New South Wales · Attraction
Norah Head Lighthouse
A century of coastal light
schedule 1 min read / Updated Jun 2026
Built in 1903 from precast concrete blocks, Norah Head Lighthouse stands 27 metres tall at the northern end of the Central Coast, guarding the approaches to Tuggerah Lake and Brisbane Water. Daily guided tours take visitors up all 96 steps to the lantern-room balcony for panoramic views stretching from the Hunter coast to the Sydney basin.
The lighthouse was first proposed by local identity Edward Hargraves, who pushed for its construction following a series of maritime disasters off the headland. The original light was upgraded over the decades and eventually converted to mains electricity in 1961. The tower was automated and demanned in 1995 but remains an active navigational aid today.
Tours operate daily from 10am to 1:30pm, with no booking required, visitors simply arrive and join the next available group. The surrounding reserve includes a grassed picnic area with ocean views, and a small cluster of heritage cottages offers overnight stays for those who want to linger. The headland is also a reliable vantage point for whale watching during the winter migration season.
Scenic views
Lookouts near Norah Head Lighthouse.
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