Wollongong Breakwater Lighthouse
A historic 1872 wrought-iron lighthouse on a breakwater, offering stunning coastal views and a peaceful escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Wollongong Breakwater Lighthouse
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 1872 wrought-iron lighthouse on a breakwater, offering stunning coastal views and a peaceful escape.
"A charming landmark capturing the spirit of the coast, offering peace, history, and stunning coastal views."
Free Entry & Parking
:ticket: Entry is free! Plenty of parking nearby, making it an accessible spot for everyone.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
:athletic_shoe: The breakwater path is uneven. Sturdy shoes are recommended for a safe and enjoyable walk.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Lighthouse
End of the breakwater
A charming, historic wrought-iron beacon offering stunning ocean vistas and a sense of timelessness.
Coastal Walk & Ocean Views
Breakwater path
Feel the sea breeze and hear the waves crash on this picturesque walk to the lighthouse.
Photography Hotspot
Surrounding breakwater and coastline
Capture stunning shots of the lighthouse against the ocean, especially at sunrise, sunset, or during a full moon.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Safety First on the Breakwater
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry & Parking
:ticket: Entry is free! Plenty of parking nearby, making it an accessible spot for everyone.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
:athletic_shoe: The breakwater path is uneven. Sturdy shoes are recommended for a safe and enjoyable walk.
Whale Watching Spot
:whale: Keep an eye out for migrating humpback whales, especially during their southern journey.
Capture the Moonrise
:moon: It's a stunning spot to watch the full moon rise over the horizon.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry & Parking
:ticket: Entry is free! Plenty of parking nearby, making it an accessible spot for everyone.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
:athletic_shoe: The breakwater path is uneven. Sturdy shoes are recommended for a safe and enjoyable walk.
Whale Watching Spot
:whale: Keep an eye out for migrating humpback whales, especially during their southern journey.
Capture the Moonrise
:moon: It's a stunning spot to watch the full moon rise over the horizon.
Nearby Cafes & Toilets
:coffee: Cafes and toilets are within walking distance, adding convenience to your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Wollongong Breakwater Lighthouse as a charming, historic landmark offering stunning ocean views and a peaceful escape. Its free access, ample parking, and picturesque setting make it a popular spot for walks, photography, and whale watching. Some caution is advised during rough weather.
"A historical place in the city area with plenty of parking. It's more popular during the weekend. Entry is free. Toilets nearby. Plenty of cafes and restaurants within walking distance. As we did, you can see humpback whales migrating south. Also, 4 day World triathlon championship held here during our visit"
s vivekananda
"The Wollongong Breakwater Lighthouse is a charming landmark that captures the spirit of the coast. Standing at the end of the breakwater, this small but elegant lighthouse has been guiding ships since the 19th century and remains one of Wollongong’s most photographed icons. With its simple white tower set against the endless blue of the ocean, it’s a place that feels both historic and timeless.
🌊 Ocean Views & Atmosphere
The walk out to the lighthouse is one of the highlights. Surrounded on both sides by the rolling waves of the Pacific, you can feel the fresh sea breeze on your face and hear the rhythmic crash of the surf against the rocks. It’s the kind of place where the sound of the wind and the ocean become part of the experience, adding to the sense of calm and freedom that comes with standing at the edge of the sea.
🍃 A Peaceful Escape
Though it’s only a short walk from the city, the breakwater feels like a world apart. The view stretches out endlessly across the ocean, while behind you the curve of Wollongong’s coastline frames the scene. It’s a beautiful spot to pause, take a breath, and simply enjoy the natural rhythm of sea and sky.
⸻
✅ In short: The Wollongong Breakwater Lighthouse is a wonderful place to enjoy the ocean and the wind—a small but iconic beacon set in a location that offers peace, history, and stunning coastal views."
Min Min
"The short old lighthouse was closed for a couple of days due to heavy wind, to avoid any potential risks.
There are plenty of nice spots to take pictures and it's a stunning view when it's a full moon. Even you can watch it rise on the horizon from here as well."
angshu bikash
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The lighthouse is located at the end of the breakwater in Wollongong Harbour. It's easily accessible by car with plenty of nearby parking. You can also walk or cycle to the harbour area.
Yes, there is ample parking available near the Wollongong Harbour and breakwater area, making it convenient for visitors.
Absolutely! A walk along the breakwater to the lighthouse is a highlight, offering beautiful ocean views.
While direct public transport to the lighthouse itself is limited, you can take buses or trains to Wollongong city centre and then walk or take a short taxi/rideshare to the harbour.
Many visitors enjoy exploring the coast by car, stopping at various points like the Sea Cliff Bridge and Wollongong Harbour. The lighthouse is a key stop on this coastal exploration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Wollongong Breakwater Lighthouse and the surrounding breakwater is completely free.
The lighthouse is an external landmark, and the breakwater is accessible at all times. However, it may be temporarily closed during periods of very high winds or swells for safety.
No, tickets are not required as entry is free. You can visit anytime, though checking weather conditions is advised.
No, the walk along the breakwater to the lighthouse is free and open to the public.
The lighthouse is inactive and not open for interior tours. Visitors can admire it from the outside and walk along the breakwater.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden hour light. A full moon night is also a popular time for unique shots. Weekday mornings are less crowded for unobstructed photos.
You can capture classic lighthouse shots, coastal landscapes, ocean views, and even wildlife like migrating whales. It's also a popular spot for wedding photos.
The entire breakwater offers great vantage points. Experiment with different angles, including shots with the city skyline in the background.
Drone regulations vary. Always check current Australian aviation rules and local council bylaws before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the lighthouse and its surroundings. A tripod is useful for low-light conditions like sunrise, sunset, or moonlit shots.
🎫 🌊 Onsite Experience
Enjoy a scenic walk along the breakwater, take photos, watch for whales, and soak in the coastal atmosphere. It's a peaceful spot for relaxation.
The breakwater is generally safe, but caution is advised during high swells or strong winds, especially with children.
There are no facilities directly at the lighthouse, but public toilets and cafes are located nearby in Wollongong Harbour.
Yes, the breakwater is a popular spot for fishing, with various fish species available during the season. Be mindful of safety during high swells.
Built in 1872, it's one of the oldest lighthouses in the region, designed to guide ships into Wollongong Harbour. It was restored in 2002. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Wollongong Harbour and the surrounding city area offer numerous cafes and restaurants within walking distance of the lighthouse.
While there are no designated picnic areas on the breakwater itself, you can enjoy a picnic in the nearby parks and harbour areas.
Wollongong offers a diverse culinary scene, from casual cafes to fine dining, with options for seafood, international cuisine, and local favorites.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited on the breakwater itself, though cafes and toilets are nearby. It's a great opportunity to teach kids about lighthouses, maritime history, and the power of the ocean. Keep an eye out for whales during migration seasons – a truly memorable experience for young ones!
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring your wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the scene and a tripod for those crucial low-light shots. Don't forget to explore different angles and compositions, perhaps incorporating the nearby harbour or the city skyline. The lighthouse is also a popular spot for wedding photography, so you might capture some beautiful moments.
🎣 Anglers & Outdoor Lovers
Beyond fishing, it's a fantastic location for a leisurely walk and enjoying the fresh sea air. The panoramic ocean views and the sound of the waves provide a serene backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts looking to unwind and connect with nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Beacon of History
Its simple yet elegant design, a cylindrical tower with a lantern room, makes it a picturesque sight against the ocean backdrop. The lighthouse's presence on the breakwater offers a unique perspective on maritime navigation and the engineering feats of the era. Visitors can appreciate its historical context while enjoying the modern-day tranquility of its surroundings.
Experiencing the Coastal Charm
From the breakwater, the views are expansive. The endless horizon stretches out before you, while behind, the curve of Wollongong's coastline provides a stunning natural frame. It's an ideal spot to pause, reflect, and connect with the natural rhythm of the sea and sky. Many visitors find it a deeply calming and rejuvenating place.
Photography Tips for the Lighthouse
Consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the lighthouse, the breakwater, and the expansive ocean views. A tripod is highly recommended for low-light photography, ensuring sharp images during dawn, dusk, or moonlit scenes. Experiment with different angles, including shots that incorporate the city skyline or the rugged coastline for added depth and interest.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit