Low Head Lighthouse
A historic sentinel guarding the Tamar River, Low Head Lighthouse is famed for its majestic presence and a magical colony of fairy penguins. [^I...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Foghorn demonstration
Low Head Lighthouse
Best Time
Foghorn demonstration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic sentinel guarding the Tamar River, Low Head Lighthouse is famed for its majestic presence and a magical colony of fairy penguins. 
"Majestic historic lighthouse still safeguarding the passage of vessels into the Tamar river."
🐧 Penguin Tour Booking
Book penguin tours in advance, especially during peak season, for the best viewing opportunities.
💨 Hold Onto Your Hat!
It gets very windy here! Secure your hat and belongings, especially near the water.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Low Head Lighthouse
George Town, Tasmania
Australia's third oldest lighthouse, still a majestic sentinel guarding the Tamar River entrance.
Fairy Penguin Colony
Low Head Bluff
Hundreds of adorable fairy penguins call this bluff home; observe them in their natural habitat.
Wood Sculptures
Beach near the lighthouse
Discover unique and amazing wood sculptures scattered along a secluded beach.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Penguin Viewing Etiquette
Weather Preparedness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐧 Penguin Tour Booking
Book penguin tours in advance, especially during peak season, for the best viewing opportunities.
💨 Hold Onto Your Hat!
It gets very windy here! Secure your hat and belongings, especially near the water.
🚗 Explore the Area
Don't miss the charming town and the beautiful drive to Low Head.
🔦 Bring a Torch (for penguins)
Essential for spotting penguins after dark; avoid using flash photography.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐧 Penguin Tour Booking
Book penguin tours in advance, especially during peak season, for the best viewing opportunities.
💨 Hold Onto Your Hat!
It gets very windy here! Secure your hat and belongings, especially near the water.
🚗 Explore the Area
Don't miss the charming town and the beautiful drive to Low Head.
🔦 Bring a Torch (for penguins)
Essential for spotting penguins after dark; avoid using flash photography.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Low Head Lighthouse for its majestic historic presence and the enchanting fairy penguin colony. The scenic beauty and unique wood sculptures add to its charm, though strong winds and limited facilities are noted drawbacks. A highlight for many is the genuine kindness of locals, like a volunteer who went above and beyond to share the area's wonders.
"This place was a highlight of our trip. We met a lovely man who volunteers at the lighthouse (Saturday 5th July), he went out of his way to show us a penguin sleeping in the bushes then offered us to follow him as he drove home for the day to a little beach that had the most amazing wood sculptures, went above and beyond out of the goodness of his heart. Hard to find these days and we appreciate him. Please thank him again for us, lovely fella and we are very grateful."
Lyndall Platt
"Majestic historic lighthouse still safeguarding the passage of vessels into the Tamar river. Whilst you can’t access the inside of the lighthouse, you can book a stay in the lighthouse keepers quarters. The surrounding bluff is home to many little penguins, wallabies and sea birds. Plan your visit on a Sunday where they run the fog horn at midday."
Simon Meusburger
"Great views. Very windy so hold on to your hat! 😜"
Anthony Floyd
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Low Head Lighthouse is located near George Town, about a 45-minute drive northeast of Launceston. You can drive yourself or consider a guided tour that includes transportation.
Public transport options are limited. Renting a car is the most convenient way to reach Low Head and explore the surrounding Northern Tasmania region.
A car is highly recommended to fully experience Low Head and nearby attractions like George Town and Platypus House.
While possible, it's a long day trip (around 3-4 hours drive each way). It's better suited as part of a Northern Tasmania itinerary.
Yes, there is parking available near the lighthouse and penguin viewing areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to the lighthouse grounds and surrounding bluff is generally free. However, tours of the lighthouse interior or keeper's quarters may require booking and a fee.
The lighthouse exterior is always accessible. For interior tours or keeper's quarters, check the official Low Head Lighthouse website for current hours and booking information.
While the penguins are wild, guided tours are often recommended for the best and most responsible viewing experience, and these tours will have a fee.
Yes, you can book a stay in the historic lighthouse keeper's quarters for a unique experience. Availability can be limited, so book in advance.
