The tower is a 31 metres (102 ft) tall construction, situated on the southwestern edge of the Reykjanes peninsula.[1] The original structure was built in 1878; just eight years later the building was destroyed by an earthquake. In 1929 the current Reykjanesviti lighthouse, a concrete construction yet with traditional looks, was illuminated. Its focal plane measures 73 metres above sea level.[1]
The light characteristic is "Fl (2) W 30 s.", i.e. a group of two flashing lights every 30 seconds. An antenna for the transmission of DGPS-signals in the longwave range is mounted on the rooftop.[1] There is also a two-story keeper's residence built in the modern area, and the lighthouse has a resident keeper.[1] The lighthouse is located near an area of thermal activity, and steam from this source is often seen in photographs of the lighthouse.[1]
