Super sweet lighthouse!!!! Been to Point Reyes Lighthouse twice over the years. Last time was March 2021 when Covid was still rampant in the world. Since it was Covid time the visitors center was not operating, and we were unable to actually make it all the way to the lighthouse. They closed the stairs which leads down to the lighthouse. Not only Covid will close these 313 steps. If winds are exceeding 40mph, then they will close the steps for visitors safety. It was very windy that day we were there so it probably would have been closed to us anyways. Despite the fact that we did not make it all the way down to the lighthouse, we had a great time! The drive along the windy Sir Francis Drake Boulevard to get to the parking lot is very scenic. The parking lot itself is small so get there early folks. The walk from the parking lot to the Lighthouse Visitors Center is wonderful. The scenery everywhere you look is beautiful. The ocean views are especially amazing!! If you are lucky, you may see a whale or two. Take your time and enjoy the half mile walk. The Point Reyes Lighthouse and surrounding area is truly breathtaking!! Absolutely one of our favorite lighthouses in the world!! Even though we did not get to make it all the way down there during the most recent visit, we would still come back again and again and again!! read more

See all

This is a must-see of you find yourself in the area. The lighthouse itself was absolutely gorgeous. The tunnel you walk through to get there is pretty cool as well. The view is gorgeous and if it's a clear day you can see ships on the bay. On our visit on 09/22/24, the bridge to the Lighthouse was closed for safety issues. They said it should be opened back up in spring/summer 2025. read more

Point Reyes National Seashore - Lighthouse - Lighthouse - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Point Reyes Station, California

I was taken here as a child and thought, where the hell are we going because the drive seemed endless. The Point Reyes lighthouse is out there. It's really far down a country road that often can get extremely foggy. I would not recommend this for bratty kids that go 'are we there yet are we there yet are we there yet?' or people who get car sick. I love this as a day/half day excursion. There are other fun places to check out like Drake's Bay, the Point Reyes shipwreck, Chimney Rock, The Cypress Tunnel, and Point Reyes Station etc. If you just want a lighthouse and are staying in the city, I'd recommend Bonita Lighthouse because it's much closer. If you want a day/half day excursion to take a road trip and see farming country I'd recommend it here. Fun fact they used the exteriors of the Lighthouse as well as locations in Point Reyes Station and Inverness in the John Carpenter 80s horror film The Fog. read more

See all

Mesmerizing Scenery in California. Popular Among Families, Groups, Individuals. Hours Vary Based on Time of Year. Free Landmark to Visit. Free Parking Lot. One Lane Road to Lighthouse often Foggy/Windy. Maintained Trail. Paved Trail from Parking Lot until Lighthouse steps. Restrooms at Lot & Middle of Trail. One Lane Road to Lighthouse often Foggy/Windy. Phone Signal Limited in Area. See Below for More Info: Mesmerizing Scenery in California: Point Reyes National Seashore Lighthouse offers mesmerizing scenery in California. The views are stunning, such that it often serves as one of the set wallpapers for computers or phones. Popular Among Families, Groups, Individuals: Point Reyes National Seashore Lighthouse is popular among families, groups, individuals. During my solo visit in December 2023, fellow visitors were varying ages and backgrounds. Hours Vary Based on Time of Year: Point Reyes National Seashore Lighthouse hours vary based on the time of the year. For instance, during December of 2023, hours to go down to the lighthouse were from 10 am to 4:30 pm Wednesday through Sunday. You can arrive earlier/ stay later. However, you can only get to the stairs gate. I was not aware of the hours and had to wait about four hours for the ranger to open the gate. Thankfully, I had my mat and did yoga while waiting. You can find the lighthouse hours online. Free Landmark to Visit: read more

Point Reyes National Seashore - Lighthouse - Point Reyes Lighthouse (Free Admission; December 2023) - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Point Reyes Station, California

5 stars for the views - absolutely stunning. However, 1 star off because of the difficulty to find parking and the crazy wind ! My friends and I visited during the early summer (June) but it was soo cold and so windy ! We also arrived a bit late, closer to sunset (which made the views even more beautiful), so the shop/building up there was closed. But even so, there were parts on the exterior of the building that blocked the wind, so I tried to hide in those areas while my friends and I took turns to use the public restroom up there (which was not that clean but that is not a surprise for public restrooms). I'd love to try to visit again when it is less windy and less cold ! Also in my photo... we did not walk all the way down to the lighthouse, as that part was closed off when we visited. read more

