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  2. Dirk Hartog Island National Park
  3. Cape Inscription

Cape Inscription

We recognise and acknowledge Malgana people as the traditional owners of Dirk Hartog Island National Park.

Enjoy stunning views of the beach and rocky headland at the most northerly point of Dirk Hartog Island National Park, which is also arguably the most historically significant site in Australia.

No dogs

No park entry fee

Cape Inscription
Tourism WA

About this place

This was the place of the first recorded landing by Europeans on Australian soil when Dutchman Dirk Hartog came ashore in 1616 on the northern end of the island which now bears his name. He left a record of his landing inscribed on a pewter plate nailed to a post in a cleft of a rock on the high cliff. Today, more modern posts mark this spot.

The Cape Inscription lighthouse - together with the keepers' quarters - was built between 1908 and 1910. It still operates but has been automated since 1917. In 2012, the Shire of Shark Bay renovated the lighthouse keepers' quarters, which had fallen into disrepair over the years since lighthouse automation.

Back to Dirk Hartog Island National Park

Safety information

Plan when to visit. Consider travelling with a personal location beacon (PLB). In the event you need to be rescued it could save your life!

Plants, wildlife and fungi

Visit the Atlas of Living Australia for a list of species recorded within a 5km radius of Cape Inscription.

Traditional Owners

We recognise and acknowledge Malgana people as the traditional owners of Dirk Hartog Island National Park.

Need to know

No dogs

No pets allowed

No park entry fee

Entry to Dirk Hartog Island National Park is free.

Toilets

No toilets at this location. Follow Leave No Trace principles.

Park office / Contact

Shark Bay Parks and Wildlife Office

(08) 9948 2226
sharkbayenquiries@dbca.wa.gov.au

Location

Australia's Coral Coast
Shark Bay

Acknowledgement of Country

The Government of Western Australia acknowledges the traditional owners throughout Western Australia and their continuing connection to the land, waters and community. We pay our respects to all members of the Aboriginal communities and their cultures; and to Elders both past and present.

Connect with us

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Main navigation

  • Home
  • Explore WA's parks

    All parks

    Park Finder Map

    Attractions and places to visit

    Trails

    Regions of WA

    • Australia's South West
    • Australia's Coral Coast
    • Australia's North West
    • Australia's Golden Outback
    • Destination Perth
  • Experiences
  • Activities
  • Know before you go

    Know before you go

    Get the practical ‘know how’ to adventure into Western Australia’s national parks confidently, responsibly and safely.

    Safety

    Natural area hazards

    Plan your activity

    Be prepared

    Travelling in remote locations

    Bushfires and prescribed burns

    Bushwalking safety

    Camping safety

    Mountain biking safety

    Swimming safety

    Adventure safety

    Beaches and coastal areas

    Rivers, lakes and lagoons

    Fishing, boating, paddling, snorkelling and diving

    Access friendly places

    Access to nature north of Perth

    Access to nature south of Perth

    Access to trails

    Caring for our parks

    Marine conservation

    Fees

    Park entry fees

    Park passes

    Camping fees

    Attraction fees

    Other fees

    Concessions

    Fee waivers

    Camping

    Where and when to camp

    Campground facilities

    Campfires, firewood and cooking appliances

    Powered campsites and generators

    Group camping

    Online campsite booking terms and conditions

    Current campfire conditions

    Campgrounds availability for non-bookable campgrounds

    When to go

    Adventure activities

    Drones in parks

    Tours and accommodation

    Conducting an event in a park

    Pets in parks

    Getting around

    Park visitor guides, maps and itineraries

    Park visitor guides

    Aboriginal cultural heritage in parks

  • Get inspired
  • Where to stay
  • Park alerts

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