With the unfortunate hit of COVID, the official Bowen Lighthouse Walk has been cancelled to much disappointment. But that won’t stop you from getting out and enjoying some fresh air as you guide your own walk to the iconic Lighthouse located at Bowen’s North Head Island.
The walk promises some of the most magnificent scenery and embraces the spectacular immersion of sea life that lives on the shores of the bay. Plan it right, and you’ll have yourself a once in a lifetime experience that can be shared with your loved ones.
Finding the perfect place to stay in Bowen
From budget accommodation to luxurious stays, you’ll find all types of accommodation suitable for any group in Bowen. Book yourself a campsite at the NRMA Bowen Beachfront Holiday Park if you’re feeling adventurous. Accommodation includes villas, cabins, caravan sites, and powered sites. It’s along the beach so you’ll get the privilege of water views and lovely sunrises and sunsets.
If you’re looking for a more comfortable stay to rest and rejuvenate from the day’s worth of adventuring, head to the Rose Bay Resort. Featuring ocean views with the sound of the ocean right outside your room, spoil yourself with a magnificent sunrise or sunset that you won’t forget.
Packing for adventure
When planning your walk to Bowen’s North Head Lighthouse, it always pays to remember that the ground you will be walking on is mostly covered with seawater every other time of year. Take full opportunity of this and bring along a snorkel and some swimming gear, as you get up close and personal with some of the marine life.
Beyond amazing sea life, don’t miss out on the hidden little secret of the breathtaking beaches. A full treasure trove of coral reefs just waiting to be explored, experience first hand the best of the Great Barrier Reef from a local’s perspective. If you don’t have any snorkel gear, you can always hire some from the resort or camping grounds you’re staying at.
It’s also important to have some quality walking shoes on you for the land hiking to ensure safety and comfort throughout. Be adventurous and take on the Cape Edgecumbe Trail to explore the bushland and witness the stunning coastal views.
Don’t forget to pack plenty of water to stay hydrated, but do aim to pack light as it is a walking journey after all.
Time to walk and explore
The best chance to avoid higher tide is to head out an hour prior to low tide, which will give you the least amount of water to wade through. Plan your walk to start your return at the turn of low tide. To nail the walk, watch out for what the locals are doing as these seasoned walkers know the best routes to take and the best times to leave.
Remember, the walk to the lighthouse is at your own risk, so you’ll need to consider your fitness levels as well as plan and prepare tide times for your walk. You may need to wade through water depending on the tide, so be aware of this. It isn’t necessary to walk all the way and you’ll still have great views in the shallows on the mainland.
Admire the sunset views
Once your walk is done, be sure to hang around and relax ready for the sunset to roll in. The event goes beyond the walk, sith grazing platters, wine, beer for sale backed by quality live entertainment. Bring along a rug or chairs for extra comfort.
Grab a taste of Bowen
After a big walk, food will most likely be what’s on your mind. Head to the Grand View Hotel for a magnificent local feed. Featuring favourite Australian classics, fresh seafood, premium grilled meats, fusion dishes, and so much more. Check out the full menu here.
The Grand View Hotel holds an amazing history that even touches into Hollywood, having filmed part of the movie Australia starring Hugh Jackman and Nicole Kidman in its establishment.
Don’t forget to make a booking by calling (07) 4786 4022 so as to not be disappointed.
Banner image credit: Whitsunday Paradise Explorer
