HI-Pigeon Point Lighthouse Hostel

This is a beautiful and unique hostel that is great for families, young folks, and couples. The lighthouse is dramatic, with the sea churning all around it. The landscaping is beautiful around the cabins.
The common areas of the cabins are the best part of the indoor area. Comfy couches and a clean, fully working kitchen with dishware you can use. Also, you can’t beat that ocean view! The rooms themselves are okay. Definitely musty, but that’s understandable with the ocean air. We stayed in a private room with a double bed. It had a thin memory foam mattress that did the job well enough. It wasn’t luxurious by any means, but our backs didn’t hurt when we woke up.
We reserved a night time slot for the hot tub. This was definitely the highlight of our stay there. We loved the freezing spray of rain and ocean mist hitting our faces while we were sitting in steaming hot water. Every time the lighthouse light up, we could see a flash of the waves hitting the rocks below us. Quite the experience!
I don’t give this place 5 stars for 2 reasons. One of the reasons is that the shower water comes out as a small trickle. Either fix it, or don’t offer it, but it’s not really functional as a real shower. We ended up just not showering because there was no way it would have washed shampoo out of my hair.
The other issue is that they have you remove your bedding, put on new bedding, and take out the trash. I have no problem doing these things in my own home, and I would have no problem doing these things at the hostel if they charged $ 30 a night, but at $ 87 a night for a tiny room with a shared bathroom without a properly functioning shower, I would have at least liked the perk of standard housekeeping.
Overall, though, I highly recommend this place for those who love the ocean. And if you don’t love the ocean, I’m not sure I want to know you.

Oh my goodness this place is surreal. Romantic beautiful scenery, sound of crashing waves. Hostel folks are friendly. We had a private room and planned the weekend as a getaway from our kids but just our luck we were placed with two families with 4 elementary aged kids and they talked and screamed very loudly until past midnight. But they were very friendly too, and since we’re used to kids it didn’t bother us too much, it was just like, well we were hoping to have time off from kids and hang out with European travelers. But you can’t foresee these things and it’s not really anything anyone can control. And it doesn’t matter because this place is so cool we’ll be back. The little Pescadero town five miles north is just real nice. Gets a lot of traffic for a small town and I can see why. The grocery store, the coffee shop decked out in 60’s décor are just absolutely one of a kind awesome. We got our wholesome breakfast from these places and then headed down to Santa Cruz for a day to explore. The drive along highway 1, everything was just spectacular. It’s an hour away from home, but feels like we traveled to another place this past weekend.

This is was our second time here visiting the lighthouse about a month ago, we never stayed at the Hostel but it looks very inviting, we walked around and then took the side road to see more of the ocean, what spoiled the view was the old man completely naked (yes, old man, you know who you are), yes, completely naked, changing behind his car. Dumb A**, did you ever think for a second that you were out in public and no one wants to see your old junk. He looked very surprised when we approached in our car, come on now, the whole street is filled with cars, certainly you didn’t think you were alone now, did you?
Some people have ZERO common sense, I mean really? Completely naked behind your vehicle? If you want to change-​use a restroom, S**T for brains.

Nice photography spot! Taken Greate pictures.

This was our first stop at the Hostel. We always stop at Pigeon Point lighthouse when riding down the coast. The Hostel is located right next to the lighthouse.
I haven’t been inside a hostel since I was in Europe, where they are very popular.
So we went in the office and a very friendly guy greeted us. He explained how the hostel operates, described the rooms and lodging options, pricing and general house rules. This brought back a ton of memories from my prior travels.
Not surprising most of the guests that stay here are European, it’s something they are familiar with and the low lodging costs are very appealing.
To get there you will need a car or motorcycle. However they are working with transit districts to get bus or van transportation as they had that service before. This will certainly be more convenient for the travelers.
The accommodations are communal. There is a common living room, kitchen and bathroom in each cottage. The dormitory rooms sleep from for to six people. Men and women are in separate rooms. Of course arrangements /​changes are made for couples and families.
The prices are VERY reasonable!
The cottages are within steps of the cliffs giving amazing views. Fresh air, amazing views. Nature at its best.
You can often see whales during the migrating seasons. There is a non profit working with the state collecting funds to fix up the lighthouse.

Wonderful stay with friends this weekend at the hostel. Keith, Mackenzie and Mike were so helpful, prior to our visit and during, giving us tips on what to see and where to eat. Amazing views of the ocean crashing against the rocks, complete with a surprise visit from humpback whales. Make sure you book a hot tub slot to watch the sunset.
Rooms are clean and comfortable, with shared bathroom, living area and kitchen facilities. Appreciated the lights out /​no noise after 11pm, though some of the doors are a little squeaky so you can still hear people coming in and out. Loved the focus on recycling and conserving water.
Easy access to local beaches, the town of Pescadero for yummy fresh bread, cheese and other things. A real gem, for families, friends or, as we found out that weekend, an alternative bachelorette party!

COOL place. My first day a bunch of us were having breakfast and decided to put together a dinner that night; we each figured out what we’d contribute and it turned into a lovely evening WITH a fire in a fire pit overlooking the sea. Note there’s no walking distance store, or shopping, so carry in what you want OR have a car available. Half Moon Bay is just up the road where you can buy food, gas, and do day-​trips for beach-​y shopping and antiques. There’s a fantastic walk on the bluff overlooking the ocean (with benches) on one end of the hostel and the other has tide pools when the tide is out. I watched numerous seals watching me and generally just chilled, the goal of staying at the ocean, right?

Out on their back porch now. Amazing views, staff, board game selection. Best. Weekend. Ever. Such a fun little getaway from the city. 6 of us stayed in a bunk bed room in the whale house (whale, whale, whale what do we have here?) very comfy beds, lovely other guests that we shared the common area with. Front desk staff was so friendly and awesome. We had real turkey sandwiches over looking the ocean with an amazing sunset, couldn’t have asked for a better place. Rooms are simple and clean, bathroom is old fashioned. They even have billards go kittens, I’m coming back as soon as I can.

With its breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and beaches, this is one of the MOST beautiful hostels around on the Coast. Lodging here, it’s easy to forget that this is even a hostel!
Now, when on one of my many epic road trips, I am usually on the hunt for remote, wild, and beautiful areas to lodge. The more unconventional, the better! Pigeon Point is no exception. I like this place so much! So much, I have stayed here THREE times – thus far!
This hostel is located 50 miles south of San Francisco, off Highway 1, in the middle of almost nowhere. And as part of the California State Parks system, there is a 115 foot historic lighthouse that has been aiding mariners since 1872. Sadly, due to lack of funding (problem throughout California and parks in general) the lighthouse is in need of repair. :(
The price for staying here varies (depending on the season), $ 25 a night for one of the beds in one of the dorms to $ 168 a night for a private room for a family of 6. Still, quite a bargain! The facilities here are pretty clean. There is a large kitchen equipped with utensils, dining area, and common area shared by all. And, there is a hot tub that costs $ 8 per person, and must be reserved in advance. Personally, I’ve never used the hot tub. ;) But really, the price for lodging here is priceless. :)
Another thing I will say – the staff here is very friendly and helpful. They are very easy going and informative. You would be, too, if you worked over at Pigeon Point Hostel!
Having earth friendly tendencies, I do appreciate that this is a very GREEN establishment, which means these folks are mindful about the environment. They strongly encourage conservation of resources: minimizing water usage, recycling, composting, turning off lights, and so on.
Plus, they also have free wi-​fi, though it can be a bit spotty, given the location. But, with such surrounding beauty why would anyone even look at a screen?! Unplug!
One of my favorite parts about staying at this hostel is being lulled to sleep by the sound of the crashing waves. It’s really hypnotic. It makes for a perfect night of sleep. Every time I’ve stayed here, I have felt restored.
If staying for at least two nights (strongly encouraged), you just gotta check out the area surrounding the hostel! I’ve taken morning walks along the beach, explored their tide pools, and gazed at the marine life (harbor seals and whales), at the far west edge of the property. Plus, they have a few Adirondack chairs for lounging as you sit to read a book, drink a cup of tea, and/​or just stare out at the sea (all of which I’ve done). Do make sure to wear a warm jacket and perhaps a scarf and hat, as it can get quite chilly and windy.
Plus, you might want to check out the charming neighboring town of Pescadero. I LOVE this town with it’s goat cheese farm, its small grocery store that sells OMG artichoke bread, and ollalieberry jams, and much more! And if you want to explore more natural areas, there is the Pescadero Marsh bird sanctuary nearby and Butano State Park, with its gorgeous redwood trees!
I’m telling you, it’s beautiful out here! Even in writing this review, I am reminded of this place and long to go back, soon!

