Cape Moreton Lighthouse, Brisbane - a white and brown lighthouse with a blue sky in the background
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Cape Moreton Lighthouse Brisbane

4.8
·193 reviews·Moreton Island, Australia

Historic lighthouse offering breathtaking ocean views and prime whale watching opportunities on Moreton Island.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

June - October mornings

Prime whale watching season

CrowdMedium
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Cape Moreton Lighthouse, Brisbane - a white and brown lighthouse with a blue sky in the background

Cape Moreton Lighthouse Brisbane

Best Time

June - October mornings

Prime whale watching season

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic lighthouse offering breathtaking ocean views and prime whale watching opportunities on Moreton Island.

4.8
(193 reviews)

"Spectacular spot to look down into the ocean and check out whales during the right time of the year!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 4WD is Non-Negotiable

You absolutely need a 4WD to get to the lighthouse. Soft sand tracks are no joke!

🐳 Whale Watching Hotspot

Visit between June and October for incredible whale and dolphin sightings right from the lighthouse.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cape Moreton Lighthouse Views

Cape Moreton Lighthouse Views

Cape Moreton

Panoramic ocean vistas and potential whale sightings from this historic lighthouse. A truly breathtaking experience.

Whale & Dolphin Watching

Whale & Dolphin Watching

Ocean surrounding Cape Moreton

Witness majestic whales during migration season and playful dolphins year-round from this prime coastal viewpoint.

Moreton Island History & Information Centre

Moreton Island History & Information Centre

Near the lighthouse

Discover the rich maritime history and local ecology through well-presented exhibits in the information house.

Planning Your Visit

4WD Essential for Lighthouse Access

To reach the iconic Cape Moreton Lighthouse, a 4WD vehicle is a must. The sandy tracks on Moreton Island can be challenging, so ensure your vehicle is equipped and you're comfortable driving on sand. Consider a guided tour if you're not experienced.

Whale Watching Season is Prime Time

Visit during the whale migration season (June to October) for a chance to spot humpback whales from the lighthouse vantage point. The information centre provides excellent historical context and wildlife spotting tips.

Best Times

When
June - October mornings
Why
Prime whale watching season
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays, early afternoon
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Would you spend the night adventuring around this Island in Queensland? 📍Tangalooma Island Resort, QLD #australia #travelaustralia #PlacesToVisit #queensland #brisbane #thingstodo #travel
@joslaloh
240.5K likes • 2.4M views

🚗 4WD is Non-Negotiable

You absolutely need a 4WD to get to the lighthouse. Soft sand tracks are no joke! Reddit

🐳 Whale Watching Hotspot

Visit between June and October for incredible whale and dolphin sightings right from the lighthouse. Reddit

one of the BEST activities while on moreton island! 🏄🏼‍♀️ PSA: you will be covered in sand for DAYS 🥲 #sandboarding #moretonisland #australia #travel #traveldiaries #viral #australiatiktok
@izziegracex29
10.2K likes • 132.3K views
A hidden gem so close to the heart of Brissy! What amazing footage from IG/ theverticalpixel 📍 Moreton Island / Mulgumpin #moretonisland #brisbane #queensland #australia #travel #exploreaustralia
@frasers.travels
6K likes • 126.6K views

🚶‍♀️ Easy Walk to the Top

The walk to the lighthouse summit is manageable with stairs, offering spectacular views. Reddit

📚 Informative History Hub

Don't miss the information house; it's packed with fascinating local history and ecology. Reddit

reddit.com

Cape Moreton Lighthouse

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 4WD is Non-Negotiable

You absolutely need a 4WD to get to the lighthouse. Soft sand tracks are no joke! Reddit

🐳 Whale Watching Hotspot

Visit between June and October for incredible whale and dolphin sightings right from the lighthouse. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Easy Walk to the Top

The walk to the lighthouse summit is manageable with stairs, offering spectacular views. Reddit

📚 Informative History Hub

Don't miss the information house; it's packed with fascinating local history and ecology. Reddit

📸 Breathtaking Coastal Views

The views down Braydon Beach and the surrounding ocean are simply magnificent. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(193 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the spectacular, panoramic views from Cape Moreton Lighthouse, with many highlighting the incredible opportunities for whale and dolphin watching, especially during migration season. The well-presented information centre and the manageable walk to the top are also frequently praised. However, the necessity of a 4WD vehicle for access is a significant consideration for many.

