Standing at the entrance to the Mare Island Strait in Vallejo, California, Mare Island Light has guided mariners since 1873. It holds the distinction of being the first lighthouse built on the West Coast’s inland waters, serving the historic Mare Island Naval Shipyard — the first U.S. naval installation on the Pacific coast.

The lighthouse was decommissioned and is no longer active. It is not open to the public, so visitors cannot climb the tower. However, the exterior and surrounding grounds offer excellent photo opportunities, particularly during golden hour when warm light reflects off the strait.

Nearby, explore the Mare Island Naval Cemetery, the restored St. Peter’s Chapel, and Vallejo’s waterfront dining along the ferry terminal.

Explore Nearby

• Benicia State Recreation Area — State Park in California
• Benicia Capitol State Historic Park — State Park in California
• The Headlands Dark Sky Park — Dark Sky Site in Michigan
• Twin Peaks — Public Land
• Cedar Roughs Wilderness — Public Land in California