The Old Point Loma Lighthouse at Cabrillo National Monument drew plenty of interest from visitors Monday when park officials opened the viewing area atop its 70-foot peak — one of only a couple of times each year visitors can take in the 360-degree panorama from the breathtaking perch and get a glimpse at the magnificent lens inside. Curious visitors waited in line from a half-hour to an hour to climb to the top of the structure that began operations in 1855. The lighthouse was abandoned in 1891, however, because of poor visibility from low clouds. A new lighthouse was opened at a lower elevation, closer to the water, but the lure of the old lighthouse beacon continues. PHOTOS BY JIM GRANT I THE BEACON