Perched on a rocky cliff at the entrance to the Golden Gate strait, Point Diablo Light has guided mariners since 1923. This compact fog signal station and lighthouse sits within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area on the Marin Headlands, just north of the Golden Gate Bridge. Though the tower is not open to the public, its dramatic setting — waves crashing below, the bridge spanning the horizon — makes it one of the most photographed lights on the West Coast. Late afternoon offers the best light for photography, when golden sun illuminates the bridge and city skyline beyond. Nearby, visitors can explore Battery Spencer, the Marin Headlands trails, and Point Bonita Lighthouse, which does allow guided access.

Explore Nearby

• The Headlands Dark Sky Park — Dark Sky Site in Michigan
• Angel Island State Park — State Park in California
• Twin Peaks — Public Land
• Mount Tamalpais State Park — State Park in California
• Mission Crossing Scenic Byway — Scenic Byway in North Carolina