Porto Colom lighthouse

Porto Colom lighthouse in Felanitx is one of the most recognizable landmarks on Mallorca's east coast. The tower stands on the Sa Punta cliff, right at the entrance to Portocolom bay, and can be seen from almost anywhere in the small harbour town.

How do you get to the lighthouse?

Portocolom belongs to the municipality of Felanitx, in the southeastern part of Mallorca. The easiest way to reach the lighthouse is by car, following the road that runs along the cliff edge above the bay, where parking is available nearby. On foot, it's roughly a fifteen-minute walk from the town centre along the coastal promenade, passing the fishing harbour and marina on the way. This walk is popular with visitors looking for a good sunset viewpoint.

What will you see there?

The lighthouse stands out for its bold blue-and-white horizontal stripes, which make it one of the most photographed lighthouses anywhere on Mallorca. The tower rises about 25 metres, and its light sits at roughly 42 metres above sea level, giving sweeping views over the open Balearic Sea, the cliffs of Sa Punta, and the entrance to the natural harbour of Portocolom. The interior isn't open to visitors, but the cliff area around it is a well-used spot for walking and taking in the view.

What is the history behind it?

The lighthouse was built in 1863, as part of a general plan for lighthouses along Spain's coasts and ports approved in 1861. Its purpose was to help ships navigate the rocky, exposed east coast of Mallorca and guide them safely into the sheltered natural bay of Portocolom. In 1918 the tower was raised by 6.5 metres to extend the range of its light, and the original lantern was replaced with a new cylindrical one. A further major change came in 1965, when the lighting system was electrified, ending the earlier era of fuel-based lamps and manual upkeep.

When is the best time to visit?

The lighthouse can be visited year-round, but spring and autumn offer the most comfortable conditions, avoiding the intense heat of July and August while still giving good light for photos, especially at sunset when the low sun brings out the blue-and-white stripes against the cliffs. Early evening is the most popular time, drawing both locals and visitors looking for a quiet spot to watch the sea. In summer, expect heavier traffic on the access road, particularly in the afternoon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you go inside Porto Colom lighthouse? No, the tower's interior is closed to visitors. It remains an active navigational aid, so access is limited to viewing it from outside and from the surrounding cliff path.

How far is the lighthouse from the centre of Portocolom? It stands on the Sa Punta cliff right at the mouth of the bay, close to the town centre. Walking there from the harbour area usually takes about fifteen minutes.

Is the lighthouse lit up and visible at night? Yes, it has been fully electrified since 1965 and operates as an active beacon, signalling the entrance to Portocolom bay to passing ships.

Are there other things to see nearby? Yes, the coastal promenade along the cliff leads to the fishing harbour and marina of Portocolom, and the area around the lighthouse offers several viewpoints over the bay and open sea.