Point Cartwright Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on the Sunshine Coast of Queensland, Australia. It sits atop Point Cartwright, a headland that juts out into the Coral Sea, offering stunning panoramic views of the coastline and the Pacific Ocean. The lighthouse has been guiding ships since it was first lit in 1978, replacing the original wooden structure that was built in 1896.
The lighthouse is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to marvel at its architectural beauty and take in the breathtaking views from the top. The climb to the top is not too strenuous and is well worth the effort, as visitors are rewarded with sweeping views of the coastline, including Mooloolaba Beach, Mount Coolum, and the Glass House Mountains.
Aside from its stunning views, the lighthouse also has a rich history. It played an important role in the development of the Sunshine Coast, helping to guide ships into the nearby Port of Brisbane. The original lighthouse was decommissioned in 1978 and replaced by the current structure, which is still in operation today.
As you approach the car park at Point Cartwright Lighthouse, you will notice that it is situated on a steep hill with a narrow road leading up to it. Once you reach the top, you'll find a small car park with ample parking spaces available.
One of the first things you'll see is a public toilet facility located near the entrance of the car park. This is a welcome sight for those who have traveled a long distance and need to use the facilities before embarking on their climb to the top of the lighthouse. The toilets are well-maintained and clean, making for a comfortable visit. Shower facility is also available at this site.
Once you've used the facilities, you can make your way to the view deck, which offers a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding area. The view deck is located just a short walk from the car park and provides an unobstructed view of the Coral Sea and the coastline. Visitors can take in the beauty of the ocean and the rugged landscape while enjoying the fresh sea breeze.
The view deck is also a great place to take photos, with the lighthouse in the background and the stunning views providing a perfect backdrop. There are several benches available for visitors to sit and relax while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
The Point Cartwright Coastal Walk is a scenic and relatively easy 2.5-kilometer walking track that loops around the headland near Point Cartwright Lighthouse. The track offers breathtaking views of the coastline, the Coral Sea, and the surrounding landscape, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
The walk begins at the car park near the lighthouse, where visitors can take in the stunning views of the ocean and the coastline. From there, the track winds its way around the headland, passing through bushland, rocky outcrops, and sandy beaches.
The track is well-maintained and includes a mix of paved paths and natural trails. There are several lookout points along the way, offering panoramic views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape.
There are several picnic tables and a dinking fountain located near Point Cartwright Lighthouse that offer a perfect spot to enjoy a relaxing picnic with family and friends and refreshing way to stay hydrated while taking in the beautiful scenery.
The picnic tables are well-maintained and are free for visitors to use. They are located in close proximity to the car park and the walking tracks, making them a convenient spot to rest and recharge during your visit to Point Cartwright Lighthouse.
There is a large water tank located near the Point Cartwright Lighthouse, which is an important part of the lighthouse's infrastructure. The tank is used to collect and store rainwater, which is then used to supply water to the lighthouse and the surrounding picnic and walking track areas.
The water tank is designed to hold a large volume of water, ensuring that there is a reliable supply of water available even during times of drought or water restrictions. It is also equipped with a filtration system that helps to ensure the water is clean and safe for use.
The tank is an important part of the lighthouse's sustainability efforts, as it helps to reduce the lighthouse's reliance on external water supplies. This not only helps to reduce the lighthouse's environmental impact but also ensures that water is available for use during times of high demand, such as during peak tourist seasons.
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Directions to Point Cartwright Lighthouse
Point Cartwright Lighthouse is located on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia. Here are some directions to help you reach the lighthouse:
From Brisbane:
- Take the Bruce Highway north towards the Sunshine Coast.
- Take the Sunshine Motorway exit towards Mooloolaba.
- Follow the Sunshine Motorway until you reach the Kawana Way exit.
- Turn right onto Kawana Way and follow it until you reach the Nicklin Way roundabout.
- Turn left onto Nicklin Way and follow it until you reach the La Balsa Park car park entrance on your left.
- Park in the car park and walk along the coastal path towards Point Cartwright Lighthouse.
From Maroochydore:
- Take Aerodrome Road east towards Mooloolaba.
- Turn right onto Brisbane Road and follow it until you reach Nicklin Way.
- Turn left onto Nicklin Way and follow it until you reach the La Balsa Park car park entrance on your right.
- Park in the car park and walk along the coastal path towards Point Cartwright Lighthouse.
