Seal Point Lighthouse

The Seal Point Lighthouse is situated in  Cape St. Francis in the Eastern Cape, South Africa.

The deadly 2 km long reef near Cape St Francis claimed a number of ships passing by and so time came to build a lighthouse in the vicinity and a spot on the outcrop Seal Point was selected. Building began in 1876, but Seal Point Lighthouse proved to be one of the most difficult South African Lighthouses to complete. The first builder died during construction and transporting material to Seal Point was difficult as the roads at the time were just rough tracks.

Candlepower 2 750 000 C.D. (approx)
Character of Light One flash every five seconds
Installation Date 04 July 1878
Range 28 sea miles
Structure 28 metre circular masonry tower painted white
Type of Light Revolving electric
Other features Equipped with a radio beacon, a fog signal and fog detector. Monitored from
Port Elizabeth with a mains supply and one standby diesel/alternator set.

The lighthouse was eventually completed in an amazing two years. Initially the light that was installed had the power of 15 000 candles, but today it boasts the power of nearly three million candles, flashing every five seconds. It is the tallest masonry lighthouse in South Africa standing 27.75 meters tall. The focal plane is 36 meters above sea level and the light has a range of 28 sea miles.
The Penguin Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre is located on the lighthouse grounds and is probably the main attraction of the area, look out for the giant penguin model, a gift from Nelson Mandela Bay after the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Things to do and see

  • Lighthouse structure
  • Penguin Rescue & Rehabilitation Centre
  • Giant Penguin Model

Admission

No admission fee is charged.

Open Daily. If you are visiting the Penguin Centre as well, please check opening times on our listing before planning your trip.

Climate

Cape St Francis has a warm climate with rainfall throughout the year, with even the driest months still experiencing a fair amount of rainfall.

Summer months, November to March will have average temperatures of between 14˚C and 25˚C.

Winter months, May to August will have average temperatures of between 10˚C and 20˚C with August being the peak rainy season.

Transport

Commercial Airlines offer flights into  Port Elizabeth International Airport. Car hire facilities are available and St. Francis is a short drive along the scenic Route 62, approximately one hour.

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