Light the Way 2024

A lighthouse, a sunset, and views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Does it get any more dramatic and sublime? Point Bonita Lighthouse is remotely perched on the western tip of the Marin Headlands and the entrance to the Golden Gate, 124 feet above the ocean. And lucky for all of us, the National Park Service hosts sunset tours of the lighthouse (in 2024, current available dates are the first Saturday of each month, through May.) You've gotta be fast with the bookings for this popular experience, or book ahead of time for a future date (*see tip below for getting a same-day ticket). Much of the tour actually happens as the sun sets, painting the Golden Gate Bridge even more golden. An informative docent shares amazing stories about past shipwrecks (over 300 during the gold rush years!) at the Golden Gate.

It’s a thrill to cross over cliffs on Point Bonita’s 132-foot-long bridge. Stop for a moment to take in the view up and down the coast, as the rugged ocean churns below. The span brings you close to the famous, beaming Fresnel lens, which can be seen 18 miles away. But perhaps the coolest moment is looking on as the sun sets to the west, the moon climbs to the east, the waves crash below, and the city shimmers south under nature's light: This is one mysterious and dramatically beautiful place at dusk.

Point Bonita Lighthouse is free and open to the public every day except Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Guided Sunset Tours of the Lighthouse. Tickets go fast. TIP: If you go online for tickets you'll see the next available Sunset Tour, with some tickets held for sale. *These additional tickets are released at 7 a.m. on the same date. Plan ahead! You can also call 1 (877) 444-6777 to book tickets.