Old Point Loma Lighthouse: A Beacon of History
Explore a historic lighthouse with panoramic views of San Diego's coastline and a glimpse into 19th-century maritime life.
Perched atop the Point Loma peninsula, the Old Point Loma Lighthouse stands as a monument to California's maritime past. Built in 1855, it guided ships into San Diego Bay for over three decades. Though its lofty perch proved problematic due to fog, the lighthouse offers stunning panoramic views and a glimpse into 19th-century lightkeeper life.
A brief summary to Old Point Loma Lighthouse
- 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Dr, San Diego, Point Loma, California, 92106, US
- +1619-523-4285
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking at Cabrillo National Monument can be limited.
- Check the Cabrillo National Monument website for 'Open Tower Days' to climb to the top of the lighthouse.
- Bring binoculars for whale watching (December to April) and to enhance the panoramic views.
- Visit the tide pools at Cabrillo National Monument during low tide for a chance to see marine life.
Getting There
-
Driving
From downtown San Diego, take North Harbor Drive to Rosecrans Street. Turn left onto Rosecrans, then right onto Talbot Street. Turn left onto Catalina Boulevard and follow it to Cabrillo National Monument. There is a $20 entrance fee per vehicle. Parking is available near the Visitor Center, a short walk from the lighthouse.
-
Public Transport
From downtown San Diego, take the MTS bus Route 923 to Narragansett Av & Chatsworth Bl. From there, transfer to Route 84 which stops at the Cabrillo National Monument visitor center. The bus stop is conveniently located near the visitor center complex. A one-way fare on MTS is $2.50. Note that Route 84 does not go to the tidepool area. The entrance fee to the National Monument is $10 per person.
-
Taxi/Ride-share
From downtown San Diego, a taxi or ride-share to Cabrillo National Monument takes approximately 10 minutes and costs between $24 and $29. This will drop you off at the entrance to Cabrillo National Monument, where you will still need to pay the $20 entrance fee per vehicle or $10 per person.
Discover more about Old Point Loma Lighthouse
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cabrillo Statue Plaza
0.3 km
Explore Cabrillo Statue Plaza, a historical landmark in San Diego, celebrating the spirit of discovery with breathtaking views and rich cultural significance.
Smuggler's Cove
1.6 km
Explore the historic Smuggler's Cove in San Diego, where maritime lore meets stunning coastal beauty, perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery
1.9 km
Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery in San Diego, a tribute to those who served in the military.
Shelter Island Dr
4.1 km
Experience the serene beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Shelter Island Drive, a hidden gem in San Diego perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures.
Kellogg Beach
4.3 km
Discover the tranquility of Kellogg Beach, a serene oasis in San Diego's Point Loma, perfect for relaxation and breathtaking ocean views.
Central Beach
5.2 km
Discover Central Beach in Coronado, California - a serene coastal paradise perfect for relaxation, beach activities, and stunning sunset views.
Center Beach Restrooms
5.5 km
Discover the convenience of Center Beach Restrooms in Coronado, your essential stop for beach day refreshments with lovely ocean views.
Cherokee Lodge
5.8 km
Cherokee Lodge in Coronado: A charming and cozy lodge offering an unforgettable stay near stunning beaches and vibrant attractions in California.
Hotel Marisol Coronado
5.9 km
Discover the charm of Hotel Marisol Coronado, your perfect coastal retreat for relaxation, romance, and unforgettable memories in beautiful California.
Skating By the Sea
5.9 km
Experience the joy of ice skating at Skating By the Sea in Coronado – where winter fun meets stunning coastal views.
The Bay Company
5.9 km
Explore The Bay Company in Coronado for unique souvenirs, stylish sportswear, and a taste of the local culture.
Beach Village at The Del, Curio Collection by Hilton
5.9 km
Experience luxury and coastal beauty at Beach Village at The Del, a premier resort hotel on Coronado Island, ideal for relaxation and adventure.
Fuzziwig's Candy Factory
5.9 km
Explore a whimsical candy wonderland at Fuzziwig's Candy Factory in Coronado, offering a delightful selection of sweet treats for all ages.
Coronado Plaza
5.9 km
Explore Coronado Plaza: A vibrant shopping haven in Coronado, CA, filled with unique boutiques, delightful dining, and a picturesque coastal atmosphere.
Lamb's Players Theatre
5.9 km
Discover the vibrant performing arts scene at Lamb's Players Theatre in Coronado, offering captivating performances in an intimate setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cabrillo National Monument
0.1 km
Discover Cabrillo National Monument in San Diego: a historical landmark with breathtaking ocean views, hiking trails, and vibrant tide pools.
