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Cayo Lobos Lighthouse

Fl (2) White 12s🇲🇽MXOperational

Location & Light Range

About Cayo Lobos Lighthouse

Cayo Lobos Lighthouse, first lit in 1900, stands on the extreme south end of the reef. It is a 13-meter square pyramidal skeletal tower with a gallery, from which a white light with two flashes every 12 seconds is displayed. The focal height of the light is 14 meters, offering a geographic range of 11.6 nautical miles. This remote, boat-access-only location near Costa Maya, 26.7 km away, emphasizes its role in navigation rather than public access. While the site is open to visitors, the tower remains closed.

Why it matters: This lighthouse is essential for mariners navigating the coastal waters near Cayo Lobos, warning them of the extensive reef extending to its southern extreme and helping prevent groundings.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl (2) White 12s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Flash Count
2 flashes
Interval
12s
Raw Code
Fl W 12s
Focal Height
14m
Geographic Range
11.6NM

Construction & History

First Lit
1900

Visiting

Open to public
Site open, tower closed

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
13m
Tower Shape
square

Structure: square pyramidal skeletal tower with gallery

Location

Country
🇲🇽MX
Sea Region
Cayo Lobos, at the extreme south end of the reef.
Latitude
18.3923°
Longitude
-87.3787°

References & Identifiers

Nearest Port
Costa Maya(26.7 km)
Admiralty No.
J4456.7
NGA No.
15792
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Cayo Lobos Lighthouse at night?+
Cayo Lobos displays the characteristic Fl (2) White 12s — 2 white flashes every 12 seconds. Each lighthouse has a unique flash pattern published in the List of Lights, allowing mariners to positively identify it and distinguish it from other navigation aids in the area. The white color may indicate a specific sector or warning zone.
Which ports and harbors does Cayo Lobos Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Cayo Lobos Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 2 nearby ports. The closest is Costa Maya at 26.7 NM to the NW. Other ports served include SAN PEDRO (44.1 NM SW). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Cayo Lobos Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Cayo Lobos Lighthouse is currently operational. It is actively maintained and continues to emit its characteristic light signal for marine navigation. Most modern lighthouses are automated and monitored remotely by the national maritime authority.
How can I track vessels near Cayo Lobos Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Cayo Lobos Lighthouse in real time using MarineRadar. The platform shows live AIS positions of ships in the area, including vessel name, type, flag, speed, and course. Use the "Track Vessels Nearby" button on this page to open the live map centered on this lighthouse.