Punta Gorda Light

Punta Gorda Light is a concrete tower on the northern California coast with a cylindrical form, balcony, and lantern section that rises about 27 feet (8 meters) tall. The original oil house used during its operating years still stands beside the tower.

The lighthouse began operating in 1912 after numerous shipwrecks in the area and a maritime disaster in 1907 prompted Congress to fund its construction. It became an essential part of protecting ships traveling along this dangerous stretch of coast.

The isolation of this lighthouse station earned it the nickname Alcatraz of Lighthouses, a name that reflects how remote and challenging the location was for those who worked here. The comparison shows just how cut off keepers felt from the rest of the world.

Reaching this site requires a six-mile round trip hike across sandy terrain through remote coastal wilderness. Wear sturdy footwear and plan to go during daylight hours, as the path is isolated and exposed to weather.

Old Bill, a dedicated Coast Guard horse, served the station for 30 years carrying supplies and personnel across difficult terrain before the station closed in 1951. The horse became a local legend whose contributions helped make the isolated post function day to day.