"Spectacular spot to look down into the ocean and check out whales during the right time of the year! There are some picnic tables and a public toilet as well.

Also a fabulous view down Braydon Beach.

Track in is soft but accessible for a 4x4."

Michael McRoberts

"The short walk to the lighthouse is magnificent. We saw dolphins and whales swimming close by.
The information house near the lighthouse is excellent! So well presented!"

Jayne Setford

"Spectacular views from the top next to the lighthouse. Informative boards on the history of the area around the walking route. Also a nice bit of info on the history of the area. Need a 4WD to get to the lighthouse (as with most places on the island). Definitely worth a visit while you are on Moreton Island!"

Dandre Nel

What People Like

Spectacular ocean views
Whale and dolphin sightings
Informative history centre

What People Dislike

Requires 4WD access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

To reach Cape Moreton Lighthouse, you'll first need to take a ferry from Brisbane to Moreton Island (Tangalooma Island Resort is a common departure point).TikTok From there, a 4WD vehicle is essential to navigate the sandy tracks to the lighthouse. The journey involves beach driving and can be challenging, so ensure your vehicle is suitable and you have experience with sand driving. Alternatively, consider a guided 4WD tour that includes the lighthouse.

Yes, a 4WD vehicle is absolutely necessary to access Cape Moreton Lighthouse. The tracks on Moreton Island are predominantly soft sand, and standard vehicles will get stuck. Reddit

While you can drive most of the way to the lighthouse with a 4WD, there's a short walk with stairs to reach the very top for the best views. Reddit

Yes, several tour operators offer 4WD tours of Moreton Island that include a visit to Cape Moreton Lighthouse. This is a great option if you don't have your own 4WD or are unfamiliar with driving on sand.

Ferries depart from Brisbane (like the Tangalooma Flyer) and take approximately 75 minutes to reach Moreton Island. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are no specific entry tickets required for Cape Moreton Lighthouse itself. However, you will need to pay for the ferry to Moreton Island and have a registered 4WD vehicle. National park fees may also apply for driving on the island.

The lighthouse grounds are generally accessible during daylight hours. The information centre may have specific operating times, which are usually detailed on local Moreton Island tourism websites.

The information centre near the lighthouse is typically free to enter. It offers valuable insights into the area's history and ecology. Reddit

While the lighthouse structure itself might be visible, access to the grounds and information centre is usually restricted to daylight hours. It's best to plan your visit during the day.

The main restriction is the requirement for a 4WD vehicle. Always be mindful of the environment and any posted signage regarding access and safety.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

At Cape Moreton Lighthouse, you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the ocean, spot whales and dolphins (especially during migration season), explore the informative history centre, and take in the scenery of Braydon Beach. Reddit+1

You have a great chance of seeing whales during their annual migration (June-October) and dolphins swimming close to shore. Reddit+1

Yes, there are picnic tables and public toilets available near the lighthouse, making it a convenient spot for a break. Reddit

Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the views, visit the information centre, and soak in the atmosphere. If you're whale watching, you might want to stay longer.

The walk to the top of the lighthouse area involves stairs and is generally considered manageable for most visitors. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The best photo opportunities include the lighthouse itself against the ocean backdrop, panoramic shots of the coastline and Braydon Beach, and capturing any wildlife sightings like whales or dolphins. TikTok

Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Midday can be harsh, but the dramatic ocean views are still impressive.

Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check current Australian aviation rules and any local restrictions for Moreton Island National Park before flying a drone.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, while a telephoto lens is useful for wildlife photography (whales and dolphins). A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water.

