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Needhams Point Lighthouse

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Needhams Point Lighthouse (Barbados)

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Needhams Point Lighthouse is a scenic historic landmark situated on the southwestern coast of Barbados. Erected in 1855 to safeguard the southern entrance to Carlisle Bay, it remains one of the island's most iconic maritime structures. The octagonal tower is easily recognized by its bright yellow facade and white trim, reflecting a classic colonial design. Having undergone extensive restoration, the lighthouse stands proudly within the grounds of a major resort but remains accessible to the public. While it is no longer an active aid to navigation, it serves as a silent witness to Bridgetown’s colonial naval history. Its proximity to the 17th-century Charles Fort and the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean makes it a popular spot for sightseeing and photography. A visit here has a peaceful escape where history meets the natural beauty of the Barbadian coastline, especially during the golden hour.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C262626272828282828282827
Rain mm34191928527274959813210749

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The recently restored lighthouse is usually not open to the public, but is easily viewed from outside. You can admire it from Carlisle Bay beach or the promenade.
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Typical hours
There are no fixed opening hours as the lighthouse is not a visitor center. Best to come during daytime to see the fresh paint and details.
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Photography
The white lighthouse with red band has a great contrast to the blue sea. Try a side shot to emphasize its octagonal shape - light is softer late afternoon.
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Time needed
A photo stop takes about 10 to 15 minutes. If you include the beach, you can spend half an hour to an hour.
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Combine with
The lighthouse is in Carlisle Bay, near Bridgetown. Combine the visit with the Barbados Museum or a walk along Bay Street.
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Getting there
The lighthouse is accessible on foot from the Hilton Hotel or the beach. Park best at the hotel parking lot or use the nearby bus stop of route 11.
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Insider tip
Combine the visit with beach time at Carlisle Bay - the shallow water is great for snorkeling. Go early to avoid crowds.

Geography

Coordinates
13.07830, -59.61110

Facts

  • Built in 1851
  • Height: 20 meters
  • Range: 15 nautical miles
  • Automated in 1970
  • Material: coral stone
  • Restored in the 1990s

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Needham's Point LighthouseNeedham's Point Lighthouse<1 km · NExplore →
Pelican Village Craft CentrePelican Village Craft Centre2 km · SEExplore →
RockleyRockley2 km · NExplore →
Grazettes Industrial ParkGrazettes Industrial Park3 km · EExplore →
WildeyWildey3 km · NEExplore →
Spring Garden Industrial ZoneSpring Garden Industrial Zone3 km · SEExplore →
WarrensWarrens4 km · NEExplore →
Graeme HallGraeme Hall4 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Needhams Point Lighthouse (3)

Charles Fort (Barbados)📍 landmark

The fort in Bridgetown is a historic fortification dating from the 17th century.

Saint Ann's Fort📍 landmark

The fort in Bridgetown is part of the historic garrison of Barbados.

George Washington House (Barbados)📍 landmark

The house in Bridgetown housed George Washington during his visit to Barbados.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can you climb the lighthouse?
No, the interior is currently not open to the public.
When was the lighthouse built?
It was built in 1855 and is the second oldest lighthouse on the island.
Where is it located?
On the grounds of the Hilton Hotel at Needham's Point.
What is its shape?
It is a distinctive octagonal tower.
Is it still in use?
It is no longer in use as an official navigational light.
Needhams Point Lighthouse: where is it located?
Needhams Point Lighthouse is located in Barbados.
Needhams Point Lighthouse: what is there to see?
Highlights include Charles Fort (Barbados), Saint Ann's Fort, George Washington House (Barbados).
Needhams Point Lighthouse: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Needhams Point Lighthouse: why is it worth visiting?
Needhams Point Lighthouse is a scenic historic landmark situated on the southwestern coast of Barbados.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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