Point Reyes Lighthouse
Inverness, CA
Point Reyes Lighthouse sits at the tip of the headlands, one of the windiest points on the California coast and a genuinely reliable spot for winter whale watching, though it's worth calling ahead since access can be limited during peak season. The headlands themselves offer wide views up and down the coast beyond just the lighthouse.
A genuinely reliable whale watching spot and dramatic headland, though the wind is intense and access can be restricted on the busiest weekends.
How we score beachesCall ahead about winter whale-watching access before making the drive, the road out to the point can be restricted to shuttle buses on the busiest weekends.
Free parking is available; access may be shuttle-only during peak whale watching weekends.
Blufftop trails lead from parking to the lighthouse and headland viewpoints.
Dogs are not allowed on the trail to the Point Reyes Lighthouse; Point Reyes National Seashore closes all trails to pets except the Kehoe Beach Trail.
Winter and spring bring the best whale watching from the headlands, while wind here is a near constant year round.
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