Hike to Barrenjoey Lighthouse at Sydney’s Northernmost Point

This stunning day hike on Sydney’s Northern Beaches is the perfect adventure for those looking to break a sweat and be rewarded with extraordinary views from the top.

Quick Facts Barrenjoey Lighthouse

Distance: 2km round trip
Duration: 1 hour
Closest town: Palm Beach

Shot by Robyn Jay via Flickr | License

Quick Overview

Barrenjoey Lighthouse is only an hour from Sydney CBD and is a short but satisfying bushwalk. From the top you’ll get 360° views of Palm Beach, Pittwater, Broken Bay and The Hawkesbury River.

Best of all you’ll have your pick of beaches to choose from for your post-walk swim!

About Barrenjoey Lighthouse

Barrenjoey Lighthouse is an iconic Sydney structure sitting atop Barrenjoey Head at Sydney’s northernmost point. Built in 1881, this heritage lighthouse was made from sandstone quarried on-site and has stood the test of time.

There are two ways to reach the top – the Smugglers Track and the Access Trail.

The Smugglers Track gets its name from customs officers who built the track to monitor smugglers bringing in contraband from Broken Bay around the 1850s. Despite this being the shorter way to the top, it’s a little more strenuous and sweat-inducing, but the views over Palm Beach on the journey make it well worth it.

The Access Trail, though twice as long, is an easier path to the top of the headland.

Shot by Andrew Harvey via Flickr | License

How To Get to Barrenjoey Lighthouse

Park your car at Governor Phillip Park car park in Palm Beach on Sydney’s Northern Beaches.

Make your way along Station Beach until you reach a fork in the road where you’ll see a sign displaying your two options to the top, the Access Trail or the Smugglers Track.

Skill Level

Beginner

Essential Gear For Barrenjoey Lighthouse

• Water bottle
• Hat
• Sunscreen
• Walking shoes
• Camera
• Bathers

Read more: Packing List for Day Hikes

What It’s Like to Hike to Barrenjoey Lighthouse

First things first, you’ll have to make your way to the bottom of the headland either by driving or public transport. Whichever way you arrive, you’ll begin the walk at the Governor Phillip parking area. 

Make your way along Station Beach until you reach a fork in the road where you’ll see a sign displaying your two options to the top, the Access Trail or the Smugglers Track. 

Read more: Remember to leave no trace

At The Top Of Barrenjoey Head

When you arrive at the summit, you’ll be greeted with both the lighthouse and spectacular sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park and Broken Bay. 

If you’re taking on this walk between the months of May and September, don’t forget to pack your binoculars and keep your eyes on the horizon, there’s every chance you’ll see a whale passing through on its migration from the south.

Have a peek at the grave of George Mulhall, the lighthouse’s first keeper, who died after being struck by lightning four years into the job. If that doesn’t reiterate the recommendation by NSW National Parks to not take on the lighthouse walk during wild weather I don’t know what will!

Once you’ve taken in all the sights and sounds at the lighthouse, head back down to the car park at a leisurely pace.

Top it all off by carb-loading for your next walk at the Boathouse and finish with a dip at Palm Beach Rock Pool, or one of the other delicious rock pools in the Northern Beaches, to put a cherry on top of this adventurous day.

FAQs Barrenjoey Lighthouse

What can I do at Barrenjoey Lighthouse?

There’s plenty to do at the lighthouse. From bushwalking (duh) to swimming, gasping over the gorgeous views, guided lighthouse tours, and learning about the history of the area, it’s impossible to be bored here.

How long is the walk to the lighthouse?

It’s a two-kilometre round trip to walk to Barrenjoey Lighthouse.

Can you drive to the top of Barrenjoey Lighthouse?

No, it’s not possible to drive to the top of Barrenjoey Lighthouse. You need to walk, but it’s beautiful so no complaints here! If you really want to go driving, there are some great beginner-friendly 4WD tracks close to Sydney.

Can I take my dog on the Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk?

Unfortunately no, you cannot take dogs on this lighthouse walk. Try one of these dog-friendly walks near Sydney instead!

What is the most famous lighthouse in Australia?

There are a few possibilities here – either Cape Byron Lighthouse in the heart of Byron Bay, or Split Point Lighthouse at Aireys Inlet, Victoria, thanks to its association with Aussie TV show Round the Twist.

Hands Up If You Love Lighthouses

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