Sines Lighthouse

Sines Lighthouse (Farol de Sines) marks Cabo de Sines, a headland about 1.5 km west of the town centre of Sines in Portugal's Setúbal District. The white cylindrical tower rises roughly 22 metres, and its lamp sits 56 metres above sea level. It is still an active aid to navigation along the Alentejo coast.

What does the lighthouse look like?

The structure is a two-stage masonry tower topped by a lantern and galleries, painted white. The light gives two white flashes every 15 seconds and carries about 26 nautical miles out to sea. Automation arrived in 1995, so nobody lives on site any more. The setting is a study in contrast: next to the tower you will see the tanks and plant of the port's industrial zone, since Sines is one of Portugal's biggest commercial harbours.

When was it built?

Planning started in 1866 and construction was finished in April 1880. The first optic was a second-order apparatus fuelled by oil vapour. In 1915 a rotating third-order Fresnel lens replaced it and stretched the range to around 30 nautical miles. The upper stage of the tower was added in 1980.

How do you get there?

The lighthouse stands on the point at the western edge of town, close to the shore. From the centre of Sines it is a few minutes by car, or about half an hour on foot from the old town. The cape faces the open Atlantic, so expect wind even on calm days in town. The surroundings border industrial land, and access right up to the tower can be limited. Visits inside are offered only on certain days, so check current times with the local tourist office before you go.

What else is nearby?

Sines is the birthplace of explorer Vasco da Gama. The medieval castle in the centre overlooks the bay and houses a museum, and a statue of the navigator stands in town. Praia Vasco da Gama and Praia de São Torpes are good for swimming and walks, while the wild Costa Vicentina stretches further south. In July the town hosts the Festival Músicas do Mundo, a world-music festival.

When is the best time to visit?

Early evening works best for photos: the white tower stands out against the sky just as the beam starts to sweep. Summers are dry and sunny, yet the ocean wind blows all year, so bring a light jacket.

FAQ

Can you go inside the Sines lighthouse? Interior access is occasional and on set dates. Ask the Sines tourist office before your trip.

How tall is it? The tower measures around 22 metres, and the light is 56 metres above sea level.

When was it built? It was completed in April 1880 and has been in service ever since; it has been automated since 1995.

Is the light still working? Yes. It flashes white twice every 15 seconds and serves shipping.