Point Cartwright Lighthouse (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Point Cartwright Lighthouse?
What makes it 86% Solo-Friendly: The reserve offers free coastal trails, isolated lookouts for photography and whale watching, easy parking and toilets, so a solo traveller can spend flexible, quiet time safely and cheaply.
Positives:
- Easy Access: Paved paths allow a steady solo walk from the car park to the lighthouse.
- Safe Environment: Open spaces and clear sightlines make it easy to navigate alone.
Challenges:
- Limited Shade: Trail has little shade; bring a sunhat and sunscreen to avoid sunburn.
- Short Steep Section: A 100 m incline to the lighthouse can be tiring; rest on benches as needed.
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 solo trip?
- Follow the paved coastal path for safe solo walking.
- Spot seabirds and migrating whales June–November.
- Capture striking photos of the lighthouse and mural at sunrise.
- Explore rock pools at low tide for marine life encounters.
- Join an e-bike tour to learn local history and meet others.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Enough time to follow the coastal path, photograph the lighthouse, and explore rock pools.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Point Cartwright Lighthouse
Coastal Pathway Walk:
Walk up to 6 km return along the paved Coastal Pathway from Point Cartwright to Kawana Surf Club.
Tip: Start early to avoid midday sun and bring water. Park at Pacific Boulevard to shorten your walk.
Birdwatching:
Spot sea eagles and kites hunting near the headland and nesting by the river mouth.
Tip: Carry binoculars and pause quietly at low tide near the Mooloolah River mouth.
Lighthouse & Mural Photography:
Capture the white lighthouse and painted water tank mural against the ocean backdrop.
Tip: Visit at sunrise for soft light and fewer visitors. Use a wide-angle lens for the full scene.
Rock Pool Exploration:
Explore tidal pools near the headland beach to find crabs and starfish.
Tip: Check tide times for low tide, wear water shoes, and watch your step on slippery rocks.
Guided E-Bike Tour:
Join a 3-hour electric bike tour that stops at Point Cartwright and nearby headlands.
Tip: Book online in advance and arrive 15 minutes early to get fitted for gear and meet the group.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Point Cartwright Lighthouse
- Visit at Sunrise: Start around sunrise for cooler temperatures and soft light for photography.
- Check Tide Times: Plan for low tide to explore rock pools safely at the headland beach.
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)?
From June to November watch humpback whales offshore; in summer start before 9 am to avoid heat and bring sun protection.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Guided e-bike tour | AUD 66 |
| Snacks and water | AUD 10 |
| Parking | AUD 0 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 76 |
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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