A visit to San Diego's "only" National Park boasts tremendous views of the San Diego region and excellent opportunities to explore the natural, historical and cultural history of the area. Hike the new Oceanside Trail from the upper visitor center to the vibrant tidepools, or discover the weath of history inside the Old Point Loma Lighthouse. Whether you prefer taking a stroll among the blooming California wildflowers, an afternoon observing the chattering native birds, or a hillside hike with panoramic views of the Pacific coean -- Cabrillo National Monument welcomes you!
Current Conditions
- Cabrillo National Monument is open from 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, 365 days per year.
- The tidepool area will be open until 4:30 pm.
- The new Oceanside Trail is open everyday from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
- Visitors should come prepared to pack out their own trash, and bring enough food and water for their group.
The "Age of Exploration" exhibit, films, and ranger-guided programs present interesting insights into the history of Cabrillo. A short walk leads to the Old Point Loma Lighthouse. This picturesque structure is restored to its 1880’s appearance and presents life as it was for the light keepers and their families. In the adjacent Assistant Keeper's Quarters, interactive exhibits tell the story of the Lighthouses of Point Loma. In a nearby historic Military building, the exhibit "They Stood the Watch" presents the history of Fort Rosecrans. The bayside trail begins near the lighthouse and offers breathtaking views of the harbor and the city of San Diego. South of the Lighthouse is the Whale Overlook. This vantage point offers pleasant views of the Pacific Ocean and the New Point Loma Lighthouse. Whales are often seen from here in January and February . On the western side of Point Loma lies the rocky intertidal zone, a window into the ocean ecosystem that lies along of San Diego's coast. During periods of low tide, pools form along this shore in rocky depressions (low tide is considered at 0.7 or below). In them you may find anemones, elusive octopus, spongy deadman's fingers, and a myriad of other creatures.
The Cabrillo Store
Looking for a book about Juan Rodriquez Cabrillo, Tidepools or the Military of Point Loma? NPS Junior Ranger gear or Cabrillo logo hats, t-shirts and hoodies? A unique one of a kind gift idea is surely to be found in The Cabrillo Store, located inside the Cabrillo Visitors Center. The Cabrillo Store offers a wide variety of items to help memorialize your 1st or 100th visit to Cabrillo National Monument Park! The non-profit Cabrillo National Monument Foundation operates the Cabrillo Store. You can also shop online at cnmf.org/shop.
1800 Cabrillo Memorial Drive
San Diego, CA 92106
(619) 523-4285
info@cnmf.org
Daily: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
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