I just moved to Northern California from Florida and was checking the area out visiting with my family when I decided to stop by on my way home from Monterey. I just have to say, the gentleman working in the office was very knowledgable and helpful. He knew a lot about the organization and about the hostel. I never caught his name, although I really wish I had. Young guy, blonde hair and southern with a great taste in music.
Anyways, outstanding service! Will have to come back and stay. Thank y’all for everything!

Staying here was a relief after the mediocre HI hostel in Santa Cruz. The location can’t be beat (as long as you have a car to get there or want to take a long bike ride); you can walk out to the beach and see seals on the rocks. The kitchen in the cottage I stayed in was huge and well-​appointed, with everything you would need for cooking. It wasn’t crowded when I stayed there (first weekend of spring) and the wifi worked. Totally worth the trip.

We love it here! Great drive. Beautiful views. The accommodation and staff at the Hostel were nice. The lighthouse is a jewel of Highway 1.

Thank you to Pigeon Point and all the wonderful staff!
My daughter and her fifth grade class spent three days there and had a blast. My daughter explored nature, learned so much, and made new friends. My son will go in a few years and cannot wait. Thank you, especially, to Heather for being a most perfect leader. You all rock there!
Thanks again!

HIdden Secret of the Coast Bay Area.
To take a break from the everyday.
I recommend this unique lighthouse.
You can stay in a private room or joint. They offer all amenities– and hot tube.
It is well-​worth a stay– and affordable. Take the scenic route and enjoy a coastal visit.

This review is based on the info gathered, as we were not guests.
Entranced by the beauty of the lighthouse from Highway 1, we drove over to investigate the beach and take pictures. We then stopped in to inquire about the property and discovered it’s a hostel. They have a hot tub right outside with a view of the ocean — hot damn. It’s right on the cliff! You can reserve it for a couple people at a time. WOW.
There are 4 different houses, and each house sleeps 15. There’s a living room and kitchen in each. I think it would be awesome to rent a whole house and bring a group of friends to stay here. They have firepits and a common area where they show movies every night.
Seals come in and hang out. The property is surrounded by ocean on 3 sides. The beach is wonderful.
I’m too much of a chicken to stay at a hostel, but this place is so inviting and beautiful and kind staff that I’m greatly intrigued. I would recommend that you give this a try!

Disregard these stars if you get there too late for the hottub, really the crown jewel of this hostel.
There are few things as heavenly as sitting in the tub with the sound of the waves, watching the lighthouse beam sweep across the water and looking at the stars (or fog, as is more likely given the location). It is well worth the trip. You have to arrive soon after check-​in opens, however, in order to secure a spot.
The beds are comfortable, rooms are clean. Bathrooms leave some to be desired but that’s pretty standard for a hostel. The kitchens are nice and well stocked with cooking utensils. Family rooms are cozy. The setting is unbeatable and there’s always nearby Pescadero if you need a taste of «city life.»

