Point Pinos Lighthouse: A Beacon of History
Discover California's oldest continuously operating lighthouse, a beacon of maritime history offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into the lives of its dedicated keepers in Pacific Grove.
Perched on the northernmost tip of the Monterey Peninsula in Pacific Grove, California, Point Pinos Lighthouse stands as a sentinel of maritime history. As the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the West Coast since 1855, it has guided ships through the treacherous entrance to Monterey Bay for over a century and a half. The charming, cottage-style lighthouse, with its original Fresnel lens still in operation, offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of its keepers and the evolution of navigational technology. Surrounded by the scenic Pacific Grove Municipal Golf Links and the stunning Asilomar State Marine Reserve, Point Pinos Lighthouse provides a unique blend of historical significance and natural beauty, making it a must-see destination for travelers exploring the Monterey Peninsula.
A brief summary to Point Pinos Lighthouse (1855)
- 80 Asilomar Ave, Pacific Grove, California, 93950, US
- +1831-648-5722
- Visit website
- Monday 1 pm-3 pm
- Thursday 1 pm-3 pm
- Friday 1 pm-3 pm
- Saturday 11 am-3 pm
- Sunday 11 am-3 pm
Local tips
- Check the lighthouse's opening hours before visiting, as they vary seasonally and are subject to change.
- Bring a jacket, as the coastal winds can be strong and the weather can change quickly.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the scenic coastal trails of the Asilomar State Marine Reserve.
- Consider a round of golf at the Pacific Grove Municipal Golf Links for stunning views of the lighthouse and coastline.
- Take advantage of the docent-led tours to learn about the lighthouse's history and the lives of its keepers.
Getting There
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Driving
From Monterey, follow Lighthouse Avenue northwest. Turn left onto Asilomar Avenue. Continue on Asilomar Avenue until you reach Point Pinos Lighthouse. Parking is available on the street near the lighthouse and is free. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak season.
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Public Transport
From Monterey Transit Plaza, take Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) Line 1 or 2 to the Lighthouse Avenue/Asilomar Avenue stop in Pacific Grove. From there, it's approximately a 15-minute walk to the lighthouse. Follow Asilomar Avenue north towards the coast. A single ride on MST costs $2.25.
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Walking
From downtown Pacific Grove, head north on Lighthouse Avenue. Turn left onto Asilomar Avenue and continue towards the coast. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles and takes around 30 minutes, offering scenic views of the town and coastline.
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