Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park
Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park is where a historic lighthouse and its surrounding grounds are being preserved in California. In addition to a chance to see local species, it also provides a window into the region’s maritime past. The Pigeon Point Lighthouse has guided sailors from its clifftop location along the central California coast, around 50 miles south of San Francisco, since 1872. At 115 feet tall, it is one of the tallest lighthouses in the United States.
The five-wick lard oil lamp and the first-order Fresnel lens were first used on the evening of November 15, 1872, soon before sunset, made up of 1,008 prisms lit for the first time. The lens has a diameter of six feet, stands sixteen feet tall, and weighs eight thousand pounds. It was built in New York at the general depot of the Lighthouse Service, where it was assembled before being transported around the Horn. It is currently housed in a lantern chamber.
History of Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park
Pigeon Point Light Station is situated in a biodiverse region of the coast. Seals and whales, among other marine mammal species, are frequently spotted from shore. An abundance of plant and animal life thrives in the intertidal zone along this stretch of shore, particularly along the jagged reefs surrounding the lighthouse.
During their annual migration, grey whales can be spotted from the promenade behind the fog signal building from January to April. Explore the incredible 1,000-year-old redwoods or the neighbouring tidepools about 100 yards north of Pigeon Point.
Interpretive Programs
Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park visitors can take one of two 30-minute tours focusing on the lighthouse’s history. Depending on staff availability, these strolls are available From Thursday through Monday, 10 am to 4 pm.
Tours of the park and the lighthouse are guided by experts who can tell you about the maritime history of the area and the lighthouse. Experience the significance of Pigeon Point in the history of navigation and coastal protection. The number of available walks may change depending on the schedule and personnel levels.
Pigeon Point State Historic Park’s Historical Exhibits
Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park is closed while the lighthouse undergoes restoration, but the park’s grounds still feature interesting historical displays. These displays allow visitors to learn about the region’s fascinating past. They provide insight into the past of the lighthouse and its keepers, as well as the area’s marine heritage. Visitors can learn more about the significance of Pigeon Point and its lighthouse even if they cannot go inside.
Wildlife Viewing At Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park
The wildlife-viewing options at Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park are second to none. About 50 different kinds of birds, both local and migratory, call the area home, including the critically endangered marbled murrelets. These rare birds can be seen foraging in the coastal waters and roosting in surrounding old-growth redwood woods.
Tide Pools, just a short walk north of Pigeon Point, offer an additional opportunity to learn about and experience the marine ecosystem. The park allows visitors to connect with nature and enjoy the seaside by observing birds and exploring tide pools.
Address: 210 Pigeon Point Rd, Pescadero, CA 94060, United States
Departments: HI Pigeon Point Lighthouse
Opens-Closed: 10 am-4 pm
Phone: +1 650-879-2120
