First time visiting Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse in Augusta, Western Australia? This guide covers opening hours, ticket prices, parking, accessibility, and how to get there.
History and overview of Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse
Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse stands at the southwestern tip of mainland Australia, where the Southern and Indian Oceans meet. To book tour tickets and skip the explanation, head here.
Built in 1895 from local limestone, it is the tallest lighthouse on the mainland and remains a working light for shipping.
A 59-step guided tour takes visitors to the top of the tower, offering panoramic coastal views of rugged cliffs and crashing seas.
The site includes an Interpretive Centre housed in the original keepers’ cottage, telling the stories of lighthouse keepers and maritime heritage.
How to get to Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse
The lighthouse is located at Leeuwin Road, Augusta, WA 6290 in Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park.
Transport options:
- By car: It’s about a 10-minute drive south from the town of Augusta.
- Drop-off: There’s a car park near the entrance, but it has limited space. Arrive early to get your parking spot.
Opening hours and ticket prices
Opening hours: Tours run daily from 8:45am till 5:00pm, with last entry at 4:30pm. Tours depart every 30 minutes
Ticket prices: A fully-guided tower tour costs A$22 for adults, A$20 for seniors and A$10 for children aged 4–16.
To get on a tour at a time of your choosing, book in advance.
Parking and accessibility at Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse
Parking: There is on-site parking, including two ACROD (accessible) bays near the entrance.
Accessibility: The site has flat, hard-surfaced paths and boardwalks connecting the car park, ticket office, toilets and the Interpretive Centre.
The lighthouse tower itself has narrow stairs — not wheelchair-friendly.
Assistance animals are welcome, but due to the tower’s stairs they may not be able to accompany visitors up.
Best times to visit and photography tips
Early morning or late afternoon visits give you smaller crowds and softer light. The rugged coastal setting is especially atmospheric in these hours.
Between May and August, there’s a chance to spot migrating whales from the top of the lighthouse.
Photographers will love the contrasts: limestone structure, crashing waves, and broad ocean views. The top-level balcony offers one of the best vantage points.
To get early or late tickets for the best light, book online.
Nearby attractions you can combine with Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse
While you’re in the area, you may also want to explore:
- Cape to Cape Track: This famous walking trail runs between Cape Leeuwin and Cape Naturaliste.
- Augusta town: Explore local shops, cafés and the riverfront before or after your lighthouse tour.
- Coastal lookouts: Nearby cliffs and headlands provide dramatic views of the meeting point of two oceans.
- Jewel Cave: One of Australia’s finest and accessible show caves is just outside Augusta.
FAQ: Practical visitor information for Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse
Is there an age limit for climbing?
Yes, children must be at least 4 years old to climb the lighthouse.
Are tours wheelchair-friendly?
No — the tower tour involves climbing 59 steps and is not accessible for wheelchairs.
Are there toilets and a café?
Yes. The visitor precinct includes toilets, a café and a gift shop.
How long does the tour take?
The guided lighthouse tour is about 30 minutes.
Is there a drop-off point?
Yes — there’s a drop-off area for visitors with limited mobility, close to the entrance.
Disclosure: This guide contains affiliate links. Book through them, and I earn a small commission.
More Western Australia travel
Other Western Australia travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- Why you should see the Pinnacles at night.
- What it’s like to swim with whale sharks.
- Why I enjoyed the notorious drive across the Nullabor.
- A practical guide to the Museum of the Goldfields in Kalgoorlie.
- An eye-opening drive along Western Australia’s Golden Pipeline.
