Old Point Loma Lighthouse — Attraction in San Diego

Old Point Loma Lighthouse at Cabrillo National Monument

Cabrillo National Monument, located in San Diego, California, is rich in history and natural beauty. Named after Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo, the first European to set foot on the West Coast of the United States in 1542, the monument commemorates his historic exploration. Among its many attractions, the lighthouses at Cabrillo National Monument stand out due to their historical significance.

The Old Point Loma Lighthouse is one of the monument's most fascinating features. Built in 1855, it served as a beacon for sailors navigating the treacherous waters off the coast of San Diego. Situated high on a cliff, the lighthouse offered a panoramic view of the surrounding ocean and city. Unfortunately, its elevation became a drawback, as fog and low clouds often obscured the light. In 1891, the lighthouse was decommissioned and replaced by a new one built closer to sea level.

Visitors to Cabrillo National Monument can tour the restored Old Point Loma Lighthouse and learn about its history. The interior has been carefully preserved, providing a glimpse into the lives of the lighthouse keepers who once lived and worked there. Informative exhibits highlight their challenges and the lighthouse's crucial role in maritime navigation.

The New Point Loma Lighthouse, constructed in 1891, took over the duties of its predecessor. Located at a lower elevation, it provided a more reliable light source for ships approaching San Diego Bay. This lighthouse remains operational today and guides mariners safely to shore. Although visitors cannot enter the New Point Loma Lighthouse, they can admire it from a distance and appreciate its importance in the history of maritime navigation. The lighthouse stands as a testament to advancements in technology and ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of sailors.

Our recent visit to Cabrillo National Monument was a wonderful experience that delighted and educated us. We walked around the monument, taking in the sights and learning about its rich history. One of the highlights was the statue of Cabrillo, which overlooks the bay as a reminder of his significant contributions to California's history. We also enjoyed the visitor center, where we found informative exhibits about Cabrillo's journey and the native peoples he encountered. The stunning natural beauty paired with historical significance made our visit truly memorable.

With its historic lighthouses, Cabrillo National Monument offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical significance. It is a treasure that should be cherished and savored. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a beautiful place to visit, Cabrillo National Monument has something for everyone. We look forward to returning someday to explore more of what this incredible...

Old Point Loma Lighthouse is located on the Point Loma Peninsula alongside San Diego Bay. It sits within the boundaries of Cabrillo National Monument. There is also a lighthouse museum next door.

After California was admitted into the United States in 1850, Congress appropriated money to build eight lighthouses along its coastline. This site was selected in 1851, with construction beginning in 1854. Its lantern and lens came from Paris, France. The first lighting occurred on November 15, 1855.

The first lighthouse keeper was James P Keating (between 1854-1861). Robert D Israel became the last keeper from 1873-1891, serving 18 years. The last lighting occurred on March 23, 1891.

Because of the high elevation of Point Loma (400 feet), problems with fog and low clouds obscured its light from view of nearby ships. It is reported that the keeper would have to discharge a shotgun in order to warn ships when visibility became an issue.

Construction of a new Point Loma Lighthouse was built nearby at the lower elevation of 88 feet. It became operational on March 23, 1891. Currently, it is a US Coast Guard Station.

A building that was originally used as a storehouse sits next to the lighthouse. In 1875, the building was converted into living quarters for an assistant keeper. Now it contains the museum. On display are a third-order Frensel lens and a fourth-order lens, both on...

From the drive to it, past the Military Cemetery, at the Old Lighthouse, the Lens from the original lighthouse, the view west out over the Pacific, another view of the Lighthouse & quarters, the Naval Ship Dock Yard in San Diego Harbour with the Naval Station Airfield on Coronado Island (actually a peninsula) to the right... A stunning historical gem, we came here because my wife's father painted the Old Lighthouse back in the 1950s, and she wanted to see if it was an accurate depiction. Yes it was! Be ready for hiking, & reading historical information (all of which is very interesting, & informative & worth every moment you spend learning from the exhibits, do.take time for the small historical museum of the Spanish colonization of the area, & the WWII museum & bunker areas). This National Monument & Park are gorgeous, tremendous views, from looking south to the skyline of Tijuana, east to San Diego & the Mountains around the city, & west to view the open Pacific Ocean - absolutely beautiful - the Tidal Pools are worth the short drive & the hike from where you park... we spent between 3½ to 4¼ hours here, honestly we could have spent even...