Split Point Lighthouse stands on a headland at Aireys Inlet, between Anglesea and Lorne, and is one of the easiest heritage stops on the first half of the Great Ocean Road. The tall white tower, built in the 1890s, is known locally as the White Queen, and many Australians also know it as the lighthouse from a well-loved children's television series. Guided tours of the tower take about 20 to 30 minutes and are run on a schedule by local guides, who explain how the light worked, who looked after it and why this stretch of coast needed one. The viewing balcony at the top gives a wide outlook over the Surf Coast, the cliffs and the sea. The booking page shows a 4.4 rating from 19 reviews, and the tour is one of the least expensive paid experiences on the coast.
What the tour involves
The tower has a spiral stair, so you climb on foot, and the route is not suitable for anyone who cannot manage steep steps or narrow spaces. Tours are short and led in English, so they fit easily between a lunch stop and the next leg of the drive.
Tour times, seasonal changes and the occasional closure for maintenance or bad weather are set by the operator, so check the schedule before you detour. Wind can be strong at the top, which is a reason to bring a jacket even on a warm day.
Around the headland
The lighthouse sits in a landscape of coastal heath and short walking tracks, and the area is a pleasant stop even if you do not take the tour. The grounds and the views from the base are free to enjoy, while the climb is the paid part. Aireys Inlet has a few cafes, and the coast road gives a sense of the surf coast before the road climbs towards Lorne and the Otways. A short walk along the cliff path gives a view back to the lighthouse and out to the water.
Who it suits
Families with children old enough to climb, lighthouse enthusiasts and anyone who wants a short, inexpensive stop with a view. It is the right pick if you want a heritage experience without committing a large part of the day. If you want a longer lighthouse visit with exhibits and a full interpretive centre, Cape Otway Lightstation further along the coast is the larger option, though its tower has been closed for conservation works.
If you are short of time, combine Split Point with Bells Beach and the Memorial Arch, which sit close together on the first stretch of the road.
What to expect
The experience
A short guided climb of the lighthouse tower, with commentary from a local guide and a balcony view over the Surf Coast.
Best time
Clear, calm days give the best views. Check the tour schedule, because times can vary by season and weather.
How long
The tour takes about 20 to 30 minutes, so allow up to an hour including the walk around the headland.
Tips
Wear sturdy shoes for the spiral stair, bring a windproof layer, and check the schedule before you detour.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Visitors who want a short, inexpensive heritage stop with a coastal view on the first half of the drive.
- Families
- A good short activity for children who can climb steps, but not suitable for prams or anyone who cannot manage stairs.
- Couples
- A pleasant, quick stop with a view, easy to combine with a coffee in Aireys Inlet.
- Pair with
- Pair it with the Memorial Arch and Bells Beach, which are close together on this stretch of road.
- Time needed
- About 45 to 60 minutes including the tour and a short walk.
Good questions
How long does the tour take?+
The guided tour takes about 20 to 30 minutes, including the climb and time at the top.
Where is Split Point Lighthouse?+
On a headland at Aireys Inlet, on the Surf Coast between Anglesea and Lorne.
Is the climb difficult?+
The tower has a spiral stair, so you need to manage steep steps and narrow spaces. It is not suitable for anyone with limited mobility.
Can I see it without taking the tour?+
Yes. The headland and the view of the tower are free to enjoy. The tour is the paid part.
Can I cancel?+
Free cancellation is offered, so check the cut-off time on the booking page before you go.
