Grotto Point Lighthouse sits on a quiet headland in Sydney Harbour National Park, reached by a rough bush track near Balgowlah Heights. The walk brings harbour views, bushland and the chance to spot kookaburras or wallabies. From Clontarf Reserve, allow about two hours for the return walk; a side trip from the Manly to Spit Bridge track adds roughly 40 to 45 minutes each way. Wear sturdy shoes and use GPS to find the unmarked turnoff to the lighthouse.
Choosing a route to the lighthouse
You can reach Grotto Point Lighthouse from Clontarf Reserve or take a side track from the Manly to Spit Bridge walk. One route description puts the Clontarf return walk at about two hours. The detour from the main walk adds around 40 to 45 minutes each way, depending on whether you include the Washaway Beach branch.
The path passes through bushland and is rough in places. The final section down to the lighthouse is steep, and the track can be harder to manage when wet. GPS can help at the turnoff, which is not marked.
What you may see along the way
The walk brings views across the harbour and towards Balmoral Beach. Kookaburras and wallabies have been spotted along the route, and wildflowers are another point of interest. After heavy rain, creeks and small waterfalls can be flowing.
The lighthouse sits on a quieter side track off a popular walking route. The path may involve minor scrambling, and bush can brush against your legs. Wear sturdy walking shoes and carry water. The lighthouse area is a short, rugged walk rather than a maintained place to linger.
Perguntas frequentes
How long does the walk to Grotto Point Lighthouse take?
From Clontarf Reserve, allow about two hours for the return walk. The side trip from the Manly to Spit Bridge track adds around 40 to 45 minutes each way.
Is the track to Grotto Point Lighthouse easy?
The path is rough in places, with a steep final section and some minor scrambling. It can be difficult when wet, so wear sturdy walking shoes.
Where is Grotto Point Lighthouse?
It is on Lighthouse Track in Balgowlah Heights, within Sydney Harbour National Park.
