The Robe Obelisk, or Cape Dombey Obelisk, is a historic navigation beacon perched precariously on a rapidly eroding clifftop above the ocean. Walk here to see this eye-catching structure from a safe distance and enjoy the stunning vistas out to sea.
Head towards the obelisk along one of the coastal footpaths that lead out to the clifftop of Cape Dombey. Take in some of the stunning coastal scenery on your way. The final approach to the obelisk is now fenced off because the limestone cliffs are constantly eroding due to the unrelenting waves. You can still admire the obelisk though, which stands at 40 feet (12 meters) in height and sits 100 feet (30 meters) above the ocean.
As you gaze out to sea, think back to the days of the early seafarers who had the treacherous task of navigating this risky coastline. Approximately 30 ships were lost at sea in the surrounding Guichen Bay waters in 1853, prompting the construction of the obelisk in 1855. The obelisk also used to contain a store of rockets that could be fired to assist ships in distress.
Admire the work that went into erecting the obelisk in this location. It is said that the limestone was carried here by a wagon with a team of 32 bullocks towing it. The obelisk was originally painted white before receiving its current red-and-white markings in 1862. These colors help to make it stand out from the sun reflecting off the limestone cliffs and Long Beach’s white sandy hills. Robe Obelisk is now visible to ships sailing up to 12 miles (20 kilometers) from the shore.
Time your visit to catch the sunset. Looking west out over the ocean, see the water and the sky take on spellbinding colors as the glowing sun sinks beneath the waves.
The Robe Obelisk is easily reached by foot along the marked coastal paths. You can also use the access road past the ruins of the old Robe Gaol to drive to the gravel parking lot on Cape Dombey itself and park for free. There are no entry fees.