The ocean is amazing! Better than camping. AmenitIes available but must share…(negative) small… small over cramped rooms and 2 bathrooms. For upto 12 people. (positives) great common areas for spacious kitchen and family room and open space for random activities, picnic table outside, beds covered by little mats surprisingly not bad to sleep on.

As Arnold says, I’ll be back!
I’ve stayed in a good handful of hostels, both within the US and international. However, it’s safe for me to say this one has the best location, if you’re into beaches, scenic views, and waking up to ocean air. I’m actually amazed that a hostel exists out here. It’s located just off of Highway 1; the «point» where the hostel is located is surrounded by the ocean. If this was a hotel and not a hostel, I’d expect to pay upwards of $ 200/​night. At HI Pigeon Point, you can have ocean views for a paltry $ 30/​night (*gasp).
I’m actually from the Bay Area and booked this place one weekend (really needed a quick getaway). Saw some really good reviews and decided to check this place out.
Location:
–Less than 1.5 hours away if you’re coming from San Jose or parts of the East Bay.
–It’s located south of Half Moon Bay, off of Highway 1. You’ll cruise down Highway 1 and turn into a street which will lead you to the hostel/​lighthouse.
–Highway 1 is very scenic; be prepared to make several pit stops along the side of the road to snap some pics.
–Once you see the lighthouse, you’re there. The hostel shares the same parking lot as the lighthouse; you can also park along the street if the lot is full.
Checking-​in:
–You’ll see a sign pointing you to the check-​in room. They’ll give you a key for your room and a key code to get into your building. A $ 20 deposit is also needed for the key. Bedding will be given to you by the check-​in person.
–Yes, there is a hot tub that overlooks the ocean. $ 8 for 30 minutes (you need at least two people in order to sign up). I didn’t use the hot tub, but if you have your mind set on taking a dip, I recommend checking in early to make sure you get a spot (there’s a sign up sheet).
Facilities:
–There are several dorm buildings; each one probably has a similar set up.
–My building had a living room area, several dorm rooms, a kitchen, and one or two extra bathrooms.
–Inside my dorm room was 3 sets of bunk beds, lockers, closet, and single person bathroom.
–Things were a little dated, but it was clean and I had no complaints.
–Kitchen had fridges, microwave, stove, and full stock of kitchen items (mugs, plates, pans, etc).
People:
–Great mix of people; there were locals (like myself) and folks from the US/​international. I met solo travelers as well as families.
–The kitchen was a good place to get conversations going. I sat there for about 2 hours and people came and went; folks sat down to eat and chat. Once the sun sets, there isn’t much to do in the vicinity, so I felt this hostel was more social than others I’ve been to.
Things to do:
–Picnic! They have several picnic benches closer to the lighthouse side.
–BBQ! On the backside of the hostel buildings, there’s another area with BBQ grills and picnic tables.
–Take in the scenery; walk the premises and gaze at the ocean and admire the lighthouse. If you also go further down the road parallel to the ocean, you’ll find quiet spots with benches. Note that it may be hard to spot the benches from the road.
–You can’t go into the lighthouse (it’s fenced off), but it’s a great landmark for some selfies and Kodak moments.
–The lighthouse has a small museum and gift shop to check out.
–Grab a book and find yourself one of the Adirondack chairs behind the hostel buildings. Sit near the waves and enjoy your favorite author.
–Head to nearby downtown Pescadero and check out their shops/​restaurants. Grab a loaf of artichoke bread from Arcangeli’s Grocery.
Tips:
–You’ll need a car to get here; public transportation won’t work.
–Pescadero is a small town; try to bring everything you need. However, if you forgot something, the hostel check-​in counter has a few items for sale. Or, you can head to the shops downtown.
–Bring a lock for the locker, so you can secure your valuables.
–They do have private rooms if you have larger groups.
–Book your rooms early; this place is pretty popular.
–Get to the hostel early if you want to guarantee yourself a hot tub spot (min 2 people in your party).
–Bring earplugs just in case your bottom bunk mate is snores galore.
–Bring your own towels; don’t forget this isn’t a hotel.
–Don’t forget your jacket/​sweater. It can be breezy/​cold by the coast.
–Wake up early and maybe you can catch the cool morning fog.
–Since entertainment at night is limited (you’re in the middle of nowhere), bring your own indoor entertainment (books, cards, movies, games, etc).
HI Pigeon Point is definitely worth checking out. Lighthouse landmark. Surrounded by ocean waters. Meeting new people. Nature. Budget friendly. Hot tub. Picturesque.

