Tayid Lighthouse

Tayid Lighthouse is a lighthouse located in Mahatao, Batanes, the northernmost province of the Philippines. It is one of the three main lighthouses in Batanes, along with Basco and Sabtang lighthouses. It was built in 2000 by the Philippine Coast Guard to guide the ships passing through the turbulent waters of the Pacific Ocean and the West Philippine Sea.

The lighthouse stands on a hill overlooking the Tayid Point, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the sea and the nearby Mt. Iraya, a dormant volcano. The lighthouse has a hexagonal tower that is 20 meters tall and painted white with red trim. The tower has a balcony and a lantern that emits a white light every five seconds. The lighthouse also has a dwelling that resembles the traditional Ivatan houses made of stone or rubble masonry.

The lighthouse is easily accessible by tricycle or private van from Basco, the capital town of Batanes. It is part of the South Batan Tour, which usually costs P1000 per tricycle (good for 2 pax). The best time to visit the lighthouse is during the summer season, from March to May, when there is less rainfall and more sunshine. You can also catch a spectacular sunrise from the lighthouse, as it faces east.

The lighthouse is not only a guide for the local fisherfolk, but also a symbol of the history and culture of Batanes. The site where the lighthouse stands was once a small community for pre-colonial Ivatans and home of the late Chieftain Boyas. It was also the site of the American period telegraph facilities that connected Batanes with the central government until it was destroyed by the Japanese Imperial Army bombings at the start of World War II. Some of the buildings survived and have been converted into businesses like a café.