The California Lighthouse Aruba was made to warn ships away from Aruba’s coastlines. Now it attracts visitors like a magnet. 

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California Lighthouse Aruba History

So, what’s the tale behind this magnificent structure?

It all began over a 100 years ago. When a boat shipwrecked on the northern coastline of Aruba.

Because of this incident the lighthouse was constructed.

Isn’t it a beautiful building?

The shipwrecked boat was called California so they named the lighthouse after it.

A gentleman from Curacao, Jacob Jacobs, was the first to be responsible for the California Lighthouse. 

The last person in charge of the lighthouse was an Aruban called Federico Fingal.

Today there’s a restaurant adjacent to the lighthouse. Back then this was the home of the person in charge of the California Lighthouse.

About The California Lighthouse

The lighthouse was designed by a French architect. The construction started in 1914 and was completed in 1916.

The colossal tower, made out of stone blocks, stands on an elevated terrain, about 10 meters above sea level. 

The lighthouse is about 30 meters high.

It’s been closed for years, due to lack of maintenance.

However, good news is, it’s been refurbished since July 2016.

Read about the renovation of the lighthouse here.

California Lighthouse Aruba Surroundings

An arid landscape surrounds the lighthouse. Cool trade winds. The area is dotted with cactus, trees and sharp rocks near the edges of the hill.

You can see nearby sand dunes from the lighthouse. 

If you get hungry, you can buy something to eat at one of the local snack trucks parked in front of the lighthouse.

They sell delicious shaved ice here.

On weekends, I like to drive around the island, visit the lighthouse. Take some pictures. Buy shaved ice from one of the snack trucks and enjoy the view of Aruba from the lighthouse.

Location of The California Lighthouse

The California Lighthouse is located in the northern part of the island. This part of Aruba is better known as Hudishibana.

California Lighthouse is best reached by car (or taxi).

You can also take the bus, but it doesn’t go all the way to the lighthouse. The last bus stop is Arashi Beach.  So you’ll need to walk about a kilometer further and climb the hill!

It’s worth the walk, that’s if you like to hike.

Are you going to visit the California Lighthouse?