Light to Light Walk
A spectacular coastal hike through dramatic landscapes, featuring lighthouses, beaches, and abundant wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Whale migration season
Light to Light Walk
Best Time
Whale migration season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A spectacular coastal hike through dramatic landscapes, featuring lighthouses, beaches, and abundant wildlife.
"The walk itself is magnificent, but with whales passing by it's even better."
🧭 North to South Recommended
Walking north to south offers distant views of Cape Green Lighthouse in the second half. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Your Own Water
Rainwater is available at some campsites but should be used carefully. Carry ample water. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Green Cape Lighthouse
Southern end of the walk
Explore the rich history of this iconic lighthouse and enjoy panoramic coastal views.
Whale Migration Spectacle
Coastal viewpoints
Witness majestic whales migrating along the coast during September – an unforgettable experience.
Dramatic Coastal Landscapes
Various points along the trail
Marvel at colourful rock formations, crashing ocean waves, and diverse terrain from heath to forest.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Campsites Early
Updated Maps Are Crucial
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧭 North to South Recommended
Walking north to south offers distant views of Cape Green Lighthouse in the second half. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Your Own Water
Rainwater is available at some campsites but should be used carefully. Carry ample water. :droplet:
🏕️ Tent Platform Issues
Wooden platforms at Mowarry/Hegartyys may not suit all hiking tents. Check compatibility. :tent:
🚗 Car Shuttles Needed
Arrange cars at both ends for a point-to-point hike, involving a half-hour drive on unsealed roads. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
🧭 North to South Recommended
Walking north to south offers distant views of Cape Green Lighthouse in the second half. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Your Own Water
Rainwater is available at some campsites but should be used carefully. Carry ample water. :droplet:
🏕️ Tent Platform Issues
Wooden platforms at Mowarry/Hegartyys may not suit all hiking tents. Check compatibility. :tent:
🚗 Car Shuttles Needed
Arrange cars at both ends for a point-to-point hike, involving a half-hour drive on unsealed roads. :car:
⚠️ Watch for Fallen Trees
Some fallen trees may still be on the path, adding to the natural beauty. :evergreen_tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Light to Light Walk is celebrated for its magnificent and dramatic coastal scenery, with visitors praising the rebuilt trail that closely follows the coast. The opportunity to witness whale migrations in September is a significant highlight. However, some campers have noted issues with the design of the wooden tent platforms at the new campsites, and outdated maps can be a point of frustration.
"The walk is simply magnificent but the walk in campgrounds at Mowarry and Hegarty rely on wooden platforms to pitch your tent with rings to tie off on. They are not suitable for a range of hiking tents which don’t fit the space between the rings and can’t be tied off. They need adjustable rings or slanting pipes to put pegs in."
Jonathan Nicholl
"The trail has been rebuilt in 2025. It follows the new path, well defined, much closer to the coast. It goes via multiple beaches and cliff tops.
Watch out for the topographic maps. All the ones created before mid 2025 are not up to date.
For the renewed Light to Light Walk there are two new campsites built: Mowarry and Hegartys. Both with toilet facility and wooden platform to put your tent on. Both campsites are bookable on NPWS website and not cheap.
In September, when we walked, it was a whale migrating season. What a spectacle to watch! The walk itself is magnificent, but with whales passing by it's even better."
Przemyslaw Pluciennik
"We started our hike at Saltwater Creek Campsite since the track from Boyds Tower is closed. Stayed overnight here. Then another night at Bittangabee. Enjoyed an afternoon on the beach. The ocean was chilly. Then finally to Green Cape Lighthouse. Colourful rock landscapes, crashing ocean and wildlife... the flies got a bit crazy as we approached GC. Still alot of fallen trees on the way... did add to the beauty though. We had cars at both ends. (Half hour drive on unsealed roads) Both Campsites had toilet, rain water (to be carefully used) and BBQ area. The Lighthouse carries alot of history. Worthwhile weekend. We enjoyed it!"
Lucy Gela
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The walk can be started from Boyd's Tower or Saltwater Creek Campsite, depending on track closures. Access often involves driving on unsealed roads, so a 4WD might be beneficial. Plan for car shuttles if doing a point-to-point hike.
Public transport options are very limited. It's generally recommended to have your own vehicle or arrange a private transfer.
Mowarry and Hegartyys campsites have road access, making them convenient for support vehicles or drop-offs.
