Piedras Blancas Light Station, San Simeon

About Piedras Blancas Light Station

Piedras Blancas Light Station is a historic lighthouse and wildlife sanctuary located in San Simeon, California. Visitors take guided tours of the tower and support buildings to learn about maritime navigation history and the lighthouse's role in protecting ships along the California coast. The light station features the original Fresnel lens and allows access to the tower itself. The site operates as both a historic park managed for preservation and a federal wildlife sanctuary, with the tower and certain structures designated on the National Register of Historic Places. The property is part of the federally protected Piedras Blancas Light Station Outstanding Natural Area and the California Coastal National Monument. Visitors explore the grounds and buildings during organized tours, which require advance reservations. The experience appeals to history enthusiasts, lighthouse collectors, and anyone interested in coastal heritage and natural areas.