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Point Montara Lighthouse

Fl W 5s🇺🇸Northern California, USOperational

Location & Light Range

About Point Montara Lighthouse

Construction of the Point Montara Lighthouse was completed in 1875. The structure stands 9 meters high, and its white light is situated 21 meters above sea level. This coastal aid has been operational since its first lighting in 1875. The lighthouse helps guide mariners along the Northern California coast.

Why it matters: The lighthouse is a National Register of Historic Places listed place.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl W 5s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Flash Count
1 flash
Interval
5s
Focal Height
21m

Construction & History

Year Built
1875
Heritage Status
National Register of Historic Places listed place

References & Identifiers

Wikipedia
Read on Wikipedia →
Wikidata
Q12066066 →
OpenStreetMap
View on OSM →

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
9m

Location

City
Northern California
Country
🇺🇸US
Latitude
37.5365°
Longitude
-122.5193°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Point Montara Lighthouse at night?+
Point Montara displays the characteristic Fl W 5s — 1 white flash every 5 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 Point Montara Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Point Montara Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is OYSTER POINT at 10.1 NM to the NE. Other ports served include San Mateo (10.2 NM ENE), BRISBANE (10.6 NM NE), Woodside (13.5 NM ESE), Redwood City (15.1 NM E). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Point Montara Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Point Montara 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 Point Montara Lighthouse?+
Point Montara 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 Point Montara Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Point Montara 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.