Perched at the far western tip of Point Reyes Headlands, the Point Reyes Lighthouse is one of those places in California that just sticks with you. It’s a historic site, sure, but its wild location inside Point Reyes National Seashore makes it feel like a true adventure. It’s famously foggy here—honestly, some days you can barely see your hand in front of your face, which is exactly why they built the lighthouse: to keep ships from smashing into this rugged stretch of coast.
If you’re thinking about visiting, expect fog. Sometimes it rolls in thick and mysterious, hiding the ocean entirely, but on clear days the views are unreal. Fall and spring bring migrating whales, so timing your trip around that can add some extra magic.
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A quick heads up: the trek down to the lighthouse is no joke. The stairs are steep (and there are a lot of them), so wear shoes with some grip and pay attention to the signs. But honestly, the drive out here is half the fun—winding through open hills and catching glimpses of the ocean as you go.
Visiting Point Reyes Lighthouse
Visiting the Point Reyes Lighthouse is a bit of a choose-your-own-adventure. You get epic coastal scenery and a hefty dose of maritime history. It’s smart to check hours and weather before heading out, since conditions can change fast.
Access, Directions, and Parking
The lighthouse is as far west as you can get in Point Reyes National Seashore. From San Francisco, plan on about 90 minutes behind the wheel. Take Highway 1 north to Olema, then follow Sir Francis Drake Boulevard through Inverness all the way to the end.
Once you park, there’s a 0.4-mile walk (mostly flat) to the visitor center. After that, brace yourself for 308 steps down to the lighthouse. During whale season and busy weekends, the National Park Service runs a small shuttle.
Parking fills up quickly, especially when the whales are passing through. If you want a spot in the main lot (about 40 spaces), aim to arrive early. On busy days, you might have to use overflow parking and hop on the shuttle.
Sometimes, the last stretch of road closes to private cars when things get crowded. It’s worth checking the NPS website for updates before you go.
Lighthouse Hours and Entry Information
The lighthouse grounds are open every day, but you can only climb the stairs to the actual lighthouse Friday through Monday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The Lighthouse Visitor Center keeps the same hours. Inside, you’ll find exhibits on the area’s wild weather, the old foghorn, and the Fresnel lens that once warned ships away from the coast.
There’s no fee to enter Point Reyes National Seashore or the lighthouse itself, which is a nice bonus if you’re traveling with friends or family.
During the busiest whale watching months (January–April), rangers sometimes limit the number of visitors. They might hand out numbered tickets on packed days.
Weather and Safety Considerations
Fog is almost a given out here—seriously, the place is socked in nearly half the year. Usually, the fog starts to clear by midday, so if you want a shot at blue skies, aim for the afternoon.
Winds can be wild. It’s not unusual for gusts to hit 40 mph, and sometimes it gets even crazier. Dress in layers, bring a windbreaker, and don’t underestimate the chill, even in summer.
The 308 steps are a workout, especially coming back up. If stairs aren’t your thing, you can still catch sweeping views from the observation deck near the visitor center.
If the weather gets really bad, rangers might close the stairs for safety. It’s a good idea to check the park’s website or call the Patrick Visitor Center before heading out.
Things to See and Do Around the Lighthouse
There’s a lot more here than just the lighthouse. The whole area is packed with wildlife, trails, and beaches—honestly, it’s a nature lover’s dream.
Lighthouse Visitor Center Experience
The Lighthouse Visitor Center is a cool stop, especially if you’re into history. Rangers run the place and have packed it with old photos, navigation tools, and stories from the lighthouse’s early days (it’s been standing since 1870).
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You’ll see how keepers lived and worked in the fog and wind, and there’s usually a short film playing if you want a quick overview. The bookstore is small but has some great field guides and quirky souvenirs.
Visitor Center Hours:
- Thursday through Monday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Closed: Tuesday and Wednesday
If winds are too strong, they sometimes close the stairs to the lighthouse, so it’s always worth checking before you show up.
Wildlife Viewing and Whale Watching
Point Reyes is a hotspot for wildlife. If you time it right (January–April and December), you can spot gray whales migrating just offshore. Bring binoculars if you have them—sometimes rangers set up spotting scopes to help visitors catch a glimpse.
It’s not just whales, though. You might also see:
- Elephant seals at Chimney Rock (December–March)
- Harbor seals hanging out on beaches
- Sea lions barking on the rocks
- Seabirds everywhere—cormorants, pelicans, you name it
The Sea Lion Overlook, just north of the lighthouse, is worth a quick detour for seal and sea lion sightings. Early mornings are usually best if you’re hoping to see wildlife in action.
Hiking Trails and Outdoor Recreation
Hiking here is fantastic, especially if you like dramatic cliffs and wildflowers.
Chimney Rock Trail (1.8 miles round-trip) hugs the bluffs with jaw-dropping views over Drakes Bay and the Pacific. Spring brings out fields of goldfields, lupines, and poppies.
The Earthquake Trail near Bear Valley Visitor Center is a quick 0.6-mile loop with info on the San Andreas Fault. If you’re up for a longer trek, the Tomales Point Trail (9.5 miles round-trip) is a classic—think tule elk, open ocean, and endless sky.
Weather changes fast, so bring layers. The trails can get steep and slippery, so sturdy shoes are a must. Don’t count on finding water along the way—bring your own.
Nearby Beaches and Picnic Areas
After the lighthouse, the beaches here are a great way to unwind.
Drakes Beach has striking white cliffs and is easy to reach, with restrooms and a café open on weekends. Families love it for the gentle waves and big sandy stretch.
Limantour Beach runs for over two miles and is perfect for beachcombing or bird watching, especially in the estuary behind the dunes. The dunes also help block the wind, which is a relief on blustery days.
