Punta Spadillo lighthouse

Punta Spadillo lighthouse stands on the northeastern coast of Pantelleria, near Khamma, perched above a steep volcanic cliff that drops straight into the sea.

What is this place?

The lighthouse was built at the end of the 19th century and has guided ships through the Sicilian Channel ever since — one of the busiest and most strategically important shipping lanes in the Mediterranean. The structure itself is modest in size, but its white tower, visible from a distance, has become a recognizable landmark on this side of the island. Punta Spadillo is a rocky headland where dark volcanic stone breaks off sharply above the water, opening onto an unobstructed view of the open sea.

How do you get there?

A well-marked walking trail leads out to the lighthouse and continues on to the nearby Laghetto delle Ondine, a small natural rock pool that offers calmer swimming than the open sea beyond it. The area right around Punta Spadillo itself has no direct access to the water from land — anyone wanting to swim right beneath the cliffs needs to arrive by boat.

What else is there to see along the way?

The paths around the lighthouse hold more than sea views. During the Second World War this stretch of coast held real strategic importance, and hikers can still spot the remains of bunkers, anti-aircraft gun positions, and casemates tucked into the rocky terrain — a quiet reminder of Pantelleria's wartime past woven into the landscape. It's a good stop for anyone who likes pairing a coastal walk with a bit of history.

Who is Punta Spadillo for?

Divers rate this spot highly — the rocky, coral-covered seabed around the headland draws people looking for a dive rich in marine life, usually arranged as a boat excursion with local operators. For visitors on foot, it works better as a short, scenic outing than a full day trip; it's easy to combine with a visit to Laghetto delle Ondine in a single afternoon.

When is the best time to visit?

The cliffs and sea look their best in the afternoon light, and again at sunset, when the lighthouse and coastline take on warm colors. Spring and early autumn make for pleasant walking without Pantelleria's summer heat, though the site itself is accessible all year round.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you go inside the lighthouse? No — it's an active navigation aid guiding ships through the Sicilian Channel, not a museum. You view it from the outside, along the trail leading to the headland.

Can you swim there? Not directly from the shore near the lighthouse, since there's no land access to the water at that point. Swimming nearby is possible at Laghetto delle Ondine, reached via a short separate trail, or by boat right off the headland.

What else can you see in the area? The trails around Punta Spadillo still hold remnants of World War II fortifications, including bunkers and anti-aircraft gun positions.

Is it a good spot to visit with children? The walk to the lighthouse itself is easy, but the cliff edges are steep and rocky, so keep a close eye on kids and avoid getting too close to the drop.