The standard Lorem Ipsum passage, used since the 1500s

"Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum."

Section 1.10.32 of "de Finibus Bonorum et Malorum", written by Cicero in 45 BC

"Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit voluptatem accusantium doloremque laudantium, totam rem aperiam, eaque ipsa quae ab illo inventore veritatis et quasi architecto beatae vitae dicta sunt explicabo. Nemo enim ipsam voluptatem quia voluptas sit aspernatur aut odit aut fugit, sed quia consequuntur magni dolores eos qui ratione voluptatem sequi nesciunt. Neque porro quisquam est, qui dolorem ipsum quia dolor sit amet, consectetur, adipisci velit, sed quia non numquam eius modi tempora incidunt ut labore et dolore magnam aliquam quaerat voluptatem. Ut enim ad minima veniam, quis nostrum exercitationem ullam corporis suscipit laboriosam, nisi ut aliquid ex ea commodi consequatur? Quis autem vel eum iure reprehenderit qui in ea voluptate velit esse quam nihil molestiae consequatur, vel illum qui dolorem eum fugiat quo voluptas nulla pariatur?"

"But I must explain to you how all this mistaken idea of denouncing pleasure and praising pain was born and I will give you a complete account of the system, and expound the actual teachings of the great explorer of the truth, the master-builder of human happiness. No one rejects, dislikes, or avoids pleasure itself, because it is pleasure, but because those who do not know how to pursue pleasure rationally encounter consequences that are extremely painful. Nor again is there anyone who loves or pursues or desires to obtain pain of itself, because it is pain, but because occasionally circumstances occur in which toil and pain can procure him some great pleasure. To take a trivial example, which of us ever undertakes laborious physical exercise, except to obtain some advantage from it? But who has any right to find fault with a man who chooses to enjoy a pleasure that has no annoying consequences, or one who avoids a pain that produces no resultant pleasure?"

Archived Test

Saturday, July 29 - Gates open 8 p.m., Tour around 8:30 p.m.



Come experience a spectacular night time view . . .

. . . from atop the Point Arena Lighthouse. Enjoy a panoramic view of the sea and coast from the lantern room at the top of the Tower, and if the weather cooperates it will be illuminated by the full moon! Our docents and guides will help you experience what it was like to be a Lighthouse Keeper and climb the Tower at night. They will guide you on your journey into the past and explain the unique history of this historic landmark, the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast. Champagne, sparkling juice and sweet and savory snacks will be served as part of the tour, and you get to take home an etched Point Arena Lighthouse champagne flute as a souvenir of this unique experience!



According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac Some Native American tribes in what is now the northeastern United States called the August full Moon the Sturgeon Moon because they knew that the sturgeon of the Great Lakes and Lake Champlain were most readily caught during this full moon. Other tribes called August’s full moon the Full Green Corn Moon signaling that the corn was nearly ready for harvest. Other examples for August are Wheat Cut Moon (San Ildefonso, and San Juan), Moon When All Things Ripen (Dakota Sioux) and Blueberry Moon (Ojibwe).



All proceeds go toward the support and maintenance of the Lighthouse Tower, Museum and grounds. Point Arena Lighthouse Keepers, Inc. thank you for your generous support. Tickets are $50 each.



Reservations must be made by phone at 877-725-4448 ext. 1 or 707-882-2809 ext. 1 or in person no later than 3:30 p.m. three (3) days 

 the date of the event. We require a minimum of eight (8) reservations to conduct the tour, and there is a limit of 20 guests per tour. If we reach the minimum prior to three (3) days before the event we will accept additional reservations (up to a total of 20 guests) until the day of the tour. We do not accept walk ins unless we have not reached the maximum number of guests.



 No refunds given if you cancel your reservation three days or less before the event. Tours will be cancelled if less than eight (8) guests sign up prior to three (3) days before the tour. 

You will receive a full refund if the event is cancelled. 

Please call our Reservation Desk at at 877-725-4448 ext. 1 or 707-882-2809 ext. 1 three (3) days prior to the tour to confirm the event is happening as scheduled.

(almost) Full Sturgeon Moon Night Tour

The current Whale Watch Room Gallery Exhibit features photography by Rod Whaley and jewelry by Ling-Yen Jones.  The exhibit will display from August 5 through October 31.  Rod’s exhibit includes photographs printed on silver gelatin, cotton paper and stretched canvas selected from two of his previous exhibits in other galleries, 

 from 2005.  Unframed color prints of Point Arena Lighthouse and surrounding landscapes will be also be available during the exhibit. The exhibit focuses on both California and Oregon natural environments Rod shot from 1998 to 2022.



 is of abstract, minimalist and straightforward photography.  Three 30” x 40” stretched/framed canvas will be arranged as window shades to bring natural light luminescence and vibrancy to each piece.


“

 photographed in black and white at South Yuba River State Park, Nevada County will be shown along with 5”x7” note cards.

 are living sculptures photographed from tidal pools along Oregon and California coastlines, created for the first time an elongated 12ft. x 13in. color print on canvas tailored for The Whale Watch Room Gallery.

 is a segment that delivers Rod’s fascination with natures wonderment.  The opening of a rose, spiral twist of Calla Lilly, and “The Unfolding” of Agave, the show print origin.




My “day job” never gained traction to a guided or planned career in photography, rather an unknown journey giving time and space to seek my own study.  As I peered through the lens with intent to capture my “wabi-sabi” I found connection in nature and industrial design where line, shadow and shape bring forth sculpture.  I am inspired from works of Stieglitz, Paul Strand, Weston and Minor White.




Rod Whaley hails from Tillamook County Oregon.  Born in 1953 in Detroit, Michigan he earned a BA Degree in Humanities/Communications from Florida Atlantic University in 1974.  His artistic side was put to good use when he was a Technical Illustrator/Photographer for Boeing Airplane Company from 1980 to 1984 and a Network Design/Publications Author for Boeing Computer Services from 1986 to 1990.  He then spent 1990 to 2015 in Telecommunications Engineering/Operations, Pacific Telecom Cable, Alaska Communications, Southern Cross Network.  Rod spent almost 2 years during COVID working on a project in Manchester CA and during that time he stayed in Assistant Keeper’s House 3 at the Lighthouse, joined occasionally by his wife Julie, and enjoyed taking pictures of the Mendocino coast to add to his portfolio.

Whale Watch Room Gallery Exhibit - Aug thru Oct

Sara Bogard presents "Seals In the Ebb and Flow - Harbor Seals and other Species of the Point Arena Lighthouse/Stornetta Public Lands."


Lighthouse Lecture Series Presentation on September 16th, 2023 at 4 p.m.




This Lecture Presentation gives an ongoing glimpse in 2023 of the rich diversity of life and habitat seen at the Point Arena Lighthouse and adjacent Stornetta Public Lands. The presentation will share the lives and critical habitat of the animals who reside and migrate through this shoreline and bluff. From her weekly surveys and monitoring, Sara will present data she has gathered on the resident Harbor Seals, birds and other species over the past year. During the pupping season from March through June, her highest pup count was 29 pups on June 8th and the high count of adults and immature was 226 on July 6th. Observations of Harbor Seal mother and pup interaction reveal a unique bond across many species. From this data and information, patterns and cycles of birth, nesting and migration emerge to make these bluff tops a spectacular place to view and connect with the natural world.







Sara is an Ocean Conservationist. She is a citizen scientist and volunteer for:


-  The Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary, Beach Watch Program
-  The California Central Regional Harbor seal Monitoring and Inventory Program
-  The Marine Mammal Center
-  The Sea Ranch Harbor Seal Docent Program
-  Naked Whale Research


As a citizen scientist volunteer for the GFNMS Beach Watch Program, she surveys several area beaches and bluffs, counting live species on both, and additionally counts and takes measurement of dead species on beach surveys. These surveys are done with teams of volunteers to collect and report data throughout the Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary.  She gathers weekly data on the Harbor Seal population at the Point Arena Lighthouse/Stornetta Bluff and, for the California Central Regional Harbor Seal Monitor and Inventory Program, during the pupping/molting season.

Her volunteer work for The Marine Mammal Center includes assessment, monitoring and rescue of marine mammals. In addition, she takes on the role of a Harbor Seal Docent for The Sea Ranch, during the pupping season and conducts other ongoing pinniped surveys in Mendocino County, California.  She also volunteers for Naked Whale Research, which focuses on tracking Killer Whales and other cetaceans along the Mendonoma Coast. Her goal is to collect this data and share her observations to promote the health and sustainability of pinniped populations in Northern California and bring public awareness to the effects of human and current environmental factors which affect these species.

Lighthouse Lecture Series - Sara Bogard

Saturday, December 6 - Gates open at 6 p.m., Tour around 6:30 p.m.

Experience a spectacular nighttime view . . .

. . . from atop the Point Arena Lighthouse. Enjoy a panoramic view of the sea and coast from the lantern room at the top of the Tower, and if the weather cooperates it will be illuminated by the full moon! Our docents and guides will help you experience what it was like to be a Lighthouse Keeper and climb the Tower at night. They will guide you on your journey into the past and explain the unique history of this historic landmark, the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast. Champagne, sparkling juice, and sweet and savory snacks will be served as part of the tour, and you get to take home an etched Point Arena Lighthouse champagne flute as a souvenir of this unique experience!

According to the Old Farmer's Almanac, December’s full Moon is most commonly known as the 

—a Mohawk name that conveys the frigid conditions of this time of year when cold weather truly begins to grip us. This full Moon has also been called the 

 (Mohican), as it rises during the “longest” nights of the year, near the December winter solstice. This name is doubly fitting because December’s full Moon shines above the horizon for a more extended period than most full Moons.

All proceeds go toward supporting and maintaining the Lighthouse Tower, Museum, and grounds. Point Arena Lighthouse Keepers, Inc., thank you for your generous support. Tickets are $50 each.

Reservations must be made by phone at 877-725-4448 ext. 1 or 707-882-2809 ext. 1 or in person no later than 3:30 p.m. three (3) days before the event date. We require a minimum of eight (8) reservations to conduct the tour, and there is a limit of 20 guests per tour. If we reach the minimum three (3) days before the event we will accept additional reservations (up to a total of 20 guests) until the day of the tour. We do not accept walk-ins unless we have not reached the maximum number of guests.

Cancellation policy: No refunds are given if you cancel your reservation three days or less before the event. Tours will be canceled if less than eight (8) guests sign up before three (3) days before the tour. You will receive a full refund if the event is canceled. Please call our Reservation Desk at 877-725-4448 ext. 1 or 707-882-2809 ext. 1 three (3) days before the tour to confirm the event is happening as scheduled.

(almost) Full Cold Moon Night Tour

Saturday, November 8- Gates open at 7 p.m., Tour around 7:30 p.m.

Experience a spectacular nighttime view . . .

. . . from atop the Point Arena Lighthouse. Enjoy a panoramic view of the sea and coast from the lantern room at the top of the Tower, and if the weather cooperates it will be illuminated by the full moon! Our docents and guides will help you experience what it was like to be a Lighthouse Keeper and climb the Tower at night. They will guide you on your journey into the past and explain the unique history of this historic landmark, the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast. Champagne, sparkling juice, and sweet and savory snacks will be served as part of the tour, and you get to take home an etched Point Arena Lighthouse champagne flute as a souvenir of this unique experience!

For decades, the Almanac has referenced the monthly full Moons with names tied to early Native American, Colonial American, and European folklore. Traditionally, each full Moon name was applied to the entire lunar month in which it occurred and through all of the Moon’s phases—not only the full Moon. Why the “Beaver” Moon? This is the time of year when beavers begin to take shelter in their lodges, having laid up sufficient food stores for the long winter ahead. During the fur trade in North America, it was also the season to trap beavers for their thick, winter-ready pelts.

All proceeds go toward supporting and maintaining the Lighthouse Tower, Museum, and grounds. Point Arena Lighthouse Keepers, Inc., thank you for your generous support. Tickets are $50 each.

