Winter sunrise, Walton Lighthouse, Santa Cruz, California

© Jeff Lewis/Tandem Stills + Motio

Walton Lighthouse, Santa Cruz, California, USA

Step to the western edge of America, where Walton Lighthouse, also known as the Santa Cruz Breakwater Lighthouse, serves as a guiding beacon for passing ships. Built in 2002 in Santa Cruz, California, this 12-metre-tall modern maritime structure replaced a more modest light. The Walton Lighthouse got its name from Charles Walton, a businessman who generously contributed towards its construction costs in memory of his brother Derek Walton, a merchant seaman who tragically lost his life at sea during World War II.

Santa Cruz has been a busy port city since the mid-1800s when ships would unload lime, redwood and other agricultural products. These days, Santa Cruz Harbour is home to a commercial fishing fleet, as well as being a popular place to rent kayaks, boats and paddleboards.