Discover Point Sur Lighthouse

The Point Sur Lighthouse is possibly the most scenic light along the California coast. If you have ever driven along the Pacific Coast Highway between Carmel and Big Sur, you may have noticed it perched atop a dramatic rocky point 361 feet above the cool Pacific Ocean.

You can admire it from the highway whenever it is open. If you plan to travel on Highway One and are concerned about potential closures, consult a reliable guide to find alternate routes during any closures.

What You Can Do at Point Sur Lighthouse

Unfortunately, this captivating piece of maritime history is accessible only through guided tours.

Check the tour schedule on the Point Sur Lighthouse website. Prior to your tour, assemble in your vehicle on the west side of the highway, north of the gated entrance. Your tour guide will greet you and guide the group in a caravan to the parking area at the base of the rock.

Visiting Point Sur is an experience you won’t want to overlook, albeit getting there may present some challenges. After parking, expect to walk uphill as the top of the secluded volcanic rock is 360 feet high. Additionally, you’ll need to navigate two sets of stairs, with the longest comprising 61 steps.

If you have mobility concerns, contact California State Parks at 831-667-0258 well in advance to determine if accommodations can be made.

Wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes, and consider bringing an extra layer of clothing as it might be significantly cooler at the lighthouse than in town. Remember to leave pets at home since they are not permitted on the tour, nor can they be left in vehicles. Furthermore, if you have small children, strollers must be left behind.

If you intend to explore the lighthouse, consider extending your visit to uncover more of the beautiful Big Sur coast.

Point Sur Lighthouse’s Fascinating History

The tower at Point Sur Lighthouse was first illuminated in August 1889 and has been in continuous operation since. Constructing it was a monumental effort; it cost more than $50,000 in 1889, which included creating a temporary railroad track to transport materials to the site.

Later, a tramway was constructed, followed by a roadway leading to the summit.

Remarkably, only four light keepers have ever served at Point Sur. Numerous shipwrecks have occurred nearby, but perhaps the most famous incident involved the US Navy Dirigible MACON, which sank in 1935. Exhibits narrate its fascinating story, showcasing ties to the enormous hangar at Moffett Field in the San Francisco Bay area.

In 1974, the small light station at Point Sur was automated.

Point Sur Lighthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is recognized as a California State Historic Landmark. Restoration efforts are underway to return the outbuildings to their appearance from the early 20th century.

Ghosts at Point Sur Lighthouse

According to the Carmel Pine Cone newspaper, Point Sur Lighthouse may harbor ghosts. Ghost hunter Julie Nantes claims it has over 18 resident spirits. If true, this would rank it among the ten most haunted lighthouses in the United States. While I didn’t encounter any spirits during my visit, I cannot vouch for the supernatural.

For those intrigued by paranormal activities, the lighthouse offers Ghost Tours every October. Even if you are skeptical, these tours can be enjoyable. It serves as a fund-raising event, and reservations are required. Find out more details on their website.

Visiting Point Sur Lighthouse

The lighthouse is exclusively open for guided tours, available on weekends during the winter and additional weekdays in the summer. A visit is especially pleasant on sunny days.

No reservations are required; it operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Simply pull off the highway near the entry gate, and tour guides will lead their groups inside by car before walking to the lighthouse.

Allocate a few hours for your visit and tour.

Point Sur Lighthouse is located on CA Hwy 1, 19 miles south of Rio Road in Carmel, at mile marker 54.

Point Sur Lighthouse
CA Hwy 1 between Carmel and Big Sur
Point Sur Light House Website
Call 831-625-4419 for information on guided tours.