Sausalito, Ca – Region of Golden Gate National Recreational Area
About the Park
Science Spotlight: Invasive Ice Plants
When making the trek up to the Point Bonita Lighthouse, it’s hard to miss the dense carpets of dark green succulent. Introduced to California in the 1900’s to help control erosion, the South African-native ice plant is beginning to overstay its welcome. A common sight along California’s coastal areas, the ice plant has been deemed invasive on stretches of almost all of California’s coast.
Although it’s a decorative and beautiful flowering succulent, it’s causing major problems for the native California plants that it’s outcompeting. Once established, the ice plant forms dense mats which force out native plants and alter the soil composition.
Its root system is shallow, making localized control possible. However, the ice plant is so widespread that it’s unrealistic to tackle it all in one swoop. For more information on how you can help control the problem, check out this site which helps provide resources to volunteers.

Park History
The discovery of gold in 1848 transformed the San Francisco area – what was once a city of 900 people quickly grew to over 20,000. To meet the needs of a booming population, the area began construction of lighthouses around the bay to lead the way for settlers. Point Bonita, completed in 1855, was the third lighthouse on the west coast. It remains still in operation today as a part of the Golden Gate National Recreational Area.
Visit the Park
Please note that there is no entrance fee to enter the park. Dogs are not allowed.
Before visiting, please note that the lighthouse is only open for visiting Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m, so plan accordingly.
Point Bonita Lighthouse is a 1 mile, out-and-back trail that winds around beautiful coastline to the lighthouse. During your visit, be sure to enter the lighthouse.
Here are some helpful resources to help plan your visit:
- Golden Gate National Recreational Area Park Map
- Directions to Point Bonita Lighthouse
- National Park Service’s Information on Point Bonita
- National Park Service’s Accessibility at Point Bonita
- Upcoming Events at Point Bonita
- Dog-friendly Areas in Golden Gate National Recreational Area
Gallery