Fort Tomaree Walk Shoal Bay

Point Stephens Lighthouse stands tall and elegant on Fingal Island with a view over the rocks of Fingal Bay. The amazing walk from Fingal Bay Beach to the light house is a must on your walks list. Pack a picnic as you may take half a day or longer.

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.

Point Stephens Lighthouse is even more unique, in that its location on Fingal Island is connected to the mainland by a sand spit. The sand bar with clear aqua waters either side creates a unique display of a beach paradise. The sand bar is exposed at low tide and completely covered by the ocean at mid to high tide. The coastal views from the island are pretty amazing as well.

Things You Should Know:

  • Crossing the spit should only be undertaken one hour either side of low tide when no water is present. Do not cross if the spit is awash as it is extremely dangerous. Sand conditions can be very unstable and there are strong currents.
  • Remember to take your binoculars if you want to whale watch.
  • Strong rips and currents may be present at this beach – take care in the water and please supervise children at all times.
  • Camping is not permitted on Fingal Island.

Getting There:

  • Point Stephens Lighthouse and Fingal Island is in the Fingal Island precinct of Tomaree National Park. Fingal Island is only accessible via boat and occasionally on foot via ‘the spit’ when exposed at low tide. To get there:
  • Turn into Government Road from Shoal Bay Road, Shoal Bay
  • Continue on Marine Drive towards Fingal Bay
  • As you enter town park at the Surf Live Saving Club on the left
  • Head north on foot along the beach towards Fingal Island
  • It is approximately 2km by foot to the lighthouse via the sand spit.
  • It is important to check the tides so you don’t become stranded on the island.

Vehicle access:

Sealed road for 2WD vehicles to the surf club. Vehicle access on the beach is not permitted except at the boat ramp on the southern end of the beach.

Parking:

Parking is available at Fingal Beach Surf Life Saving Club.

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