Kathleen, You CAN get out to Angel's gate, IF you are a little crazy, and quite athletic. I did it a few years ago, but the breakwater is nearly two miles long (one way) and in many places, broken and dangerous. I really didn't know it was so bad until it was too late. Anyway, you can't get in at all, and seeing the lights is supposed to be fun, not dangerous! A good zoom lens will do the trick, and a harbor cruise takes you right by it. The San Diego lights are amazing, but I get up north more often.