Point Montara Lighthouse

After numerous ship wrecks in the mid-1800s, a fog horn was installed at Point Montara, just next to Moss Beach. First sounded in 1872, the horn eased the way for ships entering the San Francisco Bay from the south. In 1900, a short light tower was erected to work in tandem with the fog horn and ensure an even more safe approach to the Golden Gate. Today, the Light is still an active aid to sea navigation, with its light visible for 14 miles at sea.

The lighthouse and turn of the century outbuildings have been well preserved and restored, and a hostel is located on the grounds. Many visitors find the accommodations and the location to be ideal for exploring the sandy beaches and tide pools lining Moss Beach. The beaches are great for swimming, surfing, jogging, horseback riding, and windsurfing. Bicyclists can cycle along the shore on the Bike Centennial California Coast Bicycle Route.

Visiting Point Montara Lighthouse

For more information about the Point Montara Hostel, call (650) 728-7177.

Point Montara is located on CA 1, 25 miles south of San Francisco.