Point San Luis Lighthouse sits on the headland west of Avila Beach, looking over the entrance to San Luis Bay. The light station began operating in 1890, after ships needed a safer mark along this exposed stretch between Point Conception and Piedras Blancas.
The building is often described as the only surviving Prairie Victorian lighthouse on the West Coast. Access is by scheduled tour, usually by trolley from Avila Beach Drive or by guided hike, so check dates and reserve ahead.