Visiting Split Point Lighthouse

A must-see attraction which acts as a stunning sentinel on the Shipwreck Coast

Split Point Lighthouse can be found set against the pretty backdrop of Aireys Inlet along the Great Ocean Road. It boasts a 34-metre high tower and is renowned for its eye-catching red “cap”.

The lighthouse is still a working one, but it has been open since 2005 as a tourist attraction where members of the public can look around and marvel at the stunning views it boasts across the Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary, the Great Ocean Road, and Phillip Island.

Around the lighthouse, visitors can soak up scenery including wild cliffs and beautiful beaches. Elsewhere, there is a unique replica of the traditional bark huts that the first residents of Aireys called home, and there is a smattering of rock pools that languish at the bottom of the lighthouse itself. Whether you are hoping for a historic afternoon, or a day spent sightseeing, a stop in the lighthouse is for you!

The Backstory of Split Point Lighthouse

The lighthouse dates back to 1891, and in 1919 became an unmanned lighthouse. At that point in time, it was difficult to get inside the tower and admiring the views from the top was a very rare treat for a select few people. During the 20th century, the lighthouse was set in a residential spot on an unsealed road but, in 2005, it was opened to the public after various organisations had high hopes and visions of growth for it. Since then, Eco-Logic have been operating visits to the lighthouse to interested parties. Today, the lighthouse is open every day for self-guided tours. You can always check Google for opening hours.

What it is Known For

Split Point Lighthouse has had some time in the spotlight, these days it is most for its role in the TV series ‘Round the Twist’. This beloved Aussie tv show was one of the most popular shows in the 90s, with many visitors wanting to capture the iconic shot in front of this landmark. The lighthouse has also appeared on Summer Love, the Sunrise program, Travel Guides and MasterChef.

Taking a Tour of Split Point Lighthouse

Each tour lasts around thirty minutes, giving visitors the opportunity to climb the original staircase of the lighthouse and gaze out at the ocean views from the top. In other parts of the building, there are stories that bring history to life, although the original lighthouse keeper’s quarters are now privately owned and not accessible to the public. The cafe is open every day. Which is ideal during the warm summer days and you feel like a refreshing drink.

When you are up the top, keep a lookout for the migrating whales from the top of the lighthouse, or even see the pods of dolphins frolicking in the distance.

Visiting the lighthouse is a must-do for anyone in the area who wants to admire mesmerising views of the Great Ocean Road and learn more about the historic charm of this part of Australia. Tours teach you all about the life story of the lighthouse, while the surrounding scenery is well worthy of a picture or two.

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.