Northern Lookout
Northern Lookout, Arthurs Seat
McCrae Lighthouse: A Coastal Beacon
A historic lighthouse on the Mornington Peninsula, offering scenic views and a glimpse into Victoria's maritime past.
The McCrae Lighthouse, a historic landmark on the Mornington Peninsula, stands as a testament to Victoria's maritime past. Erected in 1883, this striking red and white lighthouse guided ships through the South Channel for over a century and remains a beloved symbol of the region.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to McCrae Lighthouse
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
676 Point Nepean Rd, McCrae, Victoria, 3938, AU
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Getting There
Driving
If driving, head towards Point Nepean Road (State Route 3). From Mornington, take the Nepean Highway (M11) south and follow the signs for Point Nepean Road. Continue on Point Nepean Road for approximately 15 minutes, passing through Dromana and Safety Beach. The lighthouse will be on your left at 676 Point Nepean Rd. Parking is available near the lighthouse. Parking availability may be limited during peak season.
Public Transport
To reach McCrae Lighthouse via public transport, take a bus from Mornington to Dromana. From Dromana, transfer to Bus Route 788 towards Rosebud and disembark at the stop closest to McCrae, near the intersection of Point Nepean Road and McCrae Plaza. From there, it is approximately a 10-minute walk north along Point Nepean Road to the lighthouse. A single bus fare is around $5.
Local tips
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Enjoy a walk along the beach and explore the colorful boathouses near the lighthouse.
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Pack a picnic to enjoy in the Lighthouse Reserve with views of Port Phillip Bay.
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Visit nearby Arthurs Seat for panoramic views of the Mornington Peninsula.
Discover more about McCrae Lighthouse
McCrae Lighthouse, also known as the Eastern Light or South Channel Lighthouse, is a captivating piece of maritime history on the Mornington Peninsula. Built in England in 1874 and assembled in McCrae in 1883, this 33.5-meter tall lighthouse is one of the few remaining of its kind in Australia and the tallest in Port Phillip Bay.
Originally, a timber structure served as the McCrae Lighthouse from 1854. It was later moved to Arthurs Seat to serve as a lookout. The current lighthouse, constructed by Chance Brothers & Co, guided mariners through the South Channel, a crucial shipping route. Decommissioned in 1994 after modern navigational aids were introduced, the lighthouse no longer actively guides ships. However, it remains a significant landmark, with recent restoration efforts ensuring its preservation for future generations.
Visitors can explore the Lighthouse Reserve, which surrounds the base of the structure, offering picturesque views of McCrae Beach, colorful boathouses, and native trees. Although public access inside the lighthouse is not generally available, the site provides a glimpse into the region's maritime heritage and a beautiful spot to enjoy the coastal scenery.
A brief summary to McCrae Lighthouse
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