El Faro
El Faro: A Beacon of Coastal Beauty in La Serena
Faro Monumental: La Serena's Coastal Icon
La Serena's iconic lighthouse, a blend of history and coastal beauty, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Chile's maritime past.
The Faro Monumental, a striking lighthouse in La Serena, Chile, stands as a symbol of the city and its maritime history. Built in the mid-20th century, it offers panoramic coastal views and a glimpse into the region's past.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Faro Monumental
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Avda. Fco de Aguirre, La Serena, Coquimbo, CL
Tuesday
9 am-2 pm
Wednesday
9 am-2 pm
Thursday
9 am-2 pm
Friday
9 am-2 pm
Saturday
10 am-2 pm
Sunday
10 am-2 pm
Other nearby places you may find interesting
Explore places near Faro Monumental
Getting There
Walking
From the city center, head east towards Avenida del Mar. The lighthouse is located at the intersection of Avenida del Mar and Avenida Francisco de Aguirre. The walk is approximately 20-30 minutes, offering scenic views of the coastline. No costs involved.
Public Transport
Take a local bus from the city center towards Avenida del Mar. Look for buses heading towards Avda. Fco de Aguirre. The bus stop at Avenida del Mar is marked, and you can ask locals for help. The fare is usually around 500 CLP (Chilean Pesos). Get off at the stop closest to Faro Monumental, which is just a short walk away. The bus ride will take around 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic.
Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in La Serena. A short taxi ride from the city center to the Faro Monumental will cost approximately 6,000-12,000 CLP, depending on the area and time of day.
Local tips
✓
Visit during sunset for stunning views of the coastline and the city illuminated in the evening light.
✓
Explore the nearby Avenida del Mar for restaurants, cafes, and shops.
✓
Check out the cannon near the lighthouse, a relic from the 19th century.
Discover more about Faro Monumental
The Faro Monumental de La Serena, an iconic lighthouse, graces the Avenida del Mar in La Serena, Chile. More than just a navigational aid, it's a beloved symbol of the city and a major tourist draw.Constructed between 1950 and 1951 by the Chilean Navy, the lighthouse was commissioned as part of President Gabriel González Videla's 'Plan Serena,' a project aimed at modernizing the city. Designed by Jorge Cisternas Larenas, the structure blends a neo-colonial style with fortress-like elements.While initially intended as a functional lighthouse, its lighting system was later removed. Today, it serves as a prominent landmark and a reminder of La Serena's maritime heritage. In 1958, the Chilean Navy handed the lighthouse over to the Municipality of La Serena, which now maintains the site. The Faro Monumental was declared a National Historical Monument on January 25, 2011.Visitors can admire the lighthouse's architecture, stroll through the surrounding gardens, and enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean. A cannon, acquired during the war with Spain in 1866, stands near the lighthouse.
A brief summary to Faro Monumental
Use Faro Monumental 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 Coquimbo Region
Discover the Coquimbo Region in Chile: From historic La Serena to the starry skies of Elqui Valley, experience pristine beaches, rich culture, and diverse wildlife.
Tell me more about Coquimbo Region
