Discover 6 Jaw-Dropping Lighthouses in South Africa

There’s something truly captivating about lighthouses. They possess a unique charm as they stand tall beside the vast ocean, serving as beacons of light, guiding ships safely to shore.

Of course, I’ve come across a few lighthouses that didn’t quite live up to the hype. But there are a handful that not only offer an incredible sight but also make for the perfect backdrop for an awe-inspiring photograph. Exploring these lighthouses feels like embarking on a thrilling adventure.

1. Umhlanga Lighthouse: Captivating Icon of Umhlanga

When it comes to iconic landmarks in Umhlanga, the Umhlanga lighthouse takes the crown. Constructed in a remarkable four days and 19 hours back in 1954, this architectural marvel cost R23,838 to build. Throughout its existence, it has never required a “lighthouse keeper”; its preservation has been entrusted to the Oyster Box Hotel, a true testament to its enduring magnificence.

You can spot this beloved lighthouse along the Umhlanga promenade, its majestic stance blending harmoniously with the sapphire sky and the laid-back beach vibes.

2. Port Shepstone Lighthouse: A Coastal Gem

The Port Shepstone Lighthouse is a well-known feature of our town. The original lighthouse operated from 1895 to 1905. It was later replaced by a circular cast iron tower at the mouth of the Umzimkulu River that stands today. You can visit this lighthouse, which stands tall at 8 meters.

What sets this lighthouse apart is its distinctive design of alternating black and white squares, making it a perfect spot for capturing stunning photos.

Now let’s move on to the next lighthouse on our list.

The Cape Recife Lighthouse, located in the Cape Recife Nature Reserve, stands at the southern entrance of Algoa Bay. Dating back to 1851, it is one of the oldest lighthouses in South Africa. Its purpose was to warn sailors of the dangerous Thunderbolt Reef and Roman Rock, which have claimed many ships.

While you can’t enter the lighthouse, you can still catch glimpses of it from various points within the nature reserve.

Last but not least, we have the Seal Point Lighthouse.

This lighthouse, although not mentioned earlier, deserves its spot on our list. Unfortunately, there isn’t much information available about it.

Seal Point Lighthouse stands proudly on a rocky edge near Cape St Francis. As far back as 1878, it was constructed and illuminated to guide ships crossing the treacherous Agulhas Bank, a hazardous shallow area infamous for causing numerous shipwrecks.

If you’re itching to experience this iconic landmark up close, you have the option to stay in the adjoining accommodation that is connected to the lighthouse. It’s a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in history and marvel at the breathtaking view.

Moving on to the next lighthouse on our list – Cape Hangklip Lighthouse. This particular lighthouse requires a short walk, but trust me, it’s worth it. Perched on the Hangklip headland, it offers an incredible view of the vast Atlantic Ocean. Built and illuminated in 1960, it was a response to the navigational obstacles faced along the False Bay maritime route.

While the lighthouse itself isn’t accessible to the public, fear not! You can still enjoy the stunning scenery that surrounds it. Take a leisurely stroll around the area and marvel at the beauty of the lighthouse standing tall against the ocean backdrop.

Now, let’s head over to Milnerton Lighthouse. Unlike the previous lighthouses, this one doesn’t have public access. However, don’t let that deter you from visiting the area. Situated in Milnerton, it offers mesmerizing views of the ocean and the lighthouse itself. Take a moment to soak in the beauty of this magnificent structure as it stands as a proud sentinel, guarding the coastline.

So, whether you decide to stay at Seal Point Lighthouse, take a walk to Cape Hangklip Lighthouse, or simply enjoy the view of Milnerton Lighthouse, each of these iconic landmarks offers its own unique charm and a glimpse into the fascinating world of maritime history.

Hey there! Let’s talk about the cool Milnerton Lighthouse in Cape Town. This lighthouse is located in a beautiful spot, right by Table Bay, with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Table Mountain.

Believe it or not, the Milnerton Lighthouse has been around since 1824, which makes it one of South Africa’s oldest lighthouses. But don’t worry, it’s not stuck in the past! It got a makeover and was relit in 1960, so it’s still shining bright.

Unfortunately, you can’t actually go inside the lighthouse. But don’t worry, there are plenty of other things to enjoy in the area. You can take a leisurely stroll around and soak up the gorgeous scenery.

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