Macquarie Lighthouse (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Macquarie Lighthouse?
What makes it 39% Baby-Friendly: Babies must stay outside because prams and carriers cannot clear the narrow stairs; no nursing room, no change table, uneven paths, and toilets 300 m away make the outing challenging but not impossible.
Positives:
- Pram-friendly paths: Paved walkways allow easy pram movement on most of the lawn.
- Spacious open lawn: Wide grass area offers room for baby to lie down and for parents to relax.
Challenges:
- Uneven ground: Some paths have rough patches requiring you to lift the pram.
- No on-site baby facilities: The nearest toilets with change tables are 300 m away at Christison Park.
- Tower access restricted: Guided tour has 100 steep stairs and does not admit prams or children under 12.
What is Macquarie Lighthouse?
- Governor Lachlan Macquarie commissioned the lighthouse in 1818, and convict architect Francis Greenway designed Australia’s first lighthouse.
- The structure perches on Dunbar Head at Watsons Bay as an active maritime beacon guiding vessels through the entrance to Sydney Harbour.
- The 1883 rebuild features a white cylindrical tower with an external gallery, preserving its classical architectural character and ongoing navigational purpose.
What is so special about Macquarie Lighthouse for with baby?
- Explore pram-accessible grounds free of charge
- Picnic on the spacious lawn with harbour views
- Optional guided tower tour for adults only
- Nearest baby-change facilities are 300 m away
- Seasonal whale watching from the lawn (May–Nov)
Note: Macquarie Lighthouse is 39% Baby-Friendly. You may want to consider other Baby-Friendly Things to Do in Sydney for a more suitable experience.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Enough time to explore the grounds, enjoy a picnic, and take short walks without rushing with a baby.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Macquarie Lighthouse
Grounds Walk & Picnic:
Stroll on paved paths and picnic on the green lawn under the lighthouse.
Tip: Set up near the path for pram access and bring a picnic blanket.
Harbour View Photos:
Capture panoramic views of Sydney Harbour and the Pacific Ocean from the lawn.
Tip: Visit on clear days; bring sun hat and sunglasses.
Short Coastal Stroll:
Walk to nearby Gap Bluff lookout for extra ocean views along the cliff.
Tip: Use a sturdy pram; watch for uneven surfaces; keep baby in sun hat.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Macquarie Lighthouse
- Arrive early: Morning visits avoid crowds and offer cooler temperatures for your baby.
- Use a sturdy pram: Choose prams with large wheels to handle uneven surfaces easily.
- Bring portable change mat: Carry your own mat and shade cover for baby comfort during breaks.
Reviews of Macquarie Lighthouse
Crystal Huang
Macquarie Lighthouse--the first lighthouse in Australia, originally built in 1818 and rebuilt in 1881. Its white tower stands proudly at Watsons Bay, a true coastal landmark. At the edge of Watsons Bay stands the Macquarie Lighthouse, shining white against the sea and sky. For over 200 years it has guided sailors and watched the endless horizon. A must-visit in Sydney’s eastern suburbs! Macquarie ...
Nikolaus Beattie
Another totally Instagrammable spot! This historic lighthouse is a Sydney classic, perched along a spectacular clifftop walk with breathtaking ocean views. Keep an eye out — you might spot whales, dolphins, or even the occasional turtle out to sea! The lighthouse now “talks” via a QR code, linking you to the Harbour Trust for fun facts and history. So snap your pics, but take a moment to learn so...
BUSSINBUN CAFE
So stunning. It’s an amazing spot for any occasion; visiting, picnic, date night, etc. It is the best spot to take photos of both the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge
Narelle Wockner
As I have travelled the coastline of Australia and photographed many Lighthouses, I was thrilled to have had the experience of finding the first lighthouse to be built in Australia during my recent trip to Sydney. Macquarie Lighthouse built in 1818. Located north of Manly beach and perched up on a cliff face of Signal Hill Reserve.
Saia Funaki
Just an amazing spot to watch the sun set and rise over port. Also spent time here over night and enjoyed the stars whith some snacks. It's packed on holiday season so e prepared at times there is no spots to park so make sure you have Plan B if you can't find parking. Oh and there's whales during summers the whales swim past so bring binoculars to get a clear view u
When is the best time to visit Macquarie Lighthouse (Sydney, Australia)?
From May to November, watch for migrating whales offshore; bring binoculars for clearer sightings.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Grounds access | AUD 0 |
| Guided tower tour (optional) | AUD 80 |
| Picnic snacks | AUD 15 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 95 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Macquarie Lighthouse
Address: Old South Head Rd, Vaucluse NSW 2030, Australia
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Macquarie Lighthouse (Sydney)?
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇦🇺 Australia, with baby
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities