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Point Bonita Lighthouse: A Beacon at the Golden Gate

Explore a historic lighthouse with 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 the treacherous Golden Gate Strait since 1855. This active lighthouse, now part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, 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 visiting, as the lighthouse has limited hours and is closed on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
  • Dress in layers, as the weather in the Marin Headlands can be unpredictable and windy.
  • Bring binoculars to spot marine life such as harbor seals, whales, and porpoises.
  • Wear sturdy shoes for the half-mile trail to the lighthouse, which includes a steep descent and ascent.
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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 Lighthouse parking lot. Additional parking can be found at the YMCA parking lot before the lighthouse parking lot. From the parking lot, it is a half-mile walk to the lighthouse. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    Take Golden Gate Transit lines 101, 132, or 150 to the Spencer Ave Bus Pad in Sausalito. From there, connect to Marin Transit Route 61, which will take you closer to the Marin Headlands. From the bus stop, follow Bunker Road and Field Road to the Point Bonita Lighthouse parking lot and continue on foot. Single fares for Golden Gate Transit and Marin Transit vary depending on the distance traveled, but typically cost between $2-$6.

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Discover more about Point Bonita Lighthouse

Point Bonita Lighthouse, a historic sentinel overlooking the Golden Gate, stands as a testament to maritime navigation and the rugged beauty of the California coast. Established in 1855, it was the third lighthouse built on the West Coast, a response to the numerous shipwrecks occurring near the Golden Gate during the California Gold Rush. Originally built on a hill 306 feet above sea level, the lighthouse's location proved problematic due to the region's characteristic high fog. In 1877, it was relocated to its current position, a lower elevation of 124 feet closer to the water. This move required the hand-carving of a 118-foot tunnel through solid rock to provide access. Point Bonita was the first lighthouse on the West Coast to feature a fog signal, initially a 24-pounder siege gun. Over the years, the gun was replaced by a fog bell and then a steam siren, with an electric fog horn in use today. The lighthouse is also unique for being the only one in the United States accessible via a suspension bridge, mirroring the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Note that the suspension bridge is currently closed for maintenance, limiting access to a viewing platform. Today, the U.S. Coast Guard maintains the light and fog signal, while the National Park Service provides visitor access. Visitors can explore the wild landscape, discover the area's geology, and delve into its fascinating history. The half-mile trail to the lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the San Francisco skyline.

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