The iconic Point Arena Lighthouse (pointarenalighthouse.com, adult/child $5/free) was constructed in 1870, destroyed in a 1906 earthquake and then rebuilt in 1908. It remains the tallest on the US West Coast (tied with nearby Pigeon Point) at 115ft.
Check in at the museum and have a look at the Fresnel lens, then climb 145 steps to the top for the jaw-dropping view. You can stay nearby in keepers' homes and apartments. The turnoff is 2 miles northwest of town off Hwy 1.
Tours ($5, plus a $5 site fee) include entry to the tower, a brief chat about its history and access to its outer platform (a great place to look for whales). The nearby museum doubles as a gift shop.
