Pigeon Point Light
Pigeon Point Light Station, Pescadero, CA 94060, USA
Name and Location
The Pigeon Point Light is located in Pescadero, California, USA, standing tall on the coast of San Mateo County.
Construction and History
The Pigeon Point Light was constructed between 1871-72 by architect David Ebbe. With a rich history dating back to 1872, this striking structure has been guiding mariners and sailors for over 150 years.
Architecture and Materials
The lighthouse was built with a Gothic-style design inspired by the 19th-century lighthouses of Europe. The original tower stood at an impressive 45 meters (148 feet) tall, with a focal height of 36 meters (118 feet). The lighthouse's white exterior and distinctive lantern room have become synonymous with its picturesque setting.
Light and Navigation
The Pigeon Point Light emits a powerful beam of light characterized by a flashing sequence of 01.0+(09.0), which can be seen for up to 20 nautical miles (37 kilometers). The light's color is white, and its height above mean sea level is approximately 45.1 meters (148 feet).
Accessibility and Visiting
Visitors can access the Pigeon Point Lighthouse from dawn till dusk, Monday through Friday. The site offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding coastline. To reach the lighthouse, take Highway 1 southbound towards Pescadero, turn onto Pigeon Point Road, and follow signs to the light.
Notable Views and Landscape
The Pigeon Point Lighthouse is situated within a picturesque coastal area, surrounded by rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and scenic hiking trails. Visitors can enjoy whale watching, bird-watching, and other outdoor activities in this natural haven.
Anecdotes and Folklore
No information available.
Technical and Operational Details
In the early 1960s, the lighthouse was automated, ending the need for manual operation by keepers. Although no longer manned, the Pigeon Point Light remains an important aid to navigation for mariners.
Further Information
The Pigeon Point Light was listed as a California Historical Landmark (#345) in 1979 and is also recognized as a National Historic Landmark by the United States Department of the Interior. For further reading, consult sources such as the U.S. Coast Guard's Lighthouse Directory or Wikipedia's article on the Pigeon Point Lighthouse.
Details
Name | Pigeon Point Light |
---|---|
City | Pescadero |
Country | Usa |
Coordinates | 37.1817414, -122.3938851 |
Year of construction | 1872 |
Architectural style | Gothic-style |
Architect | David Ebbe |
Focal height | 36 |
Tower height | 45.1 |
Access description | take Highway 1 southbound towards Pescadero, turn onto Pigeon Point Road, and follow signs to the light |
Accessible | true |
Landscape type | coastal area |
View description | stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding coastline |
Guided tours | true |
Facilities | toilets, café, gift shop |
Light characteristic | "01.0+(09.0) white" |
Light range | 20 |
Automated | true |