Light to Light walk hugs the coastline between historic Boyds Tower and Green Cape Lightstation. It's one of the best walks on the far south coast of NSW. The views are stunning and ever-changing - from heathland to forest, tea tree groves to banksia woodlands, and sheltered coves to towering red-rock platforms. Plus, with so many seafront vantage points, you can spot seals, seabirds and whales. Enjoy a small section of the walk - most sections of this walk are easy - or enjoy a self-guided, multi-day hike, stop overnight and have a swim at the beach campgrounds.
The walk is exceedingly scenic, taking in stunning wilderness, spectacular beaches and some beautiful views as well as fascinating indigenous history. Please note that some of the infrastructure of the walk was damaged by the fires of late December 2019 and some areas remain closed.
The walk is best done as a three-day hike, and you can do it self-guided, providing all your own gear, food and camping equipment. The campgrounds along the walk are equipped with picnic tables, barbecues, and toilet facilities.
Light to Light Walk three-day itinerary
Day 1 – 13km
Begin the coastal trek from Boyds Tower, built in 1847, where you'll likely spot seals and seabirds all year round and migrating humpback whales during the season from May to November. Head for Saltwater Creek Beach to cool down with a swim and arrive at the secluded Saltwater Creek campground as the sun strikes the headland and colours the trees. Those staying at the Green Cape Lighthouse Keepers’ Cottages will be transferred for the night.
Day 2 – 9km
Day two starts back at Saltwater Creek. Head off for Bittangabee Bay where you can follow a trail through banksia groves, past sheltered covers and beside russet-red rock shelves. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Bittangabee Bay and then stop to explore the Bittangabee Bay Ruins. As the campground here was destroyed in the fire, Sapphire Coast Guiding Co., will transfer walkers back to Saltwater Creek (if doing the camping hike) or back to Green Cape Lighthouse Keepers’ Cottages.
Day 3 – 8km
From Bittangabee Bay, set out for Green Cape Lighthouse along a trail that was traditionally travelled by lighthouse keepers laden with supplies. Visit the Lye-e-Moon Cemetery that holds 70 of the 71 lives lost when the Lye-e-Moon was shipwrecked off the lighthouse in 1886. The body of the 71st passenger, the mother of Australia’s only Saint, Mary MacKillop, was taken back to Sydney. Stroll along the walkway to the Green Cape lookout to admire the landscape.
Take appropriate weatherproof clothing, insect repellant and sufficient food and water (you'll need around 6 litres per person per day).
If you choose to walk the track in sections, consider car pooling ahead of time.
While the track offers easy walking along a well-marked route, it does cover some remote country - it's a good idea to bring a topographic map and compass, or a GPS
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to birdwatch and whale watch along the way
Visit NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for more information on this trail.
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Total distance: 31511 m
Max elevation: 66 m
Min elevation: 1 m
Total climbing: 774 m
Total descent: -808 m
Getting to the trailhead: Beowa (Ben Boyd) National Park.
Boyd’s Tower is in the southern section of Beowa National Park. To get there: Travel south from Eden on the Princes Highway for 18km. Turn off at Edrom Road and follow it to the turn off near the end of the road.
Green Cape Lightstation is also in the southern section of Beowa National Park. To get there: Travel south from Eden on The Princes Highway for 18km. Turn off at Edrom Road and follow it for 6km. Turn right onto unsealed Green Cape Road and follow it for 21km
Road quality: Check the condition before setting out as some of the roads within the park can become boggy when it rains.
Parking: Parking is available at Green Cape Lightstation and Boyds Tower walking track. Parking is available at a number of points along the track, including Saltwater Creek and Bittangabee campgrounds and at Boyds Tower.
Closest towns to this walk: Bega, Bemboka, Bermagui, Candelo, Cobargo, Eden, Merimbula, Pambula, Quaama, Sapphire Beach, Tathra, Towamba, Twofold Bay, Wyndham
Beowa National Park, formerly Ben Boyd National Park, spans 47km of rocky coastline and sheltered inlets. Located near the whale watching town of Eden on the far South Coast of NSW, its crystal clear waters are perfect for snorkelling and swimming.
Beowa National Park is separated into 2 areas, split by Twofold Bay. Take your pick from the sparkling lakes and surf beaches in the park’s Pambula-Haycock area to the rocky cliffs and beachside campgrounds in the Green Cape area.
Its spectacular sea-carved landscape is a striking display of folded red rock platforms that contrast against the sapphire blue water of the ocean.
Looking for more walks in or near Beowa (Ben Boyd) National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Grade 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
