Camara de Lobos Light

Câmara de Lobos Light (Farol de Câmara de Lobos) is a small lighthouse on Madeira's south coast, in the municipality of Câmara de Lobos, roughly 7 km west of Funchal. It sits on a headland above the Atlantic and has marked this stretch of the island for mariners since 1937.

What kind of lighthouse is it?

The concrete tower stands about 5 metres tall, with a white body and red trim. The lamp is set at a focal height of 23 metres above sea level and runs on mains electricity. It shows a red occulting signal on a 6-second cycle (Oc R 6s): the light switches off briefly at regular intervals, which lets sailors tell it apart from other lights along the coast. It is a modest working aid to navigation, not a tall tower with interiors to tour.

Where is it and how do you get there?

The light stands on a promontory jutting into the sea beside the town of Câmara de Lobos. From central Funchal it is a drive of a few minutes along the south coast road, by car, taxi or local bus. The easiest approach is to park in town and walk; check the map for how close you can get, since this is an active navigation light.

What else is nearby?

The lighthouse is mainly a landmark and a good photo spot: from the headland you see the bay, the colourful fishing boats and the slopes falling in terraces to the water. The town itself is a former fishing village, known for its harbour, its fish dishes and Madeiran poncha. Cabo Girão, one of Europe's highest sea cliffs, is a short drive further west.

When should you go?

Madeira's climate is mild all year, and the south coast is drier and sunnier than the north. Early morning and the hour before sunset give the best photo light, and in the evening you can watch the lamp begin its rhythm.

Frequently asked questions

Can you go inside the lighthouse? No. It is a small, active navigation aid and is not open to visitors. You view it from outside.

When was it built? In 1937.

How high is the light? Its focal height is 23 metres above sea level.

How far is it from Funchal? About 7 km to the west, a short ride along the coast.