Point Reyes National Seashore - Lighthouse - Sunset view - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Point Reyes Station, California

Point Reyes Lighthouse is the most dramatic in all of California. It is the windiest place on the Pacific Coast. It's also the 2nd foggiest place in North America. The lighthouse sits at the western most tip of their headland that juts out 10 miles into the ocean. The pathway going down to it is so steep you get dizzy just looking at it from the top of the 300-step staircase leading down the cliffside. Point Reyes is the remotest part of Marin County. Words alone can not describe the beauty around this lighthouse.. read more

See all

We had such an incredible time seeing the lighthouse and listening to the elephant seals on the shore. There were around 200+ elephant seals during our visit and the sounds they made were equally funny and peaceful. It was one of those special travel moments that you know you'll never forget. The drive to this area is fairly long and windy but the walking path to the seals is fairly easy and short. The walk up to the lighthouse (separate area) is about a 10-15 minute walk with a fairly decent grade on a paved path. Both spots were special and worth the trek. Do yourself a favor and pick up some food at Inverness Market on your way back out of the park ;) you won't regret it! Stop at the Visitors Center for a nap and seasonal tips on what to see and do. read more

I visited the lighthouse on my birthday, 9/19 of this year 2024. I have been many times before as a local but this time was ultra special. In the visitor's center there is a raven outside that incessantly pecks loudly at the plexiglass window. He has become a true legend! He is very tall and large but is the ruler of all to see! His mate (they mate for life) was smaller and acting "normal" below on a wood pole. She looked at him like "For the love of God, have you lost your mind?" It is truly a sight to see before taking on the massive staircase to the heaven below known as the lighthouse. I even got to see some whales spouting below. Follow the circle of birds and you can see the whales clearly if they are there. The bird needs a name! I suggest "CORBIE"! It is Scottish. He looks like a Corbie! I only took videos of him and can't post them here so I took snapshots of the video for all of you to enjoy in picture form. He is a must see!! read more

See all

The entire view was breath taking. I grew up in California and have never visited this lighthouse. The walk down the stairs wasn't bad.... The walk up the stairs, well that was a beast!!! Just be prepared!!! It was foggy but we still enjoyed every moment of it! read more

See all

What a beautiful spot. Came here early in the am and had the park to ourselves. Very beautiful, incredible views!! read more

See all

Live here in California for almost 43 years and it's my fist time visiting this historic lighthouse and explore the area! Will definetly be back ! read more

See all

This place is lit! Well, not actually, since it is no longer a function lighthouse, but they have a 24/7 functioning foghorn. They have handicap parking close to the lighthouse and their discovery center. If not handicapped the walk is probably about 1/4 mile on a paved road to the discovery center and then a SERIOUS walk down 300+ steps to the light house proper. The ranger on duty was very knowledgeable and pointed out whales out past the point and let us use his binoculars. And seriously, the stairs are insane so be in decent health or take your time. They're narrow so you often have to stop to let people pass. Well worth the stop if you're in Point Reyes. We stopped for a picnic lunch on North Beach on the way back. read more

See all

This place been in my list for 2 years, you won't regret the view, also free parking :) read more

See all

Stunning view and classic NorCal spot to visit. Easy walk to the end. The hardest part is parking!

Amazing views, yes! Crowded beyond belief, count on it. I'd honestly never been to the lighthouse and decided to make a jaunt out to it on a Saturday afternoon in the winter thinking it wouldn't be that bad. Well I was wrong for sure. The drive out is quite easy and the road is well maintained. There is also plenty of beautiful shots along the way! Now arriving to the lighthouse, I noticed cars parked almost a mile out from the parking lot, not a good sign. It was insane as it was litered with tons of people. Don't get me wrong, that is a good thing, but I did not think so many wanted to see a lighthouse. I ended up parking about a half mile out and walking in, so no real complaints. The walk to the lighthouse is not too terrible, but can be rough if the weather is not compliant, so plan ahead. If it is busy on a beautiful day, the trek down the lighthouse will take some time as it's basically a single file line with others squeezing by to get back to the top. When you actually get down to the lighthouse, definitely enjoy the spectacular views. In my hones opinion though, there are other nearby locations where you can get the same views without the crowd, so just a heads up on that one. Was it worth it? I guess, but not sure I'd be jumping in my car to head back anytime soon if it's as busy as it was sadly. read more

