The compelling tale of the Point Pinos Lighthouse

On a rare occurrence when the lights inside the Point Pinos Lighthouse burn as a docents' training meeting takes place. Photos: TNS

As thousands of seagoing adventurers – caught up in gold fever – made their way along California’s long, dark coast, not a single light led the way.

Then, in 1855, a powerful beam cut through the night, a beacon that warned of hidden rocks and dangers along the coast – and provided the only glint of gold that most of those would-be miners would ever see. For 160 years, the Point Pinos Lighthouse has stood guard on the shores of Pacific Grove and Monterey, a navigational aid for countless mariners and a magical place that is being restored and preserved by dedicated historians.