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Visit Wadjemup Lighthouse on Rottnest Island for a dose of history

Wadjemup Lighthouse was built in 1896 to guide ships navigating Perth’s coastline. Its name, Wadjemup, means 'place across the water' in the Noongar language, reflecting the island’s Aboriginal heritage. Today, you can climb its tower for sweeping views of Rottnest’s turquoise bays and rugged shores.

Where is it located?
Address: Wadjemup Rd, Rottnest Island WA 6161, Australia

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How to access?
Wadjemup Lighthouse sits on the island’s highest point, about a 15-minute bike ride or a short hop-on hop-off bus ride from the main settlement at Thomson Bay.

Things to know before visiting Wadjemup Lighthouse

  • No separate entry ticket needed: Access to the lighthouse precinct is included with your Rottnest Island admission.
  • Getting there: Wadjemup Lighthouse sits at the island’s centre, roughly 4 km from Thomson Bay. You can reach it by bike (about 20 minutes uphill), the Island guided bus tour, or a Segway tour, which takes a scenic inland route through salt lakes and bushland.
  • Climb the tower: The lighthouse stands 38 metres tall, and you can climb to the top for panoramic views across the island and Indian Ocean.
  • Combine with nearby sights: Pair your visit with the Oliver Hill Tunnels or Lake Herschel for a great half-day inland loop before heading back to the coast.

Why visit Wadjemup Lighthouse

Climb to the island’s highest point for unbeatable views

Standing at 38 metres tall, Wadjemup Lighthouse is the highest point on Rottnest Island. From the top, you’ll see sweeping views across salt lakes, sand dunes, and the endless blue of the Indian Ocean. On clear days, you can even spot Perth’s distant skyline.

Step inside a piece of maritime history

Built in 1896 to guide ships safely past the island’s treacherous reefs, the lighthouse is still a powerful reminder of Rottnest’s maritime past. Join a guided climb to hear stories of shipwrecks, keepers, and the tough life led in isolation.

Explore its connection to Wadjemup’s deeper heritage

‘Wadjemup’ means “place across the water” in the Whadjuk Noongar language, and the lighthouse precinct sits on land that holds deep cultural and spiritual significance. The area was once part of traditional Noongar travel routes, and interpretive signs nearby share stories about the island’s pre-colonial history and its role as a place of connection and reflection for Aboriginal people.

Things to see around Wadjemup Lighthouse

Signal Ridge Lookout

Just beside the lighthouse, this lookout offers sweeping views across Rottnest’s salt lakes, coastline, and Indian Ocean. Here's where you'll can capture panoramic island photos.

Oliver Hill Battery

A short walk away, you can explore World War II-era tunnels and gun emplacements. Join a guided tours to know about tge island’s wartime defense history.

Wadjemup Walk Trail (Bidi)

This scenic walking route passes by the lighthouse, winding through native bushland and offering encounters with quokkas and seabirds along the way.

Jeannie’s Lookout

A hidden gem nearby, this viewpoint faces the western coastline and gives you dramatic views of the rugged cliffs and turquoise waters below.

Rottnest Island Vlamingh Lookout

Just a quick bike ride away, this elevated point overlooks the island’s inland salt lakes and wetlands.

Know before you go

Timings: Daily 10am to 3pm

Best time to visit:  During the warmer months from September to April. For a crowd-free experience, make Wadjemup Lighthouse your first stop of the day.

Getting there:

  • By bike: A 20-minute uphill ride from the main settlement.
  • By bus: Hop on the Island Explorer Bus and get off at Stop 8.
  • By foot or Segway: Join a guided walking or Segway tour, which follows scenic inland trails through salt lakes and native bushland leading up to the lighthouse.

Accessibility: While the climb to the top isn’t accessible due to steep stairs, the base area and viewing platform around Wadjemup Lighthouse are wheelchair-friendly and reachable via the Island Explorer Bus.

  • Water bottle: There’s little shade around the lighthouse, so stay hydrated especially if you’re biking or walking up the hill.
  • Hat and sunscreen: The area is exposed and can get windy.
  • Comfortable shoes: The walk from the nearest bus stop or bike path includes a gradual incline and uneven ground.
  • Camera or binoculars: Capture panoramic views of the island, salt lakes, and the distant mainland.
  • Snacks or picnic: There are no cafés near the lighthouse. Consider packing light refreshments if you plan to linger longer.

Frequently asked questions about Wadjemup Lighthouse

1. Is Wadjemup Lighthouse open year-round?

Yes, it’s open throughout the year, though guided tours may run less frequently during winter due to weather or maintenance.

Are there restroom or café facilities near the lighthouse?

There are no cafés or restrooms at the site itself. The nearest facilities are at Geordie Bay and the main settlement near Thomson Bay.

Are drones allowed around the lighthouse?

Drone use is restricted around Wadjemup Lighthouse for safety and conservation reasons. You must apply for special permits from Rottnest Island Authority.

What kind of wildlife can I spot near the lighthouse?

You may see ospreys nesting on nearby cliffs and quokkas roaming the surrounding trails, especially during early morning or dusk.

Can I combine my visit with nearby attractions?

Absolutely, it’s close to Oliver Hill Tunnels and Signal Hill Lookout, both within a short bike ride or bus stop away.