Arecibo Lighthouse

About this place

Arecibo Lighthouse, also known as Los Morrillos Lighthouse, is a white building on the Punta Morrillos headland above Puerto Rico's north coast. It was finished in 1898, months before the island passed to the United States, making it one of Spain's final maritime investments here. It still works, and a historical park now surrounds it. It was designed in neoclassical style, with a rectangular building and a hexagonal tower topped by a bronze dome. Its original Fresnel lens sent light 18 miles, it went electric in 1931 and was automated in 1964. Decay and vandalism followed, until a private company restored it in 2001 as a historical park with interactive exhibits. The site overlooks a sharp rocky cliff pounded by the Atlantic, its layers plain to see. The building holds a museum of maritime artefacts, lighthouse history and the Spanish-American War. The park has replicas of a Taíno village, Columbus's ships, a pirate ship and a cave, plus a play area, and La Poza del Obispo beach lies at the foot. It is about 12 km in a straight line from Cueva Ventana, so both fit one day. The park is commercial and family-friendly more than a quiet heritage site. Watch the waves near the rocks, and stay back from the edge on stormy days. Check opening days before going, as they may differ between weekdays and weekends, and bring a hat and water.