Punta del Diavolo Lighthouse

Punta del Diavolo Lighthouse marks the western tip of Isola San Domino, the largest of the Tremiti Islands in the Adriatic Sea, off the Apulia coast of Italy. Still active today, it has guided ships and fishing boats along this rocky archipelago for more than a century.

Where exactly is the lighthouse?

The lighthouse sits on the westernmost point of San Domino, an island covered in pine forest and fringed by cliffs and small coves. Its coordinates are roughly 42.1065°N, 15.4773°E, placing it in the heart of the Tremiti group, just off the Gargano promontory on Italy's Adriatic coast.

When was it built?

Punta del Diavolo Lighthouse dates back to 1905. It has been in continuous operation ever since, serving as a key navigational reference for vessels moving through this stretch of the Adriatic, where the islands' jagged shoreline and submerged rocks demand careful marking.

How do you get to San Domino?

The Tremiti Islands have no road connection to the mainland — the only way in is by sea, typically by ferry or fast boat from ports along the Gargano coast. Once on San Domino, the lighthouse is reached on foot via paths that follow the island's western shoreline, winding through the typical Mediterranean scrub of the archipelago. The terrain is rocky in places, so comfortable walking shoes are worth packing.

What will you see there?

The lighthouse structure itself is modest, but the real draw is its setting. San Domino's western coast is one of the archipelago's most striking stretches, with cliffs dropping into clear turquoise water and open sea views that, on clear days, stretch toward the other Tremiti islands. The whole archipelago lies within a protected marine area, which helps keep the water clean and rich in marine life — the waters near the lighthouse are popular with swimmers and snorkelers.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring and early autumn offer the most comfortable conditions, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds than the peak summer season. Summer brings more visitors and busier ferries and beaches, but also the fullest range of local services and activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you go inside Punta del Diavolo Lighthouse? It remains an active navigational structure, so the interior is not open to the public. The main draw is reaching the site itself and taking in the surrounding views.

Which Tremiti island is the lighthouse on? San Domino, the largest and most forested of the Tremiti Islands, on its western side.

Do you need to walk to reach the lighthouse? Yes — it's accessible via footpaths along San Domino's coastline. There's no driving there, since vehicle traffic on the Tremiti Islands is limited.

How old is the lighthouse? It was built in 1905 and has functioned as a navigational landmark for vessels sailing this part of the Adriatic ever since.