Stay: Innes NP Stenhouse Campground $16.50pn
We set off just after breakfast to go and explore the park. From Stenhouse Bay to the end of the road at Browns Beach is just 22km with a few detours to lookouts, lighthouses, beaches and walks. The park is known for its spectacular coastal landscapes, rugged cliffs and sandy beaches perfect for swimming, surfing and fishing.
Along the way we stopped to admire the coastal views to Cape Spencer.
There are plenty of small islands and this one is called Chinamans Hat due to its shape.
We turned off the main drag down to Cape Spencer Lighthouse. The 9m structure was built in 1975 from concrete surfaced with gypsum mosaic. From here we had extensive views of Investigator Straight and Althorpe Island.
Returning to the main road we continued on to the turn off to West Cape Lighthouse. At the carpark we learnt about the high energy coastline and tidal movements of the region.
We then went on the loop trail out to the very unusual 9m stainless steel lighthouse and views across the Spencer Gulf and Pondalowie Bay.
We drive there next driving through the campsite and the fishing village allowed to stay here as they were here before the park was established. 
We take a walk out on the cliffs and admire the eroded cliffs from the power of the waves and winds.
We then head to Browns Beach and our next stop is the pretty Shell Beach. It’s a shame the weather is too cold for a swim.
There is no information about the Shepherds Hut but it appears to be available for hire.I think we prefer Traky..
We decide to do the 4km return hike to Royston Head. Once again we are rewarded with views of rugged cliffs and the extensive coastline.
On the way back to camp we have a quick look at Ethel Beach named after one of the many shipwrecks in the area. There is still evidence of this one buried in the sand.
After lunch and watching the footy back at camp we went to have a look at Inneston Historic Township. We learnt some more about Gypsum mining and how people lived here. 
The next morning before we left we went for a walk along the Stenhouse loop track that offered some more insights in the areas history in both gypsum mining and maritime.
Enjoyed your photos as usual, the weather looks a little grey. No swimming in Cooktown either, its warm enough just too many box jellyfish and crocodiles. The pool at the campsites safe enough though.
ReplyDeleteM+P