Things to Do at Point Pinos Lighthouse

Complete Guide to Point Pinos Lighthouse in Monterey

About Point Pinos Lighthouse

Point Pinos Lighthouse stands as the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the West Coast, having guided mariners safely through Monterey Bay since 1855. This historic beacon, located at the tip of the Monterey Peninsula in Pacific Grove, represents a crucial piece of California's maritime heritage and has witnessed over 165 years of coastal history. The lighthouse features classic Cape Cod architecture with its distinctive white-painted stone construction and red roof, creating a picturesque landmark against the dramatic Pacific coastline. Beyond its operational significance, Point Pinos has earned recognition for its role in advancing women's rights in lighthouse keeping, as it was operated by several female lighthouse keepers during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, including the famous Emily Fish who served for 21 years.

What to See & Do

Historic Lighthouse Tower

Explore the original 1855 lighthouse structure with its Fresnel lens and learn about the maritime navigation techniques used over the centuries

Lighthouse Museum

Discover exhibits showcasing local maritime history, lighthouse keeping artifacts, and stories of the remarkable women who operated this beacon

Scenic Coastal Views

Enjoy panoramic vistas of Monterey Bay, the Pacific Ocean, and on clear days, catch glimpses of marine wildlife including seals and migrating whales

Historic Keeper's Quarters

Tour the restored living quarters to understand the daily life of lighthouse keepers and their families in the 19th and early 20th centuries

Surrounding Grounds

Stroll through the well-maintained grounds featuring native coastal plants and interpretive displays about local ecology and lighthouse operations

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Thursday through Monday, 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM (closed Tuesday and Wednesday). Hours may vary seasonally, so check ahead before visiting.

Tickets & Pricing

Free admission, though donations are welcomed to support preservation efforts. Group tours available by appointment.

Best Time to Visit

Late morning to early afternoon for optimal lighting and clear views. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather conditions.

Suggested Duration

1-2 hours for a complete visit including museum exhibits and grounds exploration

Getting There

Point Pinos Lighthouse is located at 80 Asilomar Avenue in Pacific Grove, easily accessible by car via Highway 68 to Pacific Grove. Free parking is available on-site. The lighthouse is also reachable by Monterey-Ecuador Transit bus routes. From downtown Monterey, it's approximately a 10-minute drive along the scenic 17-Mile Drive route. The site is wheelchair accessible with paved pathways leading to the lighthouse entrance.

Things to Do Nearby

Asilomar State Beach
Beautiful sandy beach perfect for walking, tide pooling, and watching spectacular sunsets just minutes from the lighthouse

Pacific Grove Monarch Sanctuary
Seasonal home to thousands of monarch butterflies during their winter migration from October through February

17-Mile Drive
Scenic coastal drive featuring impressive ocean views, Pebble Beach Golf Links, and the famous Lone Cypress tree

Lovers Point Park
Picturesque park and beach area ideal for picnicking, swimming, and kayaking with protected cove waters

Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History
Local museum showcasing regional wildlife, Native American artifacts, and exhibits about Monterey Bay marine life

Tips & Advice

Visit during whale migration seasons (December-April and June-November) for potential whale watching opportunities from the lighthouse grounds

Bring layers as coastal weather can change quickly, and it's often windier near the lighthouse than inland areas

Check the lighthouse website or call ahead to confirm operating hours, as they may close during inclement weather

Combine your visit with a walk along the nearby Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail for extended scenic views and exercise