Tour the Piedras Blancas Light Station in Ragged Point

Once a guiding beacon for ships that navigated the Central Coast, the light station today is a fascinating historical landmark, open to the public, with activities that include touring the station, wildlife viewing of elephant seals, otters, whales and a variety of marine and terrestrial birds.

There is an interpretive trail, and wildflower viewing is just beginning.

The site distinguishes itself: unique with its diverse marine life and native plants, the vitality of a healthy and thriving ecosystem, a rich and incomparable historical heritage. On-site scientific research includes population studies of grey whales, northern elephant seals, California sea otters, inter-tidal habitat changes, and collection of Pacific jet stream weather data.

Reservations are not required for groups of 10 or less. Tours take place Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

Tours originate at the former Piedras Blancas Motel, located 1.5 miles NORTH of the light station, on the west side of Highway 1. Visitors will be met by a BLM escort at 9:45a.m. Tours begin at 10:00 a.m. Please do not park at the entry gate to the light station.