From north to south, California is home to some of the most picturesque lighthouses in America. With ships frequently sailing towards this rugged coastline during the Gold Rush, a great need arose for lighthouses to be constructed along the Pacific Coast. Although manned lighthouses are now a thing of the past, many automated lighthouses are still used in California.
Built in 1855, the Point Loma Lighthouse was erected as a shining beacon for ships that sailed into the San Diego Bay. Unfortunately, due to low clouds and thick fog, the light was difficult to see. In 1891, a new location was chosen closer to the water where the new Point Loma Lighthouse now stands.
lighthouse california, 2
Erected in 1874, the charming Point Fermin Lighthouse is located in San Pedro Bay and stands out with its unique Victorian design. The first keepers of the lighthouse, Mary and Ella Smith, were sisters who manned the lighthouse for eight years. After World War II, Point Fermin ceased to be a working lighthouse; however, in 2003 the lighthouse was opened to the public as a city park.
Located 50 miles south of San Francisco, the Pigeon Point Lighthouse has stood proudly since 1872. The tallest and most photographed lighthouse in California, its stately beauty is a wonder to behold.
Surrounded by breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, the lovely Point Vicente Lighthouse has stood upon the Palos Verdes Peninsula since 1926; its powerful light is known to be one of the brightest along the coast of California.
