The good: This place is one of a kind! I am so happy I finally got around to visiting this place. Parking is free! The whale museum is free! Tours of the lighthouse are free! The picnic tables areas are plentiful and there's lots of grass for picnics blankets. The views are great. It's a great spot for whale watching. I noticed people coming here and bringing their camping chairs just to read. It's relaxing and you get to enjoy the sea breeze and beautiful sunset. I also noticed youngsters coming to record an acoustic guitar music video. I imagine people come here to paint as well. The bad: I've lived around here for almost 3 years now and haven't been here until now. The interesting: They do tours of the actual lighthouse area a few times a month and it's completely free and doesn't require a reservation. read more

The lighthouse is tall and picturesque sitting regally on a cliff. It's a must to stop and take some photos if driving down the coast of PV. The lighthouse has really restrictive hours, only open the second Saturday every month from 10-3 so you have to plan for this if you wanted to go inside. I went years ago and remember it being kind of a clusterfuck with a lot of people and disorganized system on entering. But the good part was you could go inside all the way to the top. Just the picture from the outside would suffice for most people. The Point Vicente Interpretation Center is nearby as well as some cliff trails to explore. read more

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One of the best views, places to walk, and/or have a picnic. Dogs welcome! This is a very romantic spot to if you want to bring a date. I highly recommend this gem in the South Bay! read more

Awesome view of the lighthouse and Catalina island. Picture perfect scenery. Highly recommended view point. Plenty of free parking in the lot, even on a Sunday. read more

Point Vicente Lighthouse - Lighthouse in the view - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rancho Palos Verdes, California

The lighthouse wasn't open to the public when I went. One of my pictures does provide current open and visiting hours. The whole area is scenic (and windy) so I still enjoyed my walk there. read more

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For all you who don't know, Point Vicente is a beautiful place to enjoy the ocean, gray whale watching, and overall views and vibes. Did you know you could actually go to the lighthouse every 2nd Saturday of the month though? It was great finally seeing the Point Vicente lighthouse up close after so many years of living in PV. It's free and quick. You walk down the path to the lighthouse, then see a small tiny museum and maybe make some light conversation with the coast guard people around. There's 3 old homes that's off limits but used to house the light house keepers. This is a great detour for locals and visitors alike since it's quick and easy (and free)! It's also nice just learning more about Point Vicente's history and seeing some historical landmarks and architecture. read more

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A spot I always want to visit when in LA, it's one of the most peaceful and beautiful spaces I've ever been to. We love to get coffee, for a drive there, and walk around. It's a great spot for picture of course! read more

Point Vicente Lighthouse - my fav palm, it's my wallpaper on my phone right now - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rancho Palos Verdes, California

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Was in the area and decided to catch the sunset here! 10/10 would recommend. Did the trail walk and then finished the sunset by the lighthouse. Although you can't walk into the area with the lighthouse it is a solid foreground for the sunset. read more

Point Vicente Lighthouse - Sunset 9/8/2024 - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rancho Palos Verdes, California

The U.S. Lighthouse Service began operation of the Point Vicente Lighthouse on May 1 1926.  The 1000 watt bulb could be seen over 20 miles away.  Build of plastered reinforced concrete it is similar to the one on Anacapa Island.  Point Vicente Lighthouse was added to the National Registry of Historic Sites on November 17 1979. The day after a huge Thanksgiving meal I thought I'd go for a walk to Point Vicente Lighthouse.  Surprisingly there were many other friendly walkers at 7am.  We parked at the start of the California Coastal Trail  and started the walk uphill.  I admired the lovely coastline along Rancho Palos Verdes.  It was about a 2 mile walk and at the end I was sad to see there is a big fence along the property so you can't get too close to the lighthouse.  It is a lovely lighthouse. read more

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Great place to visit for locals and tourists. Great view with a place to take photos. Could get windy, be prepared for it. read more

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A cool spot when you want to kill time in PV. They have a dirt parking lot that is easily missable but not too bad. A short and nice walk with great views of the ocean. Lighthouse can be seen from the dirt parking lot. read more

Point Vicente Lighthouse - Lighthouse - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rancho Palos Verdes, California

