Wollongong Breakwater Lighthouse, Wollongong

The Wollongong Breakwater Lighthouse stands as a historic beacon in the coastal city of Wollongong, Australia. Erected in 1871, this classic lighthouse has been a guiding light for mariners navigating the waters of the Illawarra coastline for over a century. With its distinctive white and red color scheme, the lighthouse is not only a functional maritime facility but also an iconic landmark of the region.

Constructed at the end of the long breakwater, the structure is relatively modest in size, but its presence is a testament to the rich maritime history of Wollongong. The lighthouse was deactivated in 1974 when technology rendered many traditional lighthouses obsolete. However, the city preserved the structure due to its historical significance and the affection held for it by the local community.

Although it no longer functions as a navigational aid, the Wollongong Breakwater Lighthouse continues to captivate visitors and photographers, particularly at dusk and dawn when the sky provides a dramatic backdrop to its silhouette. The lighthouse is easily accessible from the adjoining Blue Mile walkway, which stretches along the city's picturesque coastline, offering walkers, joggers, and cyclists panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

The lighthouse is not open for internal tours, but its external beauty and the surrounding landscape of Wollongong Harbour make it a popular spot for casual visits and relaxation. The area around the lighthouse, including the adjacent Wollongong Head Lighthouse, is a favored location for fishing, picnicking, and watching the passing parade of ships and pleasure craft.