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Santa Cruz Lighthouse

Fl W 5s🇺🇸Northern California, USOperational

Location & Light Range

About Santa Cruz Lighthouse

Also known as: Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse

This lighthouse stands 12 meters tall with a focal height of 18 meters above sea level. It emits a white light. The structure is currently operational, serving its navigational purpose. It is located in Northern California.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl W 5s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Flash Count
1 flash
Interval
5s
Focal Height
18m

Location

City
Northern California
Country
🇺🇸US
Latitude
36.9514°
Longitude
-122.0267°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
12m

References & Identifiers

NGA No.
USCG 305;USCG 4110
Wikidata
Q28374648 →
OpenStreetMap
View on OSM →
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Santa Cruz Lighthouse at night?+
Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Santa Cruz Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Santa Cruz at 0.6 NM to the NE. Other ports served include Capitola (3.7 NM ENE), Davenport (9.2 NM WNW), Corralitos (11 NM E), MOSS LANDING (14.6 NM SE). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Santa Cruz Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz Lighthouse?+
Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Santa Cruz 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.