You’ll find picnic tables in a few spots:
- By the lighthouse parking (no barbecues, though)
- Bear Valley meadow (with grills)
- Drakes Beach (sheltered tables)
Wildcat Beach is for the more adventurous—reachable only by hiking, it’s a wild, quiet stretch with a seasonal waterfall (Alamere Falls) that drops right onto the sand.
Exploring West Marin and Local Attractions
West Marin is full of surprises. It’s a mix of tiny towns, rolling farmland, and some of the best food you’ll find anywhere in California. Plus, the landscapes are just unreal.
Charming Towns and Culinary Experiences
Point Reyes Station is the main hub. It’s got that old Western vibe and a bunch of local shops worth poking around. Toby’s Feed Barn is a classic stop for gifts and coffee.
If you love cheese, don’t skip Cowgirl Creamery. Their Mt. Tam triple cream is legendary, and if they’re doing tastings, jump in.
Oyster fans will want to check out Tomales Bay. Hog Island Oyster Co. is a favorite—fresh oysters, picnic tables, and bay views.
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Nearby Inverness and Olema have more dining options. Heidrun Meadery does honey wine tastings in a gorgeous garden if you want something different.
Bolinas is a quirky little coastal town with an artsy vibe, but be warned: locals sometimes take down the road signs to keep it hidden.
Nature Reserves and Scenic Sites
Tomales Point has a tule elk preserve with a 9.5-mile trail. Fall is best if you want to see the elk rutting and bugling.
Tomales Bay State Park offers calm beaches and trails winding through Bishop pine forests. Hearts Desire Beach is a gentle spot for families or beginner kayakers.
The Cypress Tree Tunnel, near the Point Reyes communications station, is a photographer’s dream. If you want it to yourself, get there early.
Bolinas Lagoon is a great place to spot birds and harbor seals. Pull over anywhere along Highway 1 for a quick look.
Chimney Rock Trail is worth repeating: spring wildflowers are incredible, and in winter you can watch elephant seals from the overlooks.
Other Regional Highlights
Muir Woods National Monument is about 35 minutes from Point Reyes Station. You’ll need to reserve parking ahead, but the redwoods are absolutely worth it.
Stinson Beach is a classic day trip—long sandy shore, good for swimming or just soaking up the sun if the fog cooperates.
The Marin Headlands, closer to San Francisco, have rugged cliffs and old military bunkers you can poke around in.
If you’re into architecture, the Marin County Civic Center in San Rafael is pure Frank Lloyd Wright. Tours run on Wednesdays.
Sausalito is more built-up but has great waterfront dining and a funky houseboat community that’s fun to check out.
Essential Visitor Information
A little planning goes a long way out here. The lighthouse is open year-round, but hours and weather can throw you a curveball if you’re not prepared.
Accommodations and Campgrounds
Camping is popular, but you’ll need to plan ahead. There are four hike-in campgrounds: Coast, Glen, Sky, and Wildcat. Book through the National Park Service—sites fill up months in advance, especially for weekends or whale season.
If camping isn’t your thing, check out inns and B&Bs in Point Reyes Station or Olema. Olema House and Point Reyes Seashore Lodge are both solid picks.
You won’t find any hotels right at the lighthouse. The closest places to stay are a 20–30 minute drive away.
Tip: Reserve your spot 3–6 months early if you’re coming during busy times.
Outdoor Activities in Point Reyes
There’s more to do than just see the lighthouse. The park has over 150 miles of trails through forests, beaches, and open hills.
Some local favorites:
- Whale watching (best January–April)
- Birding (over 490 species recorded)
- Kayaking with Blue Waters Kayaking on Tomales Bay
- Beach days at Drakes Beach or Limantour Beach
- Watching for tule elk, harbor seals, and elephant seals
Bear Valley Trail is perfect for beginners. Tomales Point Trail offers up-close elk sightings and sweeping ocean views.
The Bear Valley Visitor Center is a good first stop for maps, ranger talks, and the latest trail info. It’ll help you make the most of your time outdoors.
Planning Your Trip Responsibly
The Point Reyes Lighthouse sits at the far western tip of the Point Reyes Headlands. To reach it, you’ll need to tackle 308 steps that wind down to the lighthouse itself—so, maybe skip leg day beforehand.
Important considerations:
- Lighthouse hours: Thursday–Monday, 10 AM to 4:30 PM
- Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays for maintenance
- Last call for the stairs is at 4 PM
- Sir Francis Drake Boulevard will get you to the parking lot
Fog rolls in often, especially during summer. Honestly, it’s worth checking the weather before you head out. During peak whale watching, the park sometimes swaps out regular parking for a shuttle system—no one loves a surprise detour.
Bring layers (it gets chilly), water, and snacks since there’s nowhere to buy food out there. Keep your distance from wildlife and stick to the marked trails—let’s not mess up the ecosystem for everyone else.
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Angelico Concert Hall
Art Works Downtown San Rafael
Bear Valley Visitor Center
Cushing Memorial Amphitheatre
Downtown San Rafael Art District
Elk Watching in Marin County
Ember Stomp
Italian Film Festival
Marin Art and Garden Center
Marin County Fair
Marin County International Festival of Short Film & Video
Marin Shakespeare Company
Marin Symphony
Marin Theatre Company
Mill Valley Film Festival
Mill Valley Music Festival
Mountain Play
Point Reyes Lighthouse
Ross Valley Players
Sausalito Center For The Arts
Seal Watching in Marin County
The California Film Institute
The Playhouse in San Anselmo
Throckmorton Theatre
Tiburon International Film Festival
Tule Elk Reserve
Whale Watching in Marin County
Cities and Towns in Marin County
Things to Do in Marin County
Places to Stay in Marin County
