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Tonalá Lighthouse

Fl (3) W 12s🇲🇽Gulf Coast, MXOperational

Location & Light Range

About Tonalá Lighthouse

This cylindrical masonry lighthouse, standing 52 meters tall, was constructed and first lit in 1908. Its tower is painted with distinct red and white horizontal bands. The focal plane is situated 23 meters above sea level, providing a geographic range of 4 nautical miles. It emits a quick white flash.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl (3) W 12s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Flash Count
3 flashes
Interval
12s
Raw Code
Q.W.
Focal Height
23m
Geographic Range
4NM

Construction & History

Year Built
1908

References & Identifiers

Admiralty No.
J4348
NGA No.
15492
ARLHS No.
MEX-134

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
52m
Tower Shape
cylindrical
Tower Color
with red and white horizontal bands
Material
masonry

Structure: Square masonry tower, banded, white base; 52. MEXICO 156

Location

City
Gulf Coast
Country
🇲🇽MX
Latitude
18.2106°
Longitude
-94.1328°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Tonalá Lighthouse at night?+
Tonalá displays the characteristic Fl (3) W 12s — 3 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.
Which ports and harbors does Tonalá Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Tonalá Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Rabon Grande/Coatzacoalcos at 15.2 NM to the W. Other ports served include Pajaritos (15.4 NM WSW), Coatzacoalcos (15.9 NM WSW), Nanchital (18.4 NM WSW), Minatitlan (31.8 NM SW). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Tonalá Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Tonalá 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 Tonalá Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Tonalá 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.