New South Wales is home to some of the most iconic and picturesque lighthouses in Australia. These majestic structures have been guiding ships safely to shore for centuries and are now popular tourist attractions.
The first lighthouse in New South Wales was the Macquarie Lighthouse, which was built in 1818 on the shores of Sydney Harbour. It was named after Lachlan Macquarie, the Governor of New South Wales at the time, and was designed by Francis Greenway, a famous architect.
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The lighthouse was constructed using sandstone blocks and was equipped with a coal-fired beacon. It served as the main lighthouse for Sydney Harbour until it was decommissioned in 1976 and replaced with a new, automated lighthouse. The Macquarie Lighthouse is now a popular tourist attraction and is open to the public for tours.
If you are planning a trip to New South Wales and are interested in visiting some of these historic landmarks, here are the best lighthouses to add to your itinerary.
Cape Byron Lighthouse
Located in the town of Byron Bay, this is the easternmost lighthouse in Australia. It sits atop a cliff with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for a small fee and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Montague Island Lighthouse
This lighthouse is located on Montague Island, which is a popular spot for whale watching and bird watching. The island is only accessible by boat, but it is well worth the trip. The lighthouse was built in 1881 and is now a popular spot for tourists to visit and learn about the island’s history.
Point Perpendicular Lighthouse
Located on the south coast of New South Wales, this lighthouse sits atop a rocky outcropping with stunning views of the ocean. It was built in 1899 and is still in operation today. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse and learn about its history at the on-site museum.
Nobbys Head Lighthouse
Located in the city of Newcastle, this lighthouse sits atop a rocky outcropping and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. It was built in 1858 and is now a museum that visitors can explore. The views from the top of the lighthouse are breathtaking and include views of the city and the ocean.
Green Cape Lighthouse
Located on the south coast of New South Wales, this lighthouse sits atop a bluff with panoramic views of the ocean. It was built in 1883 and is now a popular spot for tourists to visit and learn about the history of the area. The lighthouse is surrounded by beautiful gardens that visitors can explore.
No matter which lighthouse you choose to visit, you are sure to be enchanted by the beauty and history of these iconic landmarks. They are a must-see for anyone visiting New South Wales.
