Barrenjoey Lighthouse

Barrenjoey Lighthouse stands on the headland at Palm Beach, on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. Built from sandstone in 1881, it sits above a short, steep walk with two route choices: a gradual path and a staircase. From the top, look across Palm Beach, Pittwater and the ocean; on clear days, the coastal outlook stretches towards Broken Bay and the Central Coast. The headland is also a place to watch for migrating whales. Bring water for the climb, especially on warm days.

The lighthouse and its headland

Barrenjoey Lighthouse was built from Hawkesbury sandstone in 1881. It stands on Barrenjoey Headland, at Palm Beach, where the peninsula meets the Pacific Ocean. From the high point, the view takes in both the ocean side and Pittwater, with Broken Bay and the Central Coast visible from the lookout on clear days.

The headland is part of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Its setting makes the visit a combination of a coastal walk and a look at a historic lighthouse. The surrounding water is also a place to watch for whales during migration season; binoculars can help you spot them.

Two ways up

The walk to the lighthouse is short but steep. At the base, signs point to two routes: a more gradual path and a staircase with a tougher climb. The routes give different views across Pittwater and the peninsula. Choose the stairs if you want a more strenuous ascent, or take the gradual option for a less abrupt climb.

The track can feel harder in warm weather, so bring water and pause when needed. Early morning and late afternoon are useful times to set out if you want to avoid the heat. At the top, take time to look in both directions: Palm Beach lies below, while the view across Pittwater opens on the other side of the headland.