Pigeon Point Lighthouse

Fifty miles south of San Francisco on winding U.S. Highway One, the 115 foot tall Pigeon Point Light House has been a beacon for those on the sea since Nov. 15, 1872. Resembling the Outer Banks of North Carolina twins, Bodie and Currituck, Pigeon Point is the most photographed lighthouse in California. Located between Santa Cruz and Half Moon Bay, the tower is still an active U.S. Coast Guard aid to navigation, using an automated 24-inch Aero Beacon. The first order Fresnel lens is still in place, but is lighted on special occasions only.

The Pigeon Point light was named for the Yankee Clipper Carrier Pigeon, which sank off the point in 1853. The light was built in 1872 and is the tallest on the Pacific Coast.

Visiting Point Point Lighthouse

A self-guided tour of the grounds is available from 8:00 AM to sunset daily. In addition, a 45 minute, docent-led tour of the tower, including the lens room, is available Saturdays and Sundays, except on rainy days.

The associated keepers' housing has been renovated to serve as a youth hostel by Hostelling International-American Youth Hostels, California State Parks, and the U.S. Coast Guard.

Additional information can be obtained by visiting the Pigeon Point Lighthouse site or calling (650) 879-0633.

Pigeon Point Lighthouse is located on CA 1, 50 miles south of San Francisco.