Point Arena Lighthouse & Museum

The Point Arena Lighthouse is located on a thin neck of land on the Mendocino Coast. The lighthouse stands 115 feet tall and is constructed of concrete and steel. Point Arena Lighthouse was originally built in 1870 and featured a large lighthouse keeper residence big enough to accommodate several families. A devastating earthquake hit the area in 1906 and utterly destroyed both the lighthouse and the residence. The new lighthouse was constructed immediately after the earthquake and began operation in 1908. The materials used were designed to withstand any future earthquakes. The lens used in the towering structure is six feet in diameter and weights six tons. The light flashes twice every six seconds. The original lighthouse utilized a clockwork mechanism to turn the light. Keepers had to hand crank a heavy weight up the center of the shaft every 75 minutes to maintain the turning feature of the light. The modern system utilizes a 40 pound rotating light visible for 16 miles. A radio beacon is also used that alerts ships up to 50 miles away. Visitors can climb the tower and take in the beauty of California's northern coast. Guided tours are offered daily. A gift shop is available featuring unique souvenirs.