Point Cartwright Lighthouse (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Point Cartwright Lighthouse?
What makes it 72% Baby-Friendly: Stroller-friendly path and shaded lawns suit a short outing with an infant, yet toilets lack change tables and no nursing room is onsite, so parents must bring mats and limit stay in strong sun.
Positives:
- Free Entry and Facilities: All parking, toilets and picnic shelters are free at Point Cartwright.
- Easy Stroller Access: Most paths are paved and suitable for strollers, with only one gentle incline.
Challenges:
- No Dedicated Baby-Change Stations: Toilets lack change tables; bring a portable mat to use in accessible cubicles.
- Limited Shade Near Lighthouse: Shade is mainly at the picnic shelter; the lighthouse platform is exposed to sun.
- No Drinking Fountains: Bring enough water as there are no refill stations on site.
What is Point Cartwright Lighthouse?
- A 1978-era white concrete lighthouse perched on the rugged sandstone headland at Point Cartwright, Sunshine Coast
- A slender cylindrical tower crowned by a modern lantern room and navigational beacon
- An operational coastal beacon within Point Cartwright Reserve, guiding vessels through the Mooloolah River entrance
What is so special about Point Cartwright Lighthouse for with baby?
- Short stroller-friendly walk to a 1970s lighthouse.
- Picnic shelters and toilets with nearby seating.
- Large grassy areas for baby play and rest.
- Whale and dolphin spotting from June–November.
- Free parking and easy access roads and paths.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Enough time to walk to the lighthouse, enjoy a picnic and spot wildlife without rushing.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Point Cartwright Lighthouse
Stroller-Friendly Lighthouse Walk:
Follow the paved path from Pacific Boulevard to the lighthouse.
Tip: Park at Pacific Boulevard to minimize uphill sections and use the gentle 100 m incline for easy stroller push.
Shaded Picnic Break:
Rest under the picnic shelter near the viewing platform.
Tip: Use the shelter benches for feeding and pack a portable changing mat since there are no baby-change tables.
Open Lawn Play Area:
Spread a blanket on the large grass area by the lighthouse.
Tip: Bring a soft toy for your baby and let them crawl safely on the mown lawn.
Whale and Dolphin Spotting:
Scan the river mouth and ocean for whales (June–November) and dolphins year-round.
Tip: Bring binoculars and sit on the grass facing the sea to calm your baby with the sound of waves.
Mural and Lighthouse Photos:
Capture the colorful water tank mural and the white tower against the blue sea.
Tip: Visit early morning for soft light and fewer visitors to keep your baby calm during photos.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Point Cartwright Lighthouse
- Arrive Early: Visit before 9 am to avoid crowds and midday sun for a smoother stroller walk.
- Park Smart: Use the Pacific Boulevard car park for the shortest, flattest route to the lighthouse.
- Pack Essentials: Bring sun hats, sunscreen and a lightweight blanket for shade on the lawn.
Reviews of Point Cartwright Lighthouse
Lynda
Beautiful spot. A little overgrown but the shots were still good. Great place to get some sunset shots.
kabir hossain
Point Cartwright Lighthouse is a stunning and peaceful destination on the Sunshine Coast that offers breathtaking views, a relaxing atmosphere, and a touch of maritime history. Located near Mooloolaba, this scenic spot is perfect for nature lovers, walkers, and photography enthusiasts. The walking track leading up to the lighthouse is easy and well-maintained, making it accessible for people of al...
Anjana Iroshan
Absolutely stunning spot! Point Cartwright Lighthouse offers one of the best coastal views on the Sunshine Coast. The short walk up is easy and well-paved, and once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of Mooloolaba, the ocean, and even whales during the migration season if you’re lucky! 🐋 The area is perfect for a quiet sunset stroll, a picnic, or just relaxing while listenin...
Tim Hunter
We went to Point Cartwright today on a low tide, so we could check out thr foreshore and rock pools. The carpwrk nesr the Lighthouse is small, so parked down on the Mooloolaba Passage. A nice easy walk around to the ocean side. We loved the ocean mural on the water reservoir up top also. Tye Passage was nive to swim in, as the ocean side was a little windy woth big waves. A bit much for my young k...
S KC
A free to enter spot in the Sunshine Coast area with a view of the beach, ocean, and the town from a distance. Free parking spots (very limited though) close by and a quick walk from the parking area to the little lighthouse. Toilets are available as well, and a few benches scattered throughout the area to soak up the sun, quite atmosphere, and the beautiful scenery.
When is the best time to visit Point Cartwright Lighthouse (Sunshine Coast, Australia)?
June–November offers whale sightings. Summer (Dec–Feb) is hot—go early or late and bring sun protection. Winter (Jun–Aug) is mild and perfect for longer strolls.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Picnic supplies | AUD 15 |
| Bottled water | AUD 5 |
| Fuel | AUD 10 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 30 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Point Cartwright Lighthouse
Address: LOT 577 Pacific Blvd, Buddina QLD 4575, Australia
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About Point Cartwright Lighthouse
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Phone Number
+61 1300 847 48110 BEST nearby Activities
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