In short
- Grounds, boardwalks, and lookouts cost nothing to visit.
- Guided tower tours are paid; check the current adult, child and family prices when you book.
- Tower tours last 45 minutes and are capped at 10 people.
In this article
Visiting the southernmost tip of the Mornington Peninsula does not have to cost money. The main walking trails, lookouts, and reserve grounds are open to the public daily at no charge. Tickets are only required if you wish to go inside the 21-metre limestone tower.
Is Cape Schanck Lighthouse free to visit?
Yes, access to the surrounding national park reserve, coastal boardwalks, and lookouts is free.
You can walk the grounds from 6:00am to 6:00pm daily without a ticket. This includes the wooden staircase descending to the rock platforms and viewpoints for Pulpit Rock. Parking near the reserve is also completely free.
How much does a lighthouse tower climb cost?
Guided tower tours are paid; check the current adult, child and family prices when you book.
These prices are approximate and can change. Children under 3 years old enter for free but must be closely supervised by an adult. The ticket includes a guided walk up the limestone tower to the still-functioning lamp room.
| Visitor Type | Approximate Price |
|---|---|
| Adult | See official site |
| Child (3-14 years) | See official site |
| Child (Under 3) | Free |
What happens on the guided tower climb?
The tour takes you up the 21-metre tower to see the original First Order glass lens.
Tours last about 45 minutes. Space inside the 1859 tower is limited. A maximum of 10 people are permitted on each climb. You will experience high winds on the balcony, which sits 100 metres above sea level.
Do I need a ticket for the Lighthouse Museum?
No, entry to the museum is by donation if you choose not to book a tower climb.
The museum is located in the heritage-listed former keeper's cottages. It contains maritime history displays and artifacts. You can usually browse these exhibits in about 30 minutes. It is a great alternative if the tower tours are sold out.
Do third-party day tours include lighthouse tickets?
Mornington Peninsula coastal day tours visit the reserve, but usually exclude the tower climb ticket.
If you book a guided day trip from Melbourne, you will have time to explore the boardwalks and reserve for free. You will need to purchase the tower climb separately upon arrival if time permits.
How can I prepare for the ticketed climb?
Wear sturdy walking shoes and bring a windproof jacket for the balcony.
Hold onto your hats and cameras tightly during the tour. The exposed cliffs and tower balcony can be extremely windy. There is no drinking water available on site, so you must bring your own filled reusable bottles.
Questions travellers ask
What are the opening hours for Cape Schanck Lighthouse?
The reserve grounds and boardwalks are open to pedestrians daily from 6:00am to 6:00pm. Tower tour times vary by season.
Is parking free at Cape Schanck?
Yes, free sealed parking is available just a short walk from the lighthouse precinct. Overflow parking operates on peak weekends.
Can I bring my dog to Cape Schanck Lighthouse?
No. Dogs are not permitted anywhere in the Mornington Peninsula National Park. This strict rule includes the reserve and all carparks.
