Barrenjoey Lighthouse

Exploring Barrenjoey Lighthouse Hike (2024)

Nestled in the northern outskirts of Sydney, the Barrenjoey Lighthouse stands as a heritage-listed gem, captivating visitors with its unrivaled beauty. While not lengthy, the hiking trail leading to the lighthouse unveils awe-inspiring views of the endless ocean that are nothing short of stunning and breathtaking. Plan your journey and immerse yourself in the extraordinary experience of exploring Barrenjoey Lighthouse Hike.

This article may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to purchase via my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. For complete information, please see our affiliate disclaimer here.

About Barrenjoey Lighthouse

Constructed in the late 1800s, the Barrenjoey Lighthouse stands as an impressive sandstone structure, offering breathtaking views in its backdrop. Perched atop Barrenjoey Head at Palm Beach, it has become an iconic landmark in Sydney’s northern beaches.

Barrenjoey Lighthouse

This historic lighthouse is an excellent vantage point for whale watching from May to October. Additionally, it transforms into an awe-inspiring location for stargazing, providing a perfect spot to witness the brilliance of the Milky Way in Sydney during Sydney’s nights.

How to Get to the Governor Phillip Car Park?

It is not possible to drive up to the Barrenjoey Lighthouse. Governor Phillip Car Park is the closest car park to the Barrenjoey Lighthouse.

  • By Public Transport: Direct buses, identified as L90, conveniently link Central bus stop with Palm Beach. Please refer to the Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW) website for the latest and most accurate information.
  • By Road: The most efficient way to reach the hike’s starting point, Governor Phillip Car Park, is by car. Covering a distance of approximately 50 kilometers from Sydney Central Business District (CBD), the drive typically takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Ample parking spaces are available at the Governor Phillip car park for your convenience.

Barrenjoey Lighthouse Hike

I recommend undertaking this trail to Barrenjoey Lighthouse on Sundays, as it provides public access to the lighthouse. Additionally, I suggest embarking on this hike during either sunrise or sunset to capture breathtaking views of the sky and the ocean.

Barrenjoey Lighthouse Hike

Logistics of Barrenjoey Lighthouse Hike

  • Starting and Finishing point: Governor Phillip Car Park on the Beach Road.
  • National park fee: No entry fee.

You can take one of the two routes to the Barrenjoey Lighthouse from the Governor Phillip Car Park.

  • Route 1 – Access Trail.
  • Route 2 – Smugglers Track.

Route 1 – Access Trail

  • Type of walk: Return.
  • Distance: 6 kilometres.
  • Time taken: 1 hour.
  • Grade: Easy.
Barrenjoey Lighthouse

Route 2 – Smugglers Track

  • Type of walk: Return.
  • Distance: 2 kilometres.
  • Time taken: 2 hours.
  • Grade: Moderate to Hard (Steep stairs).
Barrenjoey Lighthouse

Is Barrenjoey Lighthouse Hike Safe for Solo Female Hikers?

Absolutely! The Barrenjoey Lighthouse hike is the hike that I confidently recommend for solo hikers. However, I would advise hiking with a buddy, especially at night, as the path can become quite dark.

Barrenjoey Lighthouse

Closing Notes

I adore the Barrenjoey Lighthouse Hike. It’s beautiful, with the lighthouse offering spectacular views. The trail itself is stunning. Therefore, I highly recommend experiencing this hike at least once, if not multiple times, while visiting Sydney.

How can you support me?
You know how much I love coffee, so you can buy me a coffee – Buy me Coffee!

Or you can purchase from one of the below travel resources without any extra charge to you:
Travel Resources
Book your flight on Skyscanner.com or Trip.com
Reserve your accommodation on Stay22
Reserve your stay at a hostel on HostelWorld
Use RentalCars or DiscoverCars for hiring self-driven cars
Book your tours and travels or purchase tickets on Viator or GetYourGuide
For a universal SIM card, use DrimSim
Buy comprehensive travel insurance on SafetyWing and WorldNomads

If you liked this article and if it was helpful in your planning or traveling, do share, tweet, or pin this post.

Follow me on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter | LinkedIn

Do you have a question? Do you want any suggestions and tips for travel, hikes, and scuba dives? Use the Subscription box below to sign up and get updates by email.

Learn how to plan more, travel more, & live more

Get valuable travel tips and tricks, travel inspirations and listen to my stories in your inbox.

Exploring Barrenjoey Lighthouse Hike (2024)
    We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.