the headland are all highly photogenic.
Drone usage is generally permitted in many areas of the Sunshine Coast, but it's crucial to check current CASA regulations and any local restrictions before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views and the lighthouse. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting whales.
The combination of the modern lighthouse, the vibrant mural, and the natural coastal scenery offers unique photographic opportunities. Capturing the waves crashing or surfers can also be rewarding.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
๐จโ๐ฉโ๐ง Families with Kids
While the ocean side can be rough, the nearby Mooloolaba Passage offers calmer waters for a safer swim if needed. The overall atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, making it a great spot for creating lasting memories without breaking the bank, as entry is free.
๐ถโโ๏ธ Walkers & Nature Enthusiasts
Nature lovers will appreciate the opportunity for whale watching during migration season and the chance to explore rock pools at low tide. The area is a haven for birdwatching too. The combination of accessible trails and stunning natural scenery makes Point Cartwright a must-visit for anyone seeking an active and beautiful outdoor experience on the Sunshine Coast.
๐ธ Photographers & Art Lovers
Beyond these key features, the coastal landscapes, the waves crashing against the rocks, and the potential for wildlife sightings (whales, dolphins) offer endless photographic opportunities. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for sweeping vistas and a telephoto lens for wildlife. The accessibility of the site and the variety of visual elements make it a rewarding location for both amateur and professional photographers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Scenic Loop Track
This track is more than just a way to reach the lighthouse; it's an experience in itself. The path winds around the headland, providing different perspectives of the coastline, the Mooloolaba river mouth, and the vast Pacific Ocean. Itโs a fantastic spot for photography, with numerous vantage points offering postcard-worthy shots. The loop is approximately 1 kilometer, making it a manageable and rewarding excursion for all visitors.
Many visitors recommend this walk for its tranquility and the sheer beauty of the natural environment. Itโs a place where you can truly connect with the coastal landscape of the Sunshine Coast. The accessibility and the consistent beauty make it a must-do activity for anyone visiting the area.
Whale Watching and Marine Life
Beyond whales, the waters off Point Cartwright are teeming with other marine life. You might spot dolphins playing in the waves, sea turtles, or various seabirds. During low tide, exploring the rock pools near the foreshore reveals a fascinating miniature ecosystem of small fish, crabs, and other intertidal creatures. Itโs a great educational opportunity for children and adults alike.
To maximize your chances of spotting marine life, itโs best to visit on a calm day. Bring binoculars if you have them, and be patient. The sheer joy of witnessing these animals in their natural habitat makes a visit during migration season particularly special.
The Iconic Marine Mural
This mural is a testament to the local appreciation for the coastal environment and serves as a beautiful backdrop for visitors. Photographers often find it an interesting subject, contrasting with the natural beauty of the lighthouse and the ocean. Itโs a small detail that adds significant character to the site and is frequently highlighted in visitor photos and social media posts.
Don't miss the chance to capture a photo with this striking artwork. Itโs a memorable element of the Point Cartwright experience that sets it apart from other lighthouses. The vibrant colors and detailed imagery make it a standout feature.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit