Carapacho Lighthouse

Carapacho Lighthouse (Farol do Carapacho) stands on the cliffs of Ponta da Restinga, next to the hamlet of Carapacho in the parish of Luz, at the southeastern end of Graciosa in the Azores. It is a modest, working lighthouse, and its real appeal is the high Atlantic cliff it sits on.

What is this lighthouse?

The tower dates from 1956. It is a cylindrical concrete structure about 14 metres tall, topped by a red lantern dome. The light is located roughly 191 metres above sea level and carries 20 nautical miles, so ships passing the island can see it from far out. The station was automated in 1978 and only joined the island's power grid in 1987.

What will you see here?

The tower itself is small and nothing like the grand lighthouses of the mainland. You come for the setting: a steep cliff, open ocean and the volcanic coastline of southern Graciosa. It makes a good short photo stop, especially on a clear day. Because it is an active light, treat it as a viewpoint and admire it from outside.

How do you get to Carapacho Lighthouse?

A rental car or scooter is the easiest option. Graciosa is small, and the drive from Santa Cruz da Graciosa, the island capital, to the parish of Luz takes a few minutes. Follow the signs toward Carapacho and its thermal baths.

What else is nearby?

The closest attraction is Termas do Carapacho, the thermal spa in the neighbouring hamlet. The springs have been used for centuries; the water contains sulphur, chloride and sodium, and reaches up to about 40°C. It is used for rheumatological conditions. A short stop at the lighthouse followed by a soak makes a natural half-day on the south of the island. Also in this part of Graciosa is Furna do Enxofre, a volcanic cave with a high vaulted ceiling and an underground lake.

When should you visit?

The lighthouse can be seen all year. Pick a clear time of day for long ocean views, and bring a light jacket, as the cliff can be windy. Summer is also the best season for swimming and walking elsewhere on the island.

Frequently asked questions

Can you go inside Carapacho Lighthouse? It is an active, automated light, so you view it from the outside, from the surrounding cliff.

When was it built? In 1956, and it was automated in 1978.

How tall is it? The tower is about 14 metres high, with the light around 191 metres above sea level.

What is there to see nearby? The Termas do Carapacho spa in the next hamlet and other volcanic sights in southern Graciosa, such as Furna do Enxofre.