Gabo Island

RICH HISTORY, RICH SCENERY

Gabo Island is a year-round destination blessed with warm summers, blooming springs, mild autumns and stormy, charming winters.

For a jam-packed day full of remote island vibes, pristine views, a historic lighthouse, and rich wildlife…head to Gabo Island! Roam around its rocky cliffs, bays, and take in all the scenery of this haven just off the coast of Croajingolong National Park.

Situated 14 km from Mallacoota, access to the island is only by sea and sky. Its 154-hectares offer travellers and locals a peaceful day trip getaway or overnight stay.

Lighthouse

Built between 1858 and 1862, Gabo Island Lighthouse is the second tallest in Australia and Victoria’s single active beacon. A 47-metre high structure made of the island’s distinctive pink granite, travellers can visit and enjoy the spectacular views from the top.

Take in the Howe Range and the Wilderness Coast, all with the Croajingolong National Park in the background.

For a tour of the lighthouse, make sure to book before your arrival to arrange a time and day with the island’s caretaker. Call (03) 5158 0255

Wildlife

Gabo Island is also home to major colonies of seabirds, especially Little Penguins. These cuties waddle back from the ocean at dawn and dusk, so visitors keen to meet the world’s smallest penguins should consider staying at the Assistant Lighthouse Keepers quarters.

From May to November, whales can be seen from the top of the lighthouse, the harbour, and from the boats travelling in and out of the island.

For dolphins and stingrays, head to the jetty located on Santa Barbara Bay. If you were wondering about snorkelling and diving, then Gabo Island has you covered! This aquatic paradise boasts abalones, sea urchins, and a variety of colourful fish like the banded morwong, blue groper and wrasse.

Accommodation

Overnight accommodation is available in the Assistant Lighthouse Keepers quarters and is booked through Parks Victoria.

A cottage catering for up to 8 visitors, a minimum 2-night stay is required. It features three bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, two bathrooms and a laundry. Linen is provided.

Tours can be arranged when booking your accommodation. Remember planning ahead to make the most of your visit. For booking and enquiries, call the lighthouse caretaker. The caretaker will pick you up upon arrival, so it’s important to advise them of your transport arrangements.

Check out Victoria Parks website for further information.

Parks Victoria Website

(03) 5158 0255

Other sites of interest

To learn about the geology, history, flora and fauna of the island, check out the interpretative display at the blacksmith shop, located at the base of the lighthouse. Visitors can also take a quick tour to the island’s small museum.

Discovering the island on foot is a great choice to explore its magnificent landscapes, bays, seasonal blooms, and ocean vistas. So don’t forget to pack a picnic and step on the island’s trails. Walk by historical ruins, the radar station, the old cemetery and the wrecks of the Monument City -one of many ships that sank near the island in 1853.

As Gabo Island is predominantly made of pink granite and basalt, its windswept shoreline consists mostly of steep rocky cliffs and boulder bays. Still, visitors can relax at Santa Barbara Bay, the island’s only sandy beach -complete with a jetty.

Getting there

Three charter boat businesses operate out of Mallacoota offering day trips and transfers for overnight guests. These services are weather dependent, so consider being flexible with your plans:

Gabo Island is also accessible by private boat owners.

Merimbula Air Services offer scenic tours and transfers from Merimbula and Mallacoota to Gabo Island. For bookings and information visit their website