Name and Location

The California Lighthouse, also known as Faro, is located on the northwest coast of Aruba, near Hudishibana, Arashi, and Sasariwichi-duinen.

Construction and History

The California Lighthouse was constructed in 1910 to replace the earlier Noordwestpunt Lighthouse. The new lighthouse was built to serve as a leading light for ships approaching the Oranjestad harbor. It stands at an impressive 55 meters (180 feet) tall, with a focal height of 52 meters (171 feet).

Architecture and Materials

The California Lighthouse features a striking white tower with a red roof, topped by a distinctive gallery. The lighthouse's architecture is characterized by its Art Deco style, which reflects the era in which it was built.

Light and Navigation

The lighthouse emits a Fl(3)W.15s light signal, which consists of three flashes of white light every 15 seconds. This unique pattern helps mariners distinguish the California Lighthouse from other nearby beacons.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the California Lighthouse complex, which includes a museum and a gift shop. The site has been designated as a national monument in Aruba, recognizing its cultural and historical significance.

Notable Views and Landscape

The surrounding landscape features a mix of sandy beaches, rocky outcroppings, and lush vegetation, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

Technical and Operational Details

In its heyday, the California Lighthouse was an essential aid to navigation for ships traveling through the Caribbean. Although it is no longer a fully operational lighthouse, it remains a prominent landmark and a testament to the region's rich maritime history.

Further Information

For more information about the California Lighthouse, please refer to: "Lighthouses of Aruba" by the Government of Aruba, "The Lighthouses of the Caribbean" by Maritime Press.