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Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park

Discover California's maritime history at Pigeon Point Light Station, where stunning coastal views meet a historic lighthouse and vibrant wildlife.

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Perched dramatically on the central California coast, Pigeon Point Lighthouse has guided mariners since 1872. Though the tower is currently closed for restoration, the grounds offer stunning views, a glimpse into maritime history, and the chance to explore the original Fresnel lens.

A brief summary to Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park

  • Monday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially on weekends, as the parking lot is small and fills up quickly.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress in layers, as the coast can be foggy and windy.
  • Visit the Fog Signal Building to see the original Fresnel lens and learn about the lighthouse's history.
  • Bring binoculars for whale watching, especially during the spring and winter migrations.
  • Take a guided history walk to learn more about the lighthouse keepers and the area's maritime past.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Pigeon Point Light Station is located off Highway 1, approximately 50 miles south of San Francisco and 27 miles north of Santa Cruz. From Highway 1, turn west onto Pigeon Point Road. Follow Pigeon Point Road to the park entrance. Parking is free. Be aware that the parking lot is small and can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transportation to Pigeon Point Light Station, you can take a SamTrans bus to the nearby town of Pescadero and then take a taxi or rideshare to the park. From the Half Moon Bay Transit Center, the SamTrans route 17 bus will take you to Pescadero. From there, it is about 5 miles to the lighthouse. Taxi/rideshare cost is approximately $20 - $30.

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Discover more about Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park

Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park is a captivating destination that blends natural beauty with rich maritime history. Located along Highway 1, about 50 miles south of San Francisco, the park's centerpiece is the 115-foot Pigeon Point Lighthouse, one of the tallest in the United States. The lighthouse was built in 1872, named after the clipper ship *Carrier Pigeon* that wrecked nearby in 1853. For over a century, its bright beam warned ships away from the treacherous rocks. The original first-order Fresnel lens, a marvel of 19th-century engineering comprised of 1,008 prisms, is now on display in the Fog Signal Building. While the lighthouse tower is currently closed for restoration, visitors can still explore the grounds, which are open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset. The visitor center, located in the historic Fog Signal Building, features exhibits about the lighthouse and its keepers. Guided history walks are offered, and the park is also a prime spot for wildlife viewing, with opportunities to see whales, seals, and various bird species. The coastal areas surrounding Pigeon Point Light Station are rich with life. Marine mammals, such as seals and whales, can be seen regularly from shore as they pass by beyond the surf. The intertidal zone along this part of the coast, particularly in the rocky reefs that flank the light station, contains a diverse and numerous variety of plant and animal life. For overnight stays, the Pigeon Point Hostel offers budget-friendly accommodations in the former Coast Guard cottages.

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