South of Pescadero [1] proper sits Pigeon Point Lighthouse (210 Pigeon Point Rd. at Hwy. 1, 650/879-2120, www.parks.ca.gov [2], daily 8 a.m.–sunset). First lit in 1872, Pigeon Point is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the United States.
Sadly, visitors find the lighthouse itself in a state of some disrepair, and recent earthquakes have made climbing to the top unsafe. Yet the monument stands, its hostel still shelters travelers, and visitors still marvel at the incomparable views from the point.
Winter guests can see migrating whales from the rocks beyond the tower.
Links:
[1] http://www.moon.com/destinations/california/san-francisco-and-the-bay-area/coastside/pescadero
[2] http://www.parks.ca.gov