November 15, 1855 at sunset the Old Point Loma Lighthouse at the tip of the west coast off of San Diego was lit for the first time. 
The lighthouse remained in operation until March 23, 1891. Today the Lighthouse stands as a landmark and museum.
This historic structure at the southern tip of the Point Loma Peninsula shares it’s grounds with Cabrillo National Monument where the statue of Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo stands overlooking the San Diego Bay.
Cabrillo was the first European explorer to explore the coast of what is now recognized as California.
Today visitors come to the Old Point Loma Lighthouse to explore the museums, whale watch, hike, visit the tide pools, and to take in the water surrounded view of San Diego.
Twice a year visitors are offered the opportunity to tour the Lighthouse. My family was fortunate enough to visit the Lighthouse on the August 25th anniversary in 2013. The inside of the Lighthouse reflects that of the family that lived there more than 150 years ago including the wood burning stove and educational tools for homeschooling. View the special events calendar here.
I highly recommend visiting the Old Point Loma Lighthouse. The road to the lighthouse takes visitors through the Point Loma Naval Base (check gate hours here) and past the Rosecrans Cemetery which is another historic site.
There are many historic places to visit in San Diego; the Old Point Loma Lighthouse is by far one of my very favorites. I have been there several times and will continue to go back. I suggest a to drive out to the furthest southwestern point of the continental United States the next time you are in San Diego.
