There’s something mysterious and captivating about abandoned places. It’s the eerie calm, the silent stories, and that thrill of exploring somewhere few others do. Combined with Caribbean coastal views, a crumbling concrete tower slowly being reclaimed by nature, and that’s my idea of a perfect morning. If you’re looking for an alternative to beaches, bars and cruise crowds, exploring Harrison’s Point Lighthouse in northern Barbados should be on your radar. It’s raw, quiet, completely off the beaten path — and full of character.
Here’s everything you need to know about visiting this derelict gem: how to get there, what to expect, and a little illumination into the lighthouse’s backstory.
What is Harrison’s Point Lighthouse?
As a lighthouse, its purpose was simple – to guide ships safely along Barbados’s rugged northern coast. Built in 1925, this 26-meter (85 ft) cylindrical tower was the last of four lighthouses constructed on the island. Once a key navigational aid flashing two white bursts every 15 seconds, it’s been deactivated and abandoned since 2006 after being made redundant by modern GPS technology.
Today, the structure stands ghostly and weather-beaten, with cracked concrete, rusted railings, and graffiti tagging the interior. Nature is steadily claiming it — vines creeping through windows, birds nesting in the lantern room — but its presence is still commanding. The site isn’t secured or patrolled, and while technically not open to the public, access is simple… if you’re up for a bit of a climb.
Where is Harrison’s Point Lighthouse?
(And how to get there)
Harrison’s Point Lighthouse is tucked away in the parish of Saint Lucy, at the northern tip of Barbados. Getting there is part of the experience. There are no official signs, no tour buses – just a rough dirt path that runs through the grounds of what used to be a U.S. naval facility, later a prison, and most recently a COVID-19 quarantine centre. The whole area is quiet and feels frozen in time.
Directions:
Search for “Harrison’s Point Lighthouse” in Google Maps, then follow Husbands Road all the way to the end. From there, a dirt road leads to a small clearing that serves as a makeshift car park. In the wetter months, expect overgrowth and a few potholes – nothing a compact rental can’t handle, but go slow.
What to Expect When Exploring Harrison’s Point Lighthouse
Getting in
As with all abandoned and derelict buildings, extreme caution is advised when exploring. Harrison’s Point Lighthouse has been left derelict for several years, exposed to the elements and left to rot. From the outside, the white concrete structure may appear solid, however, this may be deceiving.
When I visited, the steel door at the base was open. It seemed to have been rusted in place for years. No tickets, no guides, just a wide-open doorway inviting you in.
Climbing the lighthouse
Inside, the stairwell walls were covered in graffiti, and a spiral staircase with concrete steps climbs the full height of the tower, wrapped around by a deteriorating red handrail that’s seen better days.
As you near the top of the lighthouse, the final ascent into the lantern room demands a climb up a steep red metal ladder – damp with coastal air – slick with rust, weather-worn, and definitely not to be rushed.. It’s equal parts thrilling and nerve-wracking, so take your time and tread carefully.
The Lantern Room & The View
At the summit, you’re rewarded with 360-degree views over the windswept cliffs and sugarcane fields of Saint Lucy. The northwest coastline stretches endlessly, and on a clear day, the horizon seems to blur into sky.
The lantern room, though? It’s not for Instagram-perfect pics (unless you’re looking for a derelict, urban decay vibe in which case it’s perfect). Smashed windows, holes in the rusted floor, and a corroded outer walkway make this area the most dangerous part of the site. I wouldn’t recommend leaning on the railings — they looked like they’d snap under pressure.
But even so… the view? Worth it.
Standing in that quiet, wind-blasted space felt like finding a secret piece of the island most visitors never see.
A Quick Look at the History of Harrison’s Point Lighthouse
- Built: 1925 (last of the four Bajan lighthouses)
- Height: 26m / 85 ft
- Operational Years: 1925–2006
- Light Characteristic: Two white flashes every 15 seconds
- Optics: 4th-order Fresnel lens, later upgraded from kerosene to electric
- Decommissioned: 2006
Tips for Visiting Harrison’s Point Lighthouse
- Best Time to Go: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temps and soft light of sunset or sunrise.
- What to Bring: Sturdy shoes, water, sunscreen, and your camera.
- Where to Park: At the end of Husbands Road — look for a small clearing before the trail.
- Photography Tips: The tower exterior and surrounding landscape make for great wide shots. Interior photos can be tricky — bring a phone with good low-light capability.
- Safety First: Don’t go alone, and don’t attempt the outer walkway unless you’re confident in your footing. The building is structurally unsound in places — be aware and respect the risk.
Final Thoughts
If you’re into urban exploration, history, or just love the idea of discovering a side of Barbados most people miss, Harrison’s Point Lighthouse delivers. It’s raw, scenic, and full of character — no polished tour guide in sight, just you and a crumbling beacon of island history.
For me, it was an unexpected and rewarding find on the island. So if you’re chasing something off the beaten path in Barbados, set your GPS north and go find it. Just be careful at the top — and bring your sense of adventure.
If you are interested in more things to do in Barbados, the Mount Gay Rum Distillery is only 20 minuets away, or for more suggestions check out my Complete Barbados Travel Guide.
📌 Don’t Leave This Lighthouse in the Dark!
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