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Pigeon Point Light Station SHP
Categories: Active Life Parks Public Services & Government Landmarks & Historical Buildings Parks, Landmarks & Historical Buildings [Edit]
210 Pigeon Point RdHwy 1
Pescadero, CA 94060
(650) 879-2120
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
53 reviews for Pigeon Point Light Station SHP
Review Highlights
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53 reviews in English
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Review from Rickye J.
Emeryville, CA
We arrived in foggy (you know that Maxwell House) weather my favorite, hers not so much. Anyhow, I was pretty surprised how scenic it was. There was a decent size group but it felt secluded.
Overall it's a place to go back to and appreciate the ever changing weather that California has to offer. -
Review from Rachel H.
La Mesa, CA
We were driving along looking for a place to commune with the redwoods when we spotted this lighthouse and just had to go. It's very scenic. There are walkways that stretch out over the rocks of the cliff where you can stand and inhale the ocean breeze. Seals sunbathe on the rocks below.
Lots of interesting history to read about the lighthouse, the boats that sank there, how the sound of the foghorn changed over time.
It would have been really awesome to be able to go inside the lighthouse itself but you can't even get near it, it's all fenced off.
Be forewarned - the only facilities are outhouses! Not too smelly, but outhouses nonetheless. -
Review from T A.
Alameda, CA
As far as lighthouses go.. this one is certainly one.
It has the lil window at the top.. it's shaped like a perfect light house... round..tall.
As we approached, I simply had to get out and see it..and when I did I felt like that moment on Vacation when the Griswolds finally reached the Grand Canyon. I acknowledged what it was...pleased with the overall view. I even took a picture.
It's a righteous lighthouse nonetheless. -
Review from Alicia A.
Contra Costa, CA
Our Highway 1 adventure consisted of the lighthouse, Big Sur, Carmel and Monterey. This lighthouse was the highlight of our trip!
It was the very first lighthouse I have ever visited and I was in awe. You feel kind of a warm fuzzy feeling as you walk up to it. You just want to look up and stare at it... appreciate it's nostalgic beauty. Since my visit, I've been doing research on lighthouses and I intend to go around California to see each and everyone. Officially obsessed. -
Review from Ed U.
Lighthouses have that air of romance about them, don't they? Sea captains steering their boats through the fog and maneuvering around treacherous rocks to find a safe port. The feel of sea spray here is enough to make you splash some Old Spice on. Look at your man, now back to me, now back at your man, now back to me. Sadly, he isn't me, but if he stopped using ladies-scented body wash and switched to Old Spice, he could smell like he's me...
But I digress. I've been to the lighthouses at Point Reyes and Point Cabrillo, and as impressive as they are, it's really the Pigeon Point Lighthouse that cuts the most classic silhouette against the rich blue sky on this part of the California coast. I don't think I've ever driven this stretch of Highway One between Santa Cruz and Half Moon Bay before. The highway can feel barren but also quite beautiful in parts with the light station being the main attraction.
It's a striking image as you come upon it, and you will be tempted like me to turn off in front of a cascade of yellow wildflowers that perfectly frame the lighthouse jutting out on a rocky promontory (see photos). There's a hostel adjacent to the lighthouse with four houses that accommodate about 14 guests each and even a hot tub that overlooks the ocean. Now look down, back up, where are you? You're on a boat with the man your man could smell like.Listed in: Pushing on to the Peninsula
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Review from Megan K.
Moraga, CA
Must see. Make a walk down to the whaler's cove- perfect to find some marine creatures. You may even spot a seal or two! Great place to picnic or just connect with nature. A true gem- on highway one.
Lighthouse is probably one of the tallest operating on West Coast. Rusty, mystereous and romantic. -
Review from Subrosa I.
Palo Alto, CA
Pigeon Point Lighthouse is a hostel, not a hotel. So don't expect any posh amenities. It is meant to be an inexpensive lodging.
As far as hostels go, we found Pigeon Point Lighthouse to be very comfortable. The rooms may be austerely furnished (no TV, no mini fridge, no desk, no dresser, no chair, just a bunk bed), but they -- as well as the shared bathroom and the common area -- are clean and well maintained.
