Mile Rocks Light

Mile Rocks Lighthouse is a maritime light station built on a reinforced concrete base, standing about 1 mile southwest of the Golden Gate Bridge on a small rocky outcrop. The structure guides ships through this busy shipping channel where strong currents and rocky hazards pose navigation challenges.

This lighthouse was built in 1906 following the sinking of the SS City of Rio de Janeiro in 1901, which claimed over 100 lives near these rocks. The tragedy spurred authorities to improve navigation safety at this dangerous location.

The structure represents early maritime navigation methods along the California coast, with its original Fresnel lens now displayed at Old Point Loma Lighthouse.

This automated light station operates continuously and is visible from several coastal viewing areas and walking paths in San Francisco. The best views come from shore-based vantage points, especially on clear days when you can see both the lighthouse and the bridge.

The foundation sits on a small rocky formation that measures only about 40 feet wide at high tide, requiring innovative engineering solutions during construction. The original Fresnel lens was transferred to another lighthouse facility where it remains on public display.

Location: California

Inception: 1906

Made from material: stone

GPS coordinates: 37.79277,-122.51037

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:43