Punta Imperatore marks the westernmost point of Ischia, a dramatic headland where the cliffs overhang the sea and the lighthouse — built in the 19th century — has guided ships past the island for over 150 years. The promontory drops sheer into deep water on three sides, and the sense of exposure is considerable. On days when the Maestrale blows from the northwest, the spray reaches the lighthouse terrace.
The best approach is on foot from Citara beach, a walk of around 40 minutes along the coastal path. The path skirts the cliff edge for much of the way, with views south along the coast towards Sant'Angelo. The lighthouse itself is not generally open to the public, but the grounds around it and the headland are freely accessible. It is one of the few genuinely wild points on the Forio coastline, and worth the walk for the contrast with the crowded beach you leave behind.