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Cape Mendocino Lighthouse

Fl W 15s🇺🇸Northern California, USOperational

Location & Light Range

About Cape Mendocino Lighthouse

Constructed in 1868, this lighthouse stands 13 meters high. Its focal plane reaches 157 meters above sea level, providing a significant elevation for its light. The structure emits a white light. It remains operational, continuing its function as a navigational aid. This facility has served the mariners of Northern California.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl W 15s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Flash Count
1 flash
Interval
15s
Focal Height
157m

Construction & History

Year Built
1868

References & Identifiers

Wikipedia
Read on Wikipedia →
Wikidata
Q5034946 →

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
13m

Location

City
Northern California
Country
🇺🇸US
Latitude
40.4399°
Longitude
-124.4060°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Cape Mendocino Lighthouse at night?+
Cape Mendocino displays the characteristic Fl W 15s — 1 white flash every 15 seconds. Each lighthouse has a unique flash pattern published in the List of Lights, allowing mariners to positively identify it and distinguish it from other navigation aids in the area.
Which ports and harbors does Cape Mendocino Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Cape Mendocino Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 4 nearby ports. The closest is HUMBOLDT at 19.8 NM to the NNE. Other ports served include Samoa (22.7 NM NNE), Eureka (23.7 NM NNE), TRINIDAD BAY (38.7 NM NNE). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Cape Mendocino Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Cape Mendocino 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 Cape Mendocino Lighthouse?+
Cape Mendocino 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 Cape Mendocino Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Cape Mendocino 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.