Point Sur Lighthouse From Highway 1 (Text Below)
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Point Sur Lighthouse, 25 miles south of Monterey is in the center of Big Sur country and is a favorite spot for naturalists, photographers, painters and writers. For those who wish the world was as God made it, this is the closest you'll ever come.
The lighthouse is located on a large block of volcanic rock just off Highway 1 and is reached by driving to the base then hiking the one mile, uphill road to the top. The light, built in 1889, is 361 feet above the surf. Originally reached by 395 steps, a rather rough road now leads from the parking are to the light. Access is only available on tours.
The original first order lens which graced its lanternroom has been removed and replaced by an aero-beacon. The Fresnel lens now can be seen in the museum in Monterey.
Very comprehensive tours are conducted by the Central Coast Keeper Association and give a good understanding of the surrounding area, the lighthouse and its history including the crash of the airship Macon.
Daylight Tour Schedule |
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Day Of |
Tour Start Times |
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| Saturday | 10:00 am. and 2:00 pm. | |
| Sunday | 10:00 am. | |
| Wednesday | 10:00 am. and 2:00 pm. (April to October) | |
Moonlight Tour Schedule | ||
| Call for Latest Information Since Daates and Times Change from Year to Year |
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| For the Latest Tour Information, Telephone (408) 625-4419 For Group Tours of 20 or More or for Information on Disabled Access, Telephone (408) 649-7139 | ||
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General:
Since tour space is limited, visitors should arrive one-half hour before the scheduled times. Tours may be canceled without notice in inclemant weather. Tours last three hours and include a walk of approximately one-half mile up an access road with a 361 foot rise in elevation. There are two flights of stairs, the longest having 65 steps.
Where:
Meet along the west side of Highway 1 at the locked entrance gate 1/4 mile north of the Point Sur Naval Facility and 19 miles south of Rio road in Carmel.
Admission:
$5.00 for adults, $3.00 for ages 13 to 17, and $2.00 for ages 5 to 12. Children under 5 years are free. No one is allowed to remain in their vehicle....everyone must join the tour. All visitors will leave as a group and remain with a docent. No motorhomes, trailers or busses. There is no beach access. Pets are not allowed.
Clothing:
Always be prepared for cold, windy weather even in summer. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. The weather can change quickly and is usually colder and windier than anticipated. Dressing in layers with a windbreaker or sweater is most practical.
Children:
Tours are not recommended for small children and strollers are not permitted. Children must be closely supervised at all times. There are steep cliffs with no barriers.
Phone:
There is a pay phone near the gate to the Point Sur Naval Facility a 1/4 mile south of the meeting point on Highway 1.