The nearby beaches and coves are the main attraction. When the fog rolls in, the place has a hushed, peaceful, and eerily beautiful feel. When the sun is out, it is just spectacularly beautiful.Listed in: Hiking Trails & Parks, Beaches
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Review from Fer R.
Oakley, CA
This Lighthouse needs love!
With all the money the Californian politicians make, you'd think they would want to give up a few bucks and help preserve a great landmark as this Light Station is! Its been here since November 15, 1872! Is in desperate need of an overhaul...although STILL BEAUTIFUL! This lighthouse stands 115 ft, the tallest operating lighthouse on the west coast.
Great views into Whaler's Cove and a great beach to picnic.
This Light Station also offers Pigeon Point Lighthouse Hostel starting at $23 and up.
The Fog signal building is an interpertive/visitor center with old pictures and imformation on its past and present.
Annual lighting of the Fresnel lens celebration is held on the Saturday closest to November 15.
If you love Lighthouses and I sure do, I recommend visiting Pigeon Point and sitting at the lookout bench and just watching and listening to the beautiful ocean waves crash on the rocks below. You just might see a migrating whale!
Parking is free and a small donation is accepted at the Carpenter Shop (bookstore).
There are restrooms and a few porta potties on the property.Listed in: Lighthouses
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Review from F. P.
San Francisco, CA
This is what's great about living in the Bay Area. You can have lived all your life here but there is always new discoveries.
On a lowkey Sunday with no plans, we decided to do some exploring. We came across this state park online and decided why not?!
Located about 20 min south of Half Moon Bay off of Highway 1, it is supposedy the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast. Built back in the late 1800's, it's a nice reminder of California's history.
The setting is stunning, with all these colorful flowers in bloom along the cliffs.
Not a whole lot to do (and the lighthouse is not open to the public) but great picture oppurtunities and a nice escape from the hustle and bustle od the city. -
Review from Leena C.
This was an impromptu stop this past summer on my vacation back to Cali. We were heading back to Santa Cruz from Half Moon Bay when my mate zipped in...curious about the hostels. The Light Station is really a landmark. Although you can't actually go into the light station, you can walk the compounds...there is a little pier off the rocks that is pretty amazing..it overlooks the cliffs, right into the water.
We met one of the caretakers who was gardening and extremely friendly. She gave us a little information and explained how the hostels were set up. Afterwards, I was definitely thankful that my mate made this stop ...the views were gorgeous and it was quite a lovely experience -
Review from Nicholas F.
Oakland, CA
Pigeon Point is a California treasure that is slowly falling victim to the erosion of the mighty Pacific.
I remember coming here as a kid with my parents and seeing them light the old Fresnel lens. It was a breathtaking sight, and apparently they still do this for special occasions -- you've got to check this out if you can: http://antwrp.gsfc.nas....
The fog signal building houses some interesting historical information on the lighthouse, including images and artifacts from the early times of its operation. I was curious to find out some background info on the initial funders of the lighthouse, but was disappointed to find that information lacking. I still don't know who built it...
If you can actually get a spot in the hostel, I'm sure it'd be a nice way to spend a couple of days away from home. But like all low-cost coastal accommodations in this area, they get booked up fast, especially for weekends.
If you're driving up or down Highway 1, stop in, even if just for a couple of minutes. It won't cost you anything but time, and it's time well spent. -
Review from Diane L.
San Francisco, CA
Pigeon Point Light Station is a place that will be forever ingrained in my memory banks.
Over two years ago, when the SO and I first started dating, he brought me to this quaint lighthouse that sits alongside the very scenic Highway One. We took a few photos together with the awesome views and the cute white picket fence surrounding us. While making our way back to the city, I couldn't help but notice that he kept throwing glances and flashing his endearing eyes at me. It kinda weirded me out, considering that we had only been dating for about a month. I just shook it off, but it all made sense to me when he professed his love to me only a couple hours later.
Fast forward a couple years and a couple months later. And it just so happens to be Valentine's Day too. We just had spent an amazing afternoon driving through the Santa Cruz mountains and wine tasting in Felton. On our way back, I dozed off and after what seemed like a very short nap, I was awoken by the SO asking to take a walk. I saw that we were back at the same lighthouse where we shared many photos together over two years ago. In a grumpy mood, I refused to step out of the car to be blown away by the high wind gusts and the oncoming storm. After much coaxing, I persistently refused to get out of the car and closed my eyes to continue my nap.