Point Loma Tide Pools
0.5 km
Explore the vibrant marine life and stunning coastal views at Point Loma Tide Pools, a must-visit natural attraction in San Diego.
Point Loma
3.2 km
Explore the stunning coastal beauty and rich history of Point Loma, San Diego – a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
Breakers Beach
4.0 km
A secluded and pristine beach escape exclusively for military personnel and their families on Coronado Island, offering peace and stunning ocean views.
Coronado Dog Beach
4.7 km
Experience the joy of Coronado Dog Beach, where dogs can run free and play in the surf against a stunning ocean backdrop.
Shelter Island
4.7 km
Experience the tranquility of Shelter Island in San Diego, where stunning views and outdoor adventures await you in a serene coastal setting.
Sunset Park
4.9 km
Experience the beauty of Sunset Park in Coronado, California, a perfect blend of stunning ocean views, lush landscapes, and a relaxing atmosphere.
Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
5.1 km
Explore dramatic cliffs, hidden caves, and stunning sunsets at San Diego's Sunset Cliffs Natural Park. A coastal paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Bessemer Path
5.1 km
Discover the serene beauty of Bessemer Path in San Diego, where nature meets stunning coastal views in a perfect outdoor escape.
Coronado Beach
5.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Coronado Beach, where golden sands meet the Pacific Ocean in a serene Californian paradise for all travelers.
Shoreline Park
5.3 km
A scenic mile-long waterfront park on Shelter Island with stunning bay views, public art, fishing pier, and recreational pathways.
Stairs to lookout on Sunset Cliffs
5.5 km
Descend to breathtaking views at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park via the iconic stairs, offering access to tide pools, sea caves, and stunning sunsets.
Sail San Diego
5.6 km
Discover the thrill of sailing in San Diego with Sail San Diego - unforgettable boat tours and expert lessons await you!
Star Park
5.8 km
Explore the serene Star Park in Coronado, a perfect blend of nature, relaxation, and local culture amidst California's coastal charm.
Coronado Historical Association
5.9 km
Explore the rich history of Coronado at the Coronado Historical Association, a captivating local museum filled with stories and artifacts of the region.
Essential places to dine
Vessel Restaurant
4.3 km
Experience breathtaking waterfront dining at Vessel Restaurant in San Diego – where New American cuisine meets coastal charm.
NASNI Dining Facility
5.7 km
Discover delicious diner-style meals at NASNI Dining Facility in Coronado - where quality meets affordability in a charming coastal setting.
Beach + Taco Shack
5.8 km
Experience mouth-watering tacos with breathtaking ocean views at Beach + Taco Shack in Coronado.
Sun Deck
5.9 km
Experience stunning ocean views and fresh local cuisine at Coronado's premier dining destination - The Sun Deck.
Sheerwater
5.9 km
Experience exquisite dining at Sheerwater with breathtaking ocean views in Coronado, California – where gourmet cuisine meets scenic beauty.
Chez Loma
5.9 km
Experience authentic French cuisine in Coronado at Chez Loma – where every meal is a delightful journey through France's rich culinary heritage.
Serea Coastal Cuisine
5.9 km
Experience exquisite Mediterranean flavors at Serea Coastal Cuisine in Coronado – where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views.
On the Rocks
5.9 km
Experience exquisite dining at On the Rocks in Coronado with breathtaking ocean views and a menu bursting with fresh flavors.
Village Pizzeria
5.9 km
Experience authentic Italian dining at Village Pizzeria in Coronado - where delicious pizza and pasta meet warm hospitality.
Island Pasta Coronado
5.9 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Island Pasta Coronado with delicious pasta dishes and fresh seafood in a charming coastal setting.
The Islander
5.9 km
Experience coastal dining at The Islander in Coronado – where fresh flavors meet vibrant atmosphere amidst stunning beach views.
Di Marena
5.9 km
Experience classic American comfort food at Di Marena Diner in beautiful Coronado, California - where every meal feels like home.
Tavern
5.9 km
Discover The Tavern in Coronado: A delightful grill offering American cuisine with unique flavors and an inviting atmosphere.
Little Frenchie
5.9 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Little Frenchie in Coronado, where delightful flavors meet charming ambiance for unforgettable meals.
The Henry
5.9 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at The Henry in Coronado – from delicious breakfasts to creative vegan dishes.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rare Bloom Boutique
5.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local artistry at Rare Bloom Boutique, a charming gift shop in Point Loma, San Diego.
