Barrenjoey Head Lighthouse

Barrenjoey Head Lighthouse is a sandstone tower on a prominent headland at Sydney's northern edge, standing about 91 meters (300 feet) above the ocean. The complex includes keeper cottages and support buildings that still occupy the site, creating a small cluster of structures from the colonial era.

The structure was built in 1881 to guide ships through Broken Bay and became an important milestone in maritime safety for the region. Local Hawkesbury sandstone was chosen for construction under architect James Barnet's design, creating a durable landmark that has endured for over a century.

The lighthouse served as a crucial reference point for fishermen and became a symbol of maritime life along Sydney's northern coast. The surrounding cottages and work buildings tell the story of those who maintained the light and lived on this isolated headland.

Two walking trails depart from the Governor Phillip parking area to reach the summit: the moderate Barrenjoey track covering about one kilometer and the steeper Smugglers track for those seeking more challenge. The site is open during daylight hours, and the climb rewards visitors with expansive views across the coastline and surrounding waters.

The Smugglers track gets its name from 19th-century customs officers who monitored contraband activities in Broken Bay from this strategic vantage point. The name reflects how this coastal location was once a hotspot for illicit trade and official surveillance.

Location: Northern Beaches

Location: New South Wales

Inception: 1881

Architects: James Barnet

Height: 20 m

Made from material: Hawkesbury Sandstone

GPS coordinates: -33.58019,151.32983

Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:41