Information
Landmark: Redonda MountainCity: Falmouth
Country: Antigua and Barbuda
Continent: North America
Redonda Mountain, Falmouth, Antigua and Barbuda, North America
The Jacmel Lighthouse is a navigational aid located on the coast of Jacmel, Haiti.
It is a cylindrical concrete tower painted white with a red lantern room.
Visual Characteristics
The lighthouse is a white, cylindrical concrete tower standing approximately 20 meters (65 feet) in height. It features a red-capped lantern room at its apex. The base is a simple concrete platform.
Location & Access Logistics
The lighthouse is situated on the eastern edge of the Jacmel bay, approximately 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) east of the Jacmel city center. Access is via the Route de la Côte, a paved road. Parking is available on a small gravel area adjacent to the lighthouse. Public transport to the immediate vicinity is limited; local taxis or private vehicles are the primary means of access.
Historical & Ecological Origin
The Jacmel Lighthouse was constructed in the early 20th century, with its exact construction date not precisely documented but estimated to be around 1910. Its purpose was to guide maritime traffic into the port of Jacmel, a significant commercial hub during that period.
Key Highlights & Activities
Observation of the lighthouse structure. Photography of the coastline and the structure. Walking along the adjacent coastal path.
Infrastructure & Amenities
There are no public restrooms or designated shade structures at the lighthouse site. Cell phone signal (2G/3G) is generally available. Food vendors are not present at the lighthouse itself but can be found in Jacmel city center.
Best Time to Visit
For photography, the late afternoon (approximately 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM) offers favorable lighting conditions due to the angle of the sun. The dry season, from November to April, provides the most stable weather conditions.
Facts & Legends
During periods of heavy rainfall, the concrete structure has been observed to absorb moisture, giving it a darker appearance. Local lore suggests that the lighthouse's beam, when active, was once said to ward off specific sea spirits believed to inhabit the waters off Jacmel.
Nearby Landmarks
- 0.8km West: Jacmel Port
- 1.5km West: Jacmel City Center
- 3.0km Southwest: Bassin Bleu
- 4.5km Northwest: Cyvadier Beach