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California Lighthouse: Aruba's Coastal Beacon

Explore Aruba's iconic California Lighthouse: panoramic views, rich history, and stunning sunsets await at this must-see landmark.

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The California Lighthouse, a historic landmark on Aruba's northwest tip, offers stunning panoramic views of the island's coastline and a glimpse into its maritime past. Named after the S.S. California shipwreck, it stands as a testament to Aruba's navigational history.

A brief summary to California Lighthouse

Local tips

  • Visit the lighthouse around sunset for the most spectacular views and photo opportunities.
  • Combine your visit with dinner at the Faro Blanco Restaurant for a romantic evening.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for climbing the spiral staircase to the top of the lighthouse.
  • Check the California Lighthouse Facebook page for the most up-to-date hours and information.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Oranjestad, drive northwest on L.G. Smith Boulevard towards the northern tip of the island. Follow signs to the California Lighthouse. Parking is available on site. Expect a 20-minute drive from downtown Oranjestad or 11 minutes from Palm Beach. Parking is free.

  • 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 bus fare is around $3.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Aruba. Ensure you agree on a fare with the driver before starting your journey to the California Lighthouse, as costs can vary depending on your location. A taxi from the high-rise hotel area to the lighthouse typically costs around $22.

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Discover more about California Lighthouse

Perched on the Hudishibana limestone plateau near Arashi Beach, the California Lighthouse is an iconic symbol of Aruba. Completed in 1916, the 98-foot tall structure is named after the British steamship S.S. California, which sank off the coast in 1891. The lighthouse was erected to prevent similar tragedies and guide ships safely through Aruba's waters. Designed by French architect Leon Jean Marie Bourgeois, the lighthouse's architecture is reminiscent of the Eiffel era, featuring clean, tapered cylindrical lines. Visitors can climb the 123 steps of the spiral staircase to reach the top for 360-degree views of Aruba's western coastline, beaches, and coral shores. The surrounding landscape offers a unique, almost lunar-like experience with indigenous cacti and occasional exotic birds. Automated in 1970, the California Lighthouse no longer requires a keeper but remains operational as a preserved monument. Today, it's a popular tourist destination, offering historical intrigue and natural beauty. The former lighthouse keeper's home has been transformed into the Faro Blanco Restaurant, offering Italian cuisine with breathtaking sunset views. Visiting during a full moon provides an extraordinary experience, with moonlight casting shadows and hues across the ocean and island.

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