Point San Luis Lighthouse
1 Lighthouse Rd, Avila Beach, CA 93424, USA
Name and Location
The Point San Luis Lighthouse is located at 1 Lighthouse Rd, Avila Beach, CA 93424, USA, situated on the west coast of California.
2. Construction and History
The Point San Luis Lighthouse was constructed in 1890 during the Third Era of Lighthouse Construction (1873-1913). The original structure, designed by architect John C. Johnson, stood at a height of 65 feet and boasted a focal height of 154 feet above sea level. Over the years, the lighthouse has undergone several renovations and restorations to ensure its continued operation.
3. Architecture and Materials
The Point San Luis Lighthouse is an exemplary example of a Victorian-style lighthouse, characterized by its ornate architectural details, including a distinctive tower with an octagonal shape and a cylindrical lantern room. The structure's exterior walls are built from brick and stone, while the interior features wooden stairs and iron railings.
4. Light and Navigation
The original light source was a kerosene lamp, which was later replaced with an electric beacon in 1935. The lighthouse's light characteristic is marked as Fl (3) W 15s, indicating a flashing white light every 15 seconds. Although the lighthouse is no longer an active aid to navigation, it still serves as a vital part of the region's maritime heritage.
5. Accessibility and Visiting
Visitors can explore the lighthouse and its surrounding grounds through guided tours, which are available from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays). For more information or reservations, please call +(855) 533-7843.
6. Notable Views and Landscape
The Point San Luis Lighthouse is located within the Morro Bay Estuary, overlooking the stunning coastline and surrounding wetlands. The area is home to a diverse range of wildlife, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
7. (No anecdotes or folklore available)
(No anecdotes or folklore available)
8. Technical and Operational Details
The light source has been automated since 1986, ensuring continued operation without manual intervention.
9. Further Information
In 1982, the Point San Luis Lighthouse was designated as a California Historical Landmark (#842). This recognition underscores its importance in California's history and cultural heritage.
Details
Name | Point San Luis Lighthouse |
---|---|
City | Avila Beach |
Country | Usa |
Coordinates | 35.1603509, -120.7608209 |
Website | http://www.sanluislighthouse.org/ |
Year of construction | 1890 |
Events | notable events such as shipwrecks or rescues |
Historic significance | designated as a California Historical Landmark (#842) |
Stories | anecdotes about shipwrecks and rescues |
Architectural style | Victorian-style lighthouse |
Architect | John C. Johnson |
Construction material | "brick and stone" |
Focal height | 154 |
Renovations | several renovations and restorations |
Access description | guided tours from Tuesday through Sunday, available by calling +(855) 533-7843 |
Accessible | true |
Landscape type | estuary |
View description | overlooks the stunning coastline and surrounding wetlands, home to diverse wildlife |
Guided tours | true |
Facilities | toilets, gift shop |
Opening hours | 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Tuesday through Sunday |
Nearby attractions | ["California State Railroad Museum's 'Railroads of California' exhibit"] |
Light characteristic | "Fl (3) W 15s" |
Automated | true |