An important aid to navigation for northbound mariners along the California Coast, Point Montrara and Point Montrara Lighthouse are located about 20 miles south of San Francisco.

The Golden Gate Council of Hostelling International has operated the site in cooperation with CA State Parks and the US Coastguard since 1980. The following link will provide you with up to date information. http://www.norcalhostels.org/montara/

Initially, a fog station was built here in 1875 to keep mariners from approaching the coast too closely during fog. The first lighthouse was constructed at the point in 1900, the fog signal was upgraded about a year later, and a large Fresnel lens was installed on the tower in 1919.

In 1928, a cast iron tower was built to house the lens and still stands today, after being automated by the USCG in 1970.

Use NOAA Chart 18645.

Characteristics: Flashing white every five seconds with a focal beam that is 70 feet above the surrounding waters.

Local Notices to Mariners are now available exclusively online from the U.S. Coast Guard.

The lighthouse itself is not open for tours, but the grounds surrounding the house are. Hours vary, and management has changed hands several times, so a call to the town of Montara would be in order if you were serious about visiting the rounds.