Lighthouses in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico's historic lighthouses have guided sailors along the island's coastline for more than a century. Perched atop dramatic cliffs, overlooking secluded beaches, and standing watch over busy harbors, these coastal landmarks tell the story of Puerto Rico's maritime heritage. Today, many have been beautifully restored and offer visitors spectacular ocean views, scenic hiking trails, museums, and some of the island's best opportunities for photography and whale watching.
Why I Love Puerto Rico's Lighthouses
Growing up on an island, the ocean was always part of everyday life. But it wasn't until I began exploring Puerto Rico as an adult that I truly appreciated the beauty of its lighthouses. Some sit atop rugged cliffs with endless Atlantic views, while others overlook the calm Caribbean Sea. They're places where history, nature, and unforgettable scenery come together, and I never miss the opportunity to stop whenever I'm nearby.
Explore Lighthouses by Region: North · East · Central · South · West · Islands
Displaying 11 results.
North Region
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Arecibo Lighthouse and Historical Park
Built in 1898 by the Spaniards, the lighthouse still in use and was automated in 1964. In the premises, you'll find a museum with exhibits, a recreation area featuring a special area for children with replicas of ancient sailing ships and a pirate's island, a restaurant and sports facilities. Open Tue-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat-Sun 10am-7pm. Admissions: Adults $9, Children $7 and Parking $2. Reservation required for groups.Carr. #655 Bo. Islote Sector El Muelle
Arecibo, 00614
(787) 880-7540
East Region
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Faro de Fajardo
Owned and managed by the Conservation Trust of Puerto Rico, the three headlands that extend into the Atlantic Ocean from the Island's eastern corner opened as a reserve in March 1991 and features a nature center and a 19th century working lighthouse, "El Faro". The carefully restored neoclassical lighthouse is the second oldest on the Island and offers a magnificent view that, on a clear day, reaches distant Caribbean islands.Route 987
Fajardo
(787) 860-2560 -
Faro Punta Tuna
Completed in 1893, Faro Punta Tuna stands atop dramatic coastal cliffs overlooking Puerto Rico's southeastern shore. One of the island's best-preserved Spanish-era lighthouses, it offers panoramic ocean views and a glimpse into Puerto Rico's rich maritime history.Maunabo
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Maunabo Lighthouse
Located on Punta Tuna, near the charming little town of Maunabo, this lighthouse was built by the Spaniards in 1893.Maunabo
South Region
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Faro Punta de las Figuras
Completed in 1893, Faro Punta de las Figuras guided ships navigating Puerto Rico's southeastern coastline for decades. Although no longer in operation, the historic lighthouse remains an important reminder of the island's maritime heritage and offers scenic views of the Caribbean Sea.Arroyo
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Caja de Muertos Lighthouse
The Caja de Muerto Lighthouse is a 19th century lighthouse. Restored by the Department of Natural Resources and houses a lookout and a museum.Ponce
West Region
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Punta Borinquen Lighthouse
Completed in 1889, Punta Borinquen Lighthouse once guided ships along Puerto Rico's northwestern coast. Although the original structure was damaged by earthquakes, the site remains an important historic landmark with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and nearby beaches.Aguadilla
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Cabo Rojo Lighthouse (El Faro)
Completed in 1882 atop the dramatic limestone cliffs of Los Morrillos, Cabo Rojo Lighthouse is one of Puerto Rico's most iconic coastal landmarks. Surrounded by a nature reserve, it rewards visitors with spectacular Caribbean views, scenic hiking trails, and unforgettable sunsets.Cabo Rojo
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Punta Higuero Lighthouse
Built in the early 1890s, Punta Higuero Lighthouse overlooks the dramatic cliffs of Rincon and remains one of Puerto Rico's most photographed lighthouses. Between January and March, the surrounding park is one of the island's best places to spot migrating humpback whales while enjoying spectacular sunset views.Rincon
Islands Region
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Faro de Culebrita
Completed in 1886, Faro de Culebrita is the oldest surviving lighthouse in the Spanish Virgin Islands. Reached by hiking across the uninhabited island of Culebrita, the picturesque ruins reward visitors with sweeping Caribbean views and one of Puerto Rico's most memorable coastal landscapes.Culebra
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Punta Mulas Lighthouse
Completed in 1895, Punta Mulas Lighthouse has guided vessels entering Isabel Segunda Harbor for more than a century. Beautifully restored, it now houses a small maritime museum where visitors can learn about Vieques' nautical history while enjoying scenic waterfront views.Vieques
Local Tip
Many of Puerto Rico's lighthouses are best visited in the late afternoon, when the lighting is softer and temperatures are cooler. Several are located within nature reserves, so bring comfortable walking shoes, water, and a camera—you'll likely spend more time exploring than you expected.
Puerto Rico's Lighthouse Legacy
1846
First modern lighthouse system proposed for Puerto Rico.
1882
Cabo Rojo Lighthouse begins operation.
1886
Culebrita Lighthouse completed.
1892–1893
Punta Tuna, Punta Borinquen, Punta Higuero, and Caja de Muertos lighthouses completed.
20th century
Most lighthouses converted from oil lamps to electric beacons.
Today
Several are listed on the National Register of Historic Places and remain among Puerto Rico's most recognizable coastal landmarks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you climb Puerto Rico's lighthouses?
Most historic lighthouses are no longer open for climbing, but many can be explored from the surrounding grounds, museums, or observation areas.
Which lighthouse has the best views?
Many visitors consider Cabo Rojo Lighthouse one of Puerto Rico's most spectacular, thanks to its dramatic limestone cliffs and panoramic Caribbean views. Punta Higuero in Rincón is another favorite, especially during whale-watching season.
Can you see whales from Puerto Rico's lighthouses?
Yes. Between January and March, Punta Higuero Lighthouse in Rincón is one of the island's best places to observe migrating humpback whales from shore.
Which is the oldest lighthouse in Puerto Rico?
The Faro de Cabo Rojo, completed in 1882, is among Puerto Rico's oldest surviving Spanish-era lighthouses. Other historic lighthouses, including Punta Mulas, Punta Tuna, and Culebrita, were built during the late 19th century.
