Lighthouses & Towers of Curacao
The Tower Project
Plans for a Tower at Cliff Villa
At Cliff Villa, we are thrilled to announce an ambitious project: the construction of an iconic tower that will redefine the experience of Curacao's breathtaking landscapes. Nestled on the pristine grounds of Cliff Villa, this tower will offer unparalleled 360-degree views of Watamula’s rugged cliffs, the serene beauty of Westpunt, and the dramatic coastal vistas of Sheta Boka National Park.
A Tower with a Purpose
More than just a vantage point, the Cliff Villa tower will embody the essence of Curacao’s natural and cultural heritage. With its carefully designed architecture blending modern elegance and Caribbean charm, the tower will stand as a tribute to the island’s enduring relationship with the sea and sky. Visitors will climb to a spectacular viewing platform, where the turquoise waters of the Caribbean and the Watamula nature preserve stretching as far as the eye can see.
Inspiration from Curacao’s Lighthouses
Curacao has a rich history of lighthouses—from the tower in Willemstad to the isolated Klein Curacao’s light beacon. These structures, historically guiding seafarers to safety. They all tell tales of the maritime adventure.
Unlike these traditional lighthouses, the Cliff Villa tower will not serve as a guide for sailors but as a beacon for those seeking tranquility, inspiration, and connection to Curacao’s untamed beauty. Visitors will gain a new appreciation for the landmarks that dot the island—perhaps even tracing the silhouettes of these historical lighthouses from our tower’s summit.
Anecdotes and Legacy
Curacao’s lighthouses have always been steeped in anecdotal lore. From the tales of sailors spotting the faint glimmer of Klein Curacao’s light on stormy nights to local legends surrounding Watamula’s name, these landmarks are far more than functional structures—they are storytellers. Similarly, the Cliff Villa tower aims to forge new narratives. Imagine wedding proposals at sunset, sunrise yoga sessions, or simply the countless moments of awe shared among travelers discovering the splendor of Curacao for the first time.
Experience the Ultimate View
When completed, the Cliff Villa tower will rise above the lush terrain as an emblem of exploration and appreciation. It will draw comparisons to the highest vantage points on the island but offer an experience that is entirely unique—a convergence of natural wonder, human creativity, and Curacao’s enduring allure.
Stay tuned as we unveil plans for this landmark project, bringing you closer to the heart of Curacao, one panoramic view at a time.
Curaçao Towers & Their History
Curaçao, a Caribbean island, is home to several notable lighthouses, each with its unique history and fascinating anecdotes. These structures have guided countless mariners through the island’s treacherous waters.
1. Klein Curaçao Lighthouse
Located on the uninhabited island of Klein Curaçao, this lighthouse was originally constructed in 1850 to protect sailors navigating the treacherous waters around the island. Destroyed by hurricanes in 1877, it was rebuilt in 1879 and again in 1913. Standing at 20 meters (66 feet) tall, the lighthouse was reactivated in 2008 with a solar-powered LED beacon that flashes every 15 seconds.
Klein Curaçao’s history is dotted with shipwrecks due to the perilous currents and reefs in the area. One infamous wreck was the oil tanker Maria Bianca Guidesman in the 1980s, whose rusting remains still attract divers and adventurers today. Legend has it that before the original lighthouse was built, ghostly lights on the island’s shore led many sailors to their doom, creating tales of "phantom lights" whispered among seafarers.
2. Kaap St. Marie Lighthouse
This lighthouse, situated near the village of Sint Willibrordus, features a flashing white light every 6 seconds. Its focal height is 6 meters, with a range of 9 nautical miles.
During World War II, Kaap St. Marie played an unintentional role in history when Nazi submarines patrolled the waters of the Caribbean. Local lore suggests the lighthouse was dimmed during this time to prevent giving away key positions to enemy forces.
3. Noordpunt Lighthouse
Positioned at the island's northernmost point in Watamula, the Noordpunt Lighthouse emits three white flashes every 15 seconds. It has a focal height of 6 meters and a range of 12 nautical miles.
Noordpunt’s isolated location has made it a spot for many romantic getaways and secret proposals. However, its remote surroundings have also inspired ghost stories, including sightings of a “wandering mariner” looking for his lost ship on stormy nights.
4. Punt Kanon Lighthouse
Found in Oostpunt, this red and white metal skeletal tower stands on a concrete base and flashes white every 4 seconds. Its focal height is 11 meters, with a range of 8 nautical miles.
This lighthouse is known for its resilience during storms. During the 1974 hurricane season, it stood firm while many other structures on the island were severely damaged. Locals often refer to it as the "iron sentinel" of Curaçao.
5. Riffort Lighthouse
Located in the capital city of Willemstad, the Riffort Lighthouse exhibits an occulting white light every 5 seconds. It has a focal height of 17 meters and a range of 14 nautical miles.
Built near the historic Rif Fort, this lighthouse overlooks the entrance to the bustling St. Anna Bay. Riffort’s location and historical setting make it a favorite among photographers and history buffs. During Curaçao’s Carnival celebrations, its beacon often serves as a meeting point for partiers.
A map of all the lighthouses’ in Curacao.