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Cabrillo National Monument

All Cabrillo National Monument Outdoor Recreation Activities

General Information

Description - Cabrillo National Monument commemorates the landing of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo at San Diego Bay in 1542. This event marked the first time that Europeans had set foot on what later became the west coast of the United States. Cabrillo left San Diego and sailed northward, exploring the uncharted coast line of California. His contributions helped with the difficult task of colonizing the expanded Spanish Empire in California. Highlights of the monument include the Old Point Loma Lighthouse, Fort Rosecrans coastal defense remains, a coastal sage scrub ecosystem and the Cabrillo Tidepools.

Recreation - The glass enclosed Robert J. Lagomarsino Visitor Center at this site offers a spectacular view of San Diego Bay, surrounding mountain ranges and Tijuana, Mexico. The facility offers various programs and a small museum about Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, audio stations in six languages. The facilities are fully accessible.

Programs offered at this site vary throughout the year and include natural and cultural history themes. The Bayside Nature Trail is available on site and includes interpretive panels about the ecology of Point Loma. The Old Point Loma Lighthouse is restored with furnishings representing the 1880's. It is open daily.

Cