Alex C.
Yelp
Constructed in 1856, Battery Point Lighthouse was one of the first lighthouses built on the California coast, and is still an active lighthouse utilized to this day. This little lighthouse can actually only be accessed during low tide, so you'll have to time your visit accordingly. It's recommended that you time it when the tide is at its lowest, to make the trek easier and safer. As well as reduce the risk of getting trapped on the small island when the tide comes back in. The path to the lighthouse is loose gravel and stones, so make sure to wear appropriate footwear. And for those that might be a bit mobility challenged, to also bring a walking stick.
Besides the lighthouse itself, there are a few things to see on the outside including two trees carved into the shape of a whale and fisherman, a tree full of lost buoys collected over the years, and a spot where you can trade your actual dollar for a sand dollar.
The lighthouse itself is actually inhabited and maintained by volunteers who stay for a 1-month duration before they rotate out. And tours are given of the small residence at seemingly random hours. When we arrived, the doors were locked up and they were unfortunately not offering any tours at that particular time.
Overall, a pretty stop in Cresent City to stop by for some quick pictures. But you'll have to time your trip based upon the tides.