Cape Leeuwin – a dramatic seascape

The tallest lighthouse on Australia’s mainland

Guarding the Margaret River coastline

From the tip of Cape Leeuwin, the most south-westerly point of Australia, you can watch in wonder as the waters of the Indian and Southern oceans unite to create a dramatic seascape. Cape Leeuwin’s unmissable feature is it’s imposing lighthouse, the tallest on Australia’s mainland. This historic structure guards the Margaret River Coastline, just a few hours southwest of Perth.

Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse was constructed from local limestone in 1895. A guided tour of this grand building reveals how was one of the last lighthouses in the world to be manually operated by clockwork and a kerosene burner. If you visit between June and September, you may spot migrating humpback and southern right whales close to shore as they continue their journey north.

Stand on Australia’s most south easterly point on one of our tours

Physical rating icon
Physical rating:
3 - Active/Moderate
Tour duration icon
Tour duration:
14
days

Join us on an adventure through Western Australia’s stunning landscapes and blooming wildflowers! Start your journey with a visit to the iconic Rottnest Island, home of the friendly quokka. Soak up spectacular views from the Kalbarri Skywalk and West Loop Lookout and pay tribute at the moving HMAS Sydney Memorial. Discover Albany’s rich maritime history with a guided tour of the historic Whaling Station and explore lush Australian wildlife and botanical gardens. This tour entails a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and adventure.

Physical rating icon
Physical rating:
3 - Active/Moderate
Tour duration icon
Tour duration:
13
days

Join us on an extraordinary journey aboard the Indian Pacific, where you’ll traverse the vast Nullarbor Plain during a luxurious 3-night rail adventure. Explore the stunning West Coast wildflowers in full bloom and discover the beauty of Western Australia. Stroll along the iconic Busselton Jetty, experience the rich heritage of the Koomal Dreaming Aboriginal cultural tour, and take in the breathtaking views from Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse. Walk amongst the treetops at the Valley of the Giants, and enjoy a full day of exploration on the picturesque Rottnest Island. This unforgettable tour is designed for over-50s seeking adventure, culture, and nature at its finest.

Where two oceans meet

Cape Leeuwin is considered one of the three ‘great capes’ of the world; a spectacular peninsula where the Southern and Indian Oceans meet in dramatic fashion. 

The historic Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse stands proudly on Australia’s most south-westerly point. Dive into the rich history of this impressive structure at the Interpretive Centre in one of the original lighthouses keepers' cottages. The centre provides visitors with an interactive journey through maritime history, learning how the lighthouse was built, along with tales of the triumph and tragedy of this shipwreck coast. The displays give a fascinating insight into the men, women, and children who have lived in mainland Australia’s tallest lighthouse, honouring the dedicated lighthouse keepers, caretakers of this rugged and treacherous patch of coastline.

The tallest lighthouse on Australia’s mainland
The tallest lighthouse on Australia’s mainland

Other sights to add to your itinerary 

To the east is Flinders Bay, named after Matthew Flinders. A playground for whales on their annual migration, Flinders Bay is also a great spot to swim, fish, or watch the friendly pelicans. The hillside area west of the lighthouse, is part of Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park. It’s extensive heath vegetation and thick scrub supports a vast array of plant and bird species. 

Three of the four original lighthouse keepers’ cottages remain on the property with one now a charming café where you can enjoy scones and tea overlooking Flinders Bay. 

Explore West Australia’s rugged coastline and maritime history on a tour taking in Cape Leeuwin and Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse.

Frequently asked questions

Where did the name Cape Leeuwin originate from?

The cape was named by Matthew Flinders in 1801 after the adjoining area which had been called Leeuwin's Land by Dutch navigators when their ship Leeuwin (Lioness) charted some of the coastlines in 1622. 

Is the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse still in use?

The famous landmark still functions as a vital working lighthouse, a maritime guide protecting vessels navigating the perilous cape off West Australia’s Southwest coast. You can still take a guided tour of the lighthouse to see the majestic view of the wild waves crashing on the rocky shoreline; the 186 steps to the top of the tower are well worth the climb.

How tall is the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse?

At 39 metres, the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse is the tallest lighthouse on mainland Australia, and a must-see attraction for visitors to the Margaret River region. 

See nearby cities, sights, and festivals

Get in touch if you have any questions

Our team is always happy to help if you have any questions about us or our tours. Fill out our form and we will get back to you soon.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.