East Brother Island

Whisking past the ruins of long-abandoned sardine canneries and the remains of the west coast's last whaling station, the 10-minute boat ride to East Brother Island is a trip back through maritime history. As the island comes into view, time drops back a century. You realize you are about to spend an evening in a lighthouse on your own island with just a handful of others. As you step onto the island and into the inn, you and your fellow guests are welcomed in the parlor by the innkeepers with wine and hors d'oeuvres. On cold winter nights, a fire in the wood stove completes the cosy picture.

Rates
From USD 295 per day for 2 people.

Location
Approximately an hour’s journey from San Francisco.

Accommodation
The inn has four bedrooms located in the historic lighthouse in the former lighthouse keeper's quarters. Each room in the lighthouse has a queen-sized bed and a wonderful view of the Bay. Each of the rooms has a different decor, and is named for its view.

Dining
Breakfast and evening meal are included in the price: enjoy the best in typical American cuisine.

Activities
There is plenty of reading material, including an illustrated history of the lighthouse restoration project. Guests may wish to bring a camera with a telephoto lens or binoculars to observe the wildlife in the surrounding waters and on West Brother Island. Guests who wish to fish should bring their own licenses, gear, and bait. There is also a lot to explore in the area.

Best time to travel
Between November and April, although the lighthouse is open all year round.

Getting there
Fly to San Francisco, then after a one-hour drive, take the boat over to East Brother Island.