Faro Los Morrillos (Lighthouse)
Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico Things to Do Guide  ⏐  Cabo Rojo  ⏐ Faro Los Morrillos (Lighthouse)

The Most Scenic Location in Puerto Rico

Faro de Los Morrillos is the most beloved landmark in the municipality of Cabo Rojo.  Commonly known as “El Faro”, it is located at Los Morrillos Peninsula perched on commanding limestone cliffs that drop 200 feet into the Caribbean Sea.  Lighthouse lovers will enjoy the simple elegance of the structure.  In 2002 a three million dollar restoration was initiated, and in 2007 it was re-opened to the public.  The lighthouse got a brand new coat of paint in the original colors of gray with white trim;  a punch of color was added to the windows and doors in lime green.

Don’t Miss the Bioluminescent Bay experience in the nearby charming village of La Parguera after a day of exploring Puerto Rico’s west coast.

The lighthouse is fully automated, and still shines brightly helping ships navigate safely through the Mona Passage.  Los Morrillos is currently managed by the municipality of Cabo Rojo.  Faro Los Morrillos was the second lighthouse built by the Spanish in Puerto Rico, construction began in 1887 and was completed in 1882.  The lantern room was constructed out of cast iron, copper, and glass.  The interior served as a home for the keeper and the family.  All the walls were built with brick and mortar.  Los Morrillos Lighthouse is one of the 27 sites included in the National Register of Historic Places.

If open, be sure to go up to the roof platform to enjoy the views, as you step off the cast-iron spiral staircase, you’ll be wowed by views of the most beautiful beach cove on the main island of Puerto Rico, the Caribbean waters, the limestone cliffs, the pink saltwater lagoons, marshes, and verdant beautiful mountains.

After having an interior tour, is time to enjoy the sights around the lighthouse.  Be sure to bring plenty of water, this area is hot, try visiting early morning or afternoon.

Top Rated Tours to Cabo Rojo & West Coast from San Juan

This peninsula is a nature lovers’ destination on steroids.  Following is a list of sights and things to do in this peninsula:

• marvel at the mesmerizing 360-degree views of Caribbean waters and 200 feet tall limestone cliffs
• take a short hike down to Puente de Piedra (Stone Bridge) 
• A short hike down from the lighthouse, you can enjoy the waters of La Playuela “Playa Sucia”,  the most beautiful beach cove in Puerto Rico
• hike the trails along the forest
• have a tour of the salt flats
• bird watching

Days & Hours

Officially, Los Morrillos Lighthouse is open Thursday – Tuesday (closed Wednesdays) from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm.  We spoke to the attendant at the lighthouse and she informed me that they’re open at around 9:30, the gate closes at 4:00, and they close the lighthouse at around 4:30 pm to give visitors time to finish their tour.

There’s a trolley offering rides up to the lighthouse from the parking lot free of charge.  The lighthouse is available for wedding ceremonies on the outdoor patio facing the Caribbean Sea.  The views serve as the most breathtaking background.

Bring plenty of water!

Safety at Los Morrillos Lighthouse

Please don’t get near the edge of the cliffs, as rocks can break off.  There are no guard rails, please keep your children with you at ALL times.