Experience the rich maritime history of this treacherous coastline, where countless ships have met their demise. The Split Point Lighthouse, which continues to operate every night, remains an essential guide for vessels navigating the dangerous waters of Bass Strait. This attraction is a notable landmark on the Shipwreck Coast.
The Shipwreck Coast has a renowned spot
The Split Point Lighthouse is located along the Great Ocean Road in Aireys Inlet. It has a 34-metre-high tower known for its distinctive red “cap.”
The lighthouse has been open since 2005 as a tourist attraction where visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary, the Great Ocean Road, and Phillip Island.
Visitors can enjoy the scenic views around the lighthouse, which include cliffs and beaches. There is also a replica of traditional bark huts and rock pools nearby. Whether you are interested in history or sightseeing, visiting the lighthouse is recommended.
History Split Point Lighthouse
The lighthouse’s construction was completed and illuminated in late 1891, following several shipwrecks off the coast. Made of concrete, it was initially called Eagles Nest Point before being renamed Split Point in 1913. The design of the lighthouse resembles a chimney to promote airflow, with only the exterior painted to allow moisture to escape and prevent concrete rot.
The lighthouse had three keepers in its remote location for 27 years before becoming automated in 1919. It can be easily noticed while driving along the coastline and easily reached off the Great Ocean Road. Its red cap on top can be recognised.
Split Point Lighthouse gained fame for its appearance in the TV series ‘Round the Twist’. It has also been featured on shows such as Summer Love, the Sunrise program, Travel Guides, and MasterChef.
Visit Aireys Inlet for these reasons
Aireys Inlet may be a small town along the Great Ocean Road, but it is still worth a visit. You will likely pass through it to the Great Otway National Park. It is a popular spot for surfing, mountain biking, bird watching, and fishing. Take advantage of the Split Point Lighthouse and the replica bark hut of the town’s first settlers at the Allan Noble Sanctuary.
The Legend of the Ghost Who Visits the Lighthouse
One of the early lighthouse keepers had a problem with alcohol.
He travelled to Aireys Inlet after hearing about its construction. He had strong connections to Aireys Inlet and many friends who often visited the Aireys Pub. If he were to secure a job at Split Point Lighthouse, which happened to be situated near the pub, he would be able to join his friends for drinks every night and live his ideal lifestyle.
While travelling, he experienced a fall from the crow’s nest of a sailing ship and sustained leg fractures. Subsequently, while recuperating in the hospital, his feet were consumed by rodents.
After enduring hardship and displaying dedication, he eventually arrived in Aireys and was granted the position of Split Point Lighthouse Keeper.
During winter, the sun started setting early in the evening. The man felt upset about not being able to join his friends at the pub because he had lighthouse duty. He came up with a plan one night. He scratched a hole in the back of the lighthouse so that it could illuminate the pub. This way, he could sit at the front bar and drink beer while still keeping an eye on the lighthouse’s light.
After creating an opening in the rear of the lighthouse, he quickly went to the pub to share his accomplishments with his friends. They all witnessed the light shining through as it rotated. Regrettably, his boss was among the individuals he had displayed his work to, resulting in his immediate termination.
After removing the intoxicated individual, it was determined that a lighthouse keeper with a greater sense of responsibility was needed.
A family consisting of a husband, mother, and their children, including a girl in her early teens, moved into the lighthouse.
The girl came home one evening and revealed that she was pregnant. Afterwards, it is reported that the father took her fishing at midnight near the rocks of Step Beach beneath the lighthouse. The father returned home alone, and it is said that ever since then, the girl has been haunting that location, attempting, supposedly, to lure a young teenage male as the father of her child. Reportedly, several teenage boys over the past century have claimed that they witnessed a girl emerging from the water in old-fashioned attire, attempting, without success, it seems, to pull them in.
Lighthouse excursion
Visitors can take a thirty-minute lighthouse tour, climbing the original staircase and enjoying ocean views from the top. The building also has other areas with interactive historical exhibits, although the lighthouse keeper’s quarters are privately owned and not open to the public. The cafe is open daily, which is excellent for warm summer days when you want a refreshing drink.
From the top of the lighthouse, you can observe migrating whales and pods of dolphins frolicking in the distance.
Visiting the lighthouse is a popular activity for those in the area who want scenic views of the Great Ocean Road and a glimpse into the history of this part of Australia. Tours provide information about the lighthouse’s background, and the scenery is beautiful enough for photography.
Lighthouse Grounds
The lighthouse precinct is well looked after and has several walking trails that lead to viewing areas with ocean and harbour views. The grounds are accessible so that everyone can get in. Whether you’re looking at the rock stacks or the green hills inland, the views of the Portland Lighthouse are amazing. Bring your camera to capture the ocean views, especially at sunrise and sunset when the light is golden.
Walking trails near the Split Point Lighthouse
Lighthouse Discovery Trail
This walk is approximately 2.2 kilometres long and starts at the Split Point Lighthouse, ending in the village of Fairhaven. You’ll pass by whale-watching spots along the coast and traverse an ancient tribal boundary. The trail features gentle inclines and a few steps but is generally easy to navigate.
Visiting the Great Otway National Park
The Great Otway National Park offers a range of activities and attractions for travellers on the Great Ocean Road. Visitors can explore cascade waterfalls, go through the forest, and enjoy quality time with loved ones in a natural setting.
Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary
The Aireys Inlet protects over 17 hectares of ocean waters. It is home to Eagle Rock and Table Rock, two limestone stacks. Marine species like octopuses, crabs, and sea sponges are found in the area. Different species of sharks also inhabit the waters. Local sea birds feed in this area. The sanctuary contains ancient Aboriginal cooking sites called ‘middens’. These sites are over 2000 years old. Aboriginals living on the coast relied on molluscs as a core staple. Mollusc refers to invertebrate animals like sea snails, mussels, and octopuses.
Best times to visit
Summers have clear skies here. Autumn through early spring have weather systems that create beautiful cloud patterns. The lighthouse is best photographed from the path towards Split Point. Sunrise and sunset are the ideal times to shoot here. This area has low light pollution, perfect for prolonged exposure to astrophotography at night.
Below you can see an excellent opportunity to visit the Split Point Lighthouse on our one or multiple day Great Ocean Road Tours from Melbourne.
Accommodation and Dining
After a big day of sightseeing eat at one of Portland’s local restaurants. Isabella’s Café near the lighthouse precinct has good food and a cozy atmosphere to relax. If you want to stay longer there are many accommodation options in Portland from B&B’s to modern hotels with air con and all the extras. Make sure to allow enough time to take it all in.
Complete your 12 Apostles tour with a meal at Isabella’s Café in Portland. Enjoy a cozy atmosphere, scrumptious meals, and convenient accommodation options nearby!
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