Point Montara Lighthouse
Historic 1875 lighthouse turned hostel offering breathtaking Pacific Ocean views and a serene coastal escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Unforgettable ocean vistas
Point Montara Lighthouse
Best Time
Unforgettable ocean vistas
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 1875 lighthouse turned hostel offering breathtaking Pacific Ocean views and a serene coastal escape.
"This is one of the most beautiful settings I have ever experienced in my life."
🎯 Book Direct for Savings
Book directly on the HI website to support the hostel & get the best value. :ticket:
🌊 Sleep with the Waves
Oceanfront rooms offer incredible views and the soothing sound of crashing waves. :zzz:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Oceanfront Views
Private rooms and common areas
Wake up to the sound of waves and witness stunning sunsets over the Pacific from your room or the bluff.
+1
Historic Lighthouse
Station grounds
Explore the grounds of this 1875 lighthouse, still operational, offering a glimpse into maritime history.
Coastal Bluff Setting
The entire property
Perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific, the location offers unparalleled natural beauty and serenity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Directly for Best Value
Embrace the Rustic Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Direct for Savings
Book directly on the HI website to support the hostel & get the best value. :ticket:
🌊 Sleep with the Waves
Oceanfront rooms offer incredible views and the soothing sound of crashing waves. :zzz:
🚶♀️ Explore the Coastline
The hostel is a great base for exploring nearby beaches and coastal trails.
🍳 Fully Equipped Kitchen
Save money by using the communal kitchen to prepare your meals. :chef_knife:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Direct for Savings
Book directly on the HI website to support the hostel & get the best value. :ticket:
🌊 Sleep with the Waves
Oceanfront rooms offer incredible views and the soothing sound of crashing waves. :zzz:
🚶♀️ Explore the Coastline
The hostel is a great base for exploring nearby beaches and coastal trails.
🍳 Fully Equipped Kitchen
Save money by using the communal kitchen to prepare your meals. :chef_knife:
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Don't miss the breathtaking sunsets over the Pacific from the bluff.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Point Montara Lighthouse is celebrated for its absolutely breathtaking oceanfront location and the unique experience of staying at a historic lighthouse. Guests rave about the stunning views, the soothing sound of the waves, and the serene atmosphere. While some note that the property could benefit from more maintenance, the overwhelming consensus is that the unparalleled beauty and charm make it a highly recommended destination that many wish to revisit.
"Unbelievably beautiful. My private room with shared bath (shared with just one other private room) was completely ocean front with a window I could open to hear the waves. The view was unbelievable - all for $149 a night. The outside of the buildings could use some new paint, but my private room, the toilet and shower, etc. were immaculately clean with comfortable new linens, warm comforters, towels, and plenty of shampoo, conditioner, and body soap in the dispensable containers in the shower case you want to use that instead of what you might have brought. I’m going to try to add the video of the view from the window of my room, but if not, I will post a still shot.
Don’t believe a word of the reviews that say the hostel is not clean - I think those people want to keep this place a secret and, instead, it should be enjoyed by everyone as much as humanly possible!
Book through the HI website, not a third party booking company, who would take a commission. We want to keep this hostel going (it is SO beautiful!), so every penny of your reservation money goes to keeping it open."
Cheryl Davies
"Breathtaking location! This scenic hostel comes with a historic lighthouse. It was close to restaurants and markets, so the location is convenient. Loved falling asleep with the sound of waves. If you’re exploring places and considering booking it, just do it. You will keep coming back. I sure will!
The rooms were basic but clean. The bathrooms were also clean. Loved the staff, they were very warm and friendly. It was a fantastic stay!"
Sahila Sanzana
"The place was relatively clean, but it seemed it could have been a little more cared for. Overall it had a nice layout, beautiful ocean view, beach access (a bit overgrown), and some interesting facts/information on things to do/see nearby. Yes, the light house works! My group was pleasantly surprised to learn this one evening.
I was not a part of the coordination for booking, therefore I am unable to comment on the overall value for the stay."
Sara Peacock
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Point Montara Lighthouse is located about 25 miles south of San Francisco. You can drive via Highway 1, which offers scenic coastal views. Public transportation options might involve multiple bus transfers, so driving is generally more convenient.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at the lighthouse station, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
The most straightforward way to reach HI Point Montara Lighthouse is by car, especially if you're coming from San Francisco or other parts of the Bay Area. The drive along Highway 1 is scenic.
While public transport exists in the broader Bay Area, reaching Point Montara Lighthouse specifically might require several bus transfers and a significant walk. It's recommended to check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information, but driving is generally preferred.
Point Montara Lighthouse is conveniently located about 15 minutes north of Half Moon Bay, making it easy to access restaurants, shops, and beaches in that area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Point Montara Lighthouse is part of the HI (Hostelling International) network and also a state park. While staying overnight requires booking a room, visiting the grounds and seeing the lighthouse from the outside is generally accessible. Check the HI USA website for specific access details and any potential day-use fees.
As a hostel, HI Point Montara Lighthouse operates 24/7 for guests. For visitors wishing to see the lighthouse exterior or grounds, it's best to check the California State Parks website or HI USA for any specific public access hours or restrictions.
