Along the NSW coast, historic lighthouses offer a glimpse into the state’s maritime past, with many still standing on remote headlands overlooking the ocean. One of the most significant is Green Cape Lighthouse, built in 1883 near the coastal town of Eden. It was Australia’s first concrete lighthouse and operated for more than a century before being replaced by a modern light in 1992. Now, after 34 years, the original tower has been brought back into service earlier this year, marking a new chapter for the historic landmark. Visitors can also explore the lighthouse on guided tours, take in sweeping coastal views and learn about the shipwrecks that shaped its history. The lighthouse also marks the end of the popular Light to Light Walk. Here’s everything you need to know before you visit.
The 143-year history of Green Cape Lighthouse
Designed by colonial architect James Barnet, Green Cape Lighthouse was part of a wider effort to make Australia’s southern coastline safer for passing ships. Its construction was no easy task. Building materials had to be transported from Bittangabee Bay along a specially constructed seven-kilometre tramway, while difficult ground conditions caused delays and pushed costs well beyond the original budget.
The lighthouse first lit up the coast on November 1, 1883, helping sailors safely navigate the waters around Green Cape. It continued operating for more than a century before being replaced by a modern light on a nearby steel tower in 1992. But when that tower began nearing the end of its life, authorities decided to bring the original lighthouse back into use. As part of the project, modern LED lighting was installed using the lighthouse’s original lens, preserving an important part of its history. In February 2026, the historic tower began guiding ships once again, 34 years after its light was switched off.
Visiting Green Cape Lighthouse today
Perched on a rugged headland in Beowa National Park, Green Cape Lighthouse offers visitors a chance to explore one of the South Coast’s most interesting historic landmarks. Guided tours take visitors inside the lighthouse and up 116 steps to the top, with bright turquoise views of the surrounding coastline. The headland is also a popular spot for whale watching, particularly between August and November, when migrating humpback whales can sometimes be seen offshore. Visitors may also spot dolphins, seals and seabirds along the coast.
A short walk from the lighthouse leads to the cemetery associated with the Ly-ee-Moon shipwreck. The passenger steamer struck rocks near Green Cape in 1886, claiming 71 lives, and several victims were buried nearby.
Guided tours run on selected dates, so it’s worth checking the NSW National Parks website for upcoming sessions before planning a visit. Read more about Green Cape Lighthouse and book guided tours on NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.
Getting there
Green Cape Lighthouse is located in Beowa National Park, around 45 minutes south of Eden and around 6-6.5 hours from Sydney. From Eden, follow the Princes Highway south for approximately 18 kilometres, then turn onto Edrom Road. Continue for six kilometres before turning onto Green Cape Road, which leads to the lighthouse car park. Parking is available near the lighthouse, and a national park entry fee of $8 per vehicle applies. Daily coaches run from Sydney to Eden, while NSW TrainLink also offers train and coach connections. However, there is no direct public transport from Eden to Green Cape Lighthouse, so visitors will need to arrange private transport for the final stretch. Plan your trip on Transport for NSW.
