Point Loma in San Diego in San Diego County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)
Old Point Loma Lighthouse
Photographed by Jeff Leichsenring, July 8, 2024
1. Old Point Loma Lighthouse Marker
This lighthouse, built in 1854, was one of the first eight lighthouses on the Pacific Coast. It continued in use until 1891, when the new Pelican Point Lighthouse began operating. The Point Loma Lighthouse became the site of the Cabrillo National Monument in 1913. During World War II the Navy used it as a signal tower. Restored by the National Park Service in 1984, it remains as a reminder of contribution of 19th Century Lighthouse Keepers and their families to Californias maritime past.
Erected 1988 by State Department of Parks and Recreation, National Park Service, and Squibob Chapter E Clampus Vitus. (Marker Number 51.)
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Communications • Waterways & Vessels. In addition, it is included in the California Historical Landmarks, and the Lighthouses series lists. A significant historical year for this entry is 1854.
Location. 32° 40.355′ N, 117° 14.447′ W. Marker is in San Diego, California, in San Diego County. It is in Point Loma. It can be reached from Humphreys Road south of Cabrillo Memorial Drive, on the left when traveling south. The
this page online
Regionally, this marker is in California’s Peninsular Ranges. It is also on the American Pacific Coast. Globally, it is in North America, on the Ring of Fire, in the Pacific Rim, in the Western Hemisphere, in the Western World, and in the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once New Spain and also Mexicos Alta California.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Point Loma - The Early Years (here, next to this marker); Point Loma Lighthouse (here, next to this marker); The Civilian Conservation Corps (within shouting distance of this marker); High and Dry (within shouting distance of this marker); Ears to the Sea, Eyes on the Weather (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); The Heart and Soul of Lighthouses (about 300 feet away); They also serve who only stand and wait (about 400 feet away); Harbor Lights (about 500 feet away).
Photographed by Craig Baker
2. Old Point Loma Lighthouse and Marker
Other markers no longer nearby. The Bayside Trail (was a few steps from this marker); Army Radio Station (was about 300 feet away but has been reported to have been replaced with another marker now near it).
Regarding Old Point Loma Lighthouse. Designated as California Historical Landmark No. 51 on December 6, 1932.
Also see . . .
1. Old Point Loma Lighthouse. Wikipedia entry. (Submitted on September 10, 2020, by Larry Gertner of New York, New York.)
2. Old Point Loma Lighthouse. Lets Go See It website entry (Submitted on October 23, 2008, by Syd Whittle of Mesa, Arizona.)
Photographed by Denise Boose, April 23, 2009
3. Old Point Loma Lighthouse Marker
A bronze model of Old Point Loma Lighthouse buildings with the names in braille so all can touch and enjoy.
Photographed by Craig Baker, March 10, 2026
4. Location Map
Photographed by Syd Whittle, November 21, 2006
5. Old Point Loma Lighthouse and Assistant Keeper's Residence
Photographed by Syd Whittle, November 21, 2006
6. The Heart and Soul of a Lighthouse
Since ancient times, lighthouses have been integral to the development of maritime commerce around the globe. With each voyage, mariners staked their cargoes and, indeed, their very lives on these lights. The story of lighthouses in the United States begins with the Boston Light in 1716.
The heart of the lighthouse is its lens and the lamp within. Nineteenth century lighthouse lenses are works of art in polished brass and glass. Throughout much of history, the soul of those lighthouses has been the keepers whose dedication and attention to detail kept the lights shining night after night.
This is the story of the lighthouses that have served on Point Loma, lighting the way into San Diego Harbor and keeping mariners safe, their jewel-like lenses and the keepers, assistant keepers and families who lived in and cared for them.
The heart of the lighthouse is its lens and the lamp within. Nineteenth century lighthouse lenses are works of art in polished brass and glass. Throughout much of history, the soul of those lighthouses has been the keepers whose dedication and attention to detail kept the lights shining night after night.
This is the story of the lighthouses that have served on Point Loma, lighting the way into San Diego Harbor and keeping mariners safe, their jewel-like lenses and the keepers, assistant keepers and families who lived in and cared for them.
Photographed by Syd Whittle, November 21, 2006
7. The Back of the Old Point Loma Lighthouse
Photographed by Syd Whittle, November 21, 2006
8. Old Point Loma Lighthouse
Photographed by Syd Whittle, November 21, 2006
9. Assistant Keepers Residence
San Diego Historical Society, Distributed by Cabrillo National Monument
10. View of Lighthouse, Circa 1888
James Blank - Impact, Designed and Distributed in the USA
11. New Point Loma Lighthouse
Description on postcard: The New Point Loma Lighthouse was built and most of the buildings finished by June 1890. Due to the elevation at which the Old Point Loma Lighthouse stood, it was often obscured by high fog.
Credits. This page was last revised on April 1, 2026. It was originally submitted on October 23, 2008, by Syd Whittle of Mesa, Arizona. This page has been viewed 2,499 times since then and 104 times this year. Last updated on April 1, 2026, by Connor Olson of Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin. Photos: 1. submitted on July 17, 2024, by Jeff Leichsenring of Garland, Texas. 2. submitted on March 18, 2026, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California. 3. submitted on January 18, 2012, by Denise Boose of Tehachapi, California. 4. submitted on March 18, 2026, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California. 5, 6, 7, 8, 9. submitted on October 23, 2008, by Syd Whittle of Mesa, Arizona. 10. submitted on October 27, 2008, by Syd Whittle of Mesa, Arizona. 11. submitted on October 23, 2008, by Syd Whittle of Mesa, Arizona. • Devry Becker Jones was the editor who published this page.