But there was no way I could go back to sleep, because the SO placed a box in my hand and asked for my hand in marriage, at the same place he had known he wanted to spend the rest of his life with me that one day, almost two years and three months ago to this day.
Pigeon Point Light Station is a place that we will definitely return to, as it is now a place that will always be so special to us. -
Review from Bradley N.
Missoula, MT
Pigeon Point simply shines in winter: sun-splashed, wind-swept, wave-lashed, and undeniably impressive. We came here on a crystal-clear Christmas afternoon and spent some lovely minutes watching an elephant seal lazily soaking and floating in the waves, his head and flippers periodically appearing above the blue water. This is a prime whale watching point as well and has what must be one of the greatest youth hostel sites in all of California (Point Montara Lighthouse being another).
This is perhaps one of the greatest road-trip stops on CA Highway One, comparable to places in Big Sur and Mendocino County where we have been. The flowers, the tide pools, the historic lighthouse, the pebble-filled beaches, and the surrounding exposed hillsides are magical in ANY season, but somehow they are the perfect accoutrements for celebrating a truly Northern Californian Christmas. The photos speak volumes!Listed in: Hikes, Parks, and Beaches to…, Picture Perfect, Passing through Pescadero, Bridges & Lighthouses
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/29/2009
An excellent spot for a break from driving CA Highway One, PP is a landmark destination along the… Read more »
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11/29/2009
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Review from Miika m.
Lighthouses = *swoon
There is something romantic and eerily condescending to me about lighthouses. They stand out there, awash and brutalized by the elements, but they still remain, stoic and upright, a beacon to the many ships floundering out on the sea. Sounds like THE light at the end of many a relationship tunnel.
As I continued this little nonchalant drive down the coast (mind you, my objectives for this day was simply to go down to Pacifica to collect my thoughts) and now I had driven all the way down to Pigeon Point. As a tourist, I might as well do as tourists do. Got out with my camera and took a walk around the grounds.
Unfortunately, the lighthouse is now closed and the chain link fence does a lot in deterring close-up shots. However, at the end of the path is a barn that houses historical information and the such. The only thing, is that it was empty and when I entered, I could hear the echo of my own steps behind me. Eeeeeeerrrrrrrry.
Follow the path around the point and you are rewarded with many the view that sailors probably dove off of in search of that fatal siren call. Ah, to tempt the fate of men at sea for years on end.
The motel here has been turned into a hostel and I found the quarters charmingly cute, although flashbacks from the movie Identity haunted me on my twenty steps back to my car.
On to the next eye candy on this wonderful highway lining our beautiful coast. -
Review from Patricia M.
San Francisco, CA
What a beautiful landmark--- complete with little gardens, a photo collection, and a superstar view. Very peaceful, even with visitors milling about. Parking is very accessible with a clearly marked lot. this is a beautiful gem, with lots of benches here and there and a spectacular vista. Walk to the very back end behind the lighthouse to see and hear the waves crashing against the rocks. This is a great spot for families.
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Review from n b.
San Francisco, CA
Did you know that one of America's tallest lighthouses is just down the coast a bit from San Francisco? Yep. It's true. Just a bit south of Ano Nuevo.
And it still has its first order fresnel lens, which is over 7 feet tall and was originally lit with lard oil!
There are a few trails to walk around on and appreciate the views, and there's a hostel there. I think they give tours as well, but I thought the really cool part was that you can park down the road that runs along the beach and go check out the beach with all the little tide pools and rocks to climb on.
Visiting the park is FREE, but unfortunately the lighthouse is now falling apart due to lack of maintenance funds, so if you go, please drop off a donation, will ya? History geeks like me will thank you.
Oh, and for you dog owners--dogs are allowed on the beach only, not in the park. I took a borrowed one to the beach and we had a great time.Listed in: Take a HIKE!, FREE things to do in the Bay…
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Review from phillip w.
San Francisco, CA
It was the first time for both us...
We've always seen lighthouses in movies and pictures and magazines but never up close in person. No it wasn't a beautiful day, no it wasn't at sunset or at night with stars...it was a cold windy cloudy day..but it was still beautiful and fun.
