California Lighthouse
Aruba's iconic California Lighthouse offers breathtaking panoramic views of the island and Caribbean Sea, especially at sunset. Climb to the top for u...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
California Lighthouse
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Aruba's iconic California Lighthouse offers breathtaking panoramic views of the island and Caribbean Sea, especially at sunset. Climb to the top for unforgettable vistas.
"Amazing spot, especially at sunset! The views from top are just stunning. Highly recommended!"
🎯 Beat the Rush
Arrive early for easier parking and fewer people, especially if you want to climb to the top.
💰 Climb Fee
There's a $5 fee to ascend the lighthouse, so have cash ready.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Island Views
Top of the Lighthouse
See the contrast between Aruba's calm west coast and rougher east coast from this elevated vantage point.
Sunset Spectacle
Lighthouse Grounds
Witness breathtaking sunsets over the Caribbean Sea, a truly magical experience for couples and photographers.
Coastal Contrast
Lighthouse Surroundings
Observe the distinct differences between the island's tranquil western shores and the rugged eastern coastline.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Climb to the Top
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Beat the Rush
Arrive early for easier parking and fewer people, especially if you want to climb to the top.
💰 Climb Fee
There's a $5 fee to ascend the lighthouse, so have cash ready. +1
🌅 Sunset Alert
Sunset is popular, but private parties can sometimes block access. Check ahead!
📸 Drone Experience
Consider the Skyview Drone Experience for unique aerial footage of your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Beat the Rush
Arrive early for easier parking and fewer people, especially if you want to climb to the top.
💰 Climb Fee
There's a $5 fee to ascend the lighthouse, so have cash ready. +1
🌅 Sunset Alert
Sunset is popular, but private parties can sometimes block access. Check ahead!
📸 Drone Experience
Consider the Skyview Drone Experience for unique aerial footage of your visit.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Vendors sell drinks, but bringing your own water is a good idea.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the California Lighthouse for its stunning panoramic views of Aruba, especially during sunset. The climb to the top, though a small fee, is considered well worth the effort for the breathtaking vistas. While some note potential crowds and the need for cash for entry, the overall experience is highly recommended as a must-visit landmark.
"Amazing spot, especially at sunset! There’s an Italian restaurant (we didn’t try it), but the views of Palm and Eagle Beach from top are just stunning. Highly recommended!"
santosh gupta
"A cool landmark to visit when you are in Aruba, it is on one end of the island and you have plenty of parking on the side of the road, there is a $5 ticket if you wish to go up the lighthouse. It has a beautiful view as you can see water on 3 sides of the island"
Gursimran Dhanoa
"Nice spot to see the difference in the coast and the rougher side of the east coast and the calm west coast! It costs $5 to go up in the lighthouse so we didn’t. There is a restaurant on site. No public bathroom except for when the restaurant is open. There is a vendor there selling drinks, snacks and mementos."
Tori Terrell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The California Lighthouse is located at the northwestern tip of Aruba. You can drive there and find parking along the road. Buses can take you most of the way, but expect a 20-minute walk from the bus stop.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available on the side of the road near the lighthouse.
You can take a bus that goes most of the way to the lighthouse, but you will still need to walk for about 20 minutes to reach it.
Many visitors recommend driving to the lighthouse for easy access and then climbing to the top for stunning views.
Yes, the lighthouse is accessible by car, with parking available nearby.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a $5 USD fee per person to go up inside the lighthouse. It's recommended to have cash on hand. +2
Yes, you need to purchase a ticket to climb to the top of the lighthouse. +1
Information on discounts is not widely available, but the standard fee is $5 per person. +2
Yes, it is possible to rent the lighthouse for private parties, which might affect public access.
Opening hours can vary, and it's best to check locally or arrive early, especially around sunset when events might occur.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
From the top, you'll get stunning 360-degree views of Aruba, including Palm Beach, Eagle Beach, and the contrast between the island's coasts. +1
Yes, there is an Italian restaurant adjacent to the lighthouse.
Public restrooms are generally only available when the on-site restaurant is open.
The climb involves wooden steps and is described as a 'nice' climb, though it can be tight.
It's an optional service where a drone records videos of your visit to the lighthouse, offering a unique perspective.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, while sunset provides dramatic colors. The drone experience also offers unique photo opportunities.
General photography is allowed, but be mindful of any private events that might be taking place.
You can capture panoramic island views, coastal contrasts, sunset shots, and even aerial footage with the drone experience.
Absolutely! The elevated views offer a unique perspective of Aruba's landscape that is highly photogenic. +1
While personal drone use policies can vary, there is an official 'Skyview Drone Experience' offered.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there's a small fee to climb, it's generally considered a worthwhile expense for the experience. Be prepared for the walk from the bus stop if you're not driving, and ensure children have comfortable shoes for the climb. The on-site vendors can provide snacks and drinks, which can be helpful for keeping younger ones happy.
💖 Couples & Romance
Consider visiting in the late afternoon to enjoy the golden hour light for photos before the main sunset rush. While the climb can be a bit tight, the shared experience and the stunning vistas make it a special moment. Afterwards, you could enjoy a meal at the adjacent Italian restaurant for a complete romantic evening.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
To capture the best shots, aim for the 'golden hour' during sunrise or sunset. The Skyview Drone Experience is also a fantastic option for content creators looking to add dynamic aerial footage to their portfolio.
Remember to check for any event restrictions that might impact your shooting plans, especially around popular times like sunset. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic California Lighthouse
+1Visitors can ascend the lighthouse for a small fee, typically around $5 USD, which grants access to the upper levels. The climb involves a series of wooden steps, described as manageable but potentially tight. Once at the top, the reward is a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of Aruba. You can see famous beaches like Palm Beach and Eagle Beach stretching out below, as well as the vast expanse of the ocean. This elevated perspective is a highlight for many, offering a comprehensive understanding of the island's geography and beauty.
Beyond the climb, the area around the lighthouse offers more than just views. An Italian restaurant is situated nearby, providing a dining option with a view. For those looking to capture their experience, an optional 'Skyview Drone Experience' is available, allowing visitors to get stunning aerial videos of their visit. The lighthouse grounds also feature vendors selling drinks, snacks, and souvenirs, making it a well-rounded stop for any Aruba itinerary.
Experiencing Sunset at the Lighthouse
+1However, it's important to note that sunset is also the most popular time to visit, which can lead to larger crowds and limited parking. Some travelers have also noted that private parties can sometimes be hosted at the lighthouse, potentially restricting public access to the upper levels during these times. Therefore, it's advisable to check for any scheduled events or arrive well in advance if you plan to experience the sunset from the lighthouse itself.
Even if access to the very top is limited, the surrounding areas still offer fantastic sunset views. The nearby Arashi Beach is also a popular spot for watching the sunset, and it's conveniently located close to the lighthouse. Regardless of whether you're at the lighthouse itself or a nearby beach, Aruba's sunsets are a must-see, and the California Lighthouse area provides a magnificent backdrop.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit