Name and Location

La Chocolatera Lighthouse is located in Salinas, Ecuador, with approximate coordinates -2.1895238° S, -81.01066° W.

Construction and History

The La Chocolatera Lighthouse was constructed in 1907 as a historic aid to navigation for mariners sailing along the Ecuadorian coast. It stands at a height of approximately 13 meters (43 feet) and has a focal height of 11 meters (36 feet).

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse is constructed from local materials, including stone and mortar, with an architectural style typical of lighthouses built during the early 20th century in South America.

Light and Navigation

La Chocolatera once emitted a white light with a period of 10 seconds, indicating its distance and direction to mariners. Although it is no longer in operation as a functioning lighthouse, its historic importance remains significant.

Accessibility and Visiting

The La Chocolatera Lighthouse is not open to the general public for visitation or tours. The site is primarily of interest to historians, researchers, and enthusiasts of lighthouses and maritime history.

Notable Views and Landscape

The surrounding environment is characterized by sandy beaches, rocky outcroppings, and dense vegetation, with a subtropical savanna climate with average temperatures ranging from 18°C (64°F) to 28°C (82°F).

Anecdotes and Folklore

There is limited information available about local folklore or unique anecdotes surrounding La Chocolatera Lighthouse. However, it's likely that stories and legends have been passed down through generations of Ecuadorians, tied to the lighthouse's role in maritime history.

Technical and Operational Details

The light characteristic was Fl (3) W 15s, indicating three flashes of white light every 15 seconds.

Further Information

• For mariners, La Chocolatera was an important reference point on nautical charts, particularly those used for navigation in the South Pacific.
• The city of Salinas offers a range of attractions, including the famous "Camotes Beach" and a vibrant market scene with local handicrafts and souvenirs.