The original 1880 timber lighthouse was demolished in 1955 due to severe borer infestation.
The current lighthouse is a white cylindrical concrete tower measuring 13 meters in height.
It remains an operational maritime navigation light under the management of the local port authority.
The light characteristic is a white flash every 10 seconds, visible up to 12 nautical miles.
The lighthouse grounds serve as a popular vantage point to observe the annual humpback whale migration from May to November.
The site was historically part of a complex that included the pilot station and cottages for harbor staff.
The Yamba Lighthouse, constructed in 1880, serves as a navigational aid on the headland overlooking the mouth of the Clarence River. The current concrete structure replaced an original timber building that stood on the site until 1955. It is situated on Pilot Street, perched prominently above the town's primary surfing beaches. The structure remains an active navigational light, though it is not open for public interior tours. Visitors access the site via a grass-covered reserve that offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the coastal town of Yamba. The site is a primary location for whale watching during the southern migration period. It sits adjacent to the Yamba Golf and Country Club and the Main Beach shoreline.
The grass verge on the southern side of the lighthouse, capturing both the tower and the coastline in one frame.
Bring binoculars for whale spotting during the winter and spring months.
Visit during low tide to explore the rock pools located directly below the headland.
Park at the lower lot and walk up the grass incline for the best vantage point of the structure against the ocean.
Attempting to enter the fenced-off lighthouse compound, as it is a restricted operational facility.
Stay within the fenced boundaries; maintain a respectful distance from the active residential pilot cottages nearby.
