Point Sur State Historic Park & Lighthouse
Historic lighthouse on a dramatic volcanic rock, offering guided tours and stunning Big Sur coastal views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Guided tours available
Point Sur State Historic Park & Lighthouse
Best Time
Guided tours available
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic lighthouse on a dramatic volcanic rock, offering guided tours and stunning Big Sur coastal views.
"This could easily be the highlight of our trip to Big Sur. Highly recommend."
🎯 Book Guided Tours Early
Tours are essential for access & can sell out. Check the website for schedules & book ahead!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The guided tour involves walking on uneven terrain. Sturdy shoes are a must for exploring the historic site.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Point Sur Light Station
Summit of the volcanic rock
A historic, continuously operating lighthouse offering stunning ocean views and a glimpse into maritime history.
Guided Historical Tour
Starts at the base of the point
Led by knowledgeable docents, these tours explore the lighthouse, keeper's quarters, and the dramatic history of the site.
Dramatic Coastal Views
Along the tour path and from the summit
Breathtaking panoramas of the Pacific Ocean, rugged coastline, and the iconic Big Sur landscape.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Dress for Coastal Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Guided Tours Early
Tours are essential for access & can sell out. Check the website for schedules & book ahead!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The guided tour involves walking on uneven terrain. Sturdy shoes are a must for exploring the historic site.
🧥 Layer Up for Weather
Coastal weather is unpredictable. Bring layers as it can be foggy and windy, even on sunny days.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Tours are 3 hours long. Factor in travel time and potential delays on Highway 1.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Guided Tours Early
Tours are essential for access & can sell out. Check the website for schedules & book ahead!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The guided tour involves walking on uneven terrain. Sturdy shoes are a must for exploring the historic site.
🧥 Layer Up for Weather
Coastal weather is unpredictable. Bring layers as it can be foggy and windy, even on sunny days.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Tours are 3 hours long. Factor in travel time and potential delays on Highway 1.
📱 Check for Closures
Sometimes the lighthouse is under construction or closed due to weather. Always check the official park status.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently thrilled by the unique and gorgeous experience at Point Sur, often calling it a highlight of their Big Sur trip. The knowledgeable volunteer docents and the breathtaking coastal views are frequently praised, making it a highly recommended destination for its historical significance and natural beauty.
"We didn’t know what to expect, but we’re thrilled by this experience. Unique, interesting, and gorgeous. Our volunteer docent Tyren was exceptional. This could easily be the highlight of our trip to Big Sur. Highly recommend. We arrived at 9:15 and were third in line."
Eric Crockett
"Beautiful walking trails and no difficulties for people with medium mobility issues (use of a cane for example)."
Albert Plunkett
"Atleast once in your lifetime. It's worth it. There's a fee but it's a necessity to keep the park running and buildings well preserved. The tour guides are very knowledgeable too and nice!"
Town Traveller
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Point Sur is located on Highway 1, about 24 miles south of Monterey and 2 hours from San Francisco. 
You can drive to the base of Point Sur where the tour starts. The guided tour itself involves a significant walk up to the lighthouse.
Highway 1 is a scenic but winding road. Expect slower speeds and potential traffic, especially during peak season. Always check Caltrans for current road conditions before your trip.
No, access to the lighthouse and its buildings is only permitted via the official guided tours.
Public transportation options are very limited in this remote Big Sur area. Driving is the most practical way to reach Point Sur.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a fee for the guided tour, which is necessary to preserve the park and its historic buildings. The exact cost can vary, so it's best to check the official Point Sur State Historic Park website for current pricing.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your guided tour in advance, especially for weekend visits, as they can fill up quickly.
Tours are typically offered on Wednesdays and weekends. Specific times vary, so consult the official park website for the most up-to-date schedule.
While it might be possible to purchase tickets on the day if tours are not full, booking in advance is strongly advised to guarantee your spot.
Information on discounts is not widely publicized, but it's always worth checking the official park website or inquiring when booking your tour.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The guided walking tour typically lasts about three hours, covering the history and grounds of the lighthouse.
You'll walk up a steep road to the lighthouse, explore the keeper's quarters, and learn about the site's maritime history from knowledgeable volunteer docents.
The tour involves a significant amount of walking and some steep inclines. While children can participate, it may be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.
The terrain includes paved roads, gravel paths, and some uneven surfaces. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
Restroom facilities are generally available at the tour starting point at the base of the point.
📸 📸 Photography
The lighthouse itself, the dramatic coastal cliffs, and the expansive ocean views offer incredible photographic potential.
Mornings often offer softer light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons can provide beautiful golden hour light.
Drone usage is typically restricted in state parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Check park regulations for specifics.
The entire tour route offers stunning vistas. The summit provides panoramic views, and the approach to the lighthouse is also very photogenic.
Be prepared for fog, which can add a dramatic, moody atmosphere to your photos, or clear skies with brilliant ocean vistas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and water, and ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes and layers of clothing. The dramatic coastal views and the stories of lighthouse keepers can capture the imagination of younger visitors. Consider it an educational outing with stunning scenery as a bonus.
🚶♀️ Active Travelers & Hikers
The reward is the incredible panoramic views from the summit. If you're looking for more extensive hiking, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve nearby is often recommended as a more dedicated hiking destination with varied trails and tide pools, which might be easier with younger children.
📸 Photographers
+1 Aim for morning or late afternoon for the best light, but be prepared for fog, which can create incredibly atmospheric shots. The coastal vistas are equally impressive. Capture the sweeping views of the ocean, the waves crashing against the rocks, and the winding Highway 1. The journey to the lighthouse also provides numerous opportunities for stunning landscape photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Point Sur Lighthouse
Today, Point Sur State Historic Park preserves this vital piece of maritime history. The guided tours, led by dedicated volunteer docents, offer an intimate look into the lives of the lighthouse keepers and the challenges they faced. Visitors can explore the keeper's quarters, the station buildings, and learn about the technological advancements that aided navigation. The site is also known for its paranormal lore, adding an intriguing layer to its historical significance.
The preservation efforts ensure that future generations can appreciate the engineering marvel and the human stories behind this iconic landmark. It stands as a testament to the dedication required to maintain safe passage for ships along one of California's most beautiful, yet dangerous, coastlines.
Navigating the Guided Tour
During the approximately three-hour tour, docents share captivating stories about the lighthouse's operational history, the lives of the keepers and their families, and the unique challenges of maintaining the station. You'll get to explore the various buildings, including the keeper's quarters and the engine room, gaining a deep appreciation for the site's past. The docents are passionate and knowledgeable, making the experience both educational and engaging.
It's crucial to wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes and dress in layers, as the coastal weather can be unpredictable, with fog and wind being common. Bringing water is also a good idea. The tour provides a unique perspective on maritime history and the rugged beauty of the Big Sur coast.
The Dramatic Big Sur Coastline
The drive along Highway 1 to reach Point Sur is an experience in itself, with winding roads revealing stunning vistas at every turn. Visitors often describe the scenery as breathtaking and awe-inspiring. The raw, untouched beauty of the Big Sur landscape, combined with the historic lighthouse, creates a truly memorable setting. From the summit, you can see the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, and on clear days, the coastline stretches out for miles.
Beyond the lighthouse itself, the surrounding Point Sur State Historic Park offers opportunities to appreciate the natural environment. While the focus of the visit is the lighthouse tour, the dramatic setting enhances the overall experience, making it a must-see for anyone traveling along the Pacific Coast Highway.
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