We walked down towards that little beach of some sort and took some photos and then walked around the lighthouse and took some more photos. It sucks that the place has a chain link fence but it was still pretty cool.
I cant wait to see more lighthouses now...fascinating buildings that bring light out to the sailors on those foggy foggy nights. -
Review from Marcella N.
San Francisco, CA
These are a few of my favorite things..
twisty white beach fence
diamonds on the sea
old timer foghorn
big ERECT lighthouse -
Review from Patrick G.
Redwood City, CA
Serene, but scary. Gorgeous, but ugly. I am conflicted on this one. Our destination for Sunday morning drive is one that many in the Bay Area have visited, and it was much like I remember it from 8-9 years ago. Except for the big fence surrounding the lighthouse and the gate which nearly fell on me.
Let's talk beauty first - the view of the ocean from here is spectacular, and the waves crashing on the intricate rock formations on the shore is amazing. The entire family oooohed and ahhhhed for 30 minutes just looking at it.
Let's talk scary next: has anyone else noticed the number of former viewing points that have fallen into the ocean? They did not give me the warm fuzzies about standing 50-100 feet out above the big rocks below. Also, in a sad display of parks dilapidation, when we entered the gate to walk down to the viewing area, it literally fell off its hinges, crashing to the ground with an impressive thud. I am delighted it missed my foot, and the ranger was very cool about it. The lighthouse is closed due to earthquake damage, and it surrounded by an ugly chain link fence. Oh well - you barely notice it against the otherwise-amazing vista.
This place makes a perfect launching point for a lunch at Duarte's Tavern in Pescadero, which I do recommend wholeheartedly. -
Review from Pippi L.
Sacramento, CA
I was there for the 135th lighting too, with our little familia.
We were cold, but powered through with the help of cookies and cocoa. When the starburst hit, it was like magic.
MAGIC, I tell ya.
the only obnoxious thing was the bozos cuddling up near the lens blocking the rays. They were not only obnoxious, they were oblivious. I secretly hoped the iron band would give and plunge them, but not really because I am not Damien.
Seriously, this is a beautiful lighthouse, the fresnel lens is special and particularly glorious for the 2 hours a year it is allowed to do its thing. If you visit, make sure to drop some dough for donations to restore the structure and get it retrofitted. The California Parks Foundation has been doing great work raising money, but they are still 1.5 mil short of seeing it all getting done properly. It would be such a shame if this gem fell into the water during the next big quake... -
Review from Rita Y.
San Francisco, CA
The lighthouse is in disrepair and they're trying to raise money to fix it. It's closed to the public but you can view it from the outside. Parts of the trim have fallen off which makes it a safety issue. The French Fresnel lens are not in use but stored in the lighthouse. No docents to guide you. Just a spectacular view of the ocean on a clear, sunny day. Further down the path, you descent down a small staircase to really see the blue ocean water ahead of you. A train of brown pelicans fly by, the splash of the huge waves and the old building behind you with 2 large black foghorns sticking out on from the back of the building near the roof. There are several hostel buildings on the property and I saw people packing up to leave as their stay was ending.
If they can raise the money, it's going to be really nice just like how they fixed up the Pt. Cabrillo Lighthouse in Mendocino. -
Review from Wes M.
San Francisco, CA
If you find yourself driving along Highway 1 at sunset (especially the kind where there's some clouds and you can see the sun rays coming through), take a few minutes to stop in at the Pigeon Point lighthouse. Perhaps no other spot captures the blustery beauty of the Pumpkin Coast better than right here. Especially if it's cold and windy (which it probably will be). Most people will be content to contemplate the scene for a few minutes before running back to their cars and dashing home for a hot chocolate. But if you really want more, there just so happens to be a hostel here (those things show up in the strangest places).
Also, note that there is a great view of the lighthouse (and/or the sunset) from the nearby Wilbur's Watch trail. Just go south on Highway 1 a half mile from the lighthouse and turn inland on Pigeon Point road, then take a right into the trailhead parking lot. The trail goes uphill 1 mile to an overlook but you can get good views after only a few hundred yards.Listed in: Skyline Blvd & The Pumpkin…
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Review from Daddy O.
