North Coast of California: Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park

Like several other preserves along the north California coast, Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park contains a working lighthouse, in this case constructed in 1909. The park has a quiet setting, close to Highway 1 though reached by a lightly-traveled side road, 3 miles north of Mendocino. The lighthouse sits on the rim of dark cliffs about 40 feet high, topped by lighter-colored sandstone, looking out over a landscape of tiny coves, marine terraces and offshore rocks. Other attractions are several historic residences, the larger inlet of Frolic Cove, and the grassy interior, home to wildlife including a herd of blacktail deer.

Location: Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park