Aruba Island Tour
Discover the Beauty of Aruba: An Island Tour Experience
California Lighthouse: Aruba's Coastal Sentinel
Discover Aruba's iconic California Lighthouse: panoramic views, rich history, and stunning sunsets await at this must-see landmark.
The California Lighthouse, a historic landmark on Aruba's northwest tip, offers panoramic views of the island's coastline and a glimpse into its maritime past. Named after the S.S. California, which wrecked nearby in 1891, the lighthouse stands as a beacon and a popular spot for sunset viewing.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to California Lighthouse
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Monday
9 am-7 pm
Tuesday
9 am-7 pm
Wednesday
9 am-7 pm
Thursday
9 am-7 pm
Friday
9 am-7 pm
Saturday
9 am-7 pm
Sunday
9 am-7 pm
Other nearby places you may find interesting
Explore places near California Lighthouse
Getting There
Driving
From Oranjestad, head northwest on L.G. Smith Boulevard. Continue to the northernmost tip of the island and follow signs to the California Lighthouse. There is a parking area near the lighthouse. Parking is free. The drive is approximately 20 minutes from downtown Oranjestad and 11 minutes from Palm Beach.
Public Transport
Take the Arubus L10A from Oranjestad towards Arashi Beach. Get off at the Arashi Arubus Stop next to Arashi Beach. From there, walk approximately 1 mile (1.5 km) to the lighthouse. A single Arubus fare is approximately $3.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Aruba. A taxi ride from the Palm Beach area to the California Lighthouse typically costs around $22-25. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey, as prices can vary.
Local tips
✓
Visit the lighthouse around sunset for unforgettable views as the sun dips into the Caribbean Sea.
✓
Wear comfortable shoes for the climb to the top of the lighthouse.
✓
Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Arashi Beach or Boca Catalina for swimming and snorkeling.
✓
Check the California Lighthouse's Facebook page for up-to-date hours and special events.
Discover more about California Lighthouse
Perched on the Hudishibana limestone plateau near Arashi Beach, the California Lighthouse is a striking monument to Aruba's maritime history. Completed in 1916, it was designed by a French architect, Léon Jean Marie Bourgeois, drawing inspiration from French lighthouses of the era. The lighthouse was named in memory of the British steamship S.S. California, which sank off the coast in 1891, highlighting the treacherous waters and the need for a navigational aid.For a small admission fee, visitors can climb the 123 steps of the spiral staircase to the top of the 98-foot tower, where they are rewarded with 360-degree views of Aruba's western coastline, including beaches, coral shores, and the California Sand Dunes. The lighthouse not only offers stunning views but also houses a museum detailing its history and significance to the island.Today, the California Lighthouse is one of Aruba's most popular tourist destinations, attracting visitors from all over the world. Its location at the northernmost point of the island makes it an ideal spot to enjoy a breathtaking sunset or to take in the island's rugged beauty.
A brief summary to California Lighthouse
Use California Lighthouse as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
Get the app
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
More about Savaneta
Discover the serene charm of Savaneta, Aruba's oldest town, with its tranquil beaches, vibrant marine life, rich history, and mouthwatering seafood cuisine.
Tell me more about Savaneta