Reservations must be made by phone at 877-725-4448 ext. 1 or 707-882-2809 ext. 1 or in person no later than 3:30 p.m. three (3) days before the event date. We require a minimum of eight (8) reservations to conduct the tour, and there is a limit of 20 guests per tour. If we reach the minimum three (3) days before the event we will accept additional reservations (up to a total of 20 guests) until the day of the tour. We do not accept walk-ins unless we have not reached the maximum number of guests.

Cancellation policy: No refunds are given if you cancel your reservation three days or less before the event. Tours will be canceled if less than eight (8) guests sign up before three (3) days before the tour. You will receive a full refund if the event is canceled. Please call our Reservation Desk at 877-725-4448 ext. 1 or 707-882-2809 ext. 1 three (3) days before the tour to confirm the event is happening as scheduled.

(almost) Full Beaver Moon Night Tour

Saturday, October 4 - Gates open at 6 p.m., Tour around 6:30 p.m.

Experience a spectacular nighttime view . . .

. . . from atop the Point Arena Lighthouse. Enjoy a panoramic view of the sea and coast from the lantern room at the top of the Tower, and if the weather cooperates it will be illuminated by the full moon! Our docents and guides will help you experience what it was like to be a Lighthouse Keeper and climb the Tower at night. They will guide you on your journey into the past and explain the unique history of this historic landmark, the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast. Champagne, sparkling juice, and sweet and savory snacks will be served as part of the tour, and you get to take home an etched Point Arena Lighthouse champagne flute as a souvenir of this unique experience!

According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, it is believed that this full moon came to be called the full Hunter’s Moon because it signaled the time to go hunting in preparation for the cold winter ahead. Animals are beginning to fatten up ahead of winter. Since the farmers had recently cleaned out their fields under the Harvest Moon, hunters could easily see the deer and other animals that had come out to root through the remaining scraps (as well as the foxes and wolves that had come out to prey on them). The earliest use of the term “Hunter’s Moon,” cited in the Oxford English Dictionary, is from 1710. Some sources suggest that other names for the Hunter’s Moon are the Sanguine or Blood Moon, either associated with the blood from hunting or the color of the changing autumn leaves. The names of the moon are most often related to natural signs of the season or to activities that were done at this time of year. Some other Native American names for the October full moon include Drying Rice Moon (Dakota), Falling Leaves Moon (Anishinaabe), Freezing Moon (Ojibwe), Ice Moon (Haida), and Migrating Moon (Cree).

All proceeds go toward supporting and maintaining the Lighthouse Tower, Museum, and grounds. Point Arena Lighthouse Keepers, Inc., thank you for your generous support. Tickets are $50 each.

Reservations must be made by phone at 877-725-4448 ext. 1 or 707-882-2809 ext. 1 or in person no later than 3:30 p.m. three (3) days before the event date. We require a minimum of eight (8) reservations to conduct the tour, and there is a limit of 20 guests per tour. If we reach the minimum three (3) days before the event we will accept additional reservations (up to a total of 20 guests) until the day of the tour. We do not accept walk-ins unless we have not reached the maximum number of guests.

Cancellation policy: No refunds are given if you cancel your reservation three days or less before the event. Tours will be canceled if less than eight (8) guests sign up before three (3) days before the tour. You will receive a full refund if the event is canceled. Please call our Reservation Desk at 877-725-4448 ext. 1 or 707-882-2809 ext. 1 three (3) days before the tour to confirm the event is happening as scheduled.

Full Hunter's Moon Night Tour

Saturday, September 6 - Gates open at 6 p.m., Tour around 6:30 p.m.

Experience a spectacular nighttime view . . .

. . . from atop the Point Arena Lighthouse. Enjoy a panoramic view of the sea and coast from the lantern room at the top of the Tower, and if the weather cooperates it will be illuminated by the full moon! Our docents and guides will help you experience what it was like to be a Lighthouse Keeper and climb the Tower at night. They will guide you on your journey into the past and explain the unique history of this historic landmark, the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast. Champagne, sparkling juice, and sweet and savory snacks will be served as part of the tour, and you get to take home an etched Point Arena Lighthouse champagne flute as a souvenir of this unique experience!

The Harvest Moon is the moon that falls near the autumnal equinox. This full Moon provides the most light at the time when it’s needed most—to complete the harvest. According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac full moon names were used by early Colonial Americans who learned the names from the local Native Americans. Indigenous people did not record time by using the months of the Julian or Gregorian calendar. Many tribes kept track of time by observing the seasons and lunar months, although there was much variability. The September full moon is also called the Full Corn Moon because it traditionally corresponds with the time of harvesting corn. It is also called the Barley Moon because this is the time to harvest and thresh ripened barley. Some other traditional September Full Moon names used by Native Americans include “Moon When the Plums Are Scarlet” (Lakota Sioux), “Moon When the Deer Paw the Earth” (Omaha Native Americans), and “Moon When the Calves Grow Hair” (Sioux Native Americans).


All proceeds go toward supporting and maintaining the Lighthouse Tower, Museum, and grounds. Thank you for your generous support, Point Arena Lighthouse Keepers, Inc. Tickets are $50 each.

Reservations must be made by phone at 877-725-4448 ext. 1 or 707-882-2809 ext. 1 or in person no later than 3:30 p.m. three (3) days before the event date. We require a minimum of eight (8) reservations to conduct the tour, and there is a limit of 20 guests per tour. If we reach the minimum three (3) days before the event we will accept additional reservations (up to a total of 20 guests) until the day of the tour. We do not accept walk-ins unless we have not reached the maximum number of guests.

Cancellation policy: No refunds are given if you cancel your reservation three days or less before the event. Tours will be canceled if less than eight (8) guests sign up before three (3) days before the tour. You will receive a full refund if the event is canceled. Please call our Reservation Desk at 877-725-4448 ext. 1 or 707-882-2809 ext. 1 three (3) days before the tour to confirm the event is happening as scheduled.

(almost) Full Harvest Moon Night Tour

Saturday, August 9 - Gates open at 8 p.m., Tour around 8:30 p.m.

Experience a spectacular nighttime view . . .

. . . from atop the Point Arena Lighthouse. Enjoy a panoramic view of the sea and coast from the lantern room at the top of the Tower, and if the weather cooperates it will be illuminated by the full moon! Our docents and guides will help you experience what it was like to be a Lighthouse Keeper and climb the Tower at night. They will guide you on your journey into the past and explain the unique history of this historic landmark, the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast. Champagne, sparkling juice, and sweet and savory snacks will be served as part of the tour, and you get to take home an etched Point Arena Lighthouse champagne flute as a souvenir of this unique experience!

According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac Some Native American tribes in what is now the northeastern United States called the August full Moon the Sturgeon Moon because they knew that the sturgeon of the Great Lakes and Lake Champlain were most readily caught during this full moon. Other tribes called August’s full moon the Full Green Corn Moon signaling that the corn was nearly ready for harvest. Other examples for August are Wheat Cut Moon (San Ildefonso, and San Juan), Moon When All Things Ripen (Dakota Sioux), and Blueberry Moon (Ojibwe).

All proceeds go toward supporting and maintaining the Lighthouse Tower, Museum, and grounds. Thank you for your generous support, Point Arena Lighthouse Keepers, Inc. Tickets are $50 each.

Reservations must be made by phone at 877-725-4448 ext. 1 or 707-882-2809 ext. 1 or in person no later than 3:30 p.m. three (3) days before the event date. We require a minimum of eight (8) reservations to conduct the tour, and there is a limit of 20 guests per tour. If we reach the minimum three (3) days before the event we will accept additional reservations (up to a total of 20 guests) until the day of the tour. We do not accept walk-ins unless we have not reached the maximum number of guests.

Cancellation policy: No refunds are given if you cancel your reservation three days or less before the event. Tours will be canceled if less than eight (8) guests sign up before three (3) days before the tour. You will receive a full refund if the event is canceled. Please call our Reservation Desk at 877-725-4448 ext. 1 or 707-882-2809 ext. 1 three (3) days before the tour to confirm the event is happening as scheduled.

Full Sturgeon Moon Night Tour

Saturday, July 12 - Gates open at 9:30 p.m., Tour around 10 p.m.

Experience a spectacular nighttime view . . .

. . . from atop the Point Arena Lighthouse. Enjoy a panoramic view of the sea and coast from the lantern room at the top of the Tower, and if the weather cooperates it will be illuminated by the full moon! Our docents and guides will help you experience what it was like to be a Lighthouse Keeper and climb the Tower at night. They will guide you on your journey into the past and explain the unique history of this historic landmark, the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast. Champagne, sparkling juice, and sweet and savory snacks will be served as part of the tour, and you get to take home an etched Point Arena Lighthouse champagne flute as a souvenir of this unique experience!

According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the July full moon is called the Buck Moon since at this time, a buck’s antlers are in full growth mode. This full moon was also known as the Thunder Moon because thunderstorms are so frequent during this month. Other Native American tribes had their own names for this full moon including Ripe Corn Moon (Cherokee), Middle of Summer Moon (Ponca), and Moon When Limbs of Trees Are Broken by Fruit (Zuni).

All proceeds go toward supporting and maintaining the Lighthouse Tower, Museum, and grounds. Thank you for your generous support, Point Arena Lighthouse Keepers, Inc. Tickets are $50 each.

Reservations must be made by phone at 877-725-4448 ext. 1 or 707-882-2809 ext. 1 or in person no later than 3:30 p.m. three (3) days before the event date. We require a minimum of eight (8) reservations to conduct the tour, and there is a limit of 20 guests per tour. If we reach the minimum three (3) days before the event we will accept additional reservations (up to a total of 20 guests) until the day of the tour. We do not accept walk-ins unless we have not reached the maximum number of guests.

Cancellation policy: No refunds are given if you cancel your reservation three days or less before the event. Tours will be canceled if less than eight (8) guests sign up before three (3) days before the tour. You will receive a full refund if the event is canceled. Please call our Reservation Desk at 877-725-4448 ext. 1 or 707-882-2809 ext. 1 three (3) days before the tour to confirm the event is happening as scheduled.

(almost) Full Buck Moon Night Tour 

Friday, July 11 - Gates open at 9 p.m., Tour around 9:30 p.m.

Experience a spectacular nighttime view . . .

. . . from atop the Point Arena Lighthouse. Enjoy a panoramic view of the sea and coast from the lantern room at the top of the Tower, and if the weather cooperates it will be illuminated by the full moon! Our docents and guides will help you experience what it was like to be a Lighthouse Keeper and climb the Tower at night. They will guide you on your journey into the past and explain the unique history of this historic landmark, the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast. Champagne, sparkling juice, and sweet and savory snacks will be served as part of the tour, and you get to take home an etched Point Arena Lighthouse champagne flute as a souvenir of this unique experience!

According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the July full moon is called the Buck Moon since at this time, a buck’s antlers are in full growth mode. This full moon was also known as the Thunder Moon because thunderstorms are so frequent during this month. Other Native American tribes had their own names for this full moon including Ripe Corn Moon (Cherokee), Middle of Summer Moon (Ponca), and Moon When Limbs of Trees Are Broken by Fruit (Zuni).

All proceeds go toward supporting and maintaining the Lighthouse Tower, Museum, and grounds. Thank you for your generous support, Point Arena Lighthouse Keepers, Inc. Tickets are $50 each.

Reservations must be made by phone at 877-725-4448 ext. 1 or 707-882-2809 ext. 1 or in person no later than 3:30 p.m. three (3) days before the event date. We require a minimum of eight (8) reservations to conduct the tour, and there is a limit of 20 guests per tour. If we reach the minimum three (3) days before the event we will accept additional reservations (up to a total of 20 guests) until the day of the tour. We do not accept walk-ins unless we have not reached the maximum number of guests.

Cancellation policy: No refunds are given if you cancel your reservation three days or less before the event. Tours will be canceled if less than eight (8) guests sign up before three (3) days before the tour. You will receive a full refund if the event is canceled. Please call our Reservation Desk at 877-725-4448 ext. 1 or 707-882-2809 ext. 1 three (3) days before the tour to confirm the event is happening as scheduled.