See all

A beautiful and rugged stretch of coastline. The drive out to the lighthouse is long but the views are totally worth it

This place has been on my bucket list for many years. Finally drove up north this weekend from LA and our first stop was the lighthouse. The scenic route to the lighthouse was very enjoyable. So many cows grazing on the beautiful green hills. Once at the parking lot you can't help but be in awe of the views all around. The ocean, the sand, the light house. Just gorgeous. I'm so happy we finally visited. Loved our walk/hike to the lighthouse. A bit stiff but if you take it slow you will be ok. The views are breathtaking. read more

See all

My family and I decided to swing by the lighthouse after some cheese tasting at a few different local cheese companies. It was around 3pm when we got to the parking lot. The small parking lot was completely full (which I expected since we have been here before), so we had to park about 1/4 mile down the road as there were tons of people here on a Saturday before Labor Day. Once you get to the parking lot, there is another 1/4 mile walk or so to get to the stairs to the lighthouse. By the time we made it to the stairs of the lighthouse (a few picture stops), it was already 3:30pm and since the light house closes at 4pm, the ranger was not allowing anymore people down to the lighthouse. The are 313 small steps down and up (fairly steep) from the lighthouse, so I understood that it will take some time for people to make it back up. There are 2 rest area along the steps with seating to allow people to rest if needed. To the right of the stairs is an observation area, so you can still see the lighthouse and the beautiful shoreline. It is humpback whale season and we were lucky to the a couple whales out in the distance. There is a restroom before you get to the lighthouse if you happen to need to use one. Overall, it is a nice lighthouse to visit, just make sure you get there well before 3:30pm, otherwise they will not let you go down the stairs to the lighthouse. Also plan extra time (15-30 minutes) to walk from the parking lot (if you are lucky) or down the road like most people to the stairs of the lighthouse. Be careful walking along the side of the road if you park on the road as there is no sidewalk and there are some crazy drivers that drive way too fast with that many people/kids walking around! read more

See all

Oh my goodness... With 40 MPH winds going on, I would not even recommend this place to my worst enemy! The wind was seriously unbearable! It's so strong and aggressive, you cannot enjoy a simple 0.4 mile walk to the lighthouse. I was extremely disappointed. All things considered... it is a long and curvy drive here, there is no food nearby, and the wind is PAINFUL causing lots of ear pain... the views were just not that impressive in comparison. The water was very gray and gloomy despite the bright blue skies. I would not come back here. There are much nicer beaches without the wind and hassle of a drive. To be fair, other parts of the Point Reyes National Seashore were not nearly as windy. We visited the Cypress Tree Tunnel and that was a cool view... but again, I wouldn't drive HOURS to visit it on its own. read more

Point Reyes National Seashore - Lighthouse - stairs close at 4:00 PM (this is 313 steps) - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Point Reyes Station, California

First of all ! ..... make sure you're not planning on going Tuesday or Wednesday.... the Lighthouse is CLOSED those days. The schedule is designed to serve the largest number of people, and that's Thursday-thru-Monday. Don't miss out on the opportunity to see history, nature, sweeping views, and learn first hand how and why fog works in Northern California, and therefore a big reason for these simple, lasting, and dignified guardians of the seashore and the ships that navigate our way, supply our region and service our exports. Think about the work and dedication of those who have manned, and "womanned" these icons over time. It is worth the beautiful drive, and these education and appreciation you derive from the visit. It's a great lesson for kids; they get to learn one element of the world before GPS, cellphones, and tik-tak-tok, ...(or whatever it is). read more

Point Reyes National Seashore - Lighthouse - On a Beautifully Clear Afternoon - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Point Reyes Station, California

