Point Cabrillo Light Station Mendocino
Historic 1909 lighthouse on a rugged headland, offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into maritime history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Lighthouse tower tours available
Point Cabrillo Light Station Mendocino
Best Time
Lighthouse tower tours available
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 1909 lighthouse on a rugged headland, offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into maritime history.
"Lovely lighthouse! It was super exciting to have a chance to see an active light up close."
🚶♀️ Walk to the Lighthouse
It's about a half-mile walk from the parking lot to the lighthouse. Wear comfortable shoes!
📅 Check Tower Access
The lighthouse tower is only open on specific days. Check ahead if you want to go up!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Lighthouse Tower
Main lighthouse structure
Climb to the top of this 1909 lighthouse for panoramic ocean views and a glimpse into maritime history.
Coastal Headlands Trail
Park grounds
Wander along the rugged headlands for breathtaking ocean vistas, sea cliffs, and potential wildlife sightings.
Keeper's Cottages & Museum
Outbuildings near the lighthouse
Explore the former keeper's residences, now a museum and B&Bs, offering insights into lighthouse life.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Point Cabrillo
Best Time for Views & Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk to the Lighthouse
It's about a half-mile walk from the parking lot to the lighthouse. Wear comfortable shoes! +1
📅 Check Tower Access
The lighthouse tower is only open on specific days. Check ahead if you want to go up!
💰 Donation Encouraged
Admission is often free, but donations help fund upkeep. Consider contributing!
🌬️ Be Prepared for Wind
The coastal location can be windy, so bring layers even on a sunny day.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk to the Lighthouse
It's about a half-mile walk from the parking lot to the lighthouse. Wear comfortable shoes! +1
📅 Check Tower Access
The lighthouse tower is only open on specific days. Check ahead if you want to go up!
💰 Donation Encouraged
Admission is often free, but donations help fund upkeep. Consider contributing!
🌬️ Be Prepared for Wind
The coastal location can be windy, so bring layers even on a sunny day.
📸 Sunset Photo Ops
This spot is fantastic for sunset photography. The light on the lighthouse is magical.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Point Cabrillo Light Station for its stunning coastal beauty, historic charm, and the opportunity to see an active lighthouse up close. The grounds are ideal for picnics and scenic walks, and the staff are noted for their kindness. Some visitors mention the walk from the parking lot can be lengthy, and checking tower access in advance is recommended.
"Lovely lighthouse! It was super exciting to have a chance to see an active light up close. Visited on a foggy day and it is easy to imagine the hope those at sea felt when they saw the light. The grounds are beautiful for picnicking and hiking. All the staff members were wonderfully kind at the museum and gift shop too. Definitely dreaming of returning to stay in one of the cabins someday!"
Alta Moraine
"Great light house experience. The rocky coast is so picturesque. We had free admission but donation encouraged to fund upkeep. It is a long walk from parking to light station. Rest rooms at parking and at light keepers museum. Light keepers houses are B&B’s now. Looked like great honeymoon exclusion getaway."
Clifford Carey
"Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful views! The lighthouse and grounds are fun to see. It's a long walk from the parking lot though, almost a mile in."
Robin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Point Cabrillo Light Station is located off Highway 1 in Mendocino County. From the highway, follow the signs to the parking area. The lighthouse itself is about a half-mile walk from the main parking lot. +1
Yes, there is a parking lot available. However, direct parking at the lighthouse is typically reserved for those with handicapped placards.
Public transportation options directly to Point Cabrillo Light Station are limited. It's best accessed by car.
The walk is about half a mile, mostly along a paved or dusty road. There's also a North Trail option for more scenic views of the sea cliffs, though it may lead you slightly further north.
The main path is a walk, and while some parts are paved, it can be dusty. Those with mobility issues may find the walk challenging unless they have a handicapped placard for closer parking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission to the grounds is often free, with donations encouraged to support the site's upkeep.
The lighthouse tower is typically open for tours on the first full weekend of each month from March through October. It's essential to check the official schedule in advance.
Hours can vary, but the museum and gift shop are generally open during daylight hours when the lighthouse is accessible. It's advisable to check their official website or social media for the most current information.
While the grounds are often free to explore, donations are highly encouraged to help maintain this historic site.
For specific tower tours, it's best to confirm if advance booking is required or recommended, especially during peak season.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic lighthouse tower (on select days), walk the scenic coastal trails, visit the museum in the keeper's house, and enjoy the beautiful grounds for picnicking. +1
Absolutely! The lighthouse, rugged coastline, and potential for stunning sunsets make it a photographer's paradise.
Restrooms are available at the parking lot and near the lightkeeper's museum.
Yes, the grounds are beautiful for picnicking with stunning ocean views.
Dogs are generally allowed on leash within the park grounds, but check specific park regulations for any restrictions.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, especially sunset, offers beautiful light for capturing the lighthouse and coastline. 
Landscape photography, lighthouse photography, and sunset shots are very popular. Wildlife photography is also possible.
Generally, standard photography is allowed. For commercial shoots or drone usage, you'll likely need to obtain permits from California State Parks.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views and the lighthouse. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife.
Drone usage is typically restricted in State Parks. It's best to check with California State Parks for current regulations and permit requirements.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers
The rugged cliffs and ocean vistas offer endless landscape opportunities. Remember to check tower access times if you want to include the lantern room in your shots. ❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Maritime History
Today, the Point Cabrillo Lightkeepers Association works diligently to preserve and interpret the site. Visitors can explore the museum housed in the former head keeper's residence, which offers fascinating exhibits on the lighthouse's operational history, the lives of the keepers, and the local marine ecosystem. The light tower itself is a focal point, and on select days, visitors can ascend to the lantern room for an unparalleled perspective.
The station's significance extends beyond its function as a navigational aid. It represents a bygone era of coastal life and the dedication of those who maintained these vital beacons. The keeper's cottages are now unique accommodations, offering a chance to stay overnight and immerse oneself in the historic atmosphere.
Exploring the Natural Beauty
Visitors can traverse various trails, including the paved path leading to the lighthouse and the more natural North Trail, which hugs the magnificent sea cliffs. These trails offer opportunities to observe the diverse flora and fauna of the Mendocino coast. Keep an eye out for seabirds, including pelicans, and other marine life that frequent the waters below.
The park's location makes it an ideal spot for enjoying the elements. While the wind can be brisk, it also contributes to the wild, untamed feel of the coast. Many visitors find the grounds perfect for a peaceful picnic, soaking in the serene atmosphere and the sound of the waves.
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