Full Buck Moon Night Tour 

Saturday, June 7 - Gates open at 7:30 p.m., Tour around 8 p.m.

Experience a spectacular nighttime view . . .

. . . from atop the Point Arena Lighthouse. Enjoy a panoramic view of the sea and coast from the lantern room at the top of the Tower, and if the weather cooperates it will be illuminated by the full moon! Our docents and guides will help you experience what it was like to be a Lighthouse Keeper and climb the Tower at night. They will guide you on your journey into the past and explain the unique history of this historic landmark, the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast. Champagne, sparkling juice, and sweet and savory snacks will be served as part of the tour, and you get to take home an etched Point Arena Lighthouse champagne flute as a souvenir of this unique experience!

According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac this Full Moon got its name from the Algonquin tribes in eastern North America who knew it as a signal to gather the ripening fruit of wild strawberries. It has also been known as the Honey Moon, Mead Moon, and the Full Rose Moon in Europe.

All proceeds go toward supporting and maintaining the Lighthouse Tower, Museum, and grounds. Thank you for your generous support, Point Arena Lighthouse Keepers, Inc. Tickets are $50 each.

Reservations must be made by phone at 877-725-4448 ext. 1 or 707-882-2809 ext. 1 or in person no later than 3:30 p.m. three (3) days before the event date. We require a minimum of eight (8) reservations to conduct the tour, and there is a limit of 20 guests per tour. If we reach the minimum three (3) days before the event we will accept additional reservations (up to a total of 20 guests) until the day of the tour. We do not accept walk-ins unless we have not reached the maximum number of guests.

Cancellation policy: No refunds are given if you cancel your reservation three days or less before the event. Tours will be canceled if less than eight (8) guests sign up before three (3) days before the tour. You will receive a full refund if the event is canceled. Please call our Reservation Desk at 877-725-4448 ext. 1 or 707-882-2809 ext. 1 three (3) days before the tour to confirm the event is happening as scheduled.

(almost) Full Strawberry Full Moon Night Tour

The Lighthouse Lecture Series continues on Saturday, May 17 at 4 p.m. with “

”presented by Anchor Bay resident Peggy Berryhill, a member of the Mvskoke nation of Oklahoma,who will focus her talk on her Tribe, her family background and her path to California. Berryhill, best known locally as the host of Peggy’s Place on local radio station KGUA 88.3 FM, will share maps, photos and stories about her Tribal history with the personal touch she is known for on her radio show. Admission to the lecture is $5 per person, payable in the Fog Signal Building where the lecture will be presented. The Lighthouse is located at 45500 Lighthouse Road in Point Arena.

The founder and President of the Native Media Resource Center (NMRC), Peggy Berryhill founded the 501 ( c )( 3 ) in 1996 to produce content about Native Americans and promote racial understanding and cross-cultural harmony. She has been instrumental in building the Native radio network and training independent producers in broadcast journalism. From producing radio show 

 at KPFA in Berkeley 1978 to producing the series 

Spirits of the Present: The Legacy From Native America

 at the Smithsonian Institution’s Museum of American History in 1992 Washington, DC , to producing the innovative comedy series 

in 2006, and many other productions in places in between, Peggy is known for her vision and groundbreaking work as a Media Architect, designing media and technology opportunities and solutions by collaborating with numerous public broadcasting and community organizations. Other accolades she has garnered from 1978 to the present are Unity Award, the Cindy, the New York Festival, and recognitions from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, the Native American Journalists Association and the Local Heroes award from KQED-FM in San Francisco.

Peggy’s media expertise and commitment to community has earned her several lifetime achievement awards including the 

2011 Bader Award from the National Federation of Community Broadcasters

 for her lifetime of commitment to Native Radio, Community radio and the inclusion of the voices of women and Indigenous communities in broadcasting. In 2014 she was inducted into the 

 by her Tribe, and in April 2025 was elected to the 

Academy of Arts and Sciences for Leadership, Policy and Communications.



In 2011 the NMRC constructed a full power community radio station in Gualala, California, KGUA 88.3 FM. Berryhill and the station volunteers continue to serve the Mendonomacommunities in Northern California to this day.

Lighthouse Lecture Series - Peggy Berryhill

Saturday, May 10 - Gates open at 7:30 p.m., Tour around 8 p.m.

Experience a spectacular nighttime view . . .

. . . from atop the Point Arena Lighthouse. Enjoy a panoramic view of the sea and coast from the lantern room at the top of the Tower, and if the weather cooperates it will be illuminated by the full moon! Our docents and guides will help you experience what it was like to be a Lighthouse Keeper and climb the Tower at night. They will guide you on your journey into the past and explain the unique history of this historic landmark, the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast. Champagne, sparkling juice, and sweet and savory snacks will be served as part of the tour, and you get to take home an etched Point Arena Lighthouse champagne flute as a souvenir of this unique experience!

According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, May’s Flower Moon name should be no surprise; flowers spring forth across North America in abundance this month! “Flower Moon” has been attributed to Algonquin peoples. May’s Moon was also called the “Month of Flowers”

All proceeds go toward supporting and maintaining the Lighthouse Tower, Museum, and grounds. Thank you for your generous support, Point Arena Lighthouse Keepers, Inc. Tickets are $50 each.

Reservations must be made by phone at 877-725-4448 ext. 1 or 707-882-2809 ext. 1 or in person no later than 3:30 p.m. three (3) days before the event date. We require a minimum of eight (8) reservations to conduct the tour, and there is a limit of 20 guests per tour. If we reach the minimum three (3) days before the event we will accept additional reservations (up to a total of 20 guests) until the day of the tour. We do not accept walk-ins unless we have not reached the maximum number of guests.

Cancellation policy: No refunds are given if you cancel your reservation three days or less before the event. Tours will be canceled if less than eight (8) guests sign up before three (3) days before the tour. You will receive a full refund if the event is canceled. Please call our Reservation Desk at 877-725-4448 ext. 1 or 707-882-2809 ext. 1 three (3) days before the tour to confirm the event is happening as scheduled.

(almost) Full Flower Moon Night Tour

 features photography by Scott Sewell.  Opening reception will be Saturday, May 10 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.  The exhibit will remain on display from May 10 through September 1.  Jewelry by Ling-Yen Jones continues to be on display as well.



The center of this effort was the Lighthouse – that “Candle in the Wind” at the end of Point Arena. Over numerous trips, I shot the tower at night, at dawn and at sunset in all kinds of weather. The light, surf and conditions were ever changing which challenged and refined my skills. Each day was an adventure and often completely different from the day before – particularly in winter. All this allowed me to develop an approach, a style and technique which made me into the photographer I am today. I hope you enjoy my work as much as I have enjoyed producing it.





I have always been attracted to coastal and mountain landscapes. My childhood
vacations were largely spent on the north coast of California and in the High Sierra. In college, I discovered Ansel Adams and his “Yosemite and the Range of Light” and was enthralled by his visions of Yosemite and the Eastern Sierra. As an adult, I hiked the backcountry and strolled the coastal trails over the years in complete awe, but, sadly, most of those memories ended up stored in my mind and not in my camera. After a once in a lifetime cruise to Antarctica, however, something changed. I found that my work was competitive with the professional photographers aboard and received widespread praise from fellow photographers and passengers. Upon my return, I upgraded my equipment and decided to go to the Mendocino Coast in search of landscapes which would suit my newly minted interest and vision, allow me stretch my creative legs and teach me how to better translate what I saw in my mind to finished photography.



Whale Watch Room Gallery Exhibit - Scott Sewell

The Point Arena Lighthouse was first lit on May 1st, 1870. Its brick and mortar tower featured ornate iron balcony supports and a large Keepers' residence with enough space to house four Light Keeper families. In April of 1906, a devastating earthquake struck the tower. The tower was damaged beyond repair and had to be completely deconstructed

The United States Lighthouse Service contracted with a San Francisco-based company to build a new Lighthouse that could withstand any future earthquakes. The company built factory smokestacks, which accounts for the final design of the current Point Arena Lighthouse. The new design featured steel reinforcement rods encased in concrete and was the first lighthouse to be built in this manner.

The new Lighthouse began operation on September 15, 1908, nearly 29 months after the quake. It stands 115 feet tall, and features a 1st Order Fresnel Lens, seven feet in diameter and weighing 4,700 pounds. The lens is made up of 258 hand-ground glass prisms all focused toward three sets of double bulls eyes. It is these bulls eyes that gave the Point Arena Lighthouse its unique “light signature” of two flashes every six seconds.

In 1984, a nonprofit organization called the Point Arena Lighthouse Keepers, Inc. acquired the Light Station as part of a 25-year land lease from the Coast Guard and the Department of Transportation. In November of 2000, the nonprofit group became the official owners of the property due to their diligent historic preservation and educational efforts.

Join us Thursday, May 1, 2025, to celebrate 155 years of lighting the way on the Pacific Coast with free admission to the Indoor Museum, Outdoor Museum, and Light Station Store. Tower tours are available to anyone 4 years and older for a $5 fee. 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

155th Anniversary

The Point Arena Lighthouse is thrilled to present its annual Wind & Whale Celebration on Saturday, April 19 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Admission to the Light Station Indoor and Outdoor Museums is free, Tower Tours are available for guests 4 and over for $5 per person. Come stroll the 23 acres of grounds and watch the ocean for migrating gray whales, and wind and weather permitting the Berkeley Kite Wranglers will be flying their huge and colorful kites overhead. Scott & Tree Mercer of the Mendonoma Whale & Seal Study will be on hand to answer questions about the marine mammals that frequent our coast. Check out the Whale Trail interpretive panel next to the California Native Plant garden that showcases the marine mammals that frequent the waters that surround the Light Station. The Light Station Store will be offering sale prices on kites, whale related gifts and other items. The Lighthouse is located at 45500 Lighthouse Road just north of Point Arena.

Formed at the turn of the Millennium, the Berkeley Kite Wranglers fly a collection of kites that contains nearly 30,000 square feet of giant creature kites - the largest of their kind in the world. The giant octopus kites have been a particularly popular sight in past years.   Each one is 20 feet wide and nearly 100 feet long. The pod, or ‘Octopile’ as the team likes to call it, flies in perfect formation. They have previously flown giant blue, humpback and killer whale kites as well as gecko, fish and cat kites. The Wranglers will fly from 10 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. Bring your own kite to fly or purchase one from a large selection of kites on sale in the Light Station Store, which will also have several whale themed items on sale.

The northern migration of the gray whales will be featuring the mothers and recently born calves making their way north from the birthing lagoons in Baja California back to their summer feeding grounds in the Bering Sea near Alaska. Watch these graceful gentle giants swim past the Light Station peninsula from the grounds or the Whale Watch Room in the Fog Signal Building, and chat with the Mercers about the details of this amazing migration.

The Wind & Whale Celebration is part of the Point Arena Merchants Association (PAMA) Almost Fringe Festival which will be taking place in and around downtown Point Arena from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Special events, food, sales, live music and more will be offered throughout Point Arena. A free shuttle bus will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with several stops throughout the town and out to the Lighthouse.

For the most recent information on Lighthouse events call (707) 882-2809 ext. 1 or email Info.PALight@gmail.com

Wind and Whale Celebration

Kenny Jowers presents "Building a beautiful coastal monument to our veteran heroes" - as part of the lighthouse lecture series on Saturday, April 19 at 4 p.m.




Almost 10 years ago, a small group of veterans and supporters of veterans came together with an idea of constructing a coastal monument to honor veterans’ service to our country. 

In what this group of local citizens refers to as a wild and crazy ride over these many years, they are within striking distance of seeing this dream become a reality. The hope is that the Northern California Coastal Veterans Monument will be constructed in 2025.
Come hear their journey that started with a vision to honor the deserving and will end with the construction of a beautiful local stone monument.




Kenny Jowers has been a coastal resident of Manchester for almost 22 years. He’s an activist and organizer on many levels within our community. Kenny believes that once the monument is completed, it will be the greatest accomplishment of his life. He owns Physical Gym in Gualala.