Room rates can vary, with private rooms with ocean views costing around $149 per night according to one review. Dormitory beds are typically more affordable. Booking directly through the HI website is recommended for the best rates.
While the primary function is a hostel, the grounds are often accessible for visitors to admire the lighthouse and the stunning coastal views. It's advisable to confirm public access policies with HI USA or California State Parks.
It is highly recommended to book your stay directly through the official HI USA website to ensure your money directly supports the hostel's operations and maintenance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hostel offers both basic dormitory-style beds and private rooms. Some private rooms provide direct oceanfront views with windows that can be opened to hear the waves.
Reviews on cleanliness are mixed, with some guests finding the rooms, toilets, and showers immaculately clean, while others suggest it could be better maintained. Private rooms with shared baths are available.
Amenities include free Wi-Fi, a fully equipped kitchen for guests to use, and a lounge area. Some rooms come with towels and basic toiletries.
Yes, there is beach access, though one reviewer noted it was a bit overgrown. The property itself is situated on a bluff with direct access to the coastline.
Absolutely! Many guests rave about falling asleep to the sound of the waves crashing below, especially from the oceanfront rooms.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The hostel provides a fully equipped communal kitchen where guests can prepare their own meals, which is a great way to save money. There are no on-site restaurants, but Half Moon Bay offers various dining options just a short drive away.
Yes, bringing your own food is highly encouraged, especially since there are no restaurants on-site. The communal kitchen is available for guests to use for cooking and dining.
The nearby town of Half Moon Bay, about a 15-minute drive away, offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and markets. You can find everything from casual eateries to seafood restaurants.
Yes, there are grocery stores and markets in Half Moon Bay, which is a short drive from the lighthouse, where you can stock up on supplies for the communal kitchen.
One visitor mentioned a late-night Taco Bell Cantina run, suggesting that while local options might close, there are still possibilities for late-night snacks if you have transportation.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean is a photographer's dream. Capture the lighthouse itself, the dramatic coastline, crashing waves, and especially the stunning sunsets.
Absolutely! The west-facing location provides incredible opportunities for sunset photography, with vibrant colors painting the sky over the ocean.
Seascape photography, lighthouse photography, sunset shots, and capturing the coastal lifestyle are very popular. The natural beauty offers endless possibilities.
Access inside the lighthouse itself might be limited, as it's part of a functioning hostel. However, the exterior and the surrounding grounds offer ample photographic opportunities.
Generally, photography for personal use on the grounds is permitted. However, always be respectful of other guests and private areas. For commercial photography, inquire with HI USA or California State Parks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a private room for more space and comfort. While the beach access might be a bit rugged, the general coastal environment provides opportunities for simple joys like beachcombing or watching waves. Pack snacks and drinks, as dining options are limited on-site, but Half Moon Bay is a short drive away with family-friendly restaurants.
💰 Budget Travelers
Utilize the fully equipped communal kitchen to prepare your own meals, significantly cutting down on food expenses. Booking directly through the HI website also ensures you're getting the best possible price and that your money directly supports the facility.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Enjoy peaceful walks along the bluff, share a bottle of wine while watching the sunset, or even light a bonfire if permitted. The serene atmosphere and stunning natural beauty make it an ideal spot for couples seeking a tranquil and picturesque getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Charm of a Lighthouse Hostel
The HI (Hostelling International) affiliation means it caters to a diverse range of travelers, from solo adventurers to couples and small groups. While the accommodations are described as basic, the emphasis is on the unparalleled location and the serene atmosphere. The sound of the waves is a constant companion, creating a tranquil environment that many find restorative.
It's important to note that while the setting is breathtaking, some reviews mention that the property could benefit from more investment in maintenance. However, the overwhelming sentiment is that the views and the unique experience of staying at a lighthouse hostel far outweigh any minor drawbacks. Booking directly through HI USA is strongly advised to support the continued operation of this special place.
Capturing the Coastal Magic: Photography at Point Montara
+1Sunsets here are particularly spectacular, offering vibrant colors that reflect off the water and the coastline. Many visitors share breathtaking sunset photos, making it a prime spot for chasing the golden hour. Beyond the lighthouse and sunsets, the rugged coastline, crashing waves, and abundant marine life (whales, dolphins, sea lions) offer endless opportunities for captivating seascape and wildlife photography.
When planning your photo sessions, consider the changing light throughout the day. Early mornings can offer soft, diffused light and a sense of calm, while the late afternoon and evening provide dramatic shadows and the iconic sunset hues. Remember to be respectful of other guests and the natural environment while capturing your memorable shots.
Exploring the Surrounding Coastline
Nearby, you can discover various beaches like Wavecrest Beach and Bean Hollow State Beach, perfect for a stroll or simply enjoying the ocean breeze. For a bit more adventure, Shark Fin Cove offers unique geological formations. The area is also known for its scenic drives along Highway 1, with opportunities to stop at overlooks and charming coastal towns.
Whether you're interested in hiking coastal trails, exploring tide pools, or simply enjoying the picturesque views, the area around Point Montara Lighthouse offers a rich outdoor experience. The hostel's proximity to these natural wonders makes it an ideal starting point for day trips and explorations.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit