Landmark

Grassy Hill Light

Landmark

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Grassy Hill Light is a charming white lighthouse perched atop Grassy Hill, providing sweeping views of Cooktown, the Coral Sea, and the Endeavour River mouth. Built in 1886, it's one of Queensland's oldest lighthouses and is still operational. Visitors can climb the short, steep hill to the base (the lighthouse itself is not open for climbing) and enjoy a 360-degree panorama from the surrounding platform. The site is a favorite for sunset photography, with the lighthouse silhouetted against vibrant skies. Interpretive panels detail its maritime history and the 1770 Endeavour landing visible from this vantage point.

Don't miss

Photograph the lighthouse against the sunset over the Coral Sea
Spot the Endeavour River mouth and Cooktown's layout from the lookout
Read the interpretive signs about the lighthouse's 1886 construction and Cook's voyage

More attractions in Cooktown

Landmark

Cooktown Cemetery

A historic burial ground from the gold rush era, with graves reflecting Cooktown's multicultural community.

Museum

Cooktown Museum

Housed in a former convent, this museum showcases gold rush relics and artifacts from Captain Cook's 1770 voyage.

Landmark

Cooks Monument and Reserve

See the exact landing site of Captain Cook’s first Queensland visit, with informative signs and picnic spots.

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