Long Beach, CA
There isn't much to say here that hasn't already been said. The views are breathtaking and incredible, and if you can make it for the annual re-lighting of the fresnel lens, you're in for a real treat. If you're ever headed in or out of Santa Cruz and want to take the scenic drive up HWY 1 instead of cruising on major Highways, this is a fabulous stop to make.
The light station is located about 30 miles north of Santa Cruz, perfect for a stop on your way to or from Pescadero or La Honda. There's even a little picnic table area if you want to enjoy a snack as the waves crash at the point.
I wanted to do our engagement photo shoot here, but it proved too far away, but man, if only... -
Review from Johnny J.
San Jose, CA
What's turning out to be a mini-hobby for my fiance and myself, Pigeon Point is the second lighthouse on the CA coast we have visited. It's beautiful here with great views.
There was a baby whale jumping in and out of the water just off the coast which made the trip entirely worth it. The drive up the coast to get here is breathtaking as well.
There is a Hostel that advertises 20 dollar a night stays. I think they are old coast guard barracks. We didn't stay but I don't think you will find a better value anywhere. They looked neat and clean from the outside too. -
Review from Yanny S.
San Francisco, CA
Pigeons = suck.
Pigeon Point Light Station = gorgeous.
A definite place to go see if you're in Pescadero or roundabouts for a day trip. -
Review from Jeffrey C.
San Francisco, CA
My friend and I drove here yesterday; if you love the twisties, take 280N to 84W, then 1S to get here.
Just be careful of bottoming out...
It's very quaint here. There's a nice white picket fenced outcrop that heads over the breakers leaving you with a view of infinity (do watch the sun set here). The lighthouse itself stands as a beacon in time (and I mean it too, it can be seen from 22miles away), and the tiny museum accompanying it is novel but, well, hollow.
You get 3 stars because as I was leaving the museum, the narrative was mentioning how far out the lighthouse could be seen...
and then the pirate voice came on, "Arrrrrgh! That be a mighty lighthouse indeed!"
And that's when I left.Listed in: In the Mood for a Drive?
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Review from Stacy Y.
San Francisco, CA
Beautiful beautiful place to visit. I never stayed at the hostel, but stopped to take some photographs on a drive down Highway 1.
The view is spectacular and you can walk down to the beach area just below the lighthouse for even more great views.
If you want a great day trip, drive down 1 and stop at Pigeon Point Lighthouse for a picnic. You will be glad you did! -
Review from Aimee L.
Hayward, CA
Great photo spot. Pretty windy, but you won't be there long.
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Review from Kerry P.
I'm so glad the National Parks Service has agreed to take over funding and control of the Bay Area's lighthouses. I have a wierd thing with lighthouses (I will be ignoring any Freudian references) probably due to my summertime trips to Cape Cod as a child, or just reading too many books. There's something mystical and romantic about lighthouses and this particular location is very reminiscent of coastal New England....without leaving the 650!
The lighthouse was closed last time I stopped here due to lack of funding and repairs. In back there is a look-out deck surrounded by a wooden picket fence and blue ocean as far as you can see. On a clear day, this cannot be skipped.
The lighthouse is accompanied by a quaint hostel with rooms starting at $20/night. There is also a hot tub and yard area (with view) and access to the wildlife reserve. The next time I need a truely *relaxing* weeked get-away, I'm comin' here! -
Review from T F.
Castro Valley, CA
I stopped in here the past two weekends while dropping off & picking up our daughter from camp. The lighthouse is closed for the duration due to the many repairs needed to make it safe. There is a boardwalk that goes out to a viewing platform complete with three pairs of binoculars hanging on the picket fence for patrons to borrow. Look out on the ocean and the rocks to see otters, sea lions, and a variety of birds. In the spring I hear it's a great whale watching site.
There also is a dirt trail that leads out to another viewing platform looking in another direction. Lots of wildflowers in bloom along this trail. Historic photos in a little 'shack' to view. There is a small gift shop with postcards, sweatshirts and the like. Well worth a stop. -
Review from Reggie G.
Washington, DC
This place is amazing if you can manage to get a bed, especially in a private room. It is so peaceful and heavenly for a romantic break and only a little over an hour of a breathtakingly gorgeous drive from SF.
The best part of it all? They have a private hot tub on the cliffs overlooking the ocean. You can reserve 30 minute time slots for something like $7 if you are staying at the hostel.
