Ship Rock Light

The Ship Rock Light is a historic lighthouse located on the coast of California, USA.

The structure was built in 1855 to serve as a navigational aid for mariners traversing the treacherous waters off the West End Road.

Architecture and Construction

The lighthouse stands at a height of 22.8 meters (75 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of approximately 30.5 meters (100 feet).

The tower is constructed from local stone and mortar, with a distinctive square base and a tapered, pyramidal shape.

The light source is a first-order Fresnel lens, which was a common design for lighthouses during the mid-19th century.

Light Characteristics

The Ship Rock Light emits a white light with a range of 6 nautical miles (11 kilometers) and a period of 4 seconds.

The light's sequence is Fl (flash), followed by a 3-second pause, before repeating the pattern.

Current Status

The lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since its original construction.

In recent years, efforts have been made to preserve the structure and restore its original appearance.

Location and Accessibility

The Ship Rock Light is situated on West End Road, approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles) north of the town of Cambria, California.

The lighthouse can be accessed via a short walkway from the parking area, which offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline.

Heritage Status

The Ship Rock Light has been recognized as a historic landmark by local authorities and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Notable Historical Events

During its operational years, the lighthouse played an important role in guiding mariners through the treacherous waters off the West End Road.

In 1860, a severe storm caused significant damage to the structure, but it was subsequently repaired and continued to serve as a vital navigational aid.