A lighthouse is a type of tower-shaped, luminous beacon built near key parts of waterways. They serve as fixed navigational beacons, guiding ships and indicating danger zones.

Unfortunately, many lighthouses have become redundant due to the advancements in airborne navigation systems, and many are now automated. Despite this, lighthouses often become unique landmarks with distinct shapes and colors, providing excellent opportunities for photography.

Portland Lighthouse

The Portland City Beacon Light has been guiding sailors back to safety since 1791. This historic lighthouse sits atop a rugged cliff in Cape Elizabeth, just south of the busy Portland Harbor.

At nearly 25 meters tall, its white conical tower stands out against the desolate and rugged coastline. Visitors can stop at the adjacent Maritime Museum to learn about its fascinating past and hear the tragic stories of the many ships that have been wrecked along the Maine coastline, even though it is now automated.

Formento Lighthouse

The Fumento Lighthouse is one of the most famous landmarks in Mallorca, located at the northernmost tip of the Balearic Islands. The lighthouse rises about 210 meters above the sea and sits atop a towering cliff with a steep waterfall below.

Since 1863, its dazzling beacon has alerted sailors to the dangers of Mallorca's coastline. Its outstanding natural beauty and view of the Mediterranean Sea make the Formento Lighthouse a must-see attraction.

Chania Lighthouse

Located at the entrance to the historic port of Chania in Crete, this fascinating lighthouse is one of the oldest in the world. Originally built by the Venetians in the late 16th century, it was subsequently restored and reconceived by the Egyptians, Ottomans, and later the Greeks.

As a result, the lighthouse has a rich and interesting history, as evidenced by its unique design, which is reminiscent of the minaret of a mosque.

Cape Heceta Lighthouse

Situated in a prominent and picturesque spot on the Oregon coast, the Cape Heceta Lighthouse offers a stunning view. Overlooking the Pacific Ocean and the dramatic rocks below, the gleaming white tower is backed by an emerald green forest that tumbles down from the hillside.

The lighthouse was first lit in 1894 and named after Bruno Heceta, a Spanish explorer who sailed the Pacific Northwest in the 18th century. Now a designated state attraction, the Heceta Verde Lighthouse is well worth visiting, with its incredible view of the Oregon coast and the Pacific Ocean.

Hercules Lighthouse

Since the second century A.D., the Eccles lighthouse has been a tyrannical watchdog over Spain's North Atlantic coastline, making it the oldest lighthouse still in use today. First built by the Romans, the 57-meter-tall, sturdy square tower was restored and renovated in 1791.

In addition to its amazing history and architecture, the scenic location of the Hercules Lighthouse on the Galician Peninsula undoubtedly makes it one of the most beautiful lighthouses in the world. Even though it has been turned into a tourist attraction, it still guards every boat that comes back from the sea.