Cape Willoughby Lighthouse — Attraction in Willoughby

Perched majestically on the rugged easternmost point of Kangaroo Island, the Cape Willoughby Lighthouse is a destination that captivates both history enthusiasts and nature lovers. As Australia's first official lighthouse, established in 1852, it exudes a timeless sense of purpose and solitude. ​The drive to the cape is an experience in itself, with winding roads that reveal sweeping coastal vistas. Upon arrival, the white stone tower stands as a stark and beautiful contrast against the vivid blue of the Southern Ocean. The panoramic views from the base, and especially from the top if you take a guided tour, are simply breathtaking. You can see for miles along the dramatic coastline, a truly spectacular sight. ​A guided tour is highly recommended to fully appreciate the site's rich history. The knowledgeable guides share fascinating stories of the early lighthouse keepers and their families, bringing the isolation and challenges of their lives to the forefront. The chance to climb the narrow staircase and stand at the very top is a rewarding experience, offering a unique perspective on this wild and beautiful part of the world. It’s a powerful reminder of our maritime past and a must-visit for anyone traveling to...

We had stopped for a short visit to see the Cape Willoughby lighthouse while working on Kangaroo Island for the KI Cup in Feb 2024. We were met with Taylor who showed us around, and took us up the lighthouse for a tour. Taylor was super friendly and extremely knowledgeable about all things KI. She certainly was excellent at her craft and we really appreciated the interaction. A year later, in Feb 2025, while working the KI Cup again we visited Seal Bay, and bumped into Taylor. lol, we had an awesome chat and she remembered us. We were really appreciative that she took the time to chat and yet again her knowledge of Seal Bay was unsurpassed. Thank you Taylor, very much appreciated, you truly are an asset to your employer. Maybe see you again...

This lighthouse was definitely worth the ride! We cycled there from Penneshaw and it was well worth the scenery on the way and the amazing views. The staff member inside the house was extremely friendly and informative. She gave us water for our journey back. Lots of history to browse inside of the museum. We didn’t have time to do the tour as we needed to get back before dark but that will be on our agenda next time. Toilets located at the back of house. I wouldn’t drive my car there as it’s mostly dirt roads but we did see cars there. I imagine the sunsets here would...