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Point Bonita Lighthouse: A Beacon at the Golden Gate

Explore a historic lighthouse offering stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Pacific Ocean in the Marin Headlands.

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Perched at the entrance of the San Francisco Bay in the Marin Headlands, Point Bonita Lighthouse has guided ships through treacherous waters since 1855. This active lighthouse, now maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard, offers stunning views and a glimpse into maritime history.

A brief summary to Point Bonita Lighthouse

  • Monday 12:30 pm-3:30 pm
  • Sunday 12:30 pm-3:30 pm

Local tips

  • Check the opening hours before you go, as the lighthouse has limited hours and is closed on certain days.
  • Wear layers, as the weather in the Marin Headlands can be unpredictable, with fog and wind common.
  • Parking is limited, especially on weekends, so arrive early or consider alternative transportation.
  • Bring your own water, as there are no drinking fountains available at the lighthouse.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Highway 101, take the Alexander Avenue exit. 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 to the Point Bonita parking lot. Parking is limited, and additional parking may be found at the YMCA lot. From the parking lot, walk the 0.5-mile trail to the lighthouse. There are no fees for parking.

  • Public Transport

    From San Francisco, take Golden Gate Transit bus routes 101, 130, or 150 to the Spencer Avenue Bus Pad in Sausalito. From there, you can connect to Marin Transit Route 61, or walk into the Marin Headlands. Alternatively, take the 130 bus and alight at Highway 101 and Alexander Ave. From there, walk towards the Dana Bowers Vista Point, cross under the Golden Gate Bridge, and walk onto the coastal trail below Slacker Hill. From the Point Bonita parking lot, walk the 0.5-mile trail to the lighthouse. Golden Gate Transit fares vary depending on the distance traveled.

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Discover more about Point Bonita Lighthouse

Point Bonita Lighthouse, a historic sentinel at the Golden Gate, has been a crucial navigational aid for ships entering San Francisco Bay for over 150 years. Completed in 1855, it was the third lighthouse established on the West Coast. The original location, high on the cliffs, proved ineffective due to persistent fog, leading to its relocation in 1877 to a lower, more accessible site. The journey to the lighthouse is an adventure in itself. A half-mile trail leads visitors across a suspension bridge – one of the only lighthouses in the United States with a suspension bridge. The short but steep walk offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the rugged Marin coastline. Along the way, you'll pass through a hand-carved tunnel and may spot harbor seals and whales in the surrounding waters. Point Bonita's history is rich with tales of dedicated keepers and innovative technology. The lighthouse was the first on the West Coast to utilize a fog signal, initially a cannon fired every half-hour during foggy conditions. Today, an electric foghorn sends out two blasts every 30 seconds when visibility is poor. The current light, maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard, has a unique pattern of three seconds on, one second off, visible for 18 miles. Visiting Point Bonita offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and maritime charm. It's a place where you can connect with the past, appreciate the power of the ocean, and enjoy breathtaking views of one of the world's most iconic landmarks.

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