Yes, you can start from Green Cape Lighthouse and walk south, though some prefer the north-to-south direction for lighthouse views.
Parking is available at designated trailheads like Boyd's Tower and Saltwater Creek Campsite.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the national park is free, but booking is required for the new campsites at Mowarry and Hegartyys via the NPWS website.
Camping fees apply for the new campsites and are noted as 'not cheap' by visitors. Check the NPWS website for current pricing.
No specific permits are required for day hiking on the Light to Light Walk, but always check for any park alerts or closures.
While the walk is accessible anytime, the lighthouse itself may have specific opening hours for tours or access. It's best to check with NSW National Parks for details.
It is strongly advised to book campsites in advance online, as they are bookable and likely to fill up, especially during peak seasons.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The walk is considered satisfying and traverses varied terrain. It's a significant hike, so a good level of fitness is recommended.
The full walk can be completed over a weekend, with overnight camping options. Day walks are also popular, such as walking to Saltwater Creek and back.
Visitors have reported seeing whales during migration season, as well as other wildlife along the trail.
Yes, the new campsites at Mowarry and Hegartyys are equipped with toilet facilities.
The landscape varies from open heath and forest to rocky shorelines and beaches. The trail has been recently rebuilt and is well-defined.
🍽️ 💧 Water & Food
Rainwater is available at the new campsites, but it's crucial to use it carefully and supplement with your own carried water.
There are no facilities for purchasing food along the walk. You must carry all your food and supplies with you.
Yes, the campsites at Mowarry and Hegartyys are equipped with BBQ areas.
Pack non-perishable food items and ensure you carry enough water for the duration of your hike, especially if camping.
It's not advisable to rely on natural water sources for drinking. Always carry sufficient water or a reliable water filter if you plan to use natural sources.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic coastline, colourful rock landscapes, crashing ocean, and Green Cape Lighthouse offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for landscape photography, with golden hour casting a beautiful glow.
Cliff tops and beaches along the route offer excellent vantage points. The area around Green Cape Lighthouse is particularly scenic.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery, and a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions. :camerawithflash:
Drone usage is subject to national park regulations. Check with NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for current rules and restrictions before flying. :drone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Ensure you pack plenty of snacks, water, and sun protection. The new campsites at Mowarry and Hegartyys offer basic facilities, which can be helpful for families needing amenities. Always check the latest trail conditions and be mindful of the terrain, especially if you have strollers or very young walkers.
💰 Budget Travelers
Carrying your own food and water is essential, as there are no services along the trail. This also helps keep costs down. If you're planning a multi-day hike, consider the cost of booking the campsites and factor in fuel if you're driving your own vehicle.
🚶 Solo Adventurers
It's always advisable to inform someone of your hiking plans, including your intended route and expected return time. Ensure you have adequate supplies of water and food, and carry a reliable communication device. The stunning coastal scenery and the possibility of wildlife sightings provide ample companionship.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Renewed Trail
The trail is now well-defined, making it easier to follow. However, the varied terrain, including heath, forest, and rocky shorelines, still requires sturdy footwear and a good level of fitness. The proximity to the coast means you'll be treated to constant ocean vistas and the sound of crashing waves.
When planning your hike, consider the direction. Many recommend walking north to south, as this allows for rewarding distant views of Cape Green Lighthouse during the latter half of the walk. This perspective can enhance the sense of arrival and accomplishment.
Camping and Facilities
Booking for these campsites is mandatory and can be done through the NPWS website. Visitors have described the campsites as 'not cheap,' so factor this into your budget. The availability of these bookable sites means planning ahead is crucial, especially during popular seasons like whale migration.
Beyond the new sites, some older camping options with road access are also available, which can be useful for support crews or those who prefer easier access. While rainwater is provided at the new campsites, it's always wise to use it judiciously and carry sufficient personal water supplies. BBQ areas are also available for use.
Wildlife Encounters
Beyond marine life, the diverse landscapes of heath, forest, and rocky shores support a variety of terrestrial animals. While specific sightings can vary, keep an eye out for native birds and other fauna that inhabit the area. The natural beauty of the surroundings makes any wildlife encounter a special moment.
Remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and avoid feeding or disturbing them. The goal is to appreciate the natural environment and its inhabitants without impacting their behaviour or well-being.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit