Cape Otway Lighthouse - The Beacon of Hope on Victoria’s Wild Southern Coast

Wander * Explore * Discover
Nov 13, 2022
3 min read

Updated: 3 hours ago

Cape Otway Lighthouse - The Beacon of Hope on Victoria’s Wild Southern Coast

Perched high on dramatic sea cliffs and surrounded by windswept coastal heath, the Cape Otway Lighthouse is one of the most powerful and atmospheric stops along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria. Built in 1848, it is the oldest surviving lighthouse on mainland Australia and has long been known as the Beacon of Hope — a guiding light for ships navigating the treacherous waters of Bass Strait.

Standing 90 metres above the ocean, this historic site offers not only breathtaking coastal views but also a deep connection to Australia’s maritime and migration history. A visit here feels both grounding and awe-inspiring, and it’s easy to see why Cape Otway remains such a memorable highlight of the journey.

A Lighthouse Born from Tragedy

The Cape Otway Lightstation was built in response to the countless shipwrecks that occurred along Victoria’s notorious Shipwreck Coast. Before the lighthouse was constructed, these rugged shores claimed hundreds of lives, as ships struggled to navigate the dangerous coastline in poor visibility and rough seas.

During the 19th century, Cape Otway was often the first sight of land for migrants arriving in Australia after months at sea from Europe, Asia and North America. Spotting the lighthouse meant safety, hope and the promise of a new beginning — a powerful legacy that still resonates today.

The Walk to the Lighthouse

From the car park and entrance, a well-formed gravel path leads approximately 400 metres to the lighthouse precinct. The walk is gentle and scenic, offering glimpses of the surrounding coastline and historic buildings as you approach the tower.

Once at the lighthouse, visitors can climb 78 curved steps, followed by a short metal ladder, to reach the top. The effort is well worth it — from the lantern room, you’re rewarded with sweeping views across Bass Strait, rugged cliffs, and the wild Southern Ocean stretching endlessly into the distance.

👉 Click here for opening hours and more information

Exploring the Lightstation Precinct

Beyond the lighthouse itself, the Cape Otway Lightstation precinct includes a collection of beautifully preserved historic buildings. These include the Lightkeepers’ Cottages, the Assistant Lightkeepers’ Cottage, and other service buildings, which together paint a vivid picture of daily life at the station.

Wandering the grounds allows you to imagine what it would have been like to live and work here — exposed to the elements, surrounded by ocean, and responsible for maintaining a vital navigation point along one of Australia’s most dangerous coastlines.

Devonshire Tea with a View

After exploring, it’s time to slow down and enjoy one of the simple pleasures of the visit — Devonshire tea at the Cape Otway Café. Located in the Assistant Lightkeepers’ Cottage, the café offers a relaxed setting with lovely views across the grounds toward the lighthouse and coastline. Sitting here with a cup of tea, fresh scones, and the sound of the wind and ocean nearby is a quintessential Cape Otway experience.

Visitor Information

Location: Great Ocean Road, Great Otway National Park
Opening Hours & Entry Fees: Check current details on the official Cape Otway Lightstation website
Parking: Plenty of parking available, including bus and caravan bays
Facilities: Toilets available on site
Café: On-site café (opening hours may vary)
Pets: No dogs allowed, as the site is located within a National Park

Why Cape Otway Lightstation Is a Must-Visit

Cape Otway Lightstation is far more than a photo stop — it’s a place where history, nature and storytelling come together in a truly meaningful way. From its role in saving lives along the Shipwreck Coast to its stunning clifftop location and beautifully preserved buildings, this is one of the most rewarding stops on the Great Ocean Road.

Take your time here. Walk the paths, climb the tower, enjoy the views and reflect on the countless journeys that once relied on this guiding light. Cape Otway Lightstation is a destination that stays with you long after you leave.