Point Cabrillo Lighthouse is a wooden structure housing a third order lens and also originally serving as a fog signal building.

After the earthquake of 1906, the rebuilding of San Francisco demanded a lot of lumber. This meant that maritime commerce on the north coast of California was at an all time high and a Lighthouse was critical for the safety of ships and cargo. Construction of the Point Cabrillo Light Station began in 1908 and the lens was illuminated for the first time on June 10, 1909. The signature of Point Cabrillo Lightstation is 1 white flash every 10 seconds.

From the parking area, there is close to a half mile walk to the lighthouse. The weather at the parking area is close to the same as it would be at the lighthouse so when you get out of your vehicle you can determine if warmer clothing is needed.

Check the weather at Point Cabrillo Lighthouse






Dual foghorns portrude from the roof of the back of the building.



The lighthouse has a third order fresnel lense.


A veiw from the banks of the lighthouse.