Pigeon Point Program Overview

Exploring New Horizons Outdoor Schools at Pigeon Point is based at the Pigeon Point Lighthouse State Historic Park with accommodations provided by Hostelling International. Pigeon Point is located on the Pacific Ocean, 50 miles south of San Francisco, and 20 miles north of Santa Cruz.

The Pigeon Point program offers a three-day, two-night field trip to students 3rd-8th grade. Students have the opportunity to experience the elephant seals at Año Nuevo State Reserve, hike in the old growth redwoods at Memorial County Park, and explore the tidepools and sandy beaches of the San Mateo Coast. The program is led by an experienced naturalist staff and parent chaperone volunteers, provided by the school, that help provide additional program support and supervision.

The Pigeon Point curriculum, aligned with CA State Standards, focuses on three strands:

• Nature Appreciation and Understanding
• Cooperation and Teamwork
• Citizenship and Empowerment

These themes are taught through a variety of activities and locations. Daytime activities include:

• Tidepooling at the Pigeon Point Lighthouse
• Beach and coastal ecosystem exploration
• Año Nuevo State Reserve / Elephant seal tours
• Marine mammal observation
• Redwood forest discovery hike
• Community and life skill building at the Pigeon Point Hostel

Nighttime activities include:

• Seasonal educational puppet show
• Night hikes
• Fog signal building tour
• Stories and songs