Information on discounts is usually available on the official booking website. It's worth checking for family passes or group rates.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can observe the fairy penguin colony, explore the scenic bluff, discover unique wood sculptures on the beach, and enjoy the peaceful coastal atmosphere.
Penguins typically emerge from the sea and head to their burrows around dusk. Guided tours are the best way to see them responsibly.
Unfortunately, public toilets are not readily available at the lighthouse site itself. It's advisable to use facilities in George Town before arriving.
The pathways can be a bit tricky and uneven, especially for the elderly. While the main viewing areas are accessible, some parts of the bluff might be challenging.
Besides fairy penguins, you might spot wallabies and various sea birds along the bluff.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at the lighthouse. You'll find cafes and restaurants in the nearby town of George Town.
Yes, there are scenic spots where you can enjoy a picnic. Remember to take all your rubbish with you.
George Town offers a few pubs and cafes serving local fare. It's a good place to grab a meal before or after visiting Low Head.
Typically, there are no regular food trucks or vendors at the lighthouse site. It's best to come prepared with your own snacks or plan to eat in George Town.
You can find classic pub meals, casual cafe fare, and sometimes local Tasmanian specialties in George Town.
📸 📸 Photography
The lighthouse itself, the coastline, the beach with wood sculptures, and the penguin colony (from a distance and without flash) offer great photo opportunities. +1
Drone regulations can vary. Always check current CASA rules and local restrictions before flying a drone in the area.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light for landscape photography. The golden hour can be particularly stunning.
Yes, but never use flash photography, as it can harm the penguins. Maintain a respectful distance.
While not specifically advertised, local guides or photography enthusiasts might offer specialized tours. It's worth inquiring locally.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the lighthouse itself is a historical marvel, the real stars for kids are the penguins and the chance to discover the unique wood sculptures on the beach. Tips for families: Book a penguin tour for the best viewing experience and expert guidance. Be prepared for potential wind and bring snacks, as dining options are limited on-site. Consider visiting Platypus House in nearby George Town as a weatherproof alternative or addition, especially for younger children or if the weather turns.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
The chance to witness the fairy penguins returning at dusk adds a touch of magic to the experience. Recommendations: Consider booking a stay in the lighthouse keeper's quarters for a truly immersive and romantic experience. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the bluff, explore the unique beach sculptures, and savor the tranquility of this historic coastal gem.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The rugged coastline, dramatic waves, and the unique wood sculptures on the beach offer diverse photographic opportunities. Key photo ops: Capture the lighthouse against the vast ocean backdrop, photograph the textures of the driftwood sculptures, and, with extreme care and respect, attempt to photograph the fairy penguins at dusk (remembering no flash). Drone pilots might find spectacular aerial shots, but always adhere to regulations.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Low Head Lighthouse
Today, while visitors cannot typically access the interior of the operational lighthouse, its presence remains a powerful symbol of maritime history. The surrounding bluff offers a glimpse into the past, with the lighthouse standing as a testament to the region's seafaring heritage. The historic lighthouse keeper's quarters are available for overnight stays, offering a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the site's legacy.
The lighthouse's strategic location also means it plays a role in modern navigation, with its signal visible up to 43 kilometers out at sea. Its enduring presence continues to be a point of pride for the local community and a significant draw for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Encountering the Fairy Penguins
To ensure the penguins' well-being, it's crucial to follow responsible wildlife viewing practices. This means keeping noise levels low, avoiding sudden movements, and never using flash photography, as it can disorient and harm them. Guided tours are highly recommended as they are led by knowledgeable guides who understand penguin behavior and ensure minimal disturbance.
While penguins can sometimes be seen from the general viewing areas, a guided tour significantly increases your chances of a memorable sighting and provides valuable insights into their lives. The best time to see them is typically around dusk as they waddle ashore to their burrows.
Exploring the Coastal Charm
A unique discovery often mentioned by visitors is the presence of intriguing wood sculptures found along a secluded beach. These artistic creations add an unexpected and delightful element to the landscape, offering a sense of local artistry and whimsy.
The peaceful and refreshing atmosphere of Low Head makes it an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility. The drive to Low Head itself, through the picturesque Northern Tasmania region, is also part of the experience, with many travelers enjoying the scenic journey.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit