Back to previous page

Point Stephens Lighthouse and Fingal Island

Tomaree National Park

Affected by closures, check current alerts 

Overview

Take a boat or a tour to Fingal Island and explore Point Stephens Lighthouse and historic ruins. Aquamarine Adventure run regular tours to Fingal Island. It's not safe to walk across the sand spit to the island as the tide and swell can change quickly.

Type
Historic buildings/places
Please note
  • Fingal Island sand spit is extremely dangerous. There is a high risk of drowning and people have died while crossing and swimming at the sandbar.
  • Conditions at Fingal Island sand spit are unpredictable and can change rapidly. Even when the water appears calm, tides, swell and deep channels can quickly cover the sandbar in water. Do not cross in any direction if there is any water over the sandbar.
  • The Lighthouse Keepers' Cottages Ruins are closed for public safety reasons. Do not enter the site under any circumstances.
  • The safest and most enjoyable way to experience Fingal Island is on an organised boat tour. Regular tours are available with Aquamarine Adventures and Moonshadow-TQC Cruises.

Point Stephens Lighthouse stands tall and elegant on Fingal Island with a view over the rocks of Fingal Bay. The coastal views from the island back to the mainland are worth the effort to get there. 

Built in 1862, Point Stephens Lighthouse features a swept tower base and first floor entrance that give a flared appearance. This construction, along with the terrace of Lighthouse Keepers’ quarters within the lighthouse precinct makes Point Stephens unique among Australian lighthouses.

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info

Tours and events at this location

  • Fingal Island Lighthouse. Photo: Jeannie Lawson © Aquamarine Adventures.

    Fingal Island eco-walk and lighthouse tour

    Discover the captivating history of Point Stephens Lighthouse and Fingal Island on this tour with Aquamarine Adventures. Take in the incredible views and immerse yourself in this magical landscape in Tomaree National Park, near Nelson Bay.

  • View of people walking over green grass toward the white tower of Point Stephens lighthouse. Photo credit: Bonita Holmes-Nu © Moonshadow-TQC Cruises

    Fingal Island historical lighthouse tour

    Take a step back in time with this tour of Point Stephens Lighthouse and Fingal Island in Tomaree National Park. Hear fascinating stories of the island's history from a passionate local guide on this engaging outing with Moonshadow-TQC Cruises, near Nelson Bay.

 

Download our app

The free NSW National Parks app lets you download maps and explore parks, things to do and places to stay—all without mobile reception.

Hand holding a phone with NSW National Parks app on screen. Photo: Branden Bodman/DPIE

Bundle:

Lighthouse tours in NSW national parks

Discover exciting lighthouse tours in NSW national parks to experience captivating maritime heritage and stunning costal views.

Smokey Cape Lighthouse, Hat Head National Park. Photo: And The Trees Photography © DPE

Why create an account?

  • Create lists of your next adventures
  • Get closure alerts by email
  • Save your personal info to make it fast and easy to fill in trip intention forms
  • And more features coming soon