Ventured out to this desolate corner of Marin County one mild early autumn day. I was camping somewhat in the area, and this seemed like a decent impromptu adventure. It was a nice relaxing country drive. About 20 miles from the small town of Point Reyes Station which is a high trafficked town. But that 20 mile drive will take at least 40 minutes as it is via a winding rural road. The actual lighthouse is on this very long peninsula/headland that juts out 10 miles into the Pacific Ocean. If you look on the map, you'll see why this lighthouse was very much in need, as a ship roaming in the dark or fog could easily hit this coastline that sticks out so far into the ocean. This area is also supposedly the windiest coastline in California, that's saying a lot. The lighthouse isn't one of those tall iconic ones. It is actually in the size of the majority of other lighthouses all over, being more short built into a cliffside. This lighthouse was in operation from the 1870 to 1975, so over a century of service. I went on a Monday and the actual lighthouse, and the small museum was closed to the public. But I was still able to roam the area and still get a view of the lighthouse. You can't do that at Point Bonita Lighthouse if it is closed, because the rocky island will impede your view of the building. It is a half mile walk from the parking area to the lighthouse. You will see tons of sea birds, hawks and ravens gliding over your head on the trail, as the never-ending breeze here keeps them effortlessly afloat. The road is lined by Cypress tress and you will get a glimpse of one of the longest stretches of beach you probably have ever seen. Also on clear days, you'll be able to see the Farallon Islands with the naked eye, which is some 20 miles out in sea. So, there isn't a whole lot of activity going on around here. You just have to be into observing and learning a little about history and geography and more importantly getting to escape the thick population and just decompress. Plus I feel a deep kinship for lighthouses and what they represent, that whenever I'm doing a road trip near a coast, I'll seek them out. This is my 7th one in 3 years, since I took up the endeavor, from Northern Oregon to Central California. Planning on many more, this is just the tip of the iceberg. #lighthouselove read more

See all

This is one of the must visit stops if you are visiting Northern California if you are done with other touristy must do attractions. There are 313 steps to go down the light house There is a parking lot which tends to get full early in the day. You can park alongside the curved road but it turns into no parking zone both sides after few yards. Currently (Jan 2022) it is open on Sat and Sun 10 am to 4 pm. They ask everyone to leave at 4 pm sharp. Call in to ask about the day's weather down at lighthouse before you plan. I have missed it 4 times out of 5 visits. There is a restroom next to parking and one next to visitor center. Visitor center is 10 min walk on paved road from parking area. We also visited sea lion point and saw elephant sea lions warming up in setting sun. The views are breathtaking and there are three lookouts down the steps. Which you can use to take a break while climbing up. Be mindful of the people walking up as the steps are narrow but there is handrail on both sides and you can click amazing vistas after every few steps. read more

See all

So. Many. Stairs. This lighthouse is a journey to get to, but it sure is pretty. Lots of wildlife to check out along the walk as well- I saw wild goats, squirrels, and seabirds. Worth going to at least one! read more