Stayed here two nights with 4 friends for a girls weekend. It was pretty clean and the staff were friendly and helpful. The beds were super comfy, especially for bunk beds. The location was incredible with amazing views. We got to sit and watch seals playing and whales coming by from the sea cliff and then explore the tide pools in the morning. As my first hostel experience, this place set the bar pretty high. I plan on coming back again and possibly bringing my teenagers next time. Great value for the money and a very pleasant experience.

My sweetie shared fond memories about her stay at the hostel years ago. It’s still here, and guests may still soak under the stars in the hot tub perched on the edge of the cliff (shhh! don’t tell anyone) at $ 8 for 30 minutes. I can only imagine the experience of hearing, seeing and feeling the crashing waves, and relaxing under a canopy of stars, whilst soaking in that old tub!
Beyond the little history center you’ll find a walkway leading to a 220 degree view of ocean waves seething magnificently between, around and over the rocky crags. That alone is worth the stop!
Along the way, you’ll learn about the science of the Fresnel lens (why didn’t I know the S was silent??) and get a little more history about, and appreciation for, our country’s aging lighthouses. With enough donations, Pigeon Point Lighthouse may be open to visitors one day.
If you’re heading south toward Santa Cruz, you might want to stop and purchase local honey just a few miles down, at the side of the road. Or a little further down, you can pick your own berries while they’re in season. And to top it off, there are now micro breweries not many miles away in three directions! Little bit o’heaven here.

Pretty awesome! It’s a hostel located on the grounds of a lighthouse (Pigeon Point Lighthouse) on Highway 1, between San Francisco and Santa Cruz. You know what this means?
It means that you can go to sleep with the fresh ocean breeze rolling through your open window.
It means you can wake up to an ocean sunrise and walk along the beach.
it means that you can gaze up at the towering lighthouse at night and dream of a simpler time in Californian history.
It means you can drive as far as your heart desires on Highway 1 and still have a place to come back to at night.
It means you can meet others who have traversed Highway 1 and the parks along the way and discuss your adventures.
Pigeon Point Hostel is also located on northern elephant seal breeding grounds. If you look hard (not even that hard) you can spot new pups laying out on the rocks. There’s also a hot tub located along the cliffs that gives you amazing views. I wasn’t aware that you had to reserve a spot ahead of time so unfortunately I was unable to situate myself in this magnificent hot tub but I’ve heard great things about it.
Definitely stop by if you’re driving down Highway 1. Even if you’re not planning on checking into the hostel, take a look at the scenery and the lighthouse and gain some admiration for human-​nature interaction.

No, I didn’t stay at the hostel, but I did visit the Lighthouse. You can’t miss it on Hwy 1 between Big Sur and SF. From what I’m told, it’s one of the tallest lighthouses in North America… Top 25 I think?
It’s a quick (and free) stop off, get out of the car and stretch your legs. There’s a little museum at the base of the lighthouse that provides education on the history of this particular structure as well as how lighthouses actually work (they used to use mirrored glass back in the day before electricity!). Also, you can take a nice walk on to the deck and watch seals laying on the rocks.
And yes, there is a hostel if you need a cheap place to stay en route to SF or Big Sur. Peeked into an open door and it looks… well… hostel-​ish. But the big perk to staying here is the ocean view hot tub. That would make the dorm-​like accommodations seem not so dorm-​like.