Punta Campanella lighthouse

Punta Campanella Lighthouse marks the very tip of the Sorrentine Peninsula, in the municipality of Massa Lubrense (Campania), on a rocky headland facing the island of Capri across the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Where exactly is the lighthouse located?

Punta Campanella is the southwesternmost point of the Sorrentine Peninsula, sitting right at the boundary between the Bay of Naples and the open Tyrrhenian Sea. The lighthouse is still active and guides shipping traffic through this busy stretch of coastline. Capri lies just across a narrow strait from the headland, so on a clear day the island feels close enough to touch. The lighthouse sits at roughly 40.569°N, 14.325°E.

How do you get to Punta Campanella?

The headland belongs to Massa Lubrense, at the western edge of the Sorrentine Peninsula, an area known for a network of coastal walking trails connecting villages such as Termini. Most visitors set out on foot from this side of the peninsula, following paths across rocky, sun-exposed terrain covered in low Mediterranean scrub. The waters around the point form the Punta Campanella marine protected area, prized for their clarity and marine life, which makes the spot popular with divers and snorkelers as well as hikers.

What will you see once you get there?

The lighthouse itself is a modest white tower perched on the edge of a cliff, still guiding vessels along one of the more exposed sections of this coast. The real draw, though, is the view: from the headland you look straight across to Capri, down onto the turquoise water of the marine reserve, and along the steep, rugged cliffs of the Sorrentine Peninsula. It's a side of the Amalfi-Sorrento coastline that feels wilder and far less crowded than nearby Positano or Sorrento.

When is the best time to visit?

Because the terrain is rocky and largely unshaded, spring and early autumn are the most comfortable seasons for the walk out to the lighthouse. In summer, an early-morning start is best, before the heat sets in. Whatever the season, bring water, sturdy footwear, and sun protection — there are no food or drink stops along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Punta Campanella Lighthouse still in operation? Yes, it remains an active navigational lighthouse, though the tower itself isn't open for visits — the setting and views are the main attraction.

Can you see Capri from Punta Campanella? Yes. This headland is one of the closest points of the mainland to Capri, and on clear days the island is clearly visible across the strait.

Is the walk to the lighthouse difficult? The path crosses rocky, sometimes uneven ground, so comfortable hiking shoes are recommended.

Is the area around the lighthouse protected? Yes, the surrounding waters are part of the Punta Campanella marine protected area, which is why the spot is popular with divers as well as walkers.