The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) took a moment Wednesday at San Diego’s iconic lighthouse in Point Loma to mark exactly 125 years since the new Point Loma Light went into operation.
The “new” Point Loma Lighthouse was first lit on March 23, 1891, at its location on Cabrillo Road at the southern tip of the Point Loma peninsula. The old light was often obscured by fog due to its height on the cliffs at Point Loma. To fix that issue, the new light was erected at a lower elevation, 88 feet above the water.
A century-and-a-quarter later, the light still sits on that government land owned by the Coast Guard. Quarters for local Coast Guard officers are also located on the grounds.
Meanwhile, the old lighthouse still stands as a museum as part of Cabrillo National Monument. The old lighthouse has been welcoming visitors since 1855. A spiral staircase leads you to the top floor of the lighthouse.
Cabrillo National Monument is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except on Thanksgiving and Christmas. The scenic spot is a favorite among San Diegans and tourists alike, often crowded with people walking, jogging or riding their bicycles.
Entrance fees cost $5 per person on foot or bike, $7 for motorcyclists and $10 per passenger vehicle. According to the national park’s website, 80 percent of proceeds from entrance fees support park programs at Cabrillo National Monument.
To commemorate the big anniversary of the new light, the USCG Aids to Navigation Team San Diego Petty Officer 1st Class Charles Palmer spoke to news outlets.
