Monument · Rottnest Island, Austrália Ocidental
Wadjemup Lighthouse
1896 limestone lighthouse on Rottnest's highest point, with guided tours that climb to the balcony and offer views of the whole island and the mainland.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Wadjemup Lighthouse
Wadjemup Lighthouse stands atop Wadjemup Hill, the highest point of Rottnest, about 4 km from the village of Thomson Bay. The first lighthouse, from 1849, was the first stone lighthouse in Western Australia; the current tower, of white limestone and about 39 metres high, was built in 1896 on the same site and was the country's first revolving-beam lighthouse.
On guided tours you climb a spiral staircase to the upper balcony, from where you can see the whole island, the salt lakes, the bays and, on clear days, the Perth and Fremantle coastline.
The lighthouse remains operational, now automated. Nearby are the Second World War gun batteries at Oliver Hill, which can also be visited with a guide.
Wadjemup is the island's name in the language of the Noongar peoples.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 hour with the guided tour.
Best time
On clear days, for the views. The bike ride up is more pleasant in the morning before the heat.
How to get there
By bike from Thomson Bay in about 20 minutes, or on the island bus to the lighthouse stop.
Tip
Book the lighthouse guided tour at the visitor centre upon arrival, as groups are small.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Wadjemup Lighthouse
Can you climb Wadjemup lighthouse?
Yes, with guided tours that go up to the upper balcony.
How do you get to the lighthouse?
By bicycle from Thomson Bay, or by island bus to the lighthouse stop.
What can you see from the lighthouse?
The whole island, the salt lakes, the bays and, on clear days, the coasts of Perth and Fremantle.
