El Faro Viejo de Cabo Falso
Cabo's oldest structure, a historic lighthouse offering stunning Pacific views, now undergoing preservation.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning photos
El Faro Viejo de Cabo Falso
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cabo's oldest structure, a historic lighthouse offering stunning Pacific views, now undergoing preservation.
"A beautiful piece of history and an amazing thing to visit and look at."
Book a Guided Tour
To ensure access and learn about its history, book a tour through the Quivira Golf Course.
Respect Security
Be aware that security may ask you to leave if you don't have a tour.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Lighthouse Structure
Cabo Falso
A 119-year-old beacon, the oldest standing structure in Cabo San Lucas, showcasing neoclassical architecture.

Panoramic Pacific Views
Cabo Falso
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean from the elevated position of the lighthouse.

The Bunker Restaurant
Near El Faro Viejo
Highly-rated dining experience with amazing food, ambiance, and service, often mentioned alongside lighthouse visits.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Access & Security
Preservation Efforts
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book a Guided Tour
To ensure access and learn about its history, book a tour through the Quivira Golf Course.
Respect Security
Be aware that security may ask you to leave if you don't have a tour.
Capture the Sunset
The views are spectacular, especially during sunset.
Check Restaurant Hours
If dining at The Bunker, confirm their operating hours in advance.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book a Guided Tour
To ensure access and learn about its history, book a tour through the Quivira Golf Course.
Respect Security
Be aware that security may ask you to leave if you don't have a tour.
Capture the Sunset
The views are spectacular, especially during sunset.
Check Restaurant Hours
If dining at The Bunker, confirm their operating hours in advance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
El Faro Viejo de Cabo Falso is a historically significant landmark offering beautiful Pacific views, though access is now restricted and often requires booking a guided tour. Visitors appreciate its architectural charm and the ongoing preservation efforts, but some express frustration over limited public access and the site's integration into private developments.
"While staying at a nearby resort I made the trek up the hill. It's a nice spot and I wish I could have spent a little more time but I was soon confronted by the golf course security guard who promptly asked me to leave and followed me down the hill. I was told that I would need to pay a tour to access the site.
I recognize that I'm just a visitor to this town and probably none of my business but it's a sad state that a local historical site like this is limited to tours and golfers. I would have been happy to leave a donation to keep a place like this open to all.
The building is off limits due to crumbling infrastructure. Seems to me that there's a few folks who would like nothing more than to raze this place to the ground so someone can put a luxury development on the site."
Joe Waldman
"This is a beautiful piece of history. And it is such an amazing thing to visit and look at. Reading reviews, it seems people had a hard time getting to it. We stayed on the property that it is guarded by and we had no issues getting in. We walked/drive our golf cart right to it. It is very well landscaped and has hand rails for you to walk safely. I will visit it every time I go to Cabo. What an experience"
Aaron Stallings
"The Bunker is here. IYKYK. Amazing food, ambiance, service... It has it all. Can't say enough positive things about this place."
John Ustick
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access to El Faro Viejo de Cabo Falso is primarily through guided tours offered by the Quivira Golf Course. Independent access can be challenging due to security and the surrounding development.
Public transportation directly to the lighthouse is not readily available. It's recommended to arrange transport to the Quivira Golf Course for tour access.
While some visitors have driven golf carts on resort property, general public vehicle access is restricted. Tours are the most reliable way to visit.
If accessing via a tour or resort property, the walk can be short. However, attempts to reach it from outside the development may involve significant hiking.
The Bunker restaurant is located nearby and offers a highly-rated dining experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, access is typically managed through guided tours, which require booking and payment.
Costs are associated with the guided tours arranged through the Quivira Golf Course. Specific pricing should be confirmed directly with them.
The lighthouse itself doesn't have set public opening hours. Access is determined by the schedule of the guided tours.
The building is often off-limits due to its crumbling infrastructure and for preservation purposes.
It is difficult and often not permitted to visit without a tour due to security and private property restrictions.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography.
Generally, photography is allowed, but be mindful of private property and security personnel.
You can capture wide-angle shots of the lighthouse against the ocean, close-ups of its historic architecture, and panoramic sunset views.
Drone usage is likely restricted due to private property and potential aviation regulations. It's best to inquire beforehand.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto can capture details. A tripod is useful for sunset shots.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, 'The Bunker' is a highly-regarded restaurant located near the lighthouse, known for its food and ambiance.
The Bunker offers a diverse menu with excellent food and service, though specific cuisine details are best confirmed directly.
There are no dining facilities at the lighthouse. Dining options are available at nearby establishments like The Bunker.
Picnicking might be restricted due to the private nature of the area. It's advisable to dine at designated restaurants.
Information on budget-friendly dining near the lighthouse is limited; The Bunker is a more upscale option.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the lighthouse building itself may not be accessible internally, the surrounding grounds offer space for children to explore under supervision. The stunning ocean views can also captivate younger imaginations. Consider combining the visit with a meal at a family-friendly spot nearby, if available, to make a day of it. Ensure you confirm tour details and any age restrictions beforehand.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be prepared for potential access limitations; securing a spot on a guided tour is often necessary to get the best vantage points. While drone photography might be restricted, the natural light and the historical subject matter provide ample creative possibilities. Remember to check the weather, as coastal conditions can add to the dramatic atmosphere of your shots.
🏛️ History Buffs
Understanding the ongoing preservation efforts and the vision to turn it into a museum adds another layer to the historical significance. While direct exploration of the interior might be limited, the exterior and its historical context are deeply compelling. Engaging with a guided tour can provide in-depth historical insights that enhance the experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
History and Preservation
Currently, El Faro Viejo is situated within the Quivira Golf Course development, which has led to restricted public access. Fortunately, preservation efforts are underway, spearheaded by organizations like Fundación Letty Coppel, with plans to transform the lighthouse into a museum dedicated to maritime navigation and local history. These initiatives aim to protect this vital piece of Cabo's heritage for future generations.
Visiting El Faro Viejo offers a tangible connection to Cabo San Lucas's maritime past. While the building's interior may be inaccessible due to its condition, its exterior and the surrounding landscape provide a powerful sense of history. The ongoing preservation work ensures that this timeless beacon will continue to stand as a symbol of resilience and heritage.
Access and Visitor Experience
Attempts to visit independently can lead to encounters with security guards who may ask visitors to leave or require payment for a tour. This has led to some frustration among travelers who feel that a historical site should be more openly accessible. However, those who do manage to visit, often through resort stays or organized tours, describe it as a beautiful and amazing historical place with well-maintained grounds and handrails for safety.
Despite the access challenges, the panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean from the lighthouse's elevated position are consistently praised. The surrounding landscape, combined with the historical significance of the structure, makes it a worthwhile destination for those interested in history and scenic vistas.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit