Point Cabrillo Light Station and Preserve
Mendocino, CA
Point Cabrillo Light Station sits on a scenic bluff between Fort Bragg and Mendocino, a working historic lighthouse open for tours with a preserve of trails around it. Shipwreck history along this stretch adds real weight to the setting, a reminder of why the light was built here in the first place.
A genuinely well kept historic lighthouse with real whale watching potential, though it's a scenery and history stop rather than a beach to spend the day at.
How we score beachesCheck the light station's posted hours before making a special trip for the tour, the grounds and trails stay open longer than the lighthouse building itself.
Free parking is available at the preserve entrance.
Blufftop trails connect the parking area to the lighthouse and shoreline.
Leashed dogs are allowed on the grounds and trails of Point Cabrillo Light Station, including the main floor of the lighthouse itself.
Winter and spring bring the best whale watching from the bluffs here, while summer mornings tend to start foggy.
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