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Sightseeing in Rancho Palos Verdes, Los Angeles, California... It's really good to go touring with a local. They know exactly where to go and how to get the best photos... Thanks to Alex G., I had a wonderful excursion! He's a great driver, an excellent tour guide, and has eyes like an eagle! He showed me the best spot for a photo of the lighthouse (we didn't trespass over the fence)... And he even spotted a bunny!!! She was cute, shy, and quick! The Point Vicente Lighthouse is on the list of Historic Places. It has lasted since 1926! It's older than my parents! Haha! It's very awesome as it stands high above the ocean. Its white exterior contrasts with the brown, steep cliff! The winds were a bit chilly, so, it was a fast visit for me! Haha! If you have a chance to visit, keep in mind that parking is free. Take your time and enjoy the view! read more

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Absolutely beautiful. This picture was taken through the fence. I missed the memo that said that it's only open every second Saturday of the month from 10 to 3. Be warned. read more

Point Vicente Lighthouse - Absolutely beautiful. Unfortunately, for me I missed the memo that it's only open on every second Saturday of the month from 10 to 3 PM. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rancho Palos Verdes, California

This is a super well maintained hiking trail that stretches super long. It is perfect for a relaxing scenic walk, with not much slope, so pretty relaxing. If you deviate away from the trail, you can get to some great stores like Starbucks, Subway, Trader Joes, and a 7-Eleven. The parking is plentiful, even though we went on a holiday, and the trail itself is not crowded at all, with little to no trash on the floor. There is so much to see, and they have little informative plaques scattered around so you can learn more about the beach and its wildlife. The real estate here is also super gorgeous, and the nature paired with the ocean background is picture perfect. There is a pair of free binoculars that yo can use to look out into the ocean. I will definitely be coming back to walk the entire trail, and if you come during whale season, you might even spot a few. The beach itself is quite rocky, and I didn't see anyone down there, so it might be fenced off. For me personally, however, I was content just strolling above the ocean. The sound of the waves, which can sometimes be irritating, is not super loud, just quiet enough to fade into the background but still be present. This is one of the most gorgeous and entertaining beaches I have been to! If you want to surf or something like that, don't come here, but for a relaxing hike, it is perfect. Picturesque landscapes that are just a few minutes away from clean and well maintained stores, alongside stunning real estate and vibrant nature; definitely recommend you come here :) read more

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Very beautiful scenic walk. Dog friendly. Park at the end near the lighthouse and you can walk the path. The path is dirt. There is some concrete sidewalks near the mansions you can walk too. It's very easy walk. No inclines. Can be busy. The whole trail is less than 2 miles. I've taken my dog here many times. Sit on the benches and enjoy the ocean. 2022 HIKE 2/52 read more

Point Vicente Lighthouse - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rancho Palos Verdes, California

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Wanted to go on a walk on Thursday and found the Point Vicente Trail via the All Trails app. There is ample parking so that's already a plus. I've been to Point Vicente Lighthouse before and it still remains absolutely stunning. Went around 1PM and it was foggy but eventually the sun came out! The walk was around 1 hour long and it was so beautiful since we were able to see the ocean, cliffs, greenery/nature, and the nearby neighborhood at the same time. It was definitely an easy walk that I would recommend and I want to take my parents next time! There are snakes so be wary! read more

Point Vicente Lighthouse - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rancho Palos Verdes, California

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Simply an amazing Southern California Place, with stunning views, nice walking trail, with also nice picnic tables and grass areas to seat and enjoy the Sunsets . A place you must visit. read more

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This place should be more famous. Just look at the pictures. Aren't they beautiful. The place is about a 30 mins from the closet freeway access (I-405). It is 100% worth the drive. The location offers free parking and bathroom access. The park is very spacious and great for wide range of family activities, walking your dog, picnic, hangout with your kids, couple sunday walk... And for all this.....Free entrance! Check this place out! 100% recommended read more

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Such a great picnic space. Lots of space to spread out and relax. We brought frisbees and everyone saw how unathletic we all are. Also, that view. read more

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A gorgeous park with a fun and informative interpretive center and a gift shop! Getting to Point Vicente is a little harrowing- you get off of the highway at fast speeds then immediately turn into a dirt parking lot. Look out for this turn because if you miss it, it will be a while until you can turn around. Once you enter the park (free parking!), there are a bunch of picnic tables, benches, and trees with soft grass underneath - perfect for a picnic! It is dog-friendly if your dog is on a leash. It's a pretty small park so probably not best for a jog or workout, and more of a lounge or picnic space. Best of all, during certain months, you can possibly see migrating whales!! I have not yet been lucky here, but you can walk to the interpretive center and speak to the people there who stay all day looking for whales to compile a scientific count. read more