The area around the lighthouse offers multiple viewpoints. The path leading up to the lighthouse provides excellent angles, and the surrounding clifftops offer sweeping vistas.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cape Moreton Lighthouse offers a fantastic family outing, combining stunning natural beauty with educational opportunities. The short, stair-climbed walk to the lighthouse is manageable for most children, and the panoramic views are sure to captivate them. Keep an eye out for dolphins playing in the water – a guaranteed hit with younger visitors! Reddit

The Information House is a great resource for kids, with engaging displays about the lighthouse's history and the local wildlife. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as facilities are limited. Remember that a 4WD is essential to get there, so consider a family-friendly 4WD tour if you don't have your own vehicle. The chance to see whales during migration season (June-October) is an incredible educational experience for children. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Cape Moreton Lighthouse is a dream location. The iconic lighthouse structure set against the vast ocean provides dramatic compositions, especially during sunrise or sunset. The rugged coastline and the expansive views of Braydon Beach offer endless opportunities for landscape shots. TikTok

During whale migration season (June-October), the chances of capturing incredible wildlife photography are high. Bring a telephoto lens to get close-ups of whales and dolphins. The Information House also offers interesting architectural and historical details for close-up shots. Remember to protect your gear from sand and salt spray, and check for any drone regulations before flying. Reddit

🐋 Wildlife Spotters

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Moreton Island: The 4WD Adventure

Moreton Island, also known as Mulgumpin, is a sand island, meaning its terrain is almost entirely sand. This makes a 4WD vehicle absolutely essential for exploring beyond the immediate resort areas. The tracks can range from firm-packed sand to very soft, deep sand, requiring careful tire pressure management and driving techniques. Many visitors opt for guided 4WD tours for a hassle-free experience, especially if they are not experienced in sand driving. TikTok+1

If you plan to drive yourself, ensure your vehicle is properly equipped with recovery gear (like a snatch strap and shovel) and that you understand how to deflate and reinflate your tires for optimal traction. Popular routes include the track to the Cape Moreton Lighthouse, the desert for sandboarding, and various beach access points. Always check tide times, as some tracks can become impassable at high tide. TikTok

Key takeaway: Don't underestimate the sand! A 4WD is not optional for reaching many of Moreton Island's highlights, including the lighthouse. If in doubt, book a tour. Reddit

Whale Watching Wonders at Cape Moreton

Cape Moreton Lighthouse is a renowned vantage point for observing the annual humpback whale migration. From June to October, these magnificent creatures travel along the Queensland coast, and the waters off Moreton Island are a prime location to witness their journey. Visitors often report seeing whales breaching, playing, and travelling with their calves directly from the lighthouse lookout. Reddit+1

The information centre near the lighthouse often provides insights into whale behaviour and migration patterns, enhancing the viewing experience. Even outside of whale season, the area is known for dolphin sightings, adding to the marine life spectacle. Binoculars can significantly enhance your whale-watching experience, allowing you to observe these giants from a greater distance. Reddit

Pro Tip: Check local whale sighting reports before your visit to gauge activity levels. The sheer scale and grace of the whales make this a truly unforgettable part of visiting Cape Moreton. TikTok

The Historic Significance of Cape Moreton Lighthouse

Erected in 1896, the Cape Moreton Lighthouse stands as a testament to Queensland's maritime history. It was crucial for guiding ships through the treacherous waters of the Coral Sea and along the coast. The lighthouse itself is a beautiful structure, and its presence on this rugged headland adds to the dramatic scenery. Reddit

The Information House adjacent to the lighthouse offers a wealth of knowledge about its construction, the lives of the lighthouse keepers, and the broader history of Moreton Island, including its Indigenous heritage and role in defence. The well-presented displays make learning about the area engaging and accessible for all ages. Reddit

Understanding the lighthouse's past adds a deeper layer to your visit, connecting you to the generations of mariners and keepers who relied on its beam. It’s a reminder of the island’s strategic importance and its enduring connection to the sea. Reddit

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