You have to reserve a private room months in advance though. If it doesn't work out, Costanoa down the road usually has great midweek deals. -
Review from Eliza B.
PLEASE SOMEBODY PAY THE PARKS DEPARTMENT MONEY TO SAVE THE PIGEON POINT LIGHT HOUSE!
Cuz I don't have any!!
This place is gorgeous. I would have loved to go into the light house had it not been about to topple over. Gorgeous views of the water off of the cliffs. -
Review from Andre N.
Beautiful Place. The boardwalk feels very cozy and you can see the beautiful ocean from the other side of the lighthouse. The water just looks amazing as you standover the wooden fence and stare out into it. This is the point where you start to ponder about things without even knowing it.
Whats weird is that there are some people who fish as you look down to the rocks. I dont get how they got down there and if they are even allowed to do that. Its all good. I love how this place doesnt become crowded so the boardwalks are nice to walk on and the benches are available. I wish I took better pictures. -
Review from Athena N.
Petaluma, CA
Pigeon Point is an example of stellar 19th Century brickwork, and it is rich with history. The docents there were incredibly knowledgeable, and were even able to answer my questions about the tiniest details about the tower and the fog signal building. The weather was very nice the day I went out there. And we had an incredible chance sighting that day: an anomalous pod of Humpback whales were hanging out a couple miles off the point, and they were spouting! Beautiful.
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Review from H H.
Union City, CA
will be 5 stars once us Californians actually spend some money to preserve the lighthouse. It was incredibly windy and wildly beautiful, and for the nerdy among us (married to an engineer I am) there is fascinating info about the various residents (Ohlone Indians, Portoguese, Chinese), shipwrecks, and the Fresnel lens etc.
Great for whale watching in the proper season too.
Cute teeny tiny State Parks bookstore/giftshop (spend $$$ and donate $$ here to preserve this treasure)
So pretty, like walking in a postcard that goes on and on. Just be sure to wear layers because when it's foggy or cold 'round these parts, it ain't playin'. -
Review from terry h.
San Jose, CA
Oh what a fantastic little gem this lighthouse is. Right in the middle of nowhere of Highway 1, you would never expect this to be there but slowly you can see this appear from both sides of the road (going towards half Moon Bay and towards Santa Cruz). It is so beautiful and you can park your car and walk around the lighthouse. (No going inside since a big piece fell off a couple of years ago though)
It was getting pretty bad until the State took it over and since that crazy motel plan fell through. Could you imagine someone building motels here? Like destroying the Mona Lisa.
The best thing is to walk all the way around to the back until you stand on a little catwalk so you can peer down onto the rocks, the moss and the ocean. Very scary but safe.
There is also a hostel in front that visitors can't visit for around $20.00 or 25.00 a night. What a steal!
Oh and one time we were driving along Hwy 1 at night and you could see the beam on and shining way out into the ocean. It was magical. We parked the car a couple of miles away and just watched in silence. I'll never forget that. -
Review from Jun B.
San Francisco, CA
Amazing views.
I love lighthouses. And I am surprised that I have lived over ten years here in the Bay Area and the only lighthouses I knew about were Point Reyes and Point Bonita in Marin. On our drive along the coast yesterday from Santa Cruz to Pescadero, we discovered Pigeon Point Lighthouse. We loved it. Gorgeous views.
On a sunny day, drive along Highway 1 and check out the breathtaking views of the coast and the lighthouse. It is amazing! All you need is a car and a tank of gas. Everything else is free.
Highly recommended. -
Review from Nancy B.
Mountain View, CA
It was pretty, but uneventful. I was just happy that without a trip to this Light Station, I would have never discovered Duarte's Tavern.
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Review from H K.
San Francisco, CA
Fantastic destination for a day drive from SF, located about 45 miles south along Highway 1 with all the nice ocean scenery along the way. I can't say for certain, but I also imagine on foggy days this won't get as socked in by fog as, say, the Point Reyes or Point Bolinas lighthouse.
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Review from Stacey P.
Ventura, CA
Such an enchanting place to visit! My family and I came to visit, watched the waves and the sea lions on the rocks. The lighthouse is viewable from the outside only. There's an incredible view and you can't beat the fresh air and little plants and flowers around. A great place to take photos.