See all

Pt. Reyes Lighthouse was built in 1870 on the southwest tip of Inverness and Pt. Reyes National Seashore. It guided ships along the 'Gulf of the Farallones' and operated for 105 years until 1975 when the U.S. Coast Guard installed an automated light below and adjacent this historic lighthouse. The Coast Guard then transferred ownership to the National Park, which has preserved and operated this site since. Funny, reading some of the reviews that rated this place a 3 for complaining about the lack of parking, the tower is not tall enough and the stairs killed them are the same Yelpers who probably complain of bad parking and blame the establishment. They're missing the point of this place. It's a preserved historical place located on a gorgeous land with scenic views. Yes, it's a trek to get here, and that's part of the fun and adventure. Expect to see plenty of cows along the way, and some might get up close and personal. People who are disappointed probably expect a Starbucks to be here serving them their favorite personalized drinks. Part of the reason to go here is to getaway. Don't expect signals on your phone as there are no cell towers here. You are out in nature, and that's the beauty of it. The National Parks want to keep it pristine as much as possible. Now, if you love the outdoors and love hiking, then this will be right up your alley. I also suggest getting here early to get a parking spot, and there were plenty of spots available when we got here. There are 39 stalls available at the main parking lot and the rest line up along Sir Francis Drake Boulevard. Expect to walk from the main parking lot, but that walk itself is very rewarding. Just enjoy the views and get your cameras ready. You'll pass by the Park Rangers' quarters and they probably have the best backyard view in California that even Billionaires envy. I wouldn't mind being stationed here as a Park Ranger. There's a visitor center that provides plenty of information and the rich history and there's even a skull of a whale on display. The rugged coastal cliffs are just beautiful to look at, but be careful when you decide to go off the main trail in search of that perfect pic. Regardless of the weather, it can get windy here so bring a light jacket or a windbreaker just in case. Keep your hats on tight as they may get blown off your head. If your fit and should you decide to walk down the steps to get to the lighthouse, then go for it. It's a good workout and will surely get your blood pumping. Might as well go for it since you're already there. My first time here was back in the late 80's on a field trip, but on the two times that we've been here since, the lighthouse was closed and we couldn't go down. Especially with COVID-19, the lighthouse is still closed. But trust me when I say it's worth the trek down there. Don't let all the steps intimidate you and take it as a challenge. Now do bring some snacks, food and water as the closest gas station is 20 miles away. There are restrooms to relieve yourselves in case of emergency. You can always bring a pail or a bucket if you don't want to use their latrine. That was joke, but you better bring a shovel to dump dirt inside that bucket. Drones are not allowed and same with pets. Unless your dog is a service dog, bringing your four legged friend here is not a good idea. Unless you plan on leaving them in the car, but you better keep the windows open to keep your car well ventilated. Don't be that idiot who leaves their dogs in the car as they suffer from the heat. There are no shaded parking here in case you're wondering. If you take my advice and know what to expect, then you'll have a better time enjoying the trip and destination. #YelpChallenge2020 review No. 39 read more

See all

This is the popular Lighthouse at Point Reyes National Seashore. Not only do you have an iconic lighthouse situated along the cliffs edge overlooking the Pacific Ocean waters...but on the pathway towards the lighthouse, you can simply sit down on the grass and gaze out onto the everlasting scenic California shores. The surroundings (before actually going down the long staircase of steps to the lighthouse) scream vintage, what you'd expect to discover along the seashores of Point Reyes. I'd recommend for visiting (especially during the summertime when it's busiest) to arrive as early as possible. If you're going to explore Point Reyes, this lighthouse is the star attraction and parking can be very difficult. In fact, the lot gets filled up so fast that tourists just park along the side of the road. Also, be prepared for unexpected weather. For the first day and a half that I hung out here, there was nothing but clouds and dense fog in the area and you couldn't even view out onto the wondrous coastline because it was so murky. Once the clouds did finally dissipate, I really enjoyed the vista point perspectives, even more so than the actual lighthouse where it got so crowded with tourists that I felt overwhelmed walking around within such a small platform. And...you'll certainly be "photobombed" by strangers which is probably one of my biggest pet peeves as an avid park explorer and traveler. Btw, to find this Point Reyes Lighthouse, simply plug it into Google Maps and you'll be guided to the parking lot area. The reason I mention this is because Point Reyes is so vast and spacious to wander around about and enjoy...you can definitely get lost without a proper and defined itinerary set ahead of time. I'd suggest starting at the Bear Valley Visitor Center where they'll answer any questions you may have along with giving guidance for the recommended hikes and spots that are worthwhile depending upon the amount of time you can afford. This Point Reyes National Seashore Lighthouse section is terrific when the weather is clear. Make sure to plan accordingly and (first and foremost) admire the outstanding coastline view before walking down the staircase of steps to arrive at the lighthouse terrace. read more

See all

Open on Friday through Sunday only as of right now, Summer times are daily. I was lucky enough to come here when there are no wind otherwise it will be cold and super foggy. I went here on Saturday afternoon and it was foggy but no wind so it wasn't cold as how I expected it to be which is great! If you follow the direction on Yelp, the lighthouse is about 15 minutes more drive to it. Just follow the sign arrow to the lighthouse on the road. There are parking but limited but people are in and out so it shouldn't be a problem. To get the lighthouse, make sure you don't have any disability because from the parking to the light house is about 15 minutes walk, with additional 300 stairs steps down to the lighthouse. It is closed at 4PM so comes early for the best view. It is a small lighthouse compare to the other lighthouse near by the view is breathtaking. There are restrooms at the parking lot but don't expected it to be cleaned. Make sure you bring water and snack as there are no nearby foods and drinks. The road to the lighthouse is beautiful too! read more

