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.

The iconic lighthouse is the highlight of the Great Ocean Road, but there's so much more to see and do within the Lightstation grounds.

Take a short detour from the Great Ocean Road through magnificent forests where you are guaranteed to see koalas.

Hundreds of lives were lost in shipwrecks off Cape Otway - a sad but fascinating history which led to the building of the Lightstation in the foothills of the impenetrable forests of the Otways.

Australia's first submarine cable link was laid between Cape Otway and Launceston in 1859. The Telegraph Station has been meticulously restored.

A radar bunker, built in 1942 after a United States ship was sunk by a German mine off Cape Otway, has been newly renovated.

The Lightstation precinct is the traditional home of the Gadabanud people. Discover more about this isolated but resourceful Aboriginal clan.

You can immerse yourself in the extraordinary history of the lighthouse keepers, watch whales at play, and soak up the natural beauty of the Cape for a few hours, a day, or stay a while in our heritage accommodation.

Stay at Cape Otway Lightstation

Escape to Cape Otway Lightstation and explore the tranquility of a world-class destination, with stunning views of the Southern Ocean and Australia's most important lighthouse. We have a range of accommodation styles to suit couples, families and groups. A morning Lighthouse Climb is included with your accommodation.

Stay in heritage accommodation built for the Cape Otway's Lightkeepers in 1859. Made of solid sandstone with walls over a foot thick and gorgeous original windows this is a unique and totally unforgettable experience. The old world charm allows you to rest and recharge - mobile reception is limited and no TV reception available.

Enjoy the spectacular sunset and sunrise views of the Lighthouse once the gates have been locked for the night! Wander the Lightstation Heritage Precinct and spot our resident wildlife start to appear once the visitors have gone home.

Accommodation options are:
Lightkeeper's Cottage - A homely heritage property that can sleep up to 16 guests - great for group stays and large families.
Lighthouse Lodge - Fully self-contained and newly renovated, Lighthouse Lodge can sleep up to 15 guests in warm, cosy surroundings.
Lightstation Studio - You can't get any better than a beautifully renovated studio apartment to sit back, relax and take in the tranquil surroundings of Cape Otway.

Opening Hours:

Operating Times

Cost:

General Entrance Fees
Accommodation Costs