Point Sur State Historic Park is perched atop a dramatic volcanic promontory. It is 19 miles south of Carmel on scenic Highway 1. This historic lightstation commands panoramic ocean views from a 361‑foot rock. The adjacent naval facility whispers tales of maritime history. It tells of rugged geology and conservation triumph along California’s storied Big Sur coast.
What Makes Point Sur State Historic Park Unique
Few coastal parks blend industrial heritage, ecological importance, and breathtaking scenery as seamlessly as Point Sur. The park is anchored by its 1889 lighthouse perched on a dramatic sea stack. It also includes a former naval communication station. This station is preserved to tell stories of 19th- and 20th-century coastal life. Below, the marine reserve teems with wildlife: migratory gray whales sweep by seasonally, sea lions sun on offshore rocks, and seabirds wheel above rich kelp beds fed by seasonal upwelling currents.
Top Activities & Amenities
Guided & Self-Guided Lighthouse Tours
Volunteer-led tours of the lightstation run Wednesdays at 1 PM and Saturdays and Sundays at 10 AM. This 3-hour walking experience ascends 360 feet and climbs 61 steps to the lighthouse lantern room. Tickets are $15 for adults, $5 for youth (6–17) and kids 5 and under visit free. The tours are first-come, first-served, so arriving at least 30 minutes early is essential. Due to the remote location, reservations aren’t accepted, and space is limited to about 40 visitors per tour.
Naval Facility Tours
At 10:30 AM on Saturdays, a separate 90-minute walking tour explores the historic Point Sur Naval Facility. This gentle hike showcases WWII-era concrete buildings and communications bunkers. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for youth, and free for children under 6.
Whale & Bird Watching
From the lighthouse plateau and overlook areas, coast watchers can spot gray whales migrating from December through April. Summer brings occasional humpback and blue whale sightings, along with seabirds such as cormorants, pelicans, and peregrine falcons. Binoculars are highly recommended.
Photography & Scenic Views
This park offers outstanding photo ops: jagged coastal panoramas, intense sunlit waves crashing at the base of the rock, and long sunsets backlit by the lantern room. The dramatic headland, lens tower, and surrounding rugged cliffs offer iconic Big Sur backdrops for landscape and nature photographers.
Visitor Center & Gift Shop
At the base, an interpretive kiosk provides maps, trail safety tips, and tour updates. Hot drinks and souvenirs are available post-tour at the visitor center next to the farm gate.
Picnic Areas & Restrooms
A portable restroom is located near the base of the hill. There are no developed picnic tables or concession stands, so plan to bring water, snacks, and enjoy casual cliff-edge breaks.
Parking & Accessibility
Limited dirt and gravel roadside parking is available along Highway 1 at the farm gate. ADA-accessible programs allow visitors with mobility challenges to transfer into a State Parks vehicle for transport to a viewpoint above the lighthouse. Walkdown access remains steep and unshaded.
Visitor Tips
- Tour Fees & Schedule: Lightstation tours $15 adults, $5 youth; Naval Facility tours $10/$5; children under 6 free. Tours run Wed/Sat/Sun; arrive 30 minutes early.
- First-Come Availability: No reservations—the park accommodates about 40 guests per tour; holidays fill fast.
- Fitness Required: Expect a strenuous, sun-exposed uphill walk (360 ft gain, 61 steps); wear sturdy shoes and bring layers.
- No Pets, Picnics: Pets and food aren’t allowed on the historic plateau. Hot drinks permitted in the center only.
- No Beach Access: The rugged shoreline is off-limits for visitors.
- Weather Readiness: Coastal fog, wind, and chill are common—dress in layers and bring water.
- Parking: Use the roadside turnout—no parking fees but limited space.
- No Large RVs: Access is restricted—avoid large motorhomes due to tight roadway.
Local Insight & Seasonal Tip
For unforgettable lightstation visits, plan a weekday spring tour. Migrating gray whales arch offshore. This happens just as the floral season peaks on the plateau. On calm summer afternoons, linger after your tour to photograph sunlight streaming through the lighthouse’s Fresnel lens at golden hour. For an extra touch, drive a mile south to Andrew Molera State Park for a sunset stroll along the beach—just be sure to leave your tour group intact and return promptly for safety and courtesy.