The lighthouse was built on top of a 15-meter-high dune to increase its light range.
The outer wall was encased in a second layer of brick in 1950 to provide extra protection against salt erosion and storm damage.
It is the only lighthouse in the Netherlands surrounded by water on three sides.
During the Georgian Uprising in 1945, the lighthouse was heavily damaged by artillery fire; some damage remains intentionally visible as a historical reminder.
The light signal pattern consists of two flashes every ten seconds.
The lighthouse was automated in 1972, ending the need for permanent resident lighthouse keepers.
The Eierland Lighthouse stands at the northernmost tip of Texel island, marking the transition between the Wadden Sea and the North Sea. Built in 1864, the structure features a distinct red brick exterior that remains visible against the coastal landscape. Visitors can ascend 153 steps to reach the observation gallery at the top. The lighthouse survived heavy shelling during the Georgian Uprising on Texel in 1945, which left visible bullet holes in the masonry. It functions as an active navigational aid for maritime traffic. The surrounding area consists of protected sand dunes and beach access points. The lighthouse interior serves as a museum highlighting the history of local maritime safety and the tower's architectural evolution. It is one of the few lighthouses in the Netherlands where the top is accessible to the public.
From the beach level looking north, framed against the sky with the lighthouse appearing to rise directly from the dunes.
Bring a windbreaker, as the observation gallery is consistently exposed to high-velocity coastal winds.
Check the official website before traveling, as access to the upper galleries may be restricted during severe weather events.
Visit the base of the lighthouse to examine the historical shell damage preserved in the brickwork.
Do not attempt to climb the tower if you have mobility issues, as the spiral staircase is steep and narrow; do not walk off the marked paths in the dunes surrounding the base.
Closed on Mondays during the off-season; check for potential closures during high-wind alerts.
Avoid leaning over the safety railings on the observation gallery.
