Point Bonita Lighthouse — Attraction in Marin City

You know, I think we who live in the Bay Area tend to take some of the most beautiful, historic, and affordable things for granted.

For instance, Point Bonita Lighthouse. The National Park Service has done a wonderful job of maintaining this historic working lighthouse and, in fact, has rebuilt the foot bridge to get you there.

What a magnificent spot to look out over the shimmering ocean, and back to the City by the Bay. It's a place right at our front door, and yet we had never set aside the time to go there.

By the way, the getting there is just as scenic. We made the short drive from the Golden Gate Bridge (detour in effect right now, but still navigable) and to the parking lot. From there it's an easy 1/2 Mile paved walk to the lighthouse. You pass through a cave, and come out to a sweeping view of the west end of San Francisco, and the Pacific Ocean, just miles outside the Golden Gate.

All for Free!

We took a picnic and stopped at one of the seaward facing benches to enjoy the view, some bread and cheese and a little something to wash it down with. There we had a chance to appreciate the place we live and share some of that appreciation with people who stopped to share the view.

The tour of the lighthouse building itself, and the foot bridge, is all self guided. There are a couple of rangers and volunteers there to guide your experience and share some history, but mostly it's self guided.

By the time we had enjoyed it all we were committed to doing more of the things right here in our own backyard, the kind of things that people come from many many miles around to see and do, and that we take for granted.

TIPS: The Point Bonita Lighthouse is ONLY open Sundays and Mondays, so check the online information.

Also, the walk back from the lighthouse is uphill, so be aware of that, and be prepared, even though that part is...

Beautiful view of GG Bridge.

Perched atop a dramatic cliff overlooking the rugged coastline of Marin, California, Point Bonita Lighthouse stands as a historic beacon of maritime heritage and natural beauty. This iconic lighthouse, located at the Marin Headlands, offers visitors a captivating journey back in time and a chance to embrace the breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean.

Originally built in 1855, the Point Bonita Lighthouse has safeguarded ships navigating the treacherous waters of the Golden Gate strait for over a century. To reach this architectural marvel, visitors embark on a short but thrilling adventure along a suspension bridge and a tunnel carved through the rocky terrain, making the approach itself an unforgettable experience.

Once at the lighthouse, visitors are rewarded with sweeping panoramic views of the Marin coastline, the Golden Gate Bridge, and San Francisco in the distance. The rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and windswept landscape create a truly awe-inspiring setting, attracting nature enthusiasts, photographers, and history buffs alike.

Throughout the year, Point Bonita Lighthouse hosts guided tours that provide insight into its rich maritime history and the lives of its dedicated keepers. These tours reveal tales of shipwrecks, daring rescues, and the enduring spirit of those who once tended the light.

For those seeking an escape from the modern world and a connection with California's maritime past, Point Bonita Lighthouse in Marin offers a stirring and unforgettable experience, allowing visitors to witness the harmonious dance of nature and history in one...

If you have already driven to the Marin Headlands then a trip to the Point Bonita Lighthouse will add the cherry to the top of your experience cake!

The Point Bonita lighthouse really is all the name says. The lighthouse itself is beautiful and accessible and presents views equally so. The foot bridge you must cross is one of the most picturesque places capture and image of your friends and yourself, and the Golden Gate Bridge too.. The walk to get to the lighthouse is dramatic and beautiful as any view in the SF Bay area! You will likely see several kinds of wildlife below and above. Even after your visit to the lighthouse the cliffs alone and the views they offer are enough justify the drive. Even if you never visit the lighthouse. The location is easily accessible by car or SF MUNI line 76 with a short drive. After crossing the GG bridge I was able to get to the lighthouse parking lot quicker than a drive to Mill Valley.

Despite what the information on the NPS web site says about the trail (former road) being very steep, I firmly believe that most people can easily make the walk from the parking lot to the lighthouse. There are several disabled / handicapped parking spaces right at the trailhead for those with special needs. I can tell you that making the transit in a wheelchair would be exciting when performed alone but definitely doable whether moving yourself, or if you are assisting person.

For all of the reasons and more I strongly recommend everyone visit Point Bonita Lighthouse and the surrounding areas! It will be a memorable experience you will...