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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

NamePoint San Luis Lighthouse
CityAvila Beach
CountryUsa
Coordinates35.1603509, -120.7608209
Websitehttp://www.sanluislighthouse.org/
Year of construction1890
Eventsnotable events such as shipwrecks or rescues
Historic significancedesignated as a California Historical Landmark (#842)
Storiesanecdotes about shipwrecks and rescues
Architectural styleVictorian-style lighthouse
ArchitectJohn C. Johnson
Construction material"brick and stone"
Focal height154
Renovationsseveral renovations and restorations
Access descriptionguided tours from Tuesday through Sunday, available by calling +(855) 533-7843
Accessibletrue
Landscape typeestuary
View descriptionoverlooks the stunning coastline and surrounding wetlands, home to diverse wildlife
Guided tourstrue
Facilitiestoilets, gift shop
Opening hours9:00 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"
Automatedtrue