Pigeon Point Lighthouse and Hostel on the Pacific Coast Highway

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Standing 115 feet tall on a 35 foot cliff, the Pigeon Point Lighthouse has been guiding mariners since 1872. It was constructed following a string of shipwrecks in the area, and named in memory of the ship "Carrier Pigeon", that ran aground near what was then called La Punta de la Ballena (Whale Point) on June 6th, 1853. The Lighthouse is constructed of unreinforced brick, and is the second tallest on the Pacific Coast. The original first order fresnel lens is still in place. The lens consists of 1008 glass prisms enclosing the light source. In the late 1920's the lighthouse was electrified, and the lightsource was changed to a 1000 watt electric light bulb. The light is 680,000 candlepower and can be seen for 20 miles. Prior to electrification, the lighthouse was illuminated by a lamp consisting of a series of concentric wicks fueled by lard oil, giving off light measured between 60,000 and 80,000 candlepower. Later a kerosene lamp was substituted, and then a lamp which used vaporized oil, providing yet a stronger beam. An automated aerobeacon was installed in 1972. The 10 second flash pattern seen by ships at sea is still maintained today. There is a fog signal building next to the lighthouse that was built in 1902. When frequent fog rolled in, the foghorn was fired up. That was until it was discontinued in 1972.

Located next to an incredibly large field of brussel sprouts is the Pigeon Point Lighthouse. It's 50 miles south of San Francisco and 26 miles north of Santa Cruz just off Highway One, The Pacific Coast Highway. You can't miss it. The 115 foot lighthouse is five miles south of the Pescadero turnoff.

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The four three-bedroom houses next to the lighthouse have overnight lodging for up to 50 hostellers of all ages. Each house has three male or female bunkrooms. Separate bunkrooms can be reserved for families and couples. Guest share bathrooms with hot showers, fully equipped kitchens and living rooms. You can even rent the outdoor hot tub for the evening. You can visit the Lighthouse from 8am till sunset daily. Want more information??? Call 415-879-0633.