The iconic Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park is perched dramatically on the cliffs south of Pescadero. It is a coastal treasure where maritime legacy meets wild Pacific beauty. This towering 115‑foot lighthouse and its historic grounds offer a rich blend of history, wildlife, and outdoor adventure. The park is just 50 miles south of San Francisco along scenic Highway 1.
What Makes Pigeon Point Light Station Unique
This park features one of the tallest lighthouses on the West Coast. It was first lit in 1872 and houses the original first‑order Fresnel lens inside the restored Fog Signal Building. Nestled on rugged coastal cliffs, Pigeon Point offers a prime vantage for gray and humpback whale migrations. It boasts diverse tide pools and seabird life, including endangered marbled murrelets. It also serves as an open-air classroom for ocean ecology.
Top Activities & Amenities
Historic Lighthouse & Interpretive Exhibits
The lighthouse tower remains closed for restoration through 2026. However, visitors can explore the Fog Signal Building to view the 16‑foot Fresnel lens. They can also see interpretive displays on shipwreck history and maritime artifacts and walk historic grounds.
Guided Tours & Programs
Free half‑hour guided history walks are offered Sundays at 2 PM, with seasonal Junior Ranger programs in summer. Rangers and docents share tales of the Carrier Pigeon shipwreck, coastal navigational heritage, and environmental conservation efforts.
Beach Access, Tide Pools & Whale Watching
A rocky beach sits just 100 yards from the main lot, perfect for tide pooling and strolls. The accessible boardwalk leads to an ocean overlook ideal for spotting whales during spring gray‑whale migration and summer humpback passes. Seals, dolphins and pelagic birds frequent the offshore reefs.
Picnic Areas & Restrooms
Picnic tables are located beside the parking lot, shaded and surrounded by coastal breezes. Vault restrooms are nearby—no showers or drinking water onsite, so bring your own and pack it out.
Hostel Accommodations & Group Camping Potential
The historic Coast Guard homes now house the Pigeon Point Lighthouse Hostel, managed by Hostelling International. Guests enjoy ocean‑view bunkrooms, shared kitchens, restrooms with showers, and winding paths to the cliffs. Group events and special‑use permits are available for weddings or educational stays.
Visitor Center & Gift Shop
A small store in the historic carpenter’s shop sells books, souvenirs and educational materials. The Visitor Center and bookstore operate Thursday–Monday, 10 AM–4 PM, offering recreation maps, local crafts and interpretive signage.
Accessibility Features
The boardwalk, picnic area, Fog Signal Building and restrooms are wheelchair‑accessible. The rocky cliffs are fenced off. Pets are restricted near the lighthouse grounds. Dogs on leash are allowed on adjacent beach and parking zones.
RV Dump Station & Drinking Water
There is no RV dump station or drinking water available. Plan ahead. Fill up and empty your tanks before arrival or in Pescadero.
Visitor Tips
- Parking & Fees: Free day‑use parking; park early on weekends to secure cliff‑side spots.
- Hours: Park open sunrise to sunset; Visitor Center/gift shop Thurs–Mon 10 AM–4 PM; tours on Sundays at 2 PM.
- Pets: No pets near lighthouse or Fog Signal Building; leashed dogs allowed on beach and in parking area.
- Restrooms: Vault toilets only; no showers or potable taps—bring drinking water.
- Safety: Cliffside boundaries are enforced; be cautious of sneaker waves on the beach.
- Drone Policy: Drones are prohibited to protect wildlife and visitor safety.
- Special Events: Host events and book hostel stays via permit—advance reservation required.
- Restoration: Lighthouse access restricted through 2026 during $16 million restoration; grounds remain open.
Local Insight & Seasonal Tip
To catch the best whale‑watching show, visit between mid‑March and May. Over 18,000 gray whales travel past during this time. They are often visible a few hundred feet offshore. Combine your visit with a stay at the hostel to catch the sunset on the cliffs. Then gaze at stars over the ocean horizon. Astrophotographers rate this as one of California’s top dark‑sky coastal sites. Spring brings dramatic tide‑pool blooms and a burst of seabird activity. Wander the boardwalk at dawn. Enjoy soft light and quiet wildlife encounters.