California Lighthouse

The California Lighthouse stands on a limestone plateau called Hudishibana at the north-western tip of Aruba, above Arashi Beach and the Sasariwichi dunes. Built around 1914–1916 and about 30 m tall, it is the island's best-known landmark and its viewing gallery gives a 360° panorama of the west coast and the wild north shore. It is one of the easiest sights to add to a beach day in the north.

Why is it called "California"?

It is named after the British steamship SS California, which sank off this coast on 23 September 1891 on a voyage from Liverpool — years before the lighthouse existed. The wreck lies in up to 14 m of water off the north-east side in an area of strong currents and is visited by boat. It is often confused with the SS Californian of Titanic fame, a different ship.

Can you climb the California Lighthouse?

Yes. After a restoration for its centenary, the lighthouse opened to the public in August 2016; since 2015 it has been cared for by the Stichting Monumentenfonds Aruba (Aruba monuments fund). The Aruba Tourism Authority lists it as open every day from 9:00 to 19:00, with a US$5 admission and no reservation needed. A spiral staircase of around 123 steps leads to the gallery; the space at the top is small, so expect short waits when tour buses arrive.

When is the best time to visit?

Late afternoon. The west-facing plateau catches the sunset over the Caribbean, and the gallery is open until 19:00, so you can go up before the light fades and stay on the plateau afterwards. Mornings are quieter and clearer for photographs of the coastline down to Malmok Beach and Boca Catalina. The trade wind is strong up here at any hour — hold on to hats and phones.

What is around the lighthouse?

The former keeper's house next to the tower is now a restaurant. Around the plateau the ground is jagged limestone, so wear sturdy shoes if you wander off the paved area. Below lie the snorkelling bays of the north-west tip — Arashi, Boca Catalina and Malmok — and the rough dune landscape of Sasariwichi to the east, where the sea is not safe for swimming.

Good to know

• The tower is a protected monument; follow the staff's instructions and do not climb the railings.
• There is a small car park on the plateau; it fills at sunset.
• The lighthouse fits easily into an island highlights drive together with Alto Vista Chapel, about 8 km away.