The lighthouse had been projected in 1924 but was not built until 1971. It rises 78 metres above the sea and its intermittent beam of light can be seen from as far as 18 miles away. It has no auxiliary buildings other than being near the Es Garroveret Defence Tower and the Foradada Beach Cove. 

During the repopulation of Formentera in the late 17th century, most of Cap de Barbaria was kept for the Spanish Crown. Thus come many place names in the area, such as camí del Rei (King's Road) or pla del Rei (King's Plain). The king had the tower built (ca. 1760) at Cap de Barbaria, also known as Tower des Garroveret, not far from the Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse.

It is not recommended visiting Cova Foradada because it is not suited for visitors and may be dangerous.