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Point Hicks Lighthouse
The secluded and pristine Croajingolong National Park is home to the historic Point Hicks Lightstation, claimed to be Captain James Cook’s first sighting of mainland Australia. Steeped in rich Aboriginal and European history, explore the reserve on foot, join a tour of the lighthouse or stay a night in the lighthouse keeper’s cottage.
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Experience the pristine beauty of Croajingolong National Park and immerse yourself in the unique history of the area with a visit to Point Hicks Lightstation. Although it isn’t without controversy, the granite headlands of Point Hicks are said to be Captain James Cooks first sighting of mainland Australia.
Open to the public and with tours running daily from Friday through Sunday, join in to learn the secrets of the tallest lightstation on mainland Australia – from life in this secluded part of the world to the unique landscapes that surround the lightstation.
The hull of the SS Saros shipwreck lies just beyond the lightstation. Helmed by Captain Aitken and bound for Sydney, the steamship left Geelong in 1937, but ran aground in heavy fog. Accessible along Saros Track, it is one of a few shipwrecks on the Victorian coast visible from land.
Book an overnight stay at the lighthouse keeper’s cottages. Built from Oregon collected from local shipwrecks, the cottages are an excellent example of a nineteenth century lighthouse residence. The self-contained cottages can accommodate up to 12 people.
During winter, the Victorian coast becomes a highway for Humpback and Southern Right whales as they migrate to their calving grounds off the Queensland coast. The lightstation is a great place to set up and spot the gentle giants frolicking about the water.
Open to the public and with tours running daily from Friday through Sunday, join in to learn the secrets of the tallest lightstation on mainland Australia – from life in this secluded part of the world to the unique landscapes that surround the lightstation.
The hull of the SS Saros shipwreck lies just beyond the lightstation. Helmed by Captain Aitken and bound for Sydney, the steamship left Geelong in 1937, but ran aground in heavy fog. Accessible along Saros Track, it is one of a few shipwrecks on the Victorian coast visible from land.
Book an overnight stay at the lighthouse keeper’s cottages. Built from Oregon collected from local shipwrecks, the cottages are an excellent example of a nineteenth century lighthouse residence. The self-contained cottages can accommodate up to 12 people.
During winter, the Victorian coast becomes a highway for Humpback and Southern Right whales as they migrate to their calving grounds off the Queensland coast. The lightstation is a great place to set up and spot the gentle giants frolicking about the water.
Things to do
Mueller Inlet Campground
This campground is on the shores of Mueller Inlet and overlooks the inlet to the river mouth and ocean. The campsites are protected by a dune system covered in Banksia Woodland and Heath.
Peachtree Creek Reserve
This campground is on the eastern shore of Tamboon Inlet, good for both fishing and bird watching. There is neither vehicle nor walking access to the coast so boats are an excellent way to explore the area. The inlet waters and surrounding forest are part of Croajingolong National Park, where there are other campgrounds available.
Thurra River Campground
This campground is located in coastal woodland between the river and the ocean near Point Hicks. This is a popular spot for families to relax on hot days.
How to get there
Point Hicks Lighthouse
Point Hicks Lightstation is surrounded by the pristine Croajingolong National Park. Approximately seven hours’ drive from Melbourne, the lightstation is easily accessed off the Princes Highway. Turn off at Cann River, on to the unsealed Point Hicks Road which leads to an access gate. From here, visitors must make the final stretch on foot to reach the lightstation.
Sites
When you're there
The Point Hicks Lightstation is accessible to the public for tours from Friday through to Monday. Tours are free however are limited to a maximum of 12 people per tour. For more information about this part of the park, download the Croajingolong National Park visitor guide.
Camping & accommodation
The secluded and pristine Croajingolong National Park is home to the historic Point Hicks Lightstation, claimed to be Captain James Cook’s first sighting of mainland AustraliaNeed to know
Point Hicks Lighthouse
Accessibility
Visiting a park can be more of a challenge for people with disabilities, however in Victoria there are a wide range of facilities to help people of all abilities enjoy our wonderful parks around the state.
Change of Conditions
Nature being nature, sometimes conditions can change at short notice. It’s a good idea to check this page ahead of your visit for any updates.
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Notices Affecting Multiple Parks
Point Hicks Lighthouse and caravan turning circle access.
Vehicle access beyond the end of the Thurra campground is currently modified due to ongoing coastal erosion. Visitors wishing to access the beach at the gate or walk to the Lighthouse need to park at the end of the Thurra campground in the Hiker's carpark. Please note that this extends the Lighthouse walk to 8 km return (and also extends the West Beach, Saros and Sledge Walks). Due to this change, caravans greater than 4 metres in length are no longer recommended for Thurra camp as there is no turnaround area available. These changes are made to ensure visitor safety. -
Notices Affecting Multiple Sites
Point Hicks Lighthouse Walking Track
Vehicle access beyond the end of the Thurra campground is currently modified due to ongoing coastal erosion. Visitors wishing to access the beach at the gate or walk to the Lighthouse need to park at the end of the Thurra campground in the Hiker's carpark. Please note that this extends the Lighthouse walk to just under 8 km return (and also extends the West Beach, Saros and Sledge Walks). Due to this change, caravans are no longer recommended for Thurra camp as there is no turnaround area available. These changes are made to ensure visitor safety.
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Croajingolong National Park
Kingfish jetty closed
Kingfish Point Jetty on Mallacoota Inlet has collapsed and requires significant repair. The jetty is out of use until further notice, which may limit access for some vessels.Cicada Trail 4WD track
Due to storm damage, Cicada Trail does not currently have through access from West Wingan Road to Point Hicks Road.
Miners track poor condition
Miners Track, from the Mallacoota-Genoa Road and Betka Track intersection, is in very poor condition and not recommended for vehicles towing trailers. Miners Track is only recommended for experienced drivers equipped with appropriate recovery equipment and vehicles that can deal with extreme four wheel drive conditions. Alternative access to Betka Track is via Stoney Peak Road or Centre Track.
