Historic Old Point Loma Lighthouse: A Maritime Icon

The finger of land at the edge of the San Diego Bay, called Point Loma, serves as a remarkable site for a lighthouse. The term loma refers to a hill, which explains the site’s selection by residents in the 1850s. Notably, the Point Loma Lighthouse was built at the highest elevation of any lighthouse in the United States.

However, placing a lighthouse atop a 422-foot-tall cliff proved to be a challenge. Fog and low clouds concealed the light from ships when visibility was crucial. Consequently, lightkeepers resorted to firing a shotgun into the fog as a warning to nearby vessels. Eventually, by the 1890s, it became evident that a change was necessary, leading to the closure of the original lighthouse and the establishment of a new one at a lower elevation.

This unique situation makes Point Loma the only place in California where visitors can see two lighthouses in one location.

What You Can Do at Point Loma Lighthouses

The original Point Loma Lighthouse is a significant feature of the Cabrillo National Monument, which honors Portuguese explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo—the first European to discover San Diego Bay and chart California’s coast.

On a clear day, visiting the monument offers breathtaking views of both San Diego and the ocean. In addition to exploring the lighthouses, hiking is a popular activity. Hikers can also enjoy a better view of the new lighthouse while heading to the stunning tidepools, which are best observed during low tide in the winter months.

The National Park Service has beautifully restored the interior of the original lighthouse to its 1880s appearance. Be sure to inquire at the visitor center about ranger-led talks. Additionally, the lighthouse tower opens to the public three times a year. You can check for dates on the Cabrillo National Monument website.

Furthermore, an exhibit showcasing both Point Loma lighthouses is located in the reconstructed assistant keeper’s quarters nearby. Occasionally, volunteers portray “Captain Israel,” the lighthouse keeper from 1871 to 1892, or crew members from Cabrillo’s expedition.

Point Loma Lighthouse’s Fascinating History

The original lighthouse boasted a distinctive Cape Cod-style design. Unfortunately, due to poor planning, the first-order Fresnel lens could not be incorporated into the tower, necessitating a smaller lens. This miscalculation contributed to exorbitant construction costs that exceeded $30,000 in 1855—equivalent to over $800,000 today—significantly surpassing the original budget.

For 36 years, the lighthouse proudly stood at the mouth of the San Diego Bay until it was ultimately abandoned and relocated down the hill.

A new Point Loma Lighthouse was constructed closer to the water in 1891, standing just 88 feet above sea level. It can be viewed from the Whale Overlook, located 100 yards south of the old lighthouse. This new lighthouse resembles East Coast structures, including the Coney Island Light and Plum Island Range Rear Light, which were built around the same time. While it remains operational, it automated in 1973 and transitioned to an LED lamp in 2013.

Although visible from the road, the lighthouse is not accessible for tours.

Visiting Point Loma Lighthouses

The lighthouse is situated within a National Monument, and visitors must pay an admission fee to explore. The park remains open on most days throughout the year, with closures only occurring on major holidays. Be sure to check the operating hours before planning your visit.

Where Are the Point Loma Lighthouses Located?

Old Point Loma Lighthouse
1800 Cabrillo Memorial Drive
San Diego, CA
Cabrillo National Monument Website

The Point Loma Peninsula is located directly across the Bay from downtown San Diego. For driving directions from all major San Diego freeways, refer to the Cabrillo National Monument website. If you prefer using GPS, the address mentioned above will guide you to your destination.

If utilizing public transportation, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) operates bus service 28 or 84C, which stops hourly at Cabrillo National Monument.

If you are passionate about lighthouses, make sure to explore other California lighthouses for a comprehensive experience.