Along the picturesque coastal landscape of California, between Point Loma and Point Conception, you will find one of the most beautiful spots in the nation, complete with palm trees, breaking waves and a lighthouse, standing as a reminder of the history of this serene location.

Point Vicente Light was illuminated in 1926 and was outfitted with a Third Order Fresnel Lens. The lens was manufactured in 1886 by Barbier, Benord & Turenne in Paris, France, and is by far the most beautiful aspect of this magnificent lighthouse. This lens is unlike any other because of the unique bivalve type design. The double prism allowed for two rapid flashes, followed by seconds of darkness, giving the seafaring travelers better visibility and recognition of the treacherous area this lighthouse protects.

The Fresnel Lens, pronounced ‘fra-nel’, was first introduced by the French scientist Augustine Jean Fresnel. Augustine was born in 1788. His father was an architect so mathematics and a love for science were in his blood. In 1824, well into Fresnel’s career, he was employed by the Lighthouse Commission and as part of his effort he developed the use of compound lenses instead of mirrors for lighthouse visibility. The new Fresnel Lens was introduced shortly after development and is used still today in almost all lighthouses throughout the nation.

The unique bivalve Third Order Lens is still located in the Point Vicente Lighthouse for visitors to enjoy. It produces two white flashes every twenty seconds and is powered by a 1,000 watt bulb. The light emanating from the powerful lens is rated at 437,000 candlepower and can be seen up to twenty miles away. Although the lighthouse was automated in 1971, it still serves as an active aid to navigation and is kept in pristine condition by the Coast Guard.