The Best Guide to Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse That You Can’t Miss
Exploring the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse is a must when visiting Western Australia.
This guide covers everything you need to know, from the stunning views to the rich history.
Having spent a week in Western Australia, including a day at Cape Naturaliste, I was in awe of the lighthouse tour.
The panoramic coastal views are a sight to behold, and the nearby trails are a treasure trove of natural beauty.
It’s a perfect destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the beauty and history of this iconic landmark.
Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse Facts
Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse stands at 20 metres high, built in 1903.
It’s one of the shortest lighthouses on the mainland, but its position on a high bluff gives it an impressive range of visibility.
The lighthouse uses a first-order Fresnel lens, a marvel of engineering for its time. Fully automated in 1996, it still plays a crucial role in guiding ships along the treacherous coast.
The site offers panoramic views of Geographe Bay, perfect for whale watching during migration season.
Guided tours highlight its rich maritime history, making it a fascinating visit.
Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse Opening Hours
The Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry for tours usually at 4:30 PM.
These convenient hours allow ample time to explore and enjoy the scenic views.
While the hours may vary slightly during public holidays, a quick check ahead will ensure a smooth visit.
Guided tours are available throughout the day, offering insights into the lighthouse’s history and stunning surroundings.
The visitor centre also provides additional information and amenities, making your visit a breeze.
Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse Entry Fee
Visiting the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse is a journey into history and a contribution to its preservation.
There is a heritage pass that allows exploration of the grounds and Lightkeepers Cottage at the following price:
- Adult: $5.00
- Seniors: $4.00
- Child (4 – 16yrs): Free
The entry fee, which supports the maintenance and operations of this historic site, is a small price to pay for the experience it offers.
Tickets can be purchased on-site or online, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable visit.
Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse Map
A detailed map makes finding your way to Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse straightforward.
The lighthouse is located near Dunsborough in the Margaret River region, easily accessible by car.
The map highlights key points of interest, including the visitor centre, parking areas, and nearby walking trails.
These trails offer scenic routes through beautiful coastal landscapes. Maps are available at the visitor centre and online, ensuring visitors can easily plan their visit and explore the surroundings.
For a detailed map, check my maps here.
Busselton to Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse
The drive from Busselton to Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse takes about 40 minutes and covers a distance of roughly 38 kilometres.
The route takes you along the picturesque Bussell Highway, passing through charming coastal towns and scenic landscapes.
Once you reach Dunsborough, follow signs to Cape Naturaliste Road, which leads directly to the lighthouse.
Enjoy the stunning views and stop at local cafes or beaches. It’s an easy and beautiful drive, perfect for a day trip exploring the lighthouse and its surroundings.
Things to do at Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse
Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse offers a variety of activities for visitors:
✅ Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse Fully-Guided Tour
Turning a visit to Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse into an immersive journey is easy with the 30-minute fully-guided tour.
I’ve enjoyed this tour and learned fascinating facts, such as that it is the last fully manned lighthouse in Australia and has been without power since 1978.
The tour runs from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM, fitting perfectly into any schedule.
Adults pay around $16, while children under 17 enter for $8. Booking in advance guarantees a spot.
The panoramic views from the top are breathtaking, so keep your camera ready.
Also, if you purchase the Ngilgi Cave tour, you get the lighthouse tour for only $8 per person for adults.
✅ Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse Walk
Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse is surrounded by several scenic walking trails that are perfect for nature enthusiasts.
The famous Cape to Cape Track begins here. It offers stunning coastal views as it winds through the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park.
Photo Credit: Tourism Australia
Shorter trails like the Bunker Bay Loop and the Whale Lookout Trail provide breathtaking ocean views and opportunities to spot local wildlife, including migrating whales.
The Sugarloaf Rock Trail is another favourite, leading to a dramatic rock formation and spectacular sunset views.
These trails cater to all fitness levels and are ideal for leisurely walks or more adventurous hikes.
✅ Whale Watching
The observation platform at Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.
It’s an ideal spot for whale watching during the migration season, usually from June to November.
From this vantage point, you can see humpback whales, southern right whales, and occasionally blue whales as they journey along the coast.
The platform also provides stunning vistas of the rugged coastline, nearby islands, and vibrant sunsets.
It’s a perfect place to capture exquisite photographs and immerse yourself in the area’s natural beauty.
✅ Maritime Displays
Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse features several historical displays that offer a glimpse into the region’s rich maritime history.
The lighthouse and its surroundings contain exhibits showcasing old navigational tools, lighthouse keeper’s equipment, and stories of shipwrecks along this rugged coastline.
The guided tour provides detailed insights into the lives of the lighthouse keepers and significant maritime events.
These displays and narratives make the visit both educational and captivating, giving a deeper understanding of the area’s heritage.
✅ Photography
Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse is a photographer’s dream, offering stunning views of the rugged coastline and the historic lighthouse.
Capture the dramatic cliffs and the expansive Indian Ocean with perfect lighting conditions throughout the day.
The panoramic views from the observation platform provide a unique vantage point for breathtaking shots, especially during sunrise and sunset.
The surrounding walking trails offer diverse landscapes, from coastal vistas to lush bushland, ideal for nature and wildlife photography.
Whether you’re an amateur or a professional, the lighthouse and its surroundings provide endless opportunities for beautiful photographs.
✅ Bird Watching
Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse is a haven for bird watchers, with its diverse natural habitat attracting various bird species.
The surrounding coastal bushland and cliffs are home to birds like the New Holland honeyeater, silvereye, and the endangered red-tailed tropicbird.
Seasonal migrations bring seabirds such as shearwaters and albatrosses, providing a dynamic bird-watching experience.
The walking trails and observation points around the lighthouse offer excellent opportunities to spot and photograph these birds in their natural environment, making it a rewarding activity for enthusiasts of all levels.
FAQ: Guide to Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse
How Tall Is Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse?
The Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse in Western Australia is approximately 20 meters (about 66 feet) tall.
How Many Steps Are In Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse?
The Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, located at the southwestern tip of Australia, has 176 steps to the top.
How Difficult Is The Cape To Cape Walk?
The Cape to Cape Trail in Western Australia is moderately challenging, spanning 135 kilometres over 5-7 days. It features diverse terrains, such as sandy beaches, rocky coastlines, and forest trails, and is suitable for those with a decent fitness level.
Where Do I Start The Cape To Cape Walk?
The track can be started at either end—Cape Naturaliste in the north or Cape Leeuwin in the south. Most people choose to start from Cape Naturaliste as it generally involves easier walking at the beginning, allowing walkers to ease into the hike.
Can You Do Cape To Cape In 3 days?
Yes, you can do the Cape to Cape Track in 3 days, but it’s challenging. The track is about 123 kilometres long, so completing it in 3 days means covering over 40 kilometres each day. This requires good fitness and preparation. For a more leisurely experience, consider extending your hike to 5-7 days.
What Is The Tallest Lighthouse In Mainland Australia?
The tallest lighthouse on mainland Australia is the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, which stands at 39 meters (about 128 feet) tall.
The Wrap-Up: Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse Guide
Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse offers a rich experience with its guided tours, stunning observation platform, scenic walking trails, and engaging maritime displays.
Visitors can enjoy panoramic views, bird watching, and capturing beautiful photographs. Entry fees and heritage passes ensure a well-maintained site while providing a memorable visit.
To continue exploring the Margaret River region, check out my other posts for more insights and travel tips.
