Cape St George Lighthouse Booderee National Park Jervis Bay Australia
Explore the haunting ruins of a 19th-century lighthouse overlooking dramatic coastal vistas in Booderee National Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Mild weather, fewer crowds
Cape St George Lighthouse Booderee National Park Jervis Bay Australia
Best Time
Mild weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the haunting ruins of a 19th-century lighthouse overlooking dramatic coastal vistas in Booderee National Park.
"This lookout was one of the highlights of our holiday, and to think others live near this!"
🚗 Drive with Care
The 6km gravel road requires slow, cautious driving. :car:
⚠️ Safety First
Be aware of cliff edges and broken glass. Supervise children closely. :warning:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lighthouse Ruins
Cape St. George
Explore the remnants of a 19th-century lighthouse, offering a glimpse into maritime history.
Panoramic Coastal Views
Cliff edges
Breathtaking vistas of the ocean and surrounding coastline, perfect for photography and whale watching.
Vibrant Forestry Drive
Road to the lighthouse
A scenic drive through lush forests that precedes the stunning coastal outlook.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Gravel Road
Respecting the Ruins and Nature
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive with Care
The 6km gravel road requires slow, cautious driving. :car:
⚠️ Safety First
Be aware of cliff edges and broken glass. Supervise children closely. :warning:
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture stunning coastal views and historic ruins. 
🐳 Whale Watching
Visit during winter months for a chance to spot migrating whales. :whale:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive with Care
The 6km gravel road requires slow, cautious driving. :car:
⚠️ Safety First
Be aware of cliff edges and broken glass. Supervise children closely. :warning:
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture stunning coastal views and historic ruins.
🐳 Whale Watching
Visit during winter months for a chance to spot migrating whales. :whale:
🌳 Explore Booderee
Enjoy the park's diverse flora and fauna on your way to the lighthouse.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning coastal views and the historical significance of the lighthouse ruins, calling it a highlight of their Jervis Bay holiday. The scenic drive through vibrant forestry is also frequently praised. However, some note safety concerns regarding unfenced cliff edges and the presence of broken glass, urging caution.
"This place is fabulous 😍
Short stroll from the carpark (roughly 400mts) there is another path that takes you to a cliff slide, but the ruins of the lighthouse are great. No amenities near this site . National Park fees as usual"
Monica Miruzzi
"This lookout was one of the highlights of our holiday, and to think others live near this!
One of the key features to this lookout was the drive, not too far away from Jervis Bay- and before hitting the parking lot, we were met with an influx of vibrant forestry overlooking the Horizons edge.
Upon arrival, we were met with the ruins of the houses that many individuals inhabited. Stone walkways, alternative trails and a picnic bench near the rock pools. Deeper into the ruins, there is a taller lookout you can come across, where we were met with a sea eagle above. Great spot for family photos.
Nearing the edge of the cliffside, there's a small fence barricading you from going further, except it is not wrapped fully around the edge, and making it easy to climb over. This is for parents with adventurous kids to stay cautious of, not to let their kid off-leash and explore, since there are several entry way points to come close to the edge and fall down without anyone noticing.
Despite the exceptional view, it is a hazard- and when going around it myself and to the cliffs edge, there were broken glass particles on the ground. Not a good sign. I took a short panning video of how high we truly were, panning across my feet and the drop below.
A good fact is that going off to the coastal edge of Australia, it is in fact just a huge drop, just like this!"
andreas ivy
"A lovely spot with historic ruins and beautiful views. A drive along a gravel road and a short walk. Information signs need some maintenance but we did manage to see some Whales while admiring the view."
Caitlin Gabriel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The lighthouse is located within Booderee National Park. Access involves a 6km gravel road, which is generally manageable for 2WD vehicles but requires careful driving. Follow signs for Cape St. George Lighthouse from the park entrance. :car:
No, the road is a gravel road for approximately six kilometers. It's advised to drive slowly and cautiously. :road:
Yes, Booderee National Park offers many attractions beyond the lighthouse, including beaches, walking trails, and the Botanic Gardens.
Jervis Bay is best reached by car from Sydney or Canberra. Public transport options are limited. :bus:
Drive slowly and be aware of potential potholes or loose gravel. If it has rained recently, the road might be more challenging. :driving_hand:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a small fee to enter Booderee National Park, which includes access to the lighthouse site. :ticket:
Booderee National Park is generally open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but it's always best to check the official Parks Australia website for the most current hours. :clock1:
Tickets for Booderee National Park can usually be purchased at the entrance station. Advance booking is generally not required for general entry. :computer:
Discounts may be available for concession card holders or families. Check the Parks Australia website for details. :moneywithwings:
The lighthouse ruins are accessible during Booderee National Park's opening hours. It's recommended to visit during daylight for safety and better viewing. :sunrise:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic lighthouse ruins, enjoy panoramic coastal views, and walk along stone pathways. Keep an eye out for sea eagles. :binoculars:
While there are some barricades, they are not fully secured. Exercise extreme caution, especially with children, as there are unfenced drop-offs. :warning:
Yes, there are picnic benches located near the rock pools, offering a pleasant spot to relax and enjoy the surroundings. :picnic_table:
You might spot sea eagles soaring overhead. During winter, it's a prime location for whale watching. :bird:
Yes, there are alternative trails and stone walkways within the ruins area, allowing for exploration of the historic site. :hiking_boot:
📸 📸 Photography
The cliff edges offer dramatic coastal backdrops, while the lighthouse ruins provide historical context. The surrounding forestry also makes for beautiful shots.
Drone usage is subject to Parks Australia regulations. It's essential to check their website for any restrictions or permit requirements before flying. :drone:
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden hour light. Midday can be harsh, but the dramatic coastal scenery is always impressive. :sunriseovermountains:
Visitors have enjoyed capturing the contrast between the historic ruins and the vast ocean, as well as the vibrant green forestry on the drive in. :camera:
Be extremely mindful of your footing and the proximity to cliff edges. Ensure you are not trespassing or damaging any part of the ruins. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, will enhance the dramatic light and shadows. Be mindful of safety when seeking unique angles near the cliffs. 🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts
The coastal environment around the lighthouse offers stunning ocean vistas and the chance to observe marine life. During winter, this is an excellent spot for whale watching. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Cape St. George Lighthouse
The lighthouse was eventually decommissioned in 1910 and subsequently fell into ruin. Today, the remaining stone structures offer a poignant reminder of its past and the maritime challenges faced by early settlers. Visitors can explore the foundations and imagine the lives of the lighthouse keepers who once resided here.
The ruins are a significant historical site within Booderee National Park, offering a unique blend of history and natural beauty. The site also highlights the importance of careful planning in lighthouse placement, as its elevated position ultimately proved to be a disadvantage.
Exploring Booderee National Park
The park is a haven for wildlife, with opportunities to spot kangaroos, wallabies, diverse bird species, and marine life. The drive to the lighthouse itself is part of the experience, winding through vibrant coastal forests that offer glimpses of the ocean.
Remember to pay the park entry fee, which contributes to the conservation and management of this special place. The park's commitment to cultural heritage and environmental preservation makes it a must-visit for anyone exploring the Jervis Bay region.
Safety and Responsible Visiting
It's important to stay on marked paths and respect the historical integrity of the ruins. Avoid climbing on unstable structures or venturing into restricted areas. Responsible tourism ensures that this beautiful and historic site can be enjoyed by future generations.
Always supervise children closely and be aware of your surroundings. Following these simple guidelines will help ensure a safe and memorable visit to this unique Jervis Bay attraction. :warning:
Social
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