Umhlanga Rocks Lighthouse, lighthouse in South Africa
The Umhlanga Rocks Lighthouse is a 21-meter tall concrete tower with a white cylindrical shaft and red lantern house, standing on a rocky foundation along the promenade. Its rotating light flashes three times every 20 seconds and reaches approximately 24 nautical miles, while a secondary red light helps ships monitor their position relative to anchoring areas.
The original Bluff Lighthouse was built in 1869 but ceased operation around 1940 when the site was repurposed for coastal defense during World War Two. The current tower was completed in 1954, replacing the deteriorated structure with a more robust and automated system.
The lighthouse serves as a familiar landmark and symbol of guidance for the local community and passing ships. Its striking red-and-white appearance has become woven into local identity, appearing frequently in paintings and photographs that visitors collect and share.
The lighthouse sits along the promenade about 15 kilometers from central Durban and is easily visible from the shore throughout the day. The location offers nearby beach access and adjacent hotel facilities where you can rest, take photographs, or enjoy refreshments while exploring the area.
The original construction site was planned on the hotel grounds, but heavy rainfall caused erosion that made the location unstable. Builders relocated the project to the nearby rocky outcrop instead, which proved more secure and economical, resulting in the structure visitors see today.
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