Crookhaven Heads Lighthouse
A scenic walk to a historic lighthouse on the NSW South Coast, offering stunning ocean views and unique rock formations.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for whale watching
Crookhaven Heads Lighthouse
Best Time
Best for whale watching
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic walk to a historic lighthouse on the NSW South Coast, offering stunning ocean views and unique rock formations.
"The walk is breathtaking, with spectacular views, though the lighthouse itself is disappointing."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail is unpaved and can be uneven. Good walking shoes are a must for comfort and safety.
🚶♀️ Prioritize the Walk
Focus on the scenic trail and beach; the lighthouse itself is often described as disappointing.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Spectacular Coastal Trail
Path leading to the lighthouse
Breathtaking views of the sea on both sides, with unique circular rock formations below.
Relaxing Beach
Beach between the car park and lighthouse
A lovely, relaxing beach perfect for a break during your walk.
Whale Watching (Seasonal)
Coastal waters
Observe migrating whales during the warmer months for an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Walk, Skip the Lighthouse Climb
Footwear and History Focus
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail is unpaved and can be uneven. Good walking shoes are a must for comfort and safety.
🚶♀️ Prioritize the Walk
Focus on the scenic trail and beach; the lighthouse itself is often described as disappointing.
📚 Research History
Limited signage means researching the lighthouse's past beforehand enhances the visit.
☀️ Enjoy the Views
The surrounding environment and sea views are the true stars of this location.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail is unpaved and can be uneven. Good walking shoes are a must for comfort and safety.
🚶♀️ Prioritize the Walk
Focus on the scenic trail and beach; the lighthouse itself is often described as disappointing.
📚 Research History
Limited signage means researching the lighthouse's past beforehand enhances the visit.
☀️ Enjoy the Views
The surrounding environment and sea views are the true stars of this location.
👨👩👧👦 Manage Kid Expectations
Kids might find the lighthouse itself underwhelming; focus on the beach and natural formations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the breathtaking coastal walk and unique rock formations at Crookhaven Heads Lighthouse, highlighting the stunning sea views. However, many find the lighthouse itself to be run-down and disappointing, with a lack of historical information. The unpaved trail requires sturdy footwear, and managing expectations about the lighthouse structure is key to enjoying this scenic spot.
"Yet to be discovered, this hidden gem of Australia’s South Coast has a diverse scenic places combined with beaches, the major attraction would be to observe whales in the hot season."
ANASTASE Art of Photography
"It’s a pretty ordinary looking lighthouse but still worth the short walk from the car park for the spectacular views and unusual circular formations on the rock platform below. A beautiful environment with views of the sea on both sides."
Dereta Lennon
"The beach is nice but there is no point to walk all the way up to the light house. The light house has run down and there is no paving up."
Alan Liu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The lighthouse is located in the Shoalhaven region of NSW, Australia. Access is typically via car, with a car park available near the start of the walking trail. 
Yes, there is a car park that provides access to the walking trail leading to the lighthouse.
Driving is the most common method. From Sydney, it's a scenic drive down the Princes Highway. Public transport options are limited in this region.
Public transport to the immediate vicinity of the lighthouse is very limited. It's best accessed by car.
Yes, the drive along the NSW South Coast is known for its beautiful coastal scenery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to the lighthouse and the surrounding walking trails is generally free.
The lighthouse grounds are typically accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific opening or closing times for the exterior.
There is no entry fee for the walking trail to Crookhaven Heads Lighthouse.
It is generally not possible to go inside the lighthouse, as it is an operational or decommissioned structure not open to the public.
The exterior and surrounding paths are accessible during daylight hours, weather permitting.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The walk is described as breathtaking with spectacular views, though the trail is unpaved and can be uneven. It's not too long for most visitors.
Visitors often mention unusual circular formations on the rock platform below the lighthouse, which are a point of interest.
Many reviews suggest the lighthouse is run-down and disappointing, with limited historical signage. The walk and views are considered the main attraction.
Enjoy the beautiful beach, explore the unique rock formations, and take in the stunning coastal scenery. Whale watching is also a possibility in season.
Reviews indicate the trail is not well-maintained, so wearing good shoes is essential.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dramatic coastal landscapes, the unique rock formations, and the lighthouse from various angles along the trail.
Always check local drone regulations before flying. Generally, drones are permitted in open areas, but be mindful of wildlife and other visitors.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting distant whales.
The coastal location offers beautiful light for sunrise and sunset, with the sea and sky providing dramatic backdrops.
Some visitors enjoy capturing handstands with the lighthouse and coastline in the background.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations: Focus on the beach as a primary attraction for kids to play and relax. Emphasize the natural beauty and unique rock formations along the walk. Consider researching the lighthouse's history beforehand to make the visit more engaging for them, turning it into a learning opportunity rather than just a walk to a dilapidated building.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Tips for saving: Pack your own picnic lunch and snacks to enjoy by the beach or along the trail, as dining options in the immediate vicinity are limited. The main cost will be transportation to the location. The walk itself is the main attraction, so you won't need to spend money on activities once you're there.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Best shots: Focus on the sweeping vistas of the ocean and coastline. Experiment with different angles of the lighthouse against the sea. The circular rock formations are also a unique subject. Consider visiting during sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the grandeur of the scenery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Walk: More Than Just a Lighthouse
While the lighthouse itself is described as run-down and in need of restoration, the walk is considered not too long for most, making it an accessible adventure. The path is unpaved and can be uneven, so wearing sturdy footwear is highly recommended to ensure comfort and safety.
For those interested in the history, it's advisable to research the lighthouse's past before your visit, as on-site signage is minimal. This can significantly enhance the experience, particularly for children who might otherwise find the structure itself underwhelming.
Understanding the Lighthouse's Condition
This condition leads to a common sentiment among visitors: the lighthouse itself is often a disappointment compared to the spectacular natural beauty of the surrounding area. Some visitors explicitly advise against walking all the way up to the lighthouse if the primary goal is to see the structure, suggesting it's better to enjoy the beach and the walk.
Therefore, while the lighthouse is the named destination, the true value for most visitors lies in the scenic walk, the coastal views, and the natural environment it inhabits. It's a place where the journey and the landscape are far more rewarding than the final landmark.
Seasonal Wildlife: Whale Watching
During the warmer months, typically from late spring through autumn, humpback whales and other species can be spotted as they travel along the coast. This makes a visit during these periods particularly rewarding for nature enthusiasts and families.
To maximize your chances of spotting whales, consider visiting in the morning when the sea is often calmer, providing better visibility. Bringing binoculars can greatly enhance your viewing experience. Remember to check local reports for recent sightings to plan your visit effectively.
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