Point Amour

Point Amour is a remote and rugged headland on the south coast of New South Wales, offering dramatic ocean views, a historic lighthouse, and a sense of isolation that feels a world away from the nearby towns. This is a place where the Southern Ocean crashes against ancient cliffs, and the wind carries the scent of salt and wild heath. For travellers who love wild coastal scenery and a touch of maritime history, Point Amour is a rewarding detour.

Highlights & What to See

• Point Amour Lighthouse – A beautifully restored 19th-century lighthouse perched on the cliffs. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the coastline and, if you're lucky, migrating whales (May–November). The adjacent keeper's cottage now houses a small museum with maritime artefacts and stories of shipwrecks.
• Wild Coastal Scenery – The headland is a prime spot for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light paints the cliffs and ocean in shades of gold and deep blue. The surrounding heathland is home to wildflowers in spring, including vibrant banksias and orchids.
• Whale Watching – Point Amour is one of the best land-based whale-watching spots on the Sapphire Coast. Humpbacks and southern right whales pass close to shore during their annual migration.
• Shipwreck History – The waters off Point Amour are treacherous, and several ships have been wrecked here. Interpretive signs along the clifftop walks tell the stories of these maritime tragedies, adding a haunting layer to the landscape.
• Walking Trails – A short but scenic coastal walk leads from the lighthouse to nearby coves and viewpoints. The path is well-maintained and offers constant ocean views.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend between 1 and 2 hours at Point Amour. This allows time to explore the lighthouse and museum, take a short walk along the clifftops, and simply sit and absorb the powerful ocean atmosphere. If you're keen on whale watching or photography, consider allowing a half-day – particularly early morning or late afternoon when the light is best and the crowds are thin.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Eden – A historic fishing town 15 minutes north, known for its killer whale museum, the Eden Wharf, and excellent seafood. It's a natural base for exploring the Sapphire Coast.
• Ben Boyd National Park – Just south of Eden, this park features striking red-and-white sandstone cliffs, secluded beaches, and the historic Boyd's Tower. The Light to Light Walk is a multi-day coastal trek that passes near Point Amour.
• Pambula – A charming village with a lively market (Sundays) and the Pambula River, ideal for kayaking or a peaceful picnic. The nearby Pambula Beach is a great spot for a swim.
• Merimbula – A popular holiday town 30 minutes north, with beautiful lakes, oyster farms, and the Merimbula Aquarium. It's a good option for accommodation and dining.
• Bega – Inland from the coast, Bega is famous for its cheese (the Bega Cheese Heritage Centre is worth a stop) and offers a taste of the region's dairy country.

Please check official sources for current details.