Overview:
The Piedras Blancas Light Station is a historic landmark on California’s central cost. Located on a rugged windswept point of land six miles north of Hearst Castle along California’s scenic Highway One, the Lighthouse was first illuminated in 1875 and today beckons the visitor for respite from the modern world.
The Light Station is named for the distinctive white rocks that loom just offshore. These rocks and the rugged shoreline are home to seabirds, sea lions and elephant seals. Over 70 native plant species can be found on the 19 acres surrounding the Light Station.
Over the years, earthquakes have caused damage to the lighthouse. An earthquake on the last day of 1948 resulted in the upper part of the lighthouse being declared structurally unsound. In 1949, the upper three levels (fourth landing, watch room and lantern) were removed.
The Bureau of Land Management manages the Piedras Blancas Light Station as a historic park and wildlife sanctuary.
Access to Piedras Blancas by guided tours only. Tours are offered year-round and feature cultural and natural history, as well as spectacular scenery.
Piedras Blancas Light Station tours available:
- June 15 – August 31 ( Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. )
- September 1 – June 14 ( Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays for the rest of the year. )
Summary of Fees – Piedras Blancas Light Station
Gallery
Directions
Piedras Blancas Light Station is located six miles north of Hearst Castle near San Simeon, California.
Tours of the Piedras Blancas Light Station begin at the Piedras Blancas Motel, located 1.5 miles north of the lighthouse.
From the north and Central Valley, take 101 to Highway 46 west. Next, take Highway 1 north about 19 miles.
From southern California, take Highway 101 north to San Luis Obispo. Exit at Highway 1 and continue north 48 miles.
GPS Coordinates
Latitude 35° 39′ 56.2601″ N
Longitude 121° 17′ 3.6600″ W