Cabrillo National Monument
- Admission
- $20 per vehicle, $15 per motorcycle, $10 per individual on foot or bicycle
- Hours
- 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM daily (tide pool area closes at 4:30 PM)
- Duration
- 2-3 hours
- Parking
- Large paved parking lots are available near the visitor center and the tide pool area, with parking included in the admission fee.
- Access
- Wheelchair accessible visitor center, exhibits, and paved paths to the lighthouse. Accessible parking spaces and restrooms are available.
Located at the southern tip of Point Loma, Cabrillo National Monument commemorates Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo's historic 1542 landing. It offers some of the most spectacular panoramic views of San Diego's harbor and skyline. Surprisingly, it is also home to a fully restored 19th-century lighthouse and incredibly rich coastal tide pools.
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Established in 1913, this national monument honors the voyage of Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo, the first European to set foot on what is now the West Coast of the United States. Beyond its rich history, the park serves as a stunning vantage point where visitors can watch military ships, sailboats, and migrating Pacific gray whales glide across the ocean.
At the heart of the park sits the Old Point Loma Lighthouse, which stood watch over the bay from 1855 to 1891. Visitors can explore the beautifully restored living quarters to see what life was like for the early keepers and their families.
Down the hill on the western side of the peninsula, the park protects a rugged coastline featuring some of the best-preserved intertidal zones in Southern California. During low tide, these rocky pools reveal a fascinating world of sea anemones, shore crabs, and elusive octopuses.
Ratings
park◆ Visitor Tips
- ◆ Go during a negative low tide to explore the tide pools on the western side.
- ◆ Visit the Old Point Loma Lighthouse early in the day to avoid the crowds.
- ◆ Bring binoculars for whale watching if you visit between December and February.
- ◆ Stop by the visitor center to watch the short film about Cabrillo's voyage.
Heads Up
- ◆ Stay on designated paths in the tide pool area to protect fragile marine life and prevent slipping on wet rocks.
- ◆ The access road passes through a military base; obey all traffic laws and security signs.
- ◆ Drone flying is strictly prohibited within the national monument.
Common questions
When is the best time to visit the Cabrillo tide pools?
The tide pools are best visited during a negative low tide, which most commonly occurs during daylight hours in the fall and winter months. You should check the local tide charts and aim to arrive within one hour before or after the peak low tide.
Can you go inside the Old Point Loma Lighthouse?
Yes, the ground floor of the lighthouse is open to visitors and features restored 1880s living quarters. The spiral staircase leading to the lantern room is closed to the general public, though it is occasionally opened for special events.
Can you see migrating whales from Cabrillo National Monument?
Yes, migrating Pacific gray whales can be spotted from the park's overlooks between mid-December and April, with peak viewing in January and February. The Whale Watch Overlook, located near the lighthouse, is the best vantage point.
Does the America the Beautiful National Parks pass cover entry to Cabrillo?
Yes, the America the Beautiful interagency pass covers the vehicle entry fee for the cardholder and passengers. You can present your physical pass and a photo ID at the entrance station.