Point Vicente Lighthouse - Dog friendly view and park - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rancho Palos Verdes, California

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A beautiful place to take a stroll, take pictures or have a picnic. Unfortunately, the lighthouse is closed at the moment so you can only take pictures from a distance. You can park right at the park or further north at Golden Cove Trail and walk 1.3 miles to the lighthouse. read more

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This is a great place to come when you're looking for a few hours of outdoor action and is very fun for the whole family! And the best part? There's so many different things you can do here! Okay, first of all the view is incredible!! You're basically on top of the world and are just gazing into beautiful open ocean! This is also one of the best spots to see whales as they migrate (so I've heard) because you're at the point where the peninsula sticks out furthest, leaving you as just a spot along the whales straight shot from Alaska to Mexico! So don't forget your binoculars! While your up here, there is a beautiful walking trail that lines the cliffs starting from the north side of the interpretive center. It's a relatively flat dirt trail that is very family friendly trail and did i mention beautiful? And you don't even have to break too much of a sweat to experience it. The interpretive center is a cute little museum that is free to enter and has very knowledgeable volunteer docents that know a lot about the local marine life! Definitely worth checking out (post-COVID of course). And then of course there's the lighthouse! I saved the best for last. This unique and beautiful structure on its own is a sight to see. The lighthouse itself is open to the public 1 Saturday every month (I coincidentally showed up on that Saturday once and it was pretty cool to step foot inside of there). There are tons of picnic benches around if you would like to enjoy an outdoor meal while gazing off at the lighthouse. This is definitely a spot I take all of my friends when they visit the South Bay, and it's worth checking out for sure! read more

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Came here for a wedding! Didn't even know you could use the facility for special occasions and events! Beautiful views.. and whale watching can been seen from here. I, however didn't see any. read more

Point Vicente Lighthouse - Beautiful grounds! - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rancho Palos Verdes, California

Love the hike and view! Short, simple, and no steep inclines that makes it easy to walk all the way around through. read more

Point Vicente Lighthouse - IG: @mags.scenes - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rancho Palos Verdes, California

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Went by on 12/9/2022. First time open since 2020. Open on second Saturday of the month from 10am to 3 pm. You can't go in to the lighthouse or see the old living quarters but you can walk the grounds. There is a little museum of the lighthouse in the bigger building. Forgot to take pics inside but there's some stuff to check out. It's a nice little stop if you're in the area read more

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Point Vicente is one of Southern California's beautiful touring sites in the South Bay. The scenic view drive down the coast is always a breathtaking experience no matter how times one visits. Coming here is a nice trip to get away and just relax for the day and even walk down to the rocky beach for some fresh air and open space. Anyone who chooses to come here for a visit will have fun and enjoy the experience of being alone and just having a nice relaxing day. read more

You should see this place if you're in the LA area since it's free! Must be nice to have a picnic here, the place was pretty quiet when we got there Sunday afternoon. read more

A great place with stunning views! Unfortunately it wasn't perfect weather when we went in the morning in November, so make sure to check the weather forecast. The air quality was bad that day and affecting the view but it was still beautiful and it's always nice to get out of the house! The lighthouse was closed during COVID but still nice to look at from a distance. Make sure to take a picture with it! It's a nice place to walk along the dirt trails and it wasn't hilly for my mom who is elderly. It was fun to look at the expensive houses, though they are pretty uniform. If you like to look at nicer houses, I recommend Inspiration Point in Newport Beach/Corona Del Mar. We saw a man walking his desert tortoise, who seems to be a regular because my boyfriend saw him on a previous visit here. There were lots of people walking there dogs here. read more

Point Vicente Lighthouse - Lighthouse is closed for now - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rancho Palos Verdes, California

I came around 7:15/7:30 PM to catch the sunset and easy to say: this is the best sunset I have EVER seen. The whole place was gorgeous; you are surrounded by nature in every way, shape, and form. You will see the ocean, rocks, flowers, the sun, and trees. The landscaping makes the whole view look surreal! I was completely floored and will always remember this sunset. read more

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Amazing weather on this day and the views to die for. I think Whale and/or Dolphins watching happens in the mornings; there were a lot of guys with telephoto lenses taking snaps. It's a beautiful drive from any direction. Great spot for a picnic with plenty of parking and trails along the coast. This is a win-win. Thank you Peace /Love The Pacific Ocean - Rancho Palo Verdes, Ca - Vincente Light House -1927 read more

