Explore the Point Arena Lighthouse

Point Arena, California

Description

The tallest climbable lighthouse on the west coast! Climb up the spiral staircase to the top and get an aerial view of the Mendocino coastline for miles and miles.

Go into the museum and gift shop first and have a look around at all the cool stuff they have from the lighthouse. Once you're done checking everything out in there, go make your way up the spiral staircase to the tippy top. You can stop just before the peak and go for a walk on the landing that goes around the outside of the lighthouse (very windy). This is extra fun if you're not a fan of heights! (not really. It's pretty high up honestly). Climb the ladder to the top where the giant lens used to be and take in the 360 degree view of the Mendocino coastline.

There are cottages for rent here if you're looking for a place to stay. Book a room here, a couple of them are even pet friendly!

Make sure you bring:

Camera
Windbreaker!

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app

Features

Chillin

Photography

Bathrooms

Dog Friendly

Family Friendly

Groups

Romantic

Scenic

Reviews

Have you done this adventure? Be the first to leave a review!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Explore the Point Arena Lighthouse and Trail

Point Arena Lighthouse is situated on the piece of land that is the closest to the Hawaiian Islands from the continental United States. The lighthouse stands at 115 feet high and you are able to go to the top. I did not have time for this, unfortunately but definitely something I will take advantage of on my next visit. What I did make time for was to hike a short trail that flanked the lightho...

Hike Stornetta Public Lands

Along Point Arena Lighthouse Road there is an access trailhead to Stornetta Public Lands, which is part of the Bureau of Land Management system. There is a wonderful coastal trail that offers great views of the rugged coastline. From the trailhead, you will be walking south across an open field with views all around. I walked about 2.5 miles out and back. The trail went on further. I wish I had...

Explore Navarro Beach

Northern California beaches are not your typical soft sand, warm water, grab a surf board type of spots. Of course when the weather is cooperating you can enjoy those activities as well! What makes this spot so special is how few people ever come and enjoy the raw beauty of this landscape. If you take Highway 128 all the way to the coast, it is the first beach you run into once you see the sea....

Camp at Camp Navarro

Camp Navarro is located about 2.5 hours north of San Francisco. This redwood getaway is nestled between branches of the North Fork of the Navarro River. Equipped with a lodge, coffee, shop, water and toilets, Camp Navarro allows you to escape from the stresses of city life while still enjoying a bounty of comforts. The camp is home to 200+ acres with 15 cabins, 29 Adirondacks (open air cabins)...

Fern Canyon Scenic Trail

The Fern Canyon Trail system is the main hiking vein of Van Damme State Park. This particular hike is on a mostly flat, wide trail through dense, green forest of California Redwoods, Cypress, Pines, and giant ferns. The trail is paved but typically carpeted in soft pine needles. Come in the rainy season for an overwhelmingly green experience. Dogs are not allowed on trails or dirt roads or in h...

Paddle Redwood Outrigger Canoes up Big River

Big River is a 40 mile or so river in the heart of Mendocino and its first 8 miles form the largest undeveloped estuary remaining in California. It is home to some amazing wildlife from seals to jellyfish to the endangered California Coho Salmon, Chinook Salmon, and Steelhead Trout. If you are lucky you may spot a sea otter or the endangered California Golden Beaver. The best places to put in a...