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Amedee Lighthouse
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tower
Standing as a sentinel on a tiny coral island near Nouméa, the Amédée Lighthouse is a masterpiece of 19th-century French engineering. Reaching a height of 56 meters, the tower was uniquely prefabricated in Paris using 1,265 iron plates and then shipped in pieces across the world to be assembled on-site. When it was first lit on July 4, 1865, it became one of the first metallic lighthouses ever built, serving as a vital navigational aid for ships navigating the treacherous coral reefs of New Caledonia. Inside the tower, a spiral staircase with 247 cast-iron steps leads to a gallery that has a spectacular 360-degree view of the turquoise lagoon, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The island itself is a marine reserve, surrounded by crystal-clear waters teeming with sea turtles and tropical fish. The lighthouse remains a symbol of technological progress and colonial history, drawing visitors who come to admire its elegant silhouette and explore the animated underwater world that thrives at its base.
- Location: New Caledonia
- Nearby: Anse Vata (19 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug–Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 22 | 21 | 21 | 21 | 23 | 24 | 25 |
| Rain mm | 109 | 99 | 161 | 104 | 94 | 80 | 68 | 58 | 42 | 41 | 65 | 78 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Amedee Lighthouse is on an island and is usually only accessible via guided tours or with a ferry company. Visitors can climb the tower and enjoy the view, if the tour includes it.
Typical hours
Ferry schedules and lighthouse opening hours vary seasonally. Generally, morning tours are offered, advance booking is recommended.
Photography
From the lighthouse, excellent photo subjects open up over the turquoise water and surrounding coral reefs. Inside the tower, photography is usually allowed, but without flash.
Time needed
A combined boat trip and lighthouse visit usually takes half a day, about 3 to 4 hours. For a longer stay with beach time, a full day can be planned.
Combine with
The trip to the lighthouse can be ideally combined with snorkeling in the marine protected area around the island. A picnic on the island's beach is also a popular addition.
Getting there
The lighthouse is only accessible by boat from Nouméa; several operators run day trips. The crossing takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on weather.
Insider tip
Book your tour early, especially in peak season, as spots are limited. Don't forget sunscreen and swimwear - the water around the island invites swimming.
Geography
Facts
- Manufactured in France from 1,265 separate parts
- The first light was lit on July 4, 1865
- Features a spiral staircase with 247 steps
- The tower's total height is 56 meters
- Assembly on the island took 10 months
- The light has a range of approximately 20 nautical miles
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Amedee Lighthouse (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to the lighthouse?
It is only accessible by boat from Nouméa.
Can you climb the tower?
Yes, stairs lead to the top for a great view.
How much time should I plan?
A day trip is handy to enjoy the island.
Are there dining options on the island?
There are restaurants that often cater to day visitors.
Is the beach family-friendly?
Yes, the beach is safe and good for kids to snorkel.
Amedee Lighthouse: where is it located?
Amedee Lighthouse is located in New Caledonia.
Amedee Lighthouse: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Oct.
Amedee Lighthouse: why is it worth visiting?
Standing as a sentinel on a tiny coral island near Nouméa, the Amédée Lighthouse is a masterpiece of 19th-century French engineering.
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