See all

Would recommend visiting at least once in your life! We visited on a beautiful sunny day but the lighthouse was unfortunately closed (i think it was because wind speeds were above 40mph? not too sure). The lighthouse is usually open from 6am to 10pm--only if weather permits, of course. The lighthouse was built in 1870 and it actually remained in commission until 1975. Considering the history behind it and the amount of impact it had on the economic prosperity of the United States (Point Reyes was the chief supplier of dairy products and hogs post Gold Rush period; Coastal traffic; Prior to the building of the lighthouse ~$1 million of shipping losses were sustained--that's ~$21 million today) a visit is definitely a must! The drive up to the lighthouse was winding--there were many curves so one can't really drive too fast. It's also best to be safe since there are wildlife crossings as well (we saw deers and cows crossing). For parking we parked at the lot that was close to the Leaning Tree--there were many spaces available since we came early in the morning (we arrived ~8am, we didn't start seeing a lot of traffic until ~10am when we left). Would recommend you bring water and snacks for the drive since there's no like restaurant or cafe to grab a bite at the lighthouse, or the surrounding, area. It's also best if you fill up your gas tank before you head out since the nearest gas station is at least 40 min away. Views are stunning with sweeping panoramic views of the coast. Would recommend if you want a therapeutic time in nature! read more

See all

Very Scenic. Wish we got here earlier, though! We fot there around 4pm and it was very windy that they closed the lighthouse (sad face). Overall it was a very nice trip from Day City. We passed quaint town, the IG worthy Cypress Tunnel, Strauss Family Farms. read more

Point Reyes National Seashore - Lighthouse - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Point Reyes Station, California

Wow. What a beautiful place. Just pull over and walk. Take tons of pics, but also remember to just take it all in. Check out the beach. And you will see wildlife. Great little town not far from here. read more

See all

Point Reyes Lighthouse is a beautiful place to visit. It is unique because it's one of the last fully intact original lighthouses in CA and because this one in particular was built to show off it's beauty at the Great Paris Exhibition in 1867. The US government bought it and it was shipped by boat to Point Reyes. It has been restored and maintained well and has beautiful brass work as well as windows that allow you to see the mechanics of the apparatus. There is a visitors center that is free to go into that has a lot of history as well as information on the local wildlife. There is a paved hike from the parking area to the visitors center and then There are 313 steps... each way... to get to the lighthouse. There are little "pull off" areas to rest if needed but it can be a little exhausting . There was a National Parks Service employee telling the history of the fractal lens and the lighthouse there while we were there. I regret forgetting her name but she was engaging, entertaining, and we learned a lot from her! read more

See all

So glad I took the drive to go to the coast and cool off! Lovely views and can't wait to go back. I discovered that the entrance to the lighthouse closes at 4pm and I just missed it by a few minutes. read more

See all

Point Reyes Lighthouse is a stretch to get to, but worth seeing once! It was my second time here and I wanted to show my siblings this place since we were in the area. The drive leading to the lighthouse is unlike any I've seen. Left and right is just greenery sprinkled with cows and then you see the ocean in the distance. I got Ireland and Scotland vibes, even though I've never been to either countries. As we got closer to the lighthouse, there was a park ranger controlling how many cars could enter, so we waited about 20 minutes. Once we parked, there is a restroom, but if you wait and walk to the lighthouse (mini hike - about 15-20 minutes uphill), you'll see more restrooms on the left near the living quarters where it's less busy. At least you know you have two chances to use the restroom before driving off! The lighthouse is currently closed due to the pandemic, so you can't enter and walk down the many steps that leads to the lighthouse, BUT all is not lost because the entire surrounding area has epic views! I still recommend checking this place out during these times. read more

See all

Even with it being closed, I say go and experience the walk and environment. Great for a hike and great for a learning experience. I went with my girlfriend and she couldn't believe how beautiful. Great facts during the walk and Great areas for a phootshoot. read more

See all