Avenu.
5.9 km
Discover Avenu in Coronado, a women's boutique offering stylish apparel and accessories amidst the charm of California's coastal paradise.
La Mer
5.9 km
Explore La Mer, Coronado’s premier women's boutique for stylish clothing and accessories, perfect for every occasion.
Paris & Me Boutique
5.9 km
Explore unique women's fashion at Paris & Me Boutique in Coronado, California, where style meets local charm in a chic shopping experience.
En Route
5.9 km
Explore En Route, Coronado's top luggage store, where quality meets style for all your travel needs.
5L2F Fiveloaves Twofish
5.9 km
Discover quality children's clothing with unique craftsmanship at 5L2F Fiveloaves Twofish in Coronado.
Geppetto's - Coronado
5.9 km
Discover joy and imagination at Geppetto's, Coronado's enchanting gift shop and toy store, where every visit brings a touch of nostalgia.
Crown Meets Sea
5.9 km
Explore the charm of Crown Meets Sea, a unique gift shop in Coronado offering handcrafted treasures and local souvenirs for every visitor.
Seaside Papery
5.9 km
Discover the charm of Seaside Papery in Coronado, a stationery store filled with unique gifts and high-quality paper products, perfect for every occasion.
Studio 1220
5.9 km
Explore unique women's fashion at Studio 1220 in Coronado, California – a boutique experience that elevates your style.
MJ's Boutique
5.9 km
Discover the essence of Coronado fashion at MJ's Boutique, where style meets local charm in a captivating shopping experience.
Wild Dove Boutique
5.9 km
Explore Wild Dove Boutique in Coronado for unique women's clothing and accessories that celebrate coastal fashion and style.
Pretty Place
5.9 km
Explore Pretty Place in Coronado: A treasure trove of unique gifts and local artisan crafts that capture the spirit of California's coastal charm.
S D Trading Co
5.9 km
Discover unique clothing and souvenirs at S D Trading Co in Coronado, CA, a must-visit for tourists seeking local treasures.
Coronado Resort Wear Company
5.9 km
Discover stylish apparel and unique souvenirs at Coronado Resort Wear Company in sunny Coronado, California, where beach vibes meet fashionable finds.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
I Bar
4.6 km
Discover I Bar in Coronado, CA – your go-to bar for refreshing drinks and a friendly atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Club Marina
5.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Club Marina, a top cocktail bar in San Diego's scenic Point Loma, known for its signature drinks and lively atmosphere.
Nabo coronada
6.0 km
Experience the vibrant coastal charm of Nabo Coronada, a favorite bar in Coronado, CA, offering refreshing drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Coronado Shores Beach Club
6.3 km
Experience the vibrant beachside atmosphere at Coronado Shores Beach Club, where relaxation meets lively social scene in beautiful California.
Little Club
7.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Coronado at Little Club, a cocktail bar and club with affordable drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Pacific Shores Cocktail Lounge
8.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of San Diego at Pacific Shores Cocktail Lounge, where cocktails meet charm in a cozy setting.
Sunshine Company Saloon
8.4 km
Discover the lively Sunshine Company Saloon in Point Loma, San Diego, a perfect blend of local charm, vibrant atmosphere, and delicious drinks.
Tony's Martini Bar
8.4 km
Experience the best martinis and vibrant nightlife at Tony's Martini Bar in Point Loma, San Diego – a cocktail lover's paradise.
Cheswick's West
8.5 km
Experience California's laid-back beach culture at Cheswick's West, a cozy bar offering stunning ocean views and refreshing drinks.
The Whiskey House
8.5 km
Discover The Whiskey House, San Diego's premier bar offering an unparalleled selection of whiskey, gourmet food, and a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
Happy Does Bar
8.6 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Happy Does Bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter – perfect for drinks, delicious food, and fun nights out.
False Idol
8.7 km
Discover False Idol, a tiki bar in San Diego offering exotic cocktails and an immersive island atmosphere that delights every visitor.
Fifth & Rose
8.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of San Diego at Fifth & Rose, a chic cocktail bar in the Gaslamp Quarter, offering expertly crafted drinks.
Prohibition Lounge
8.7 km
Discover the enchanting Prohibition Lounge in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, where vintage charm meets modern mixology and live music.
The Shout! House
8.7 km
Discover the exhilarating nightlife at The Shout! House, a dueling piano bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, with live music, delicious food, and crafted drinks.