Point Arena Lighthouse Lecture Series - Kenny Jowers




Saturday, April 12 - Gates open at 7 p.m., Tour around 7:30 p.m.

Experience a spectacular nighttime view . . .

. . . from atop the Point Arena Lighthouse. Enjoy a panoramic view of the sea and coast from the lantern room at the top of the Tower, and if the weather cooperates it will be illuminated by the full moon! Our docents and guides will help you experience what it was like to be a Lighthouse Keeper and climb the Tower at night. They will guide you on your journey into the past and explain the unique history of this historic landmark, the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast. Champagne, sparkling juice, and sweet and savory snacks will be served as part of the tour, and you get to take home an etched Point Arena Lighthouse champagne flute as a souvenir of this unique experience!

According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac April’s full Moon often corresponded with the early springtime blooms of a certain wildflower native to eastern North America: 

—commonly called creeping phlox or moss phlox—which also went by the name “moss pink.” This full Moon is called the “Pink” Moon thanks to this seasonal association!

All proceeds go toward supporting and maintaining the Lighthouse Tower, Museum, and grounds. Thank you for your generous support, Point Arena Lighthouse Keepers, Inc. Tickets are $50 each.

Reservations must be made by phone at 877-725-4448 ext. 1 or 707-882-2809 ext. 1 or in person no later than 3:30 p.m. three (3) days before the event date. We require a minimum of eight (8) reservations to conduct the tour, and there is a limit of 20 guests per tour. If we reach the minimum three (3) days before the event we will accept additional reservations (up to a total of 20 guests) until the day of the tour. We do not accept walk-ins unless we have not reached the maximum number of guests.

Cancellation policy: No refunds are given if you cancel your reservation three days or less before the event. Tours will be canceled if less than eight (8) guests sign up before three (3) days before the tour. You will receive a full refund if the event is canceled. Please call our Reservation Desk at 877-725-4448 ext. 1 or 707-882-2809 ext. 1 three (3) days before the tour to confirm the event is happening as scheduled.

CANCELED - Full Pink Moon Night Tour

Saturday, March 15 - Gates open 8 p.m., Tour around 8:30 p.m.

Experience a spectacular nighttime view . . .

. . . from atop the Point Arena Lighthouse. Enjoy a panoramic view of the sea and coast from the lantern room at the top of the Tower, and if the weather cooperates it will be illuminated by the full moon! Our docents and guides will help you experience what it was like to be a Lighthouse Keeper and climb the Tower at night. They will guide you on your journey into the past and explain the unique history of this historic landmark, the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast. Champagne, sparkling juice, and sweet and savory snacks will be served as part of the tour, and you get to take home an etched Point Arena Lighthouse champagne flute as a souvenir of this unique experience!

According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac in Native American and early Colonial times, the Full Moon in March was called the Full Worm Moon. The ground begins to soften and earthworm casts reappear, inviting the return of robins. This has also been called the Sap Moon, as it marks the time when maple sap begins to flow and the annual tapping of maple trees begins. 

All proceeds go toward supporting and maintaining the Lighthouse Tower, Museum, and grounds. Point Arena Lighthouse Keepers, Inc., thank you for your generous support. Tickets are $50 each.

Reservations must be made by phone at 877-725-4448 ext. 1 or 707-882-2809 ext. 1 or in person no later than 3:30 p.m. three (3) days before the event date. We require a minimum of eight (8) reservations to conduct the tour, and there is a limit of 20 guests per tour. If we reach the minimum three (3) days before the event we will accept additional reservations (up to a total of 20 guests) until the day of the tour. We do not accept walk-ins unless we have not reached the maximum number of guests.

Cancellation policy: No refunds are given if you cancel your reservation three days or less before the event. Tours will be canceled if less than eight (8) guests sign up before three (3) days before the tour. You will receive a full refund if the event is canceled. Please call our Reservation Desk at 877-725-4448 ext. 1 or 707-882-2809 ext. 1 three (3) days before the tour to confirm the event is happening as scheduled.

(almost) Full Worm Moon Night Tour

 features photography by Cindy Morey.  The exhibit will remain on display from February 22 through May 4.  Jewelry by Ling-Yen Jones continues to be on display as well.

It is my greatest pleasure to be able to share what I see through a lens! The Northern CA coast is a photographer’s dream! It’s the lighting, the weather, certain angles and depths along with the intimate details that make a photo a work of art. I seek these hidden gems … for it is the littlest things that thrill me and sometimes leave me speechless! With its wide diversity of flora and fauna, its whispering fog that zooms across the landscape like a ghost, and the rugged
bluffs that expand the views of unique rock formations, unlimited treasures abound. Looking at the unique and intricate designs of nature through a lens has changed my life forever! If you look at a flower, can you see all the tentacles and crevices deep inside or watch a flower bloom from a small bud into a spectacular blossom? Being around animals of all kinds is also one of the highlights of my life. Seeing an eyelash on an elephant, the color of a new born harbor seal pup, or the depth of the stripes on a zebra inspires me! Spending a lot of time walking the beaches of Mendocino County with my beloved dog bodhi, I love to photograph whatever the ocean has to offer.

I have lived in the Manchester CA/Irish Beach community for over 20 years. After traveling to Africa, Asia and Europe, my hobby for photography has grown into a much bigger part of my life. Being an avid hiker and kayaker takes me to unique and awe-inspiring places where you can see nature in its purest form. Working with nature photographers and other creative artists has given me some new perspectives on how to work behind the lens and how to create new ways of seeing the world. My photographs can be done on metal, canvas or framed on photographic paper in antique or unusual frames. Connecting with someone’s photographs is as intimate and personal and as diverse as nature itself. My work can be found at the Point Arena Lighthouse, the Coast Highway Artists Collective in Point Arena and the Redwood Coast Medical Services Center in Gualala. I also exhibit my work in the annual Mendocino County Coast Studio Tour.

Whale Watch Room Gallery Exhibit - Cindy Morey

All PALKI members are cordially invited to attend the annual Members Meeting on Saturday, February 1, 2025 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. which will be held virtually using Zoom. Zoom connection information is as follows:

     PALKI Annual Members Zoom Meeting 


     https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88412673452?pwd=jWK9FlbakTfbovb6eFObYIoRsldfFy.1

 

Meeting ID: 884 1267 3452 Passcode: 495316

The agenda for this meeting is as follows:

Welcome and President’s Report

Announcement of Board of Directors election results

Q & A

This year we will again use an online voting system for electing the three (3) open Board seats. If you are a PALKI member you have been sent an email that will allow you to vote electronically up to the day of the annual Members Meeting. If we do not have your email, you have been sent a paper ballot to return to us with your selection.

There are currently three (3) incumbent Board members that are running for three (3) open seats with 2 year terms. The candidate statements are shown below.





I have been a 30+ year resident on the coast. Although my current academic pursuits have necessitated me being away more than at home for the past couple of years, I continue to value and enjoy my participation as a board member of PALKI. We’ve been very fortunate to have Mark Hancock and Tom Birdsell steering the ship for the past several years. It has been very gratifying to see the cottages, one by one, being remodeled; other sculptural stone-work projects being added to the grounds- and the Veteran’s memorial in the works. Fellow board member, Samara Freeman, has reinvigorated efforts to develop programs that will also benefit the community, such as educational outreach. She’s been instrumental in securing funding from grants. We hope to get the Watershed program (that I commissioned prior to COVID) off the shelf and into manifestation in the next year or so. It has been my privilege to serve on the board over the years, and would appreciate your support to continue to do so. Thank you.





The enduring power and beauty of the Point Arena Lighthouse drew our family in. We are lifetime members and have enjoyed staying on site and exploring the area. I am honored to have served on the PALKI board for the last 3 years learning the history, what it takes to operate the property and the challenges facing the lighthouse. I want to see the Lighthouse and surrounding land continue to thrive, grow and support the local community for years to come. I have contributed to the Lighthouse by formalizing in writing the criteria for the scholarship program and developing a spreadsheet to capture the wealth of ideas the board has for long-term sustainability of the lighthouse. In partnership with Mark, I wrote 2 different grant applications, and was successful in one. PALKI received $63,000 from the Coastal Conservancy to complete a detailed survey of the sea caves on the peninsula to understand the potential impact on the buildings and property that was completed. I would love to continue to sit on the Board and contribute developing detailed concepts for alternative funding sources including grants to ensure the long-term sustainability of the magnificent Point Arena Lighthouse.




It has been an honor to serve on the PALKI Board of Directors for almost seven years and a privilege to serve as the President - now, Chairman - of the Board for the past three.

The lighthouse Management and Staff - the people who do the 

 work - continue to address unexpected challenges, improve operations and the physical plant, and host a record number of visitors.These accomplishments, and the resilience and creativity they require, have led to the strongest financial position in PALKI's history.Lodging, admissions, tower tours, and the Gift Store are all major contributors, even with the post-COVID softening of tourism along the coast.

Looking ahead, we are committed to making major investments to the lodgings and physical infrastructure.While opportunities abound for other improvement projects, we must continue to be mindful to not bite off more than we can chew.I want to continue to contribute to the governance of the corporation, helping with strategic decision-making, and ensuring PALKI's continued financial stability.

Among the many non-profit organizations that serve the coast, none offer the unique combination of history, culture, art, and location that characterizes the Point Arena Lighthouse.I would be honored to continue to support PALKI for another two-year term

PALKI Annual Members Meeting

Saturday, January 11 - Gates open 5 p.m., Tour around 5:30 p.m.



. . . from atop the Point Arena Lighthouse. Enjoy a panoramic view of the sea and coast from the lantern room at the top of the Tower, and if the weather cooperates it will be illuminated by the full moon! Our docents and guides will help you experience what it was like to be a Lighthouse Keeper and climb the Tower at night. They will guide you on your journey into the past and explain the unique history of this historic landmark, the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast. Champagne, sparkling juice and sweet and savory snacks will be served as part of the tour, and you get to take home an etched Point Arena Lighthouse champagne flute as a souvenir of this unique experience!

According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac in Native American and early Colonial times the Full Moon for January was called the Full Wolf Moon. It appeared when wolves howled in hunger outside the villages. Traditionally, the January Moon is also known as the Old Moon. To some Native American tribes, this was the Snow Moon, but most applied that name to the next Full Moon, in February.



All proceeds go toward the support and maintenance of the Lighthouse Tower, Museum and grounds. Point Arena Lighthouse Keepers, Inc. thank you for your generous support. Tickets are $50 each.



(almost) Full Wolf Moon Night Tour - CANCELED

The Point Arena Lighthouse will be closed for our annual inventory count! We will reopen January 10th at 10 a.m. 

Lighthouse Closed 1/8-9 for Annual Inventory Count

"Wait, What? - the weirdest, coolest, big and tiny, most fun works in an artist's life!"

 as part of the Lighthouse Lecture Series on Saturday, December 21 at 4 p.m.  Admission is $5 per person.

Art is fun to look at but the story of why and how it exists can pull you deeper in. My life as a working artist has been filled with what people want in the modern era when photography abounds and nobody needs me to paint their portrait anymore. (Though some still do.) What are just a few of these commissions? Business signs and logos of course, but also tombstone design, a car hood ornament, the high school mascot of a grinning pirate painted on the gym floor, and an ornate baroque bathroom mural on the walls and ceiling of a tiny private bathroom.

Creative sewing adds another dimension, because people need stuff related to their clothes. Not so much new garments, since the global economy has rendered garments made by cheap labor overseas more affordable than anything produced here. On the other hand, I’m really in demand because fewer and fewer people know how to sew. I hem pants, but also did custom-made boxer shorts for a client who hates elastic. I’ll show you the most awesome ensemble I ever created (for my own wedding) as well as the Velvet Pelvis, a life-size, anatomically accurate female torso with removable parts made for a doctor to use with her patients. And there is the Velvet Vulva line of fine purses and other accessories for the enlightened boyfriend/husband, feminist, and psych professional market.

Come to the talk to see how, why and where these works came to be, including delivery on bikes by kids. See the most bizarre mistake I ever made in a painting, thankfully discovered in time! Find out how my posthumous portrait angel of a local surfer came home again and what happened to another of the goddess/angels on my own house that relates to the passing of my beloved mom, with whom all this artistry started.


I am an artist, historian and former politician who loves western boots. My diverse portfolio is partly the result of making a living as an artist in the modern world. Before photography was invented, everyone would want me to create their image. Now, it’s really only dogs that people commission portraits of (half kidding). I once paid a vet bill with a mural of dogs, cats, birds, rabbits and mice.

It all started in Wisconsin’s dairyland, where I was raised by an artist mother and poet father. My mom supported us on graphic design, and as a toddler I worked at a little table alongside her. Our house was filled with paintings and books. It was the Age of Aquarius and I knew I was supposed to be at Woodstock, but it was impossible. I was ten. My senior year was spent as an AFS exchange student in Belgium, speaking only French and learning to take class notes in perfect outline form. I discovered the art of conversation, four-hundred year old homes and good coffee. Not to mention great beer! It was there that I felt the pull of an old culture living still where it had always been.

At Rice University in wonderfully hot Houston, I earned a BA and BFA in Art and French, then an MA in Art History. The subject of my Master’s thesis was a stroke of luck, a modest yet mysterious portrait of two men from Renaissance Venice in the Museum of Fine Arts. It is likely a double-portrait of the famous artist Giovanni Bellini, together with his long-time assistant, who painted the panel. The story blossomed again after new research led to my 2012 paper exploring whether the exalted painter and his head of studio were also secret lovers. 

In 1999, my young sons and I left Texas and headed west in a school bus outfitted with beds and a woodstove. We lived in our bus for a year on a ridge above the south Mendocino coast. When we moved into Point Arena, I supported us with art. Jobs ranged from ornate murals to tombstone design and high school mascots on the basketball court floor. I sewed a life-size torso complete with female reproductive parts for a doctor. I created the Velvet Vulva line of purses for the feminist and enlightened market. I painted curbs and hemmed pants. Business signs and logos were a mainstay, including for my own business, above. My house was teeming with the boys and their friends, who sometimes made deliveries for me on their bikes. And yes, it’s full of paintings and books.

Point Arena’s population is only 465, but it is incorporated and has an elected government. This opened the door to my life in politics as City Council member and then Mayor. Point Arena is the seventh tiniest city in California, which meant the city staff was small and overworked, and our jobs as elected officials were large and unending. On top of legislative activity, we also had the tasks of employee hiring, evaluating, and firing. My university education did not cover employment law, human resources, transportation planning and environmental regulation, but professional development for this new position soon would. I dove into the work, which provided an avenue for achievement and was a perfect counterpart to art.

My career crown jewel, the huge historical narrative mural on the north wall of the Ukiah Valley Conference Center, is the result of these threads interweaving. I could use all those hours of life drawing, all of that house painting, my knowledge of narrative art through the centuries, and my experience working with the community in government. This is a public work for everyone
and about everyone. It contains over two-hundred portraits, and tells many stories of people who live here now. People can see why this art has meaning. 

They understand the argument I once presented to a dear friend over dinner:  “You will be fascinated,” he was informed, looking doubtful as he questioned art history and the importance of such things. “History is to humanity as memory is to the individual,” I said. We are each of us walking backwards into the future, seeing only the present and past. “Would you want to do that with your eyes shut?” My companion smiled, saw it was true, and ordered champagne, since he was about to hear what had been revealed by a Venetian inventory from 1569.*


*That the great collection of Gabriele Vendramin included a little box portrait of Giovanni Bellini with the portrait of his assistant Vittore on its cover, each depicted by the other.


See the whole mural project with the stories behind the portraits at www.historymural.com

Lighthouse Lecture Series - Lauren Sinnott

The (almost) Full Cold Moon Night Tour has been CANCELED

CANCELED - (almost) Full Cold Moon Night Tour 

This Whale Watch Room Gallery Exhibit features present and past winners of the 

California Ocean and Coastal Amateur Photography Contest

The exhibit will remain on display from December 14 through February 3, 2025.  Jewelry by Ling-Yen Jones continues to be on display as well.

California is in many ways defined by its coast and ocean, which provide us with enjoyment, beauty, solace, and adventure. The 

 pays tribute to these special places, honors the diversity of wildlife they support, and celebrates our ability to access and enjoy these special places. This exhibit features a selection of prize-winning images from the contest over the years, including winners from 25th annual contest that was held during the summer of 2024. The recent contest received 963 submissions from photographers across California. A judging panel consisting of professional photographers and naturalists unanimously selected winners and honorable mentions.

This annual contest is sponsored by the 

, which was established by voter initiative in 1972 to provide long-term protection for California’s 1,100-mile coastline. The Coastal Commission’s 

 provides opportunities for the public to learn about and connect with California’s remarkable coast and ocean. 

Whale Watch Room Gallery Exhibit - CA Coastal Conservancy Photo Contest Winners

Join us at the Light Station Store from Friday, November 24 through Friday, December 6 for our big 12 Days of Christmas sales event!  All locals from Timber Cove to Elk will enjoy free admission to the Light Station, "The More You Spend, The More You Save" discount cards and lots of great discounted sale items.  

12 Days of Christmas

The Point Arena Lighthouse continues its popular Full Moon Night Tours with an (almost) Full Beaver Moon Night Tour on Saturday, November 16.  Gates open at 5:30 p.m. and the tour starts around 6 p.m. The evening will feature a special presentation about the Light Station’s history and technology, sweet and savory snacks accompanied by champagne or sparkling juice, capped off by a guided “Climb to the Top” tour of the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast under the rising full moon – if the weather cooperates, of course!  An etched Point Arena Lighthouse souvenir champagne flute is included in the price of admission for each participant, which is $50 per person. The tour is limited to 20 guests, so reservations are recommended in advance of the tour. While the tour is scheduled to coordinate with the full moon, weather conditions may preclude lunar visibility. The tours are conducted regardless of weather conditions unless the Lighthouse Staff deems them to potentially cause safety issues for the guests. If the tour is canceled, guests will receive a full refund. The Lighthouse is located at 45500 Lighthouse Road in Point Arena.

For decades, the Almanac has referenced the monthly full Moons with names tied to early Native American, Colonial American, and European folklore. Traditionally, each full Moon name was applied to the entire lunar month in which it occurred and through all of the Moon’s phases—not only the full Moon. Why the “Beaver” Moon? This is the time of year when beavers begin to take shelter in their lodges, having laid up sufficient food stores for the long winter ahead. During the fur trade in North America, it was also the season to trap beavers for their thick, winter-ready pelts.

The Lighthouse offers Full Moon and (almost) Full Moon Night Tours throughout the year on the Saturday closest to the full moon if it doesn't fall on that day.  Check our 

 for dates and times of all Lighthouse events.  For more information or to make a reservation, call the Lighthouse at 707-882-2809, ext. 1 at least three days before the date of the tour.

On Saturday, November 16 at 4 p.m. Shari Goforth will present "Hungry, Hungry Giants: Gray Whale Survival Strategies in the Changing Ocean Conditions of the Pacific Northwest Coast."

Gray whales, Eschrichtius robustus, were nearly forced into extinction by whaling. With the ban on whaling and marine mammal protections, Pacific Northwest Coast gray whales made a strong comeback. E. robustus’ numbers rose to nearly 27,000 individuals and they were, as their name suggests, robust. Since 2019, though, the number of dead gray whales washing up along the west coast has been elevated. Scientists at NOAA, the agency who monitors the gray whale population, declared an end to the Unusual Mortality Event, but the gray whales are still in troubled waters.

Come spend time with us at the beautiful Pt. Arena Lighthouse where we will try to unravel the mystery of the shrinking gray whale population and explore some of the unique strategies these charismatic gray whales are adopting to survive in these changing times.

Lighthouse Lecture Series - Shari Goforth

The Point Arena Lighthouse is thrilled to welcome back the Moonlight Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos Bajo la Luna) from Friday, November 1 through Monday, November 11, 2024. This special community event is free to view, let the Tour Associate in the entry kiosk know that you are visiting to see the exhibit. 

The exhibit of student art inspired by the popular Día de los Muertos celebration will be displayed in the Buttress Room at the base of the Lighthouse Tower, The displayed art is by students of PCCHS, Point Arena High School, Point Arena Elementary, Pacific Community Charter Elementary, Manchester Elementary, Horicon, North Coast Homeschool Collective, and The Forager School.

There will be a Community Altar in the Whale Watch Room of the Fog Signal Building Museum watched over by a Catrina and the public is invited to bring their offerings to add to the altar in memory of their loved ones.

In addition to the student art exhibit in the Lighthouse Tower, the artist exhibit in the Whale Watch Room Gallery (WWRG) features Alex Theron, "The Environment and Sea" paintings and Ling-Yen Jones’ jewelry.  


Moonlight Day of the Dead at the Lighthouse 

Join us at the Light Station Store from Thursday, October 31 through Sunday, November 3 for our Spooktacular sales event! "The More You Spend, The More You Save" discount cards and many great discounted sale items. 



Light Station Store - Spooktacular Sale

Scott Mercer presents "Two Species, Two Coasts" on Saturday, October 19th at 4 p.m.  Admission is $5 per person.

This presentation will examine two species of large baleen whales, each threatened by climate change and decreasing populations. The population of the North Atlantic right whale is a dangerously susceptible 360. The species never recovered from relentless whaling that began in the 17th Century and continued into the 20th Century.

Gray whales have suffered and rebounded from severe population declines over the past 4-5 centuries. The effects of climate change on their feeding abilities may be an obstacle too formidable to overcome.  Lastly, we will discuss the newest research on the continuing ecosystem effects of the decline in kelp and the explosion in urchin population.

Scott began studying marine mammals in 1974 in Monterey Bay with an extended study of the feeding ecology of sea otters. After relocating to his native New England, in 1978 Scott founded New England Whale Watch, Inc. as an opportunity to offer first hand ocean life education to the public, and for him to collect data on the whales being observed. Scott was recently interviewed, for his role as a pioneer in Atlantic Coast whale watching, by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration as part of a history of the whale watching industry in New England.
Scott was cofounder of the Brier Island Ocean Study, a research station in Nova Scotia, Canada. He has led offshore and overnight excursions to the Atlantic Outer Continental Shelf, in the Caribbean, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland, Canada. In 1982 Scott coauthored The Great Whale Book, for 14 years he taught a marine mammal class for the University of New Hampshire’s Continuing Education, as well as science classes for the Southern Maine Community College. 

In 2014, Scott with his wife Tree Mercer founded the Mendonoma Whale and Seal Study to document the occurrence, diversity, and behavior of marine mammals along the coast from Northern Sonoma County to Southern Mendocino County. They present their data and findings at many local and international conferences. In 2021, the Mercers were featured in an extensive article in the Los Angeles Times about the Unusual Mortality Event of gray whales. In 2022 they were included in a documentary film about gray whale research created by the UC Berkeley Department of Graduate Journalism.



Lighthouse Lecture Series - Scott Mercer

Only 2 spots left for this tour as of Wednesday, October 16!

The Point Arena Lighthouse continues its popular Full Moon Night Tours with an (almost) Full Hunter's Moon Night Tour on Saturday, October 19.  Gates open at 7 p.m. and the tour starts around 7:30 p.m. The evening will feature a special presentation about the Light Station’s history and technology, sweet and savory snacks accompanied by champagne or sparkling juice, capped off by a guided “Climb to the Top” tour of the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast under the rising full moon – if the weather cooperates, of course!  An etched Point Arena Lighthouse souvenir champagne flute is included in the price of admission for each participant, which is $50 per person. The tour is limited to 20 guests, so reservations are recommended in advance of the tour. While the tour is scheduled to coordinate with the full moon, weather conditions may preclude lunar visibility. The tours are conducted regardless of weather conditions unless the Lighthouse Staff deems them to potentially cause safety issues for the guests. If the tour is canceled, guests will receive a full refund. The Lighthouse is located at 45500 Lighthouse Road in Point Arena.

