Smoky Cape Lighthouse, Maritime lighthouse in South West Rocks, Australia
Smoky Cape Lighthouse is an octagonal concrete tower standing 17.4 meters tall on a narrow headland within Hat Head National Park along the New South Wales coast. This navigation structure guides mariners through the waters off this exposed point.
Colonial Architect James Barnet designed this lighthouse in 1891 as one of his final projects along the Australian coast. Its construction aimed to warn ships navigating this hazardous coastline where many vessels had run aground.
The name comes from Captain Cook's 1770 sighting of Aboriginal fires burning across the cape during his voyage. This label reflects how the headland was once used by the people who lived there.
Access to the lighthouse comes through Hat Head National Park, which charges a daily vehicle fee. Visitors should prepare for exposed coastal conditions on this headland and wear sturdy footwear.
The structure houses an original Chance Brothers lantern and lens system that guided ships through waters where more than 20 shipwrecks were recorded. This historic optical apparatus remains a striking reminder of the area's maritime past.
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