Point Bonita Lighthouse: A Beacon at the Golden Gate
Explore Point Bonita Lighthouse in the Marin Headlands: a historic beacon offering stunning Golden Gate views, a thrilling trail, and a glimpse into California's maritime past.
Perched dramatically at the entrance to the San Francisco Bay in the Marin Headlands, Point Bonita Lighthouse has guided ships through treacherous waters since 1855. This active lighthouse, maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard, offers visitors a unique glimpse into maritime history and stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Pacific Ocean. Reached by a half-mile trail that includes a hand-carved tunnel and a suspension bridge (currently closed for maintenance), the lighthouse stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity and the dedication of those who have kept its light shining for over a century. Explore the rugged beauty of the Marin Headlands, discover the history of shipwrecks and rescues, and experience the thrill of standing at the edge of the continent. Be sure to check the opening hours before visiting, and prepare for windy conditions.
A brief summary to Point Bonita Lighthouse
- San Francisco Bay entrance in the Marin Headlands, Sausalito, CA, 94965, US
- +1415-331-1540
- Visit website
- Monday 12:30 pm-3:30 pm
- Sunday 12:30 pm-3:30 pm
Local tips
- Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions in the Marin Headlands can change rapidly. Dress in layers to stay comfortable.
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking is limited and the trail can get crowded.
- Bring binoculars to enhance your viewing of wildlife, such as harbor seals and migrating whales.
- Wear sturdy shoes for the half-mile trail, which includes some steep sections and uneven terrain.
- Note that the suspension bridge is currently closed for maintenance, but the viewing platform near the lighthouse is still accessible.
Getting There
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Driving
From Highway 101, take the Alexander Avenue exit just north of the Golden Gate Bridge. Follow Alexander Avenue under the freeway and turn left onto Bunker Road. Continue on Bunker Road for approximately 3 miles, then turn left onto Field Road. Follow Field Road for 0.8 miles to the Point Bonita parking lot. Parking is limited, especially during peak hours. Additional parking is available at Battery Alexander, a quarter-mile from the trailhead. From the parking lot, it's a half-mile walk to the lighthouse. Be aware that Bunker Road passes through the one-way Baker-Barry Tunnel.
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Public Transport
From San Francisco, take Golden Gate Transit bus routes 101, 132, or 150 to the Spencer Avenue Bus Pad in Sausalito. From there, walk under the freeway and follow the Morning Sun Trail uphill. At the top, turn left and walk along Conzelman Road. Then, turn onto Bunker Road and follow the driving directions above, walking approximately 3 miles to Field Road. This is a lengthy walk, so plan accordingly. Alternatively, the Marin Headlands Express (route 76X) used to operate from San Francisco to Fort Cronkhite, but this route is currently suspended. Check with SFMTA for updates on its potential reinstatement. Note that there are no public transport options that take you directly to the Point Bonita Lighthouse trailhead.
Discover more about Point Bonita Lighthouse
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