Visible from all over Sydney, this striking white lighthouse was built in the 1880s as an exact replica of the original Francis Greenway–designed structure (1818). It’s a pretty spot, with grassy lawns, heavenly ocean views and a clifftop trail extending to Watsons Bay. Before the lighthouse was built, a series of fires were lit along this coast to keeps ships away from the cliffs. Occasional tours run: check the website and book ahead.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Sydney attractions

1. Parsley Bay

0.48 MILES

A hidden gem, this little bay has a calm swimming beach, a lawn dotted with sandstone sculptures for picnics and play, a little cafe and a cute suspension…

2. Vaucluse House

0.69 MILES

Construction of this imposing, turreted specimen of Gothic Australiana, set amid 10 hectares of lush gardens, commenced in 1805, but the house was…

3. Watsons Bay

0.74 MILES

Lovely Watsons Bay, east of the city centre and north of Bondi, was once a small fishing village, as evidenced by the heritage cottages that pepper the…

4. Strickland House

0.99 MILES

There are wonderful harbour views from the grounds of Strickland House (1856), which are now a public park. It sits above sweet little Milk Beach. Built…

5. Milk Beach

1.04 MILES

The only things to distract you from serious beach time at divine Milk Beach are seaplanes and the glistening Sydney skyline. With wow-worthy harbour…

6. Nielsen Park

1.05 MILES

Something of a hidden gem, this gorgeous harbourside park with a sandy beach was once part of the then 206-hectare Vaucluse House estate. Secluded beneath…

7. Camp Cove

1.06 MILES

Immediately north of Watsons Bay, this small swimming beach is popular with both families and topless sunbathers. When Governor Phillip realised Botany…

8. Lady Bay

1.32 MILES

Also known as Lady Jane, this diminutive gay nudist beach sits at the bottom of a cliff, on top of which (somewhat ironically) is a Royal Australian Navy…