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Image of Macquarie Lightstation in Vaucluse.

Discover Macquarie Lighthouse Tour

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Cost
  • $40 per adult
  • $24 per concession
  • $24 per child (12 to 16 years old)
Hours
  • Dates: 6, 12, 20 and 26 Sept; 10 Oct, 14 Nov and 12 Dec
  • Times: 10:30am, 11:15am, 12pm, 1:15pm, 2pm and 2:45pm
  • Duration: 45 mins
Transport
  • Car
  • Bus
  • Foot
Meeting point

Outside the door to Macquarie Lightstation, Old South Head Road (opposite Macquarie Road), Vaucluse, NSW 2030

Google Maps
As you explore Macquarie Lightstation, the site of Australia’s first lighthouse, a knowledgeable guide will share the history and recent developments behind this iconic Sydney landmark, including recent restoration work undertaken on the historic Greenway Wall.

You’ll learn about the importance of this area for First Nations peoples and the dramatic changes to the coastline since the last ice age. Plus: You’ll ascend the lighthouse to discover the lantern room and emerge onto the balcony for a sweeping view of Sydney Harbour and the Pacific Ocean.

Access to the lighthouse is exclusive to this tour, don’t miss out!

Note: This tour isn’t recommended for people with a fear of heights or heart conditions. 

Book a tour
Book tickets to our Discover Macquarie Lighthouse Tour to discover the fascinating stories of Australia's first lighthouse.
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Plan ahead

Planning to book a tour? For a hassle-free experience, refer to the information below ahead of your trip.

Important information arrow
  • To ensure the safety of participants and Harbour Trust staff, at the discretion of the Harbour Trust, any participant(s) who appears intoxicated, disruptive or displays consistently unsafe behaviour, will not be permitted to take part in the tour, and / or may be asked to leave the tour at any time. Refunds will not be provided.
  • This tour isn’t recommended for people with a fear of heights or heart conditions.
  • Weather conditions: This tour will proceed regardless of weather conditions except in the event of dangerous weather. Participants will be notified via email if the tour is cancelled and a full refund of the ticket price will be made.
  • Maximum number of tour participants: Due to the working nature of the lighthouse and for safety reasons, only 8 visitors are able to enter the lighthouse at any one time accompanied by Harbour Trust staff or volunteers.
Content and mobility arrow
  • First Nations peoples: Our First Nations community are advised that this tour contains stories (and may contain images and/or visuals) of deceased persons.
  • Accessibility: The base of the lighthouse is accessible via a paved path, however, going inside the building is not suitable for people using a wheelchair, mobility aid or pram. There are 7 steps into the ground floor of the lighthouse and the tower requires visitors to climb and descend 100 steep stairs, as well as move through restricted spaces. To enter onto the balcony, visitors are required to bend down and move through a small door (approx. 600mm x 600mm). A moderate level of fitness is required. The tour is not recommended for people with a fear of heights or those with heart conditions. Public toilets are located approximately 300 metres down the road at Christison Park.
  • Safety: All visitors must comply with the safety directives issued by guides, rangers and security staff.
  • Age restriction: This tour is restricted to people 12 years of age and over. People under 16 years must be accompanied by an adult.
What to bring arrow

Suitable walking shoes and wet weather clothing (if needed).

Getting here arrow

For information about getting to Macquarie Lightstation, including by public transport, see: Visit Macquarie Lightstation. This webpage also contains information on visitor parking and public facilities.

Helpful links

Learn more about Macquarie Lightstation, including its fascinating history.