Many people love to see the historical lighthouses that dot the coast of Northern California. One of these is the Trinidad Memorial Lighthouse, a replica of the still functioning Trinidad Head Lighthouse that sits atop a cliff on nearby Trinidad Head. Many visitors, and even some locals, think that the memorial is the actual operational lighthouse. That one, however, is open to the public only once a year. Still, its original fog bell and Fresnel lens, both retired, are now part of the memorial.
The Trinidad Memorial Lighthouse stands as a monument to 23 people lost at sea and over 230 more who have been buried at sea. After the memorial was established, the list of people soon outgrew the small plaques placed there. More plaques have since been affixed to the retaining walls. It is located in a little park overlooking the rocky coast below the town of Trinidad. .
Perhaps the best part of this lovely park and monument is the view. Rocks crop out of the foamy ocean, and many small fishing boats float amid them. Standing atop the beautiful bluffs with the salty sea breeze in your hair, you’re sure to create a vivid memory of this spectacular scene. If you’re there at noon, you’ll be privileged to hear the fog bell toll in memory of the lost sailors.
Where: off of Main Street on Trinity Avenue, Trinidad (google map)