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Add this to your socially distant to do list! This walk was just so gorgeous. I wasn't planning on checking out Point Vicente Lighthouse, but it was too pretty to pass up and I'm so glad I did. There's parking right onsite or you can park in a lot about half a mile south and walk over (that's what I did, with a quick jaunt down to the beach). The lighthouse itself is fenced off and it sounds like (per other reviewers) there's normally a gift shop, but things are closed due to COVID. Even still, the view of the ocean and the well manicured path feels like you've been transported way, way out of LA. A mini vacation, if you will! There's parking onsite and it appeared that someone was working there to make sure people weren't gathering in groups. Everyone (aside from those who were eating at picnics) was masked. There are some picnic tables and benches along the way, plus plenty of room to spread out if you wanted to bring a blanket. I don't have kids and I'm not sure if the path is stroller-friendly, but I did see a lot of families around. I'm not sure how long this path goes (I probably walked a mile out and back from where I parked), but will definitely explore more next time I'm in the area. read more

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Located off Palos Verdes Dr W in Rancho Palos Verdes. There really is no access to get really close to the light house there are gates that are closed. As for parking there is a dirt area lot you can park in in front of the light house. To the right of the lot there is a grass area where you can picnic at there is also a parking lot on that side. You can also bring your dog. There is a trail along the edge overlooking the water not sure how far the trail goes to. Also along the trail beware of rattle snakes so be sure to keep an eye on your dog and not let them wander along near the edge area. Back in the day we used to come here all the time there was a closer access area where you could come close to the light house. This did bring back memories of those days. Overall a very nice place to come have a picnic, walk the trail and even just relax and stare at the ocean. read more

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I visited during COVID and unfortunately the grounds weren't open during the regularly scheduled second Saturday of the month. Regardless it is a beautiful view and definitely worth going! read more

Point Vicente Lighthouse - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rancho Palos Verdes, California

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Who doesn't love a lighthouse? Theres something about these structures that pique my interest; maritime folklore perhaps but it's most likely the symbolic history of leading and guiding souls through the tumult of less than perfect conditions. I like to imagine its beacon of light piercing the darkness lighting the way to safety and in the daylight to me it's a symbol of survival that each new day is a chance to make a difference. Set aside an hour or two to visit the lighthouse grounds and take in the beautiful Palos Verdes coastline. A walk on the path meanders through the native So Cal plant life with markers that identify the species. Enjoy a picnic, a frisbee toss or just take in the fresh air, this little area is a gem of a destination. On the day we went there were whale watchers, a family reunion, a cute elderly couple in lawn chairs snuggling up with their digital books oblivious to the goings on around them, they're likely regulars. The lighthouse isn't open except for certain days of the month so check the website before you visit. read more

Point Vicente Lighthouse - The west edge. Ahhhhhhhh..... - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rancho Palos Verdes, California

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Beautiful place to watch the sunset. Check operating hours before you go. We couldn't enter the lighthouse but walked on the grounds.

Gorgeous area to visit and walk around. There's a path near the cliff where you can walk up and down. Unfortunately road to the lighthouse was closed so I couldn't go but it was pretty to see from far. There are a lot of yawn and picnic tables where you can enjoy the day and eat as well. read more

Point Vicente Lighthouse - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rancho Palos Verdes, California

Love this park. One of the best places in PV for stunning esunset views. Great place to take a nice walk with the family. Lighthouse is not open on weekdays but it's still very pretty especially during sunset read more

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This lighthouse appears so majestic, with the tall tower and military appearance behind a high fence to protect the property from vandals. It seems it is under Federal Authority, but I can't be sure. It is certainly a must see if there are tours available. I'll keep my eyes open for any announcement of tours with a chance to see the inside of the lighthouse. read more

Point Vicente Lighthouse - Lighthouse - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rancho Palos Verdes, California

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This is a really nice lookout of the Palos Verdes coast. The view of the waves hitting the rocks was so relaxing. They have a trail that leads from the lighthouse and down the coast. Very beautiful scenery with tablets that explain the shrubbery and the history of the trail. We even got a helicopter show that hovered right beside us. They had free parking and restrooms. It was overall a very lovely experience. Even the drive there is amazing. Would love to eventually visit the lighthouse when they open! read more

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Walked the trail here, saw the boat on display, looked at the lighthouse, and turned back. Heard the 1x month tour is a bit underwhelming, but I have never been in a lighthouse so I would like to do it one day. Lovely views. read more

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