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Ballast Point Lighthouse

🇺🇸San Diego, USOperational

Location & Light Range

About Ballast Point Lighthouse

Also known as: lantern

This lantern, built in 1890, is painted white with a red roof. It marks a significant point for mariners in San Diego, California. The structure has served as a navigational aid since its construction. It continues to operate and guide vessels past Ballast Point. Its simple design has fulfilled its original purpose without interruption.

Why it matters: The light's continuous operation since 1890 highlights its enduring utility for maritime safety, ensuring clear passage for ships in the area.

Tower & Structure

Tower Color
white with a red roof

Structure: A lantern, painted white with a red roof.

Location

City
San Diego
Country
🇺🇸United States
Region
California
Latitude
32.7518°
Longitude
-117.1955°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.

Construction & History

Year Built
1890

References & Identifiers

Nearest Port
Ocean beach(3.2 km)
ARLHS No.
USA-033
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Frequently Asked Questions

Which ports and harbors does Ballast Point Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Ballast Point Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is OCEAN BEACH at 3.1 NM to the W. Other ports served include National City (3.4 NM SSE), Coronado (4.4 NM SSE), San Diego (7.2 NM SE), Spring Valley, San Diego (10.8 NM E). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Ballast Point Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Ballast Point Lighthouse is currently operational. It is actively maintained and continues to emit its characteristic light signal for marine navigation. Most modern lighthouses are automated and monitored remotely by the national maritime authority.
What shipping routes pass near Ballast Point Lighthouse?+
Ballast Point Lighthouse is located within the US West Coast shipping lane — a major trans-Pacific trade route serving West Coast ports of the United States. This makes it an important navigation reference for commercial shipping traffic in the region.
How can I track vessels near Ballast Point Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Ballast Point Lighthouse in real time using MarineRadar. The platform shows live AIS positions of ships in the area, including vessel name, type, flag, speed, and course. Use the "Track Vessels Nearby" button on this page to open the live map centered on this lighthouse.