Rincón History: El Faro de Punta Higüera

Just a short walk from Maria’s Luxury Villa, through the lush, coastal trail of El Bosque Comunitario La Armonía, stands the historic Punta Higüera Lighthouse (more commonly referred to as “El Faro”) and its surrounding park, overlooking the surf breaks from Maria’s to Domes Beach. It’s an iconic location in Rincón, popular with both locals and tourists, featuring breath-taking views of the coastline, Desecheo Island, and beautiful sunsets. 

A Historical Lighthouse in Rincón, Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a great place for lighthouse enthusiasts. There are 16 lighthouses sprinkled across the island that are not only beautiful to see but also full of history — Did you know that the Punta Higüera Lighthouse in Rincón is one of the oldest lighthouses on the entire island?

The original lighthouse was built in the 1892 and it was a crucial light house for ships navigating the often dangerous Mona Passage along the western coast of the island. The original lighthouse was badly damaged by an earthquake in 1918 and had to be completely demolished and rebuilt. The current lighthouse that rests on Punta Higüera between Maria’s and Domes Beach was constructed in 192, standing at 70-feet tall and still fully operational! According to DiscoverPuertoRico.com, the 26,000-candlepower light was automated in 1933 and still helps ships navigate the Mona Passage to this day.

Sunsets, Surfing, and Whale Watching at El Faro de Rincón

The Punta Higüera Lighthouse. El Faro de Rincón, PR. Photo courtesy of pexels.com

Located on the cliffs of the most north-west point of the island – where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Caribbean Sea – the park surrounding the lighthouse is also a beautiful place to visit and perfect for the entire family. With breath-taking views of Maria’s Point, Indicators, Domes Beach, as well as Desecheo Island, you can watch the surfers enjoying the waves, check out the sun setting into the ocean, and maybe get a chance to see a humpback whale during the winter months! You can read more about whale watching in Rincón in our previous blog post here. Also at the park around El Faro you will find jewelry and art vendors as well as Olas Sunset Cafe with food and drinks.

When You’re Ready to Plan your Rincón Vacation

Rincon, Puerto Rico is an unforgettable travel destination all year round. When you’re ready to stay with us, booking is done through Twin Palms, Maria’s rental, and onsite management. Please visit our booking page on this website to view the availability of Maria’s and fill out our convenient contact form. If you have any additional questions regarding Maria’s, you may call Elizabeth at 787-685-6648 (español: Cristina at 787-449-3673).