According to the Old Farmer’s it is believed that this full moon came to be called the full Hunter’s Moon because it signaled the time to go hunting in preparation for the cold winter ahead. Animals are beginning to fatten up ahead of winter, and since the farmers had recently cleaned out their fields under the Harvest Moon, hunters could easily see the deer and other animals that had come out to root through the remaining scraps (as well as the foxes and wolves that had come out to prey on them). The earliest use of the term “Hunter’s Moon,” cited in the Oxford English Dictionary, is from 1710. Some sources suggest that other names for the Hunter’s Moon are the Sanguine or Blood Moon, either associated with the blood from hunting or the color of the changing autumn leaves. The names of the moon are most often related to natural signs of the season or to activities that were done at this time of year. Some other Native American names for the October full moon include Drying Rice Moon (Dakota), Falling Leaves Moon (Anishinaabe), Freezing Moon (Ojibwe), Ice Moon (Haida) and Migrating Moon (Cree).

The Lighthouse offers Full Moon and (almost) Full Moon Night Tours throughout the year on the Saturday closest to the full moon if it doesn't fall on that day.  Check our 

(almost) Full Hunter's Moon Night Tour - Only 2 spots left!

Sara Bogard presents "Seals Beside Us Harbor Seals and Other Inhabitants of the Point Arena Lighthouse and Stornetta Public Lands" on Saturday, September 21st at 4 p.m.

This presentation is a visual journey and stories of the Harbor Seals and other Inhabitants that reside, give birth, and migrate through the Point Arena Lighthouse and Stornetta Public Lands. Sara continues to photograph and collect data on the Harbor Seal population, the migratory and nesting birds, and other mammals seen on her weekly surveys. This year, completes her 6th year of surveying this area. During the Harbor Seal pupping and molting season her observations focus on mother and pup interaction and the survival skills pups practice during the first month. Each year brings new observations and awareness in this ongoing cycle. As of May 9th, she has counted up to 39 Harbor Seal pups. Her data continues to show patterns which, over time, reveal information on how this local population is doing from year to year. Each year is different and observations of unusual or new species and behavior are also recorded. From this data and information, patterns and cycles of birth, nesting, and migration emerge to make these bluff tops a spectacular place to view and connect with the natural world.

Sara Bogard is a citizen scientist and volunteers for several conservation organizations, including the Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary Beach Watch Program, the California Harbor Seal Monitoring and Inventory Program, the Marine Mammal Center, and the Harbor Seal Docent Program at The Sea Ranch. She does monthly and weekly surveys on beaches and bluff tops from Black Point Beach to South Manchester State Beach. Her volunteer work includes the counts of live and dead species, recording data of dead species on the beach, and taking survey photographs. Throughout the year, and during the Harbor Seal pupping and molting season from March through July, she counts the number of adults, immatures, and pups at the Point Arena Lighthouse and Stornetta Public Lands. She assesses the condition of live stranded pinnipeds in the area, and when needed performs seal rescues with other designated volunteers. She also shares information on Harbor Seals for the general public during the Harbor Seal pupping season. Her goal is to collect this data and share her observations to promote the health and sustainability of pinniped populations in Northern California and bring public awareness to the effects of human and current environmental factors that affect these species.

For information on all Lighthouse events visit our 

The Point Arena Lighthouse continues its popular Full Moon Night Tours with an (almost)  Full Harvest Moon Night Tour on Saturday, September 14. 

 We have 10 spots left as of Friday, September 13!  

Gates open at 7 p.m. and the tour starts around 7:30 p.m. The evening will feature a special presentation about the Light Station’s history and technology, sweet and savory snacks accompanied by champagne or sparkling juice, capped off by a guided “Climb to the Top” tour of the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast under the rising full moon – if the weather cooperates, of course!  An etched Point Arena Lighthouse souvenir champagne flute is included in the price of admission for each participant, which is $50 per person. The tour is limited to 20 guests, so reservations are recommended in advance of the tour. While the tour is scheduled to coordinate with the full moon, weather conditions may preclude lunar visibility. The tours are conducted regardless of weather conditions unless the Lighthouse Staff deems them to potentially cause safety issues for the guests. If the tour is canceled, guests will receive a full refund. The Lighthouse is located at 45500 Lighthouse Road in Point Arena.

The Harvest Moon is the moon that falls near the autumnal equinox. This full Moon provides the most light at the time when it’s needed most—to complete the harvest. According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac full moon names were used by early Colonial Americans who learned the names from the local Native Americans. Indigenous people did not record time by using the months of the Julian or Gregorian calendar. Many tribes kept track of time by observing the seasons and lunar months, although there was much variability. The September full moon is also called the Full Corn Moon because it traditionally corresponds with the time of harvesting corn. It is also called the Barley Moon because this is the time to harvest and thresh ripened barley. Some other traditional September Full Moon names used by Native Americans include “Moon When the Plums Are Scarlet” (Lakota Sioux), “Moon When the Deer Paw the Earth” (Omaha Native Americans), and “Moon When the Calves Grow Hair” (Sioux Native Americans).

The Lighthouse offers Full Moon and (almost) Full Moon Night Tours throughout the year on the Saturday closest to the full moon if it doesn't fall on that day.  Check our 

 features paintings by Alex Theron.  Opening reception with refreshments and hors d'oeuvres Saturday, September 7 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.  The exhibit will remain on display from September 7 through December 9.  Jewelry by Ling-Yen Jones continues to be on display as well.





Focusing on renewable materials and recycling, my practice is centered around The Environment and Sea.

This body of work speaks about the history of this area (Mendocino) and the maritime characters and or animals that make it uniquely positioned on the US West Coast.

Having spent near most of the last 30 years in some of the world’s most rugged Maritime and Alpine environments, my work promoted endangered species protection. As I was working remotely operationally with expedition vessels and helicopters (sub Antarctica), I witnessed first hand the effects of global warming.

My process involves educating those lesser privileged about the impacts of our footprint by telling narratives that are local and global with an emphasis on nature, community and femininity.



Born in South Africa and 1/3 American; 1/3 New Zealander, Alex considers herself a citizen of the world and a woman with a voice. She holds a BFA Film from Canterbury University) and MFA from Otago. Her other educational background includes studying Ocean Engineering at Florida Atlantic University, Woods Hole and MIT. She has spent 30 years working in operational outdoors education for not for profits and facilitating operations in World Heritage Parks. Alex is presently working with museums globally with a goal of improving public policies and procedures and bettering funding tiers to vocalize lesser privileged narratives to become heard through art and information technology. 

Whale Watch Room Gallery Exhibit - Alex Theron

Local artist Alex Theron will present “Draw, Sea, Science” at the Point Arena Lighthouse on Saturday, Sept. 7 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.  This interactive youth focused program is intended to teach kids how to draw shape and form through outline and shadows.  Alex will provide all materials, donations of $5 - $10 to cover materials are encouraged but not required for participation.

“I will have the kids look at shells and the landscape and the shapes they have,” Alex says. “I will bring examples of abalone and sea urchins that kill the bull kelp and point out the imperfections caused by invasive species. My goal is primarily to teach line drawing so they can learn to document by illustration.”

Pre-prepped wooden boxes measuring: 5 x 5 inches, with a bracket for hanging, will be the “canvas” for the kids’ art.  Alex will also provide the marker pens for creating the art. The participating young artists will take their creations home along with stickers for participating.

Born in South Africa and 1/3 American; 1/3 New Zealander, Alex considers herself a citizen of the world and a woman with a voice. She holds a BFA Film from Canterbury University) and MFA from Otago. Her other educational background includes studying Ocean Engineering at Florida Atlantic University, Woods Hole and MIT. She has spent 30 years working in operational outdoors education for not for profits and facilitating operations in World Heritage Parks. Alex is presently working with museums globally with a goal of improving public policies and procedures and bettering funding tiers to vocalize lesser privileged narratives to become heard through art and information technology. 

Draw, Sea, Science Youth Art Workshop

The Point Arena Lighthouse continues its popular Full Moon Night Tours with an (almost)  Full Sturgeon Moon Night Tour on Saturday, August 17.  Gates open at 7:30 p.m. and the tour starts around 8 p.m. The evening will feature a special presentation about the Light Station’s history and technology, sweet and savory snacks accompanied by champagne or sparkling juice, capped off by a guided “Climb to the Top” tour of the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast under the rising full moon – if the weather cooperates, of course!  An etched Point Arena Lighthouse souvenir champagne flute is included in the price of admission for each participant, which is $50 per person. The tour is limited to 20 guests, so reservations are recommended in advance of the tour. While the tour is scheduled to coordinate with the full moon, weather conditions may preclude lunar visibility. The tours are conducted regardless of weather conditions unless the Lighthouse Staff deems them to potentially cause safety issues for the guests. If the tour is canceled, guests will receive a full refund. The Lighthouse is located at 45500 Lighthouse Road in Point Arena.

According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac Some Native American tribes in what is now the northeastern United States called the August full Moon the Sturgeon Moon because they knew that the sturgeon of the Great Lakes and Lake Champlain were most readily caught during this full moon. Other tribes called August’s full moon the Full Green Corn Moon signaling that the corn was nearly ready for harvest. Other examples for August are Wheat Cut Moon (San Ildefonso, and San Juan), Moon When All Things Ripen (Dakota Sioux), and Blueberry Moon (Ojibwe).

The Lighthouse offers Full Moon and (almost) Full Moon Night Tours throughout the year on the Saturday closest to the full moon if it doesn't fall on that day.  Check our 

Mark Hancock presents "Oh, The Things I've Seen!" as part of the Lighthouse Lecture Series on Saturday, August 17 at 5 p.m.

In his 9 years as Executive Director of the Point Arena Lighthouse Keepers, Inc. (PALKI) Mark has seen and experienced some of the most beautiful, unique, mysterious, awe-inspiring and entertaining sights, sounds and interactions at the Light Station.  Join him for this presentation of his favorite things he has seen during his time on the Station and hear the stories behind them.  People, flora and fauna, weather, atmospheric anomalies, full moons, storms, unique visitors (human, animal and mechanical) will all be part of this fascinating look back at the amazing sights you will see only at the 154 year old Light Station!

Mark has had a varied 51 year career in the working world, with a wide variety of positions in building maintenance, customer service, software application development and implementation, sales, quality assurance and other roles in both large corporations and small software startups. Prior to moving to Gualala full time in 2011 he worked at Crocker Bank, Pacific Bell (where he met his wife of 39 years, Laverne), software startups Salestar and Spear Technologies, and Wells Fargo Bank Internet. After moving to Gualala he became part of the coastal community by joining Gualala Arts as its Publicity Coordinator, a position he enjoyed for 4 years. When the Point Arena Lighthouse Keeper’s Inc. were looking for a new Executive Director in 2015 he applied and has been happily doing that job ever since.

Admission is $5 per person.

Lighthouse Lecture Series - Mark Hancock

The Point Arena Lighthouse will celebrate National Lighthouse Day on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. All visitors will enjoy free admission to the 

. Tower Tours will be available to guests 4 years and older for $5 per person. 

 was originally established in 1989 to “honor the beacon of light that, for hundreds of years, symbolized safety and security for ships and boats at sea,” according to the 

. Point Arena Lighthouse joins hundreds of lighthouses across America on August 7 in celebrating the day by offering free admission and special events.


More information is available by calling the Lighthouse at 877-725-4448, ext. 1, or 707-882-2809, ext. 1.

National Lighthouse Day

The Point Arena Lighthouse continues its popular Full Moon Night Tours with an (almost)  Full Buck Moon Night Tour on Saturday, July 20.  Gates open at 8:30 p.m. and the tour starts around 9 p.m. The evening will feature a special presentation about the Light Station’s history and technology, sweet and savory snacks accompanied by champagne or sparkling juice, capped off by a guided “Climb to the Top” tour of the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast under the rising full moon – if the weather cooperates, of course!  An etched Point Arena Lighthouse souvenir champagne flute is included in the price of admission for each participant, which is $50 per person. The tour is limited to 20 guests, so reservations are recommended in advance of the tour. While the tour is scheduled to coordinate with the full moon, weather conditions may preclude lunar visibility. The tours are conducted regardless of weather conditions unless the Lighthouse Staff deems them to potentially cause safety issues for the guests. If the tour is canceled, guests will receive a full refund. The Lighthouse is located at 45500 Lighthouse Road in Point Arena.

