Bright Point of View

Point Reyes Lighthouse

Here's a way to brighten your day: Head to Point Reyes Lighthouse. Originally constructed in 1870 to help warn mariners of the navigational hazard that we now call Point Reyes, the lighthouse was handed over to the National Park Service after serving for 105 years.

This historic site is no drive-by affair. It’s a short hike, just shy of 1.5 miles (round-trip) on a paved trail—including 313 steps—to reach the lighthouse. And it’s worth it!

Point Reyes Lighthouse

Park in the lot and head up the road through a tunnel of cypress trees on one side and boulders on the other. Towards the end, make your way past the green building on your right and stop at the Lighthouse Visitor Center for exhibits on the lighthouse, whales, seals, sea lions, and birds.

Point Reyes Lighthouse

Then make your way to the top of the stairs to start your descent to the lighthouse, and make your way around its catwalk.

Point Reyes Lighthouse

On clear winter days (which happens a fair bit in this area) the ocean and coastal views are simply breathtaking. Keep an eye out for whales in the rich waters below. Depending on staffing and weather conditions, on Saturdays through Mondays from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. you can also go inside the lighthouse to look at the Fresnel lens.

TIP: Check the weather conditions by calling the park to ensure that the lighthouse will not be socked in with fog: (415) 464-5100.

The lighthouse is at the end of Sir Francis Drake Blvd. and can be found by following the signs posted throughout the park. The stairs from the observation deck to the lighthouse are open Saturdays through Mondays, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. High winds may close it. In very wet weather use caution on stairs. No dogs.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Napa's Art of the Matter

    Downtown Napa uncorks more than just excellent wine. Art has firmly established itself along the walkways and parkways in the area, punctuated by an annual ArtWalk (year-round) and a temporary Lighted Art Festival.

    View
  2. Animal Encounters

    Located where Redding’s famous Sundial Bridge overlooks the Sacramento River, Turtle Bay Exploration Park is 300 acres of gardens, a museum and playground, aquarium, and unforgettable up-close animal encounters!

    View
  3. Tamtastic Sunset

    Sure, the East Peak of Mount Tam is absolutely spectacular at sunset, but some magic-hour enthusiasts are onto a fresh perspective in getting a little more personal space for their panoramic viewings.

    View
  4. Hike Artdoors

    Add a little color to your new year. This 3-mile loop through the Montalvo Arts Center mixes the beauty of the natural world with local artists’ creations.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Locals' Feature: Max Smith of Moment Skis

    Meet Max Smith, VP of Moment Skis in Reno, Nevada. Moment is the largest ski manufacturer in the US and you can see how their innovative and artistic skis are made by visiting Moment Skis headquarters in Reno. The Factory is where the magic happens, so drop in for a visit and say hi to the team, including employee dogs who are on quality control.

    View
  2. Sundialed

    Redding is home to one of the world’s most famous pedestrian-only bridges—the Sundial Bridge was created by the Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava (its sister bridges are in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and Seville, Spain). The glass-deck bridge across the Sacramento River is a true sundial....

    View
  3. Mural Roll

    Redding’s bikeshare program encourages biking in and around the city, including downtown. It’s a fun way to see some of the city’s mural art while also stopping for lunch at one of the newest restaurants, Pipeline Craft Taps and Kitchen.

    View
  4. View from Keys View Joshua Tree

    Trio of Trails

    Get into Joshua Tree National Park Park early and hit the classic circuit of short trails before the crowds arrive. We also have some food and overnight recos.

    View