In the 1880's Port San Luis (then known as Port Harford) was one of the most important port in Southern California and an excellent natural harbor. In 1885, the Lighthouse Board recommended a lighthouse at the site. Squabbles with competing ports such as Santa Barbara delayed completion of the lighthouse until 1890.

The completed Victorian structure with 40-foot tower and fourth-order Fresnel lens stood at remote San Luis Head near Avila Beach, just outside the harbor. An assistant keeper's dwelling, fog signal building (a 10-inch steam whistle), and small wharf were built nearby. The design was identical to the light at Ballast Point.

The station was difficult to access by land. Supplies were brought in by steamer. A 1917 description described the lone road to the lighthouse as "steep and rough." A 1962 description of the road built in 1950 stated that "a jeep is the only small passenger vehicle ... capable of traversing this route." (Nelson, pp. 60-61)

From 1914 to 1922, San Luis Obispo was the largest shipper of crude oil in the world. Over time, however, most major shipping was directed to San Francisco or Los Angeles. In 1974, the station was automated. The Fresnel lens was removed, and aerobeacons set on a tower adjacent to the lighthouse. The lens was moved to the San Luis Obispo County Historical Society in 1976.

In 1978, the Port of San Luis was licensed by the Coast Guard to restore the lighthouse. The lighthouse is currently being restored by the Point San Luis Lighthouse Keepers, who hope to turn the lighthouse into a museum. Day hikes on the Pecho Coast Trail pass the lighthouse. In 2005, Pacific Gas and Electric Co., which owns the surrounding property, agreed to spend $1.5 million to improve access to the light. Most of the funding will be used to provide a shuttle van service to the light. The road will be repaved and vans purchased to allow access.

References (see links)

Umbrella Guide to California Lighthouses, Nelson pp. 59-62
The Keeper's Log Winter 2006