According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the July full moon is called the Buck Moon since at this time, a buck’s antlers are in full growth mode. This full moon was also known as the Thunder Moon because thunderstorms are so frequent during this month. Other Native American tribes had their own names for this full moon including Ripe Corn Moon (Cherokee), Middle of Summer Moon (Ponca), and Moon When Limbs of Trees Are Broken by Fruit (Zuni).

The Lighthouse offers Full Moon and (almost) Full Moon Night Tours throughout the year on the Saturday closest to the full moon if it doesn't fall on that day.  Check our 

 for dates and times of all Lighthouse events.  For more information or to make a reservation, call the Lighthouse at 707-882-2809, ext. 1 at least three days before the date of the tour.


(almost) Full Buck Moon Night Tour

On Saturday, July 20 at 5 p.m. Michael Combs  will present "A 49er Looks Back" as part of the Lighthouse Lecture Series.  

Michael's family moved to Point Arena in 1949 not long after his seventh birthday. The history of Point Arena was under 100 years old at that time but already included lumber booms and busts - the last driven by the post-WW II construction boom - Prohibition rum running, illegal gambling, hot-springs resort, “dog-hole” schooners, and feats of engineering that enabled lumbering.

Many of his friends and acquaintances were part of Point Arena life before 1900 and he’ll attempt to tell some of their stories and place them in the context of past events. Since he participated in more recent history - 1949 to 1969 – lived in an abandoned high school building, worked in sawmills, hayfields, drove a work horse, helped build our house, milked a cow, he’ll try to add a flavor of small-time life lived on what he half seriously called the frontier of civilization.

After graduation from Point Arena High in 1960, Michael went to Humboldt State a year, Santa Rosa Junior College a year, then the Air Force for 21.5 years – married his high school sweetheart Marilynn (they had three sons) - and attended five other colleges while in the Air Force. He started as a Russian linguist, then became a Budget and Finance Officer and Internal Auditor. After 14 moves, an MBA and CPA, he retired from the Air Force and worked at Lockheed, Sunnyvale, for ten years, then on to some other jobs including Kaiser Permanente, Oakland, and Nummi, Fremont. Marilynn died of breast cancer in 1988 just after their 25th anniversary, and he chose his current wife Alice from a book and they married in 1989. He retired in 1998 and he and Alice moved to Gualala, which they love over all places, while traveling quite a bit and loving coming home. Every day they play ball with their doggie Radar on Cook’s Beach and remind themselves not to take their wonderful lives here on the coast for granted.

Admission is $5 per person.

Lighthouse Lecture Series - Michael Combs

The Point Arena Lighthouse continues its popular Full Moon Night Tours with a Full Strawberry Moon Night Tour on Friday, June 21.  Gates open at 8:30 p.m. and the tour starts around 9 p.m. The evening will feature a special presentation about the Light Station’s history and technology, sweet and savory snacks accompanied by champagne or sparkling juice, capped off by a guided “Climb to the Top” tour of the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast under the rising full moon – if the weather cooperates, of course!  An etched Point Arena Lighthouse souvenir champagne flute is included in the price of admission for each participant, which is $50 per person. The tour is limited to 20 guests, so reservations are recommended in advance of the tour. While the tour is scheduled to coordinate with the full moon, weather conditions may preclude lunar visibility. The tours are conducted regardless of weather conditions unless the Lighthouse Staff deems them to potentially cause safety issues for the guests. If the tour is canceled, guests will receive a full refund. The Lighthouse is located at 45500 Lighthouse Road in Point Arena.

According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac this Full Moon got its name from the Algonquin tribes in eastern North America who knew it as a signal to gather the ripening fruit of wild strawberries. It has also been known as the Honey Moon, Mead Moon, and the Full Rose Moon in Europe.

The Lighthouse offers Full Moon and (almost) Full Moon Night Tours throughout the year on the Saturday closest to the full moon if it doesn't fall on that day.  Check our 

Full Strawberry Moon Night Tour

Stuart McDowell presents "Bill Owens: The Last Lighthouse Keeper" as part of the Lighthouse Lecture Series on Saturday, June 15 at 5 p.m. Admission is $5 per person. 

Bill Owens was the last of a generation of light keepers along the California Coast before automation rendered them unnecessary. His career with the United States Lighthouse Service and Coast Guard spanned from 1931-1963 at four light stations from Point Conception, Point Sur, Point Arena, and finally to Point Cabrillo.

In 1982, McDowell and his wife interviewed Bill and Isabel Owens for three days. Stuart, full of questions, found in Owens a willing storyteller as he described his experiences at the lights across four decades: the Great Depression, World War II, plane crashes, and storms.

Owens had a wry wit about him that surfaced frequently, a stubbornness that was more endearing than annoying, and a pride in his thirty-two years of service that was obvious. He expressed them all as he told the McDowells about the operation of the lights, earthquakes, rum runners, Japanese submarines—and the less exciting, but more enduring, job of him and Isabel raising a family of six daughters at the stations, one season of life transitioning to another.

In writing 

, McDowell draws from those days of face-to-face interviews with Bill and Isabel—and later with their daughters—to craft a riveting portrait of a man, a family, and an era of lighthouse men never to be seen again.



Lighthouse Lecture Series - Stuart McDowell

This special presentation has been canceled.

An Evening with Madam Kate - CANCELED

The current Whale Watch Room Gallery Exhibit 

"The Point-Arena Stornetta Lands and Beyond"

 features photography by Scott Chieffo and jewelry by Ling-Yen Jones. The exhibit will display from May 18 through September 2.

In the approximately 20 years that he has been living on the Southern Mendocino County Coast, Scott has developed an intimate photographic relationship with its unique landscape. His images capture the subtle beauty of the coast and forests with a highly unique, “painterly” style that emphasizes the quiet solitude of these landscapes.

The focus for this exhibit will be some of Scott’s favorite images captured on The Point Arena-Stornetta Lands over the past several years. The dramatic coastal bluffs, sea arches, and incredible views found here offer seemingly unlimited photo opportunities for both serious and
casual photographers alike. The omnipresent Point Arena Lighthouse as a backdrop only adds to the magic of this extraordinary landscape.

In addition, Scott will be showing a small collection of images taken in other locations along the varied and beautiful coastline of Mendocino County, from Bowling Ball Beach north to Mendocino.

While the vast majority of his artistry takes place in the field, Scott’s technical mastery in the “digital darkroom” allows him to optimize each image digitally so that the finished print matches his original artistic vision. Unlike traditional printing methods, the metal prints Scott is showing for this exhibit are created by infusing dyes directly into a specially-coated sheet of aluminum. This technique creates a vibrant and durable print that is resistant to fading, moisture, and fingerprints.

For the past several years, Scott has shown his fine art photography prints at galleries and exhibits along the West Coast. His work is represented in private collections throughout the United States and beyond. Some of his earliest images taken on the Point Arena-Stornetta Lands were used in the public relations effort to eventually have these lands added as the first
mainland-based unit of the California Coastal National Monument in 2014.

Whale Watch Room Gallery Exhibit - Scott Chieffo

The Point Arena Lighthouse joins the celebration of the 10th anniversary of its neighbor, the Point Arena – Stornetta Unit, being added to the California Coastal National Monument as part of the Celebrate the Coast event on Saturday, May 18 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

 The Lighthouse will be hosting several information/activity tables including Mendonoma Whale & Seal Study, Marine Mammal Center (with its rescue truck), Acorn Partners in Education, Greater Farallones and Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuaries and the California Native Plant Society (CNPS). The Farm will be offering its cooked-to-order waffles (available as gluten-free), organic sweet and savory baked goods and Little Green Bean Point Arena Lighthouse blend organic free trade coffee for purchase. For the kids and kids at heart, Acorn Partners in Education will be offering “Trail Bingo” cards, fill them out by roaming the Light Station and the Point Arena-Stornetta Lands and get a prize. At 11:30 a.m. they will lead a family-friendly walk on the Lands. The Arena Cove Stewards will be offering their famous locally caught fish tacos from noon until sold out. From 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., the Lighthouse will host a special celebration of the 10th anniversary with guest speakers Congressman Jared Huffman, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) California acting State Director Gordon Toevs, Friends of Point Arena-Stornetta Lands President Leslie Dahlhoff and other honored guests instrumental in protecting these special lands. Celebratory cupcakes from Franny’s Cup & Saucer, donated by the Point Arena Merchants Association (PAMA) will be available to all attendees after the celebration. At 2:30 p.m. the Dorothy King Young Chapter of the CNPS will lead a wildflower walk. Bokeya Pomo tribe member Isaac Rios and BLM Archaeologist Chris Lloyd will lead a native culture and local archaeology walk.

Admission to the Light Station and all events are free to all, and Tower Tours of the 115’ tall Lighthouse Tower are available for $5 per person 4 years old and over. 

The BLM Ukiah Field Office is hosting the event in partnership with the Friends of Point Arena-Stornetta Lands, Point Arena Lighthouse, City of Point Arena, and Mendocino College. Point Arena-Stornetta public lands was the first onshore unit of the California Coastal National Monument. In 2014, the California Coastal National Monument Gateway Partners successfully advocated for these public lands to be added to the Monument.

There will be information/activity tables, food, talks, guided walks, exhibits, and cupcakes! The Discovery Trail provides a self-guided exploration of 3.5 miles of coastline from City Hall to Lighthouse Road and an Open House at the Mendocino College Field Station. Festivities begin at 10 a.m. at Point Arena City Hall, 451 School Street, Point Arena, CA. A shuttle will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., allowing participants to walk the entirety of the five-mile trail in one direction and get a ride back to their vehicle. More details can be found on the 

 flyer, as well as an outline of the day's festivities!

Celebrate the Coast

The Point Arena Lighthouse, first lit May 1st, 1870. Its brick and mortar tower featured ornate iron balcony supports and a large Keepers' residence with enough space to house four Light Keeper families. In April of 1906, a devastating earthquake struck the tower. The tower was damaged beyond repair and had to be completely deconstructed

The United States Lighthouse Service contracted with a San Francisco based company to build a new Lighthouse that could withstand any future earthquakes. The company built factory smokestacks, which accounts for the final design for the current Point Arena Lighthouse. The new design featured steel reinforcement rods encased in concrete, and was the first lighthouse to be built in this manner.

The new Lighthouse began operation on September 15, 1908, nearly 29 months after the quake. It stands 115 feet tall, and features a 1st Order Fresnel Lens, seven feet in diameter and weighing 4,700 pounds. The lens is made up of 258 hand-ground glass prisms all focused toward three sets of double bulls eyes. It is these bulls eyes that gave the Point Arena Lighthouse its unique “light signature” of two flashes every six seconds.

In 1984, a nonprofit organization called the Point Arena Lighthouse Keepers, Inc. acquired the Light Station as part of a 25 year land lease from the Coast Guard and the Department of Transportation. In November of 2000, the nonprofit group became the official owners of the property due to their diligent historic preservation and educational efforts.

Join us Wednesday, May 1, 2024 to celebrate 154 years of lighting the way on the Pacific Coast with free admission to the Indoor Museum, Outdoor Museum and Light Station Store and free tower tours 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

154th Anniversary

The Point Arena Lighthouse is thrilled to present its annual Wind & Whale Celebration on Saturday, April 20 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Admission to the Light Station Indoor and Outdoor Museums is free, Tower Tours are available for guests 4 and over for $5 per person. Come stroll the 23 acres of grounds and watch the ocean for migrating gray whales, and wind and weather permitting the Berkeley Kite Wranglers will be flying their huge and colorful kites overhead. Scott & Tree Mercer of the Mendonoma Whale & Seal Study will be on hand to answer questions about the marine mammals that frequent our coast. Check out the Whale Trail interpretive panel next to the California Native Plant garden that showcases the marine mammals that frequent the waters that surround the Light Station. The Light Station Store will be offering sale prices on kites, whale related gifts and other items. Waffles, including gluten-free, and assorted organic baked goods from THE FARM will be available for purchase in the Fog Signal Building Museum. The Lighthouse is located at 45500 Lighthouse Road just north of Point Arena.

