It's the event on everyone's lips – the Annual 'Walk to the Lighthouse' in beautiful Bowen, Top of the Whitsundays. But although the walk itself is a once a year experience, if you plan right you'll have a once in a lifetime experience!
Step 1: Find the perfect place to stay
Bowen really has it all, from budget to luxe. If you're roadtripping with the van or tent, book yourself a site at one of the beachfront caravan parks and get ready to relax.
Like the idea of more comfort after all that outdoor adventure? If you want to stay close to the walk location at Dalrymple Point (and the afterparty at the Grandview Hotel!) choose from some of our town centre accommodation.
Step 2: Pack for adventure
Bring your snorkel: One of the main draw cards of the walk is the chance to get up close and personal with some of our amazing marine life. But that's not the only opportunity on hand in Bowen. The spectacular beaches are hiding a little secret – straight off the sand is a treasure trove of coral reef just waiting to be explored! Don't have snorkel gear? No problem, gear is available for hire.
We recommend you also chuck in some good walking shoes for on land hikes; take on the short but stunning Cape Edgecumbe Trail to discover spectacular coastal views and bushland.
Step 3: Chill out in style
Balance all that outdoor adventure with some indoor chill out time. Head to Bowen's Summergarden Theatre to catch the latest movie in the old-world charm of Queensland's longest running independent theatre.
Step 4: Walk & learn
Time for the big event! The walk this year will commence from approximately 3pm. The low tide on Saturday the 31st is at 4:32pm. For the best chance of having the least amount of water to wade through, we recommend heading out an hour prior and start to return at the low tide turn. Pro tip – watch for the locals, having done the walk before they know the best route and when to leave.
This year the walk will be guided by a volunteer group thanks to the 'Leave no Footprints' program. The program is all about reef education and engaging with visitors to share information on responsible interaction with our marine environment. Watch out for the guides and experts on the day – they're the go to for finding out more about what you will see on the walk.
Step 5: Get ready to toast the sunset
Walk done (or you've just checked out all the action from the shore!) it's time to relax for the best show in town – the Whitsundays 'winter' sunset! There'll be grazing platters, wine and beer for sale and laid- back live entertainment. Make sure to pack a rug or chairs to relax on!
Step 6: Taste the Whitsundays
Who's hungry? After a big day of adventures, there's nothing better than a great feed. Book a table at one of our local pubs or grab some fish and chips at the marina. Sunday brekky is sorted too – head to the local beachfront markets at Hansen Park for fresh local produce, or hit up a local café for brunch in paradise!
THINGS TO KNOW:
Like most nature walks, the walk to the lighthouse is at your own risk.
- Be aware that you will get wet and may need to wade through water depending on time taken. If you are unsure about walking, there is plenty to see in the shallows on the mainland, or simply enjoy the event space.
- Consider your fitness, suitability and tide times and be mindful of your surroundings at all times.
- Show care for our natural environment – adopt the 'Look, Don't Touch' philosophy, for your safety and the health of our marine wildlife
- We suggest taking water, wearing sunscreen and sunglasses, and a light jacket.
- Wear appropriate footwear, such as reef shoes or canvas slip-ons.
- Have fun, show respect for fellow walkers and the environment!
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