About
The Point San Luis Lighthouse is the perfect addition to your vacation itinerary, offering history, architecture, lore, and live music!
The lighthouse and keeper's home were built in 1890. They guided mariners around the rocky shoreline into the port of San Luis. The Coast Guard decommissioned it in 1974. In 1992, the Federal Government gave it to the Port San Luis Harbor District with the stipulation that it be open to the public.
Unlike other lighthouses that rise hundreds of feet into the air, Point San Luis Lighthouse is only two stories. The reason for this is that it sits on a tall cliff, making climbing to the top of less taxing. For this reason, a tour is suitable for all ages.
The lighthouse has been beautifully restored and is a treasure trove of memorabilia, antique furnishings, and stories. One intriguing tour involves ghosts. The focus is on the fatal sinking and drowning of the seamen from the Roanoke in 1916.
Another prime attraction is the lighthouse's location, which gives guests picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean high upon the cliffs. Imagine standing where others have, with the gentle sea breeze on your face and the ocean sweeping the horizon.
The lighthouse is convenient to other attractions like Kelsey See Canyon Vineyards, making combining multiple visits in a day easy. With so much to see, do, and experience, it's easy to see why Point San Luis Lighthouse is a popular attraction.
Point San Luis Lighthouse: Fun Facts & Cool Features
One of the coolest features is the original Fresnel lens. This powerful beam could cast light far into the ocean to assist vessels.
Because the landmark is on property owned by the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant, the only way to visit is through a tour. Most visitors sign up for the van tour offered by the Point San Luis Lighthouse, but there are private companies providing hiking and even kayak tours.
The lighthouse grounds are home to a unique collection of flora and fauna, which will appeal to gardeners and nature lovers. Bird lovers will enjoy exploring the trails around the lighthouse, where peregrine falcons nest alongside other seabirds.
If you love antiques and history, the keeper's dwelling will amaze you. These buildings are furnished with period-appropriate decor, making it feel like the men and women from this era could return any minute.
As mentioned earlier, this attraction is your go-to for live music. The concert series offers late afternoon performances from various artists, ranging from R&B bands to Americana to jazz, ensuring there's music for every listener. With the Shuck Shack or the Custom House restaurants nearby, you can bring a to-go meal to the concert for a picnic.
With stories steeped in history, period antiques and memorabilia, breathtaking views of the Pacific, and live music, visiting Point San Luis Lighthouse is a must-visit on your Avila Beach vacay.
Getting There
Here are directions from Avila Beach to Point San Luis Lighthouse:
- Head northwest on Avila Beach Drive.
- Turn right onto Cave Landing Road.
- Continue on Cave Landing Road until you reach the parking area.
- Park your vehicle and proceed to the shuttle pick-up point.
- Board the shuttle to the lighthouse.
- Address: 1910 Lighthouse Road, Avila Beach, CA 93424
Local Tips
- Arrive at the designated parking lot 15 minutes before your tour departure.
- Masks are required on the van tour.
- Coastal weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers.
- Bring binoculars and get a closer look at marine life.
- There are no concessions on-site, so pack water and snacks.
- Check out the gift shop for souvenirs and presents.