Formed at the turn of the Millennium, the Berkeley Kite Wranglers fly a collection of kites that contains nearly 30,000 square feet of giant creature kites - the largest of their kind in the world. The giant octopus kites have been a particularly popular sight in past years.   Each one is 20 feet wide and nearly 100 feet long. The pod, or ‘Octopile’ as the team likes to call it, flies in perfect formation. They have previously flown giant blue, humpback and killer whale kites as well as gecko, fish and cat kites. The Wranglers will fly from 10 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. Bring your own kite to fly or purchase one from a large selection of kites on sale in the Light Station Store, which will also have several whale themed items on sale.

The northern migration of the gray whales will be featuring the mothers and recently born calves making their way north from the birthing lagoons in Baja California back to their summer feeding grounds in the Bering Sea near Alaska. Watch these graceful gentle giants swim past the Light Station peninsula from the grounds or the Whale Watch Room in the Fog Signal Building, and chat with the Mercers about the details of this amazing migration.

The Wind & Whale Celebration is part of the Point Arena Merchants Association (PAMA) 

 which will be taking place in and around downtown Point Arena from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Special events, food, sales, live music and more will be offered throughout Point Arena. A free shuttle bus will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with several stops throughout the town and out to the Lighthouse.

For the most recent information on Lighthouse events call (707) 882-2809 ext. 1 or email Info.PALight@gmail.com

Wind & Whale Celebration

This Night Tour has been cancelled due to lack of minimum number of guests

The Point Arena Lighthouse continues its popular Full Moon Night Tours with an (almost) Full Worm Moon Night Tour on Saturday, March 23.  Gates open 7:30 p.m., tour starts around 8 p.m. The evening will feature a special presentation about the Light Station’s history and technology, sweet and savory snacks accompanied by champagne or sparkling juice, capped off by a guided “Climb to the Top” tour of the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast under the rising full moon – if the weather cooperates, of course! An etched Point Arena Lighthouse souvenir champagne flute is included in the price of admission for each participant, which is $50 per person. Reservations must be made at least three days in advance of the tour. While the tour is scheduled to coordinate with the full moon, weather conditions may preclude lunar visibility. The tours are conducted regardless of weather conditions, unless the Lighthouse Staff deems them to potentially cause safety issues for the guests. In the event the tour is cancelled, guests will receive a full refund. 

According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac in Native American and early Colonial times the Full Moon in March was called the Full Worm Moon. The ground begins to soften and earthworm casts reappear, inviting the return of robins. This has also been called the Sap Moon, as it marks the time when maple sap begins to flow and the annual tapping of maple trees begins. 

The Lighthouse offers Full Moon and (almost) Full Moon Night Tours throughout the year on the Saturday closest to the full moon if it doesn't fall on that day.  Check our 

 for dates and times of all Lighthouse events.  For more information or to make a reservation, call the Lighthouse at 707-882-2809, ext. 1 at least three days prior to date of the tour.

(almost) Full Worm Moon Night Tour CANCELLED

On Saturday, March 16 at 4 p.m. Katy Tahja will present "Orr Hot Springs and other county 'Hot' spots."  While the focus of the lecture is Orr Hot Springs attention will be given to the other mineral springs resorts in Mendocino County including those near Point Arena.

The public may not realize the importance these resorts played in the economic history of the county. Over 120 years ago they attracted tourists and still do to this day.

Where were they? Do they exist today? Are there hidden ones still out in the back country? What’s the oldest hot springs resort in the county? Come find answers at the lecture!

The Lighthouse Lecture Series is presented on the 3rd Saturday of each month at 4 p.m. (5 p.m. June - August).  Check our 

Lighthouse Lecture Series - Katy Tahja

The Point Arena Lighthouse continues its popular Full Moon Night Tours with a Full Snow Moon Night Tour on Saturday, February 24.  Gates open 5:30 p.m., tour starts around 6 p.m. The evening will feature a special presentation about the Light Station’s history and technology, sweet and savory snacks accompanied by champagne or sparkling juice, capped off by a guided “Climb to the Top” tour of the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast under the rising full moon – if the weather cooperates, of course!  An etched Point Arena Lighthouse souvenir champagne flute is included in the price of admission for each participant, which is $50 per person. The tour is limited to 20 guests, so reservations are recommended in advance of the tour. While the tour is scheduled to coordinate with the full moon, weather conditions may preclude lunar visibility. The tours are conducted regardless of weather conditions, unless the Lighthouse Staff deems them to potentially cause safety issues for the guests. In the event the tour is cancelled, guests will receive a full refund. The Lighthouse is located at 45500 Lighthouse Road in Point Arena.

According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac the February full moon is called the Snow Moon due to the typically heavy snowfall during that month. On average, February is the USA’s snowiest month, according to data from the National Weather Service. Native American tribes and Colonial Americans used full moons as a way of tracking the seasons. Other February Full Moon names include: the “Shoulder to Shoulder Around the Fire Moon” (from the Wishram people of the Pacific Northwest), the “No Snow in the Trails Moon” (Zuni, of the Southwest), and the “Bone Moon” (Cherokee, of the Southeast). The Bone Moon meant that there was so little food that people gnawed on bones and ate bone marrow soup.

“Our Full Moon Night Tours often sell out well in advance, and guests always marvel at the moon rising over the hills east of Manchester or Point Arena just as we arrive at the top of the Lighthouse Tower,” says Mark Hancock, Point Arena Lighthouse Executive Director. “Don’t miss out on this unique coastal experience, make your reservations early!”

The Lighthouse offers Full Moon Night Tours throughout the year on the Saturday closest to the full moon if it doesn’t fall on that day, see their 

 for details. For more information or to make a reservation call the Lighthouse at 707-882-2809, ext. 1 at least 3 days prior to the tour.

Full Snow Moon Night Tour

On Saturday, February 17 at 4 p.m. Robin will share her recent travels to Russia as a citizen diplomat. Her stories will include the projects recently completed and the warmth and kindness received by people in many areas of Russia. Take a look at the communities they love, of food they enjoy, of their standard of living which might surprise you, and so much more. Pictures speak a thousand words so many photos of recent travels will be shared.

The presentation will include photos of Lake Baikal, which sits near Mongolia and has 20% of all the water on our planet earth, photos of Siberian grasslands and forests, horses and wildflowers, city spaces of Irkutsk, Anga, and Moscow and many photos of smiling people. Robin hopes to encourage us all to understand that people, even in Russia, have personal stories and personal views that are not always what the media portray. Everyday people in Russia have everyday lives with many of the same concerns, hopes, and dreams that we all share.

Robin has been connected to Fort Ross State Historic Park ( now retired) and to Russia for over 30 years. She was lead coordinator for the natural and cultural programming at Fort Ross working closely with academics, organizations, churches, and tribal members which created many deep rooted relationships that carry on today. She has presented throughout the United States and Russia and continues to do so even through this difficult time. She has traveled extensively in Russia often putting together groups of tribal members and /or academics to strengthen the understanding of our shared history with Russia. Robin recently traveled to Russia in 2019, 2021, 2022 and most recently in 2023 to continue the diplomacy that is so important in today's world.

The Lighthouse Lecture Series is presented on the 3rd Saturday of each month at 4 p.m. (5 p.m. June - August).  Check our 

Lighthouse Lecture Series - Robin Joy Wellman

The Point Arena Lighthouse Whale Watch Room Gallery welcomes Santa Rosa artist 

 as its next featured artist. The exhibit will remain on display through April 29.



The main focus of my collection for the exhibit is a variety of still life paintings. The very word “still” in my still life paintings is what I endeavor to avoid. My goal is to present a still life painting that goes beyond “still” and invites the viewer to experience the simple beauty of a piece of fruit, a vegetable, a pretty vase, and many times, a rather ordinary object.


I work primarily in oil on canvas and/or canvas panels. To achieve the depth of color I strive for in my paintings, I most often paint in layers. By painting in layers, a more time consuming process, I find I can achieve richer and more vibrant colors which are called for in my still life paintings. By using this layered approach I hope to give “life” to my still life painting.


Whatever subject I choose to paint, whether it’s a still life or landscape, I hope to relate to my viewer a sense of calm and beauty.





I knew at a young age that I wanted to be an artist. I had a very gifted aunt that I admired and set me on my artistic journey. Not unlike many daughters, nieces, wives and mothers, my journey to this place in time has taken many detours. I happily find that now I have more patience and a more seasoned sense of artistic perspective.


This artistic maturity has brought a depth to my painting that I would not have achieved otherwise. I have been fortunate, in this later part of my journey, to study with talented professional painters learning invaluable techniques from each one. Two of my instructors were amazing still life painters that mastered their own unique approach creating paintings of remarkable beauty. I’ve also studied with talented professionals that have alternative and different approaches to painting. Absorbing as much as possible from my studies I hope to present my own unique artistic identity.


Life has also allowed me to travel to many beautiful places and also visit many beautiful museums containing art produced by world famous Masters. These travels and visits have given me inspiration as I experience all the remarkable beauty and talent in our world. The journey to my artistic identity is, happily, a never ending journey.



Jewelry artist Ling-Yen Jones continues to display her work in the Whale Watch Room Gallery display cabinet in support of Lynn's exhibit.

Whale Watch Room Gallery Exhibit - Lynn Carlson

The Point Arena Lighthouse continues its popular Full Moon Night Tours with an (almost) Full Wolf Moon Night Tour on Saturday, January 27.  Gates open 7:00 p.m., Tour starts around 7:30 p.m. The evening will feature a special presentation about the Light Station’s history and technology, sweet and savory snacks accompanied by champagne or sparkling juice, capped off by a guided “Climb to the Top” tour of the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast under the rising full moon – if the weather cooperates, of course! An etched Point Arena Lighthouse souvenir champagne flute is included in the price of admission for each participant, which is $50 per person. Reservations must be made at least three days in advance of the tour. While the tour is scheduled to coordinate with the full moon, weather conditions may preclude lunar visibility. The tours are conducted regardless of weather conditions, unless the Lighthouse Staff deems them to potentially cause safety issues for the guests. In the event the tour is cancelled, guests will receive a full refund. The Lighthouse is located at 45500 Lighthouse Road in Point Arena.

According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac in Native American and early Colonial times the Full Moon for January was called the Full Wolf Moon. It appeared when wolves howled in hunger outside the villages. Traditionally, the January Moon is also known as the Old Moon. To some Native American tribes, this was the Snow Moon, but most applied that name to the next Full Moon, in February.

The Lighthouse offers Full Moon Night Tours throughout the year on the Saturday closest to the full moon if it doesn’t fall on that day, see their 

 for details. For more information or to make a reservation call the Lighthouse at 707-882-2809, ext. 1 at least 3 days prior to the tour.  

(almost) Full Wolf Moon Night Tour

 is hosting “Storytelling at the Lodge” on Saturday, January 27 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. in its Fireside Lounge. This free event is for children of all ages. Point Arena Lighthouse Executive Director Mark Hancock will read the children’s book 

"Tasi, the Lighthouse Dog – A True Story"

herself. Each family will receive a Tasi sticker, a free copy of the book with pawprint signing by Tasi and a family pass for a Tasi Tour of the Lighthouse. There will be snacks, art activities, a sing-a-long, a book reading of 

 and children can have their photos taken with Tasi by photographer Bill Oxford. The Sea Ranch Lodge is located at 60 Sea Walk Drive, The Sea Ranch.



"Tasi, the Lighthouse Dog – A True Story"

 was co-authored by Elisabeth Redon and Mark, and it tells the story of how Tasi was rescued by the 

, adopted by Hancock and his wife Laverne and became one of the “Lighthouse Guest Relations Managers” along with Arena Mina, the Lighthouse Cat. Redon also wrote 

“Arena Mina, the Lighthouse Cat – A True Story”