Cape Otway Lighthouse

Cape Otway Lightstation is the oldest, surviving lighthouse in mainland Australia.

The light, which has been in continuous operation since 1848, is perched on towering sea cliffs where Bass Strait and the Southern Ocean collide. For thousands of immigrants, after many months at sea, Cape Otway was their first sight of land after leaving Europe.

History

The entire nation of Australia was left reeling after more than 350 lives were lost when the Cataraqui founded on reef off King Island in September 1845.

In the face of public outcry, newspaper editorial comments, and widespread condemnation, the New South Wales Government was forced to commission a string of lighthouses in Bass Strait. Cape Otway soon became a favoured site, but decades of logistical challenges lay ahead for the builders, lightkeepers, assistants and their families - not to mention the scores of people who were shipwrecked after the light was operational.

Visiting

The Lightstation is about 12km off the Great Ocean Road.

As you drive to the southern edge of Australia, keep a look out for koalas on the Lighthouse Road - youre guaranteed to see them! If you have trouble spotting them, just find some people who have pulled over and are staring up at the trees!

RACV VicRoads Country Street Directory: Map 101 A7
And for those of you with a GPS: S 38.8568�, E 143.5118�

A visit to the Cape Otway lighthouse is more than just a trip through history! Take a day trip to the lighthouse or stay for a night or weekend and make the most of the spectacular ocean views, glorious sunsets, close encounters with koalas, and the sound of the ocean will be among the highlights of your stay in our heritage accommodation.

Escape to Cape Otway Lightstation and experience the tranquility of a world-class destination, with stunning views of the Southern Ocean and Australias most significant lighthouse.

-:- Spectacular views across Bass Strait & the Southern Ocean
-:- Climb the 1848 Lighthouse
-:- Whale watch from the Lighthouse balcony (Jun-Oct)
-:- Tour the Telegraph Station
-:- Visit our secret World War Two Radar Bunker
-:- Immerse yourself in history in our small museum
-:- Watch our documentary about the history of the Lighthouse & Great Ocean Road, see historic photos in our Cafe gallery
-:- Explore the heritage workshops & Lightkeepers quarters
-:- Aboriginal Cultural Site
-:- Enjoy lunch & snacks, tea & coffee in the Lightkeepers Cafe (with free babyccinos for the little ones)
-:- Picnic in the Lightstation grounds
... and youre almost guaranteed to see koalas on the way to the Lightstation, so keep your eyes peeled!

Admission

Adults: $18.50
Concession: $16.50
Children (school students): $7.50
Family (2 adults 4 children): $46.50
Pre-school children: Free

Discounted tickets can be pre-purchased from Apollo Bay and Lorne Visitor Information Centres, and the Otway Fly.

The Lightstation is open every day, except Christmas Day, from 9am-5pm.

Time: 9am-5pm