You can't get more oceanfront than a lighthouse. For centuries, lighthouse keepers have had the best views of the beach and the coastline, and now, travellers have the opportunity to experience that too. All across NSW, there are lighthouse keepers' cabins within national parks that have been lovingly renovated, ready to host your next beach holiday.
Check out our top picks for a spectacular lighthouse stay. READ MORE: The ultimate winter travel guide to Hobart This lighthouse sits at the easternmost point of mainland Australia, meaning it's the first place in the country to get the sunrise each morning. Surrounded by coastal walking tracks, the town of Byron Bay is just a 30-minute walk or a short drive away.
The two semi-detached cottages are perched on the headland in Cape Byron State Conservation Area and sleep six, offering panoramic views of the coastline and lighthouse. Near Forster, about three hours north of Sydney, these lighthouse cottages are surrounded by scenic beaches and stunning clifftop coastal walks. Each cottage has been lovingly restored, with the Head Keepers' cottage sleeping eight, and the Assistant Keepers' Cottages sleeping six guests each.
Keep an eye out for dolphins from your windows. READ MORE: There's so much more than just whales at Australia's whale-watching capital If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle, Smoky Cape is perfect. In Hat Head National Park, near South West Rocks, the cottages offer a bed and breakfast style stay with three cosy rooms and shared living spaces, or two self-contained cottages sleeping eight guests each, ideal for larger groups.
Though you're immersed in nothing but nature inside the national park, small towns and plenty of beaches are just a short drive away. READ MORE: New York City travel: Everything to know about what to do, best attractions, where to stay and more Just off the coast of Narooma, visitors can experience a wildlife wonderland on Montague Island, which is home to seals, dolphins, whales and more than 90 bird species. Accessible only by boat, the two cottages blend historical charm with modern comforts and offer magnificent sunrise views, with five or three bedrooms, sleeping a total of 16 guests.
Located inside Beowa National Park on the far South Coast, near Eden, Green Cape Lightstation is perched right on the peninsula. It's a perfect place for spotting migrating whales in the winter months, or shipwrecks at Disaster Bay nearby. The three cottages on offer are charming with unbeatable views of the coast, and sleep up to six each.
.
