Cape Jaffa Lighthouse Kingston SE
About This Museum
Perched on the edge of the Southern Ocean in the quiet coastal town of Kingston SE, the Cape Jaffa Lighthouse stands as a stoic, solitary figure against the vast sky. It’s not your typical museum; this is a piece of maritime history you can actually climb. The journey up the tight spiral staircase, past the original cast-iron plates bolted together, feels like stepping back into the 19th century. Reaching the lantern room rewards you with breathtaking, wind-whipped panoramic views that make the climb utterly worthwhile.
Collection Highlights
The main attraction is the lighthouse itself—a rare, fully intact example of a prefabricated iron tower. Inside, you'll find its magnificent, beautifully preserved Chance Brothers dioptric lens assembly, which once cast a beam 40 kilometres out to sea to warn ships away from the treacherous Margaret Brock reef.
Visitor Information
It's open on weekends and public holidays, but given its seaside location and occasional fierce winds, it's always a good idea to check their social media before you make the trip. The entry fee is modest, and there's a small gift shop at the base.
Architecture & Building
This is a classic Victorian-era lighthouse, constructed from interlocking cast-iron plates in a distinctive octagonal shape, giving it a robust yet elegant industrial aesthetic.
Contact & Location
Address: Marine Parade, Pinks Beach, Kingston SE, Kingston District Council, South Australia, 5275, Australia
Phone: +61 427 854 175
Website: Visit Website