Plan your visit
Plan your visit
Cape Schanck is 90 kilometres south-east of Melbourne. Prepare for strong winds and wild ocean conditions.
Cape Schanck Lighthouse
420 Cape Schanck Road, Cape Schanck, Victoria 3939
GPS -38.4927, 144.8865
Open directionsGetting there
How to reach the lighthouse reserve.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Drive south from Melbourne via the M11 (Mornington Peninsula Freeway) and Boneo Road. | 90 minutes from Melbourne | Free parking | Free sealed parking is available a short walk from the lighthouse precinct. Overflow parking is marshalled on peak weekends. |
| Tour: Book a Mornington Peninsula coastal day tour departing from Melbourne. | Full day | Third-party tours visit the reserve and boardwalks but usually do not include the official lighthouse tower climb ticket. |
When to go
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QuietModerateBusyPeak
The reserve is open year-round from 6:00am to 6:00pm daily. Summer (December to February) brings the warmest weather for hiking the trails. Winter (June to August) is much colder but offers an excellent chance to spot migrating whales from the Cliff Lawn.
What to bring
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No drinking water is available on site.
Visitors must bring their own filled reusable water bottles.
How the day runs
Suggested itineraries for your visit.
Explore the boardwalks, climb the tower, and learn the history.
- Arrive and park
Park in the free sealed parking area off Cape Schanck Road.
- Coastal Boardwalk
Walk down the wooden staircase to view Pulpit Rock and Devil's Desk.
- Tower Climb
Join a 45-minute guided tour to the still-functioning lamp room.
- Lighthouse Museum
Spend 30 minutes exploring the heritage-listed keeper's cottages.
Combine the historic reserve with local nature trails.
- Bushrangers Bay Track
Hike the 2.6km track departing from the main car park.
- Cliff Lawn
Return to the reserve and look for whales or passing ships.
- Drive to Fingal
Head 2km north to the Fingal Picnic Area.
- Barbecue Lunch
Use the free electric barbecues at Fingal, as the main reserve has none.
What to pack
The coastal weather here changes rapidly. Always pack a windproof jacket, as the balcony and exposed cliffs are extremely windy. Wear sturdy walking shoes for the boardwalk and rock platforms.
Bring a sun hat, sunscreen, and binoculars for whale watching. There is no drinking water on site, so carry filled reusable water bottles. A camera with a wrist strap is recommended to prevent dropping it from the tower.
Easiest way to do it
Mornington Peninsula Coastal Discovery Tour from Melbourne
8 h 5.0 (18)
- Authentic Small Group travel with an engaging Local Guide
- Point Nepean National Park with Free Time to Explore
- Spectacular Mountain Top Views over Port Phillip and Melbourne
From$88per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Is parking free at Cape Schanck?
Yes, free sealed parking is available just a short walk from the lighthouse precinct. Overflow parking is marshalled on peak weekends.
Are there toilets at Cape Schanck Lighthouse?
Yes, public toilets are available in the reserve near the car park. Make sure to use them before beginning any long walks.
What are the opening hours for Cape Schanck Lighthouse?
The reserve grounds are open to pedestrians daily from 6:00am to 6:00pm. Guided tours run during specific hours, usually mid-morning to afternoon.