First time visiting Cape du Couedic Lighthouse on Kangaroo Island, South Australia? This guide covers opening hours, entry details, how to get there, what to expect — and nearby attractions.
Overview of Cape du Couedic Lighthouse
Cape du Couedic Lighthouse stands on the rugged south-west coast of Kangaroo Island, within Flinders Chase National Park. Built between 1906 and 1909 from roughly 2,000 pieces of local stone, the lighthouse tower rises from seaside cliffs above the Southern Ocean.
The historic lightstation includes a conical sandstone tower with a red domed lantern room, and several original keepers’ cottages, stables and store buildings — many of which are now preserved as heritage structures. Today the lighthouse is automated, so the tower balcony is not open to the public, but the grounds and surrounding coastal views remain accessible.
The setting gives visitors broad views over dramatic cliffs and crashing waves. From the trail near the lighthouse you can also reach coastal lookouts and walking routes that highlight the natural beauty of this part of Kangaroo Island.
Cape du Couedic Lighthouse access & entry details
Visiting Cape du Couedic Lighthouse requires a valid entry pass for Flinders Chase National Park or a Kangaroo Island Tour Pass. The lighthouse site itself does not charge a separate entry fee. As of November 2025, entry to the park is free until 6 April 2026 under the South Australian Government’s Algal Bloom Summer Plan — but that may be temporary.
How to explore Kangaroo Island
There are several ways to tackle Kangaroo Island, including very long day trips from Adelaide. Two day tours are less rushed and let you see more of the island. Three day tours are even more comprehensive.
Alternatively, you can take the Kangaroo Island ferry from Cape Jervis. Once on the island, you can self drive (if you’ve brought your car), or take one of several tours. Most opt for a highlights day tour, but small group tours and Indigenous-guided tours are worth considering for a more distinctive experience.
You can also swim with dolphins, try a guided koala walk, go quad biking and take a half day tasting tour around food producers and distilleries.
Cape du Couedic Lighthouse walk and facilities
The main access to the lighthouse is via a short, easy route known as the Lighthouse Heritage Walk — a 600-metre circuit taking around 10 minutes return. The trail is flat and suitable for prams, making the lighthouse grounds broadly accessible.
For a longer outing, you can take the Cape du Couedic Hike — a 1.9 km circuit (about 40 minutes return) that explores the coastline and varied terrain around the lightstation, offering additional coastal lookouts and historic interest.
Facilities at the site include a car park with coach parking and public toilets nearby the lighthouse area. There are no shops or food outlets, so visitors should bring water and any snacks needed.
When to visit Cape du Couedic Lighthouse
The lighthouse grounds are accessible year-round. Coastal weather at Cape du Couedic can be windy and conditions may change rapidly, so it is wise to visit during daylight hours and check local conditions. Morning or late afternoon visits tend to provide better light and quieter conditions on the walk and lookouts.
Nearby attractions around Cape du Couedic Lighthouse
- Admirals Arch — a short drive or walk from the lighthouse, offering sea-arched rock formations and coastal views.
- Remarkable Rocks — dramatic granite boulders sculpted by wind and sea, located within the same national park.
- Weirs Cove — a coastal cove nearby, offering rugged shoreline and potential wildlife sightings.
- Other coastal lookouts and walking tracks within Flinders Chase National Park — ideal for combining multiple stops in one visit.
Visitor tips for Cape du Couedic Lighthouse
- Bring water, snacks and suitable clothing — there are no food services at the lighthouse.
- Stick to marked paths, especially on coastal tracks and near cliffs.
- Visit in daylight hours and watch the weather, as conditions on the coast may be windy or changeable. Allow extra time if you plan to combine the lighthouse visit with nearby attractions in the national park.
- A valid park entry pass is required — plan your pass in advance. If you intend to stay longer on Kangaroo Island, consider the heritage cottages near the lightstation, which offer accommodation within the park.
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More South Australia travel
Other South Australia travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- Swimming with sea lions in Baird Bay.
- Why you should book a Coorong kayaking cruise.
- Why I enjoyed the drive across the Nullarbor.
- Complete guide to visiting the South Australian Museum.
- Plan your visit to Adelaide Gaol.
