The Point Reyes Lighthouse sits on a narrow rocky outcrop 300 feet above the crashing Pacific, built in 1870 to guide ships through the treacherous waters off this fog-shrouded headland. The lighthouse itself is reached by descending 308 steps down the cliff face — a knee-punishing descent that becomes a lung-burning climb back up. When operational, the original Fresnel lens was visible 24 miles at sea.
The access road closes to private vehicles on weekends and holidays from January through mid-April when elephant seals and gray whales migrate past. During these peak times, a shuttle runs from the Drake’s Beach area. Wind here is legendary — sustained 40+ mph gusts are common, and the area holds records for the windiest spot on the Pacific Coast.
Historic lighthouse on windswept sea cliffs
Place Details
| Type | Point of Interest |
|---|---|
| Street address | 125 A Street, Point Reyes Station, California 94956 Get directions → |
| Nearest town | Point Reyes Station, CA |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Access road surface | Paved |
| Cell service | None |
| Best season | Year-round |
| Land manager | NPS |
| Permit required | No |
| Amenities | Toilets |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |