description Point Sur Lighthouse Overview
The Point Sur Lighthouse is a historic coastal beacon located on California’s Monterey Peninsula. Constructed in 1891, it remains one of the few continuously operating lighthouses in the United States. Its prominent position atop a rocky headland provided critical navigation assistance for mariners throughout the late 19th and 20th centuries. The lighthouse is now open to visitors interested in maritime history and offers stunning ocean views.
help Point Sur Lighthouse FAQ
Where is Point Sur Lighthouse located?
Point Sur Lighthouse sits on a volcanic rock along the Big Sur coast, about 24 miles south of Monterey, California. It is part of Point Sur State Historic Park.
When was Point Sur Lighthouse first lit?
Point Sur Lighthouse was first lit on August 1, 1889. The station was built to guide ships along a hazardous stretch of the central California coast.
What kind of lens did Point Sur Lighthouse use?
Point Sur originally used a first-order Fresnel lens, the largest class of lighthouse lens. The lens was more than 6 feet across and stood about 9 feet high.
Can people visit Point Sur Lighthouse?
Yes, Point Sur is known for guided tours rather than casual open access. Visitors usually reach it through scheduled tours at Point Sur State Historic Park because the station sits high on an exposed rock.
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