When Is the Best Time
Lighthouse and area are open from 10 am until 5 pm. Afterwards, the whole area is closed. There isn't any chance to watch the sunrise or sunset at this remote and dramatically located lighthouse. It could be an amazing place if you could access it until sunset. The entrance fee is a rip-off. We spent a couple of nights nearby and watched so many day-trippers leaving the lighthouse disappointed.
You can explore the Great Ocean Road by rental car or let other people do the work for you. There are excellent tours offered.
Best Months to Visit
Location and Tips
Our campground was nearby and even after 6 and 7 p.m. we saw several people driving to the lighthouse and mostly from far away. The entrance fee is expensive; for a family with two children, almost 50 AUD. To be honest, a 7 AUD fee and a box to put the money in, like in other National Parks, would be more appropriate. They could charge an additional fee for a guided tour inside the lighthouse.
There are two options to see the lighthouse without paying the exorbitant entrance fee.
- One option is after the grid and the white fence (picture attached). We parked the car at the Otway sign and followed the footpath direction towards the coast. After a few minutes, we hit the Great Ocean Walk and went to the right. After 10 minutes you can see the lighthouse on the coast.
- To see it from the other side, it is a short walk to the right before the lighthouse entrance. Of course, these both options are not as good as seeing it from the inside.
The day before, we tried to see the sunset at the lighthouse. We were annoyed that the whole area is completely closed after 5 p.m., and we were not the only ones. Sorry, this has to be organised better. Most people come from far away to see this stunning lighthouse.
