Point Bonita Lighthouse

Completed in 1855, Point Bonita Lighthouse is the third-oldest light house to have been constructed on the west coast. Construction of the light was once spurred by way of the influx of human beings and transport in San Francisco all through the gold rush, and the light has aided ships navigating the Golden Gate’s dangerous waters for almost a 175 years. Along with the Fort Point and Alcatraz lights, Point Bonita varieties a essential triangle of beacons that direct ships towards safe passage.

Interestingly, the lighthouse was once initially developed 300 toes above the ocean. Shortly thereafter it was once moved down decrease in elevation and out to the very tip of Point Bonita due to the fact fog usually obscured the mild at it’s multiplied location. In order to get entry to the lighthouse, a tunnel had to be carved through the rock, and a bridge used to be constructed. These are two unique facets that traffic can trip today.

Still active, Point Bonita Lighthouse is managed via the U.S. Coast Guard, with vacationer access made available by the National Park Service (the lighthouse is section of the Marin Headlands element of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area). Visitor hours are restrained to Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays between 12.30 pm  and 3.30 pm. A half mile path leads previous Bonita Cove out to Point Bonita, passing thru the tunnel before opening up to the lighthouse and mighty Pacific.

If you can, go to when the climate is clear to get the most of the unique viewpoint on the Golden Gae and San Francisco. Parking can fill up quickly on weekends at the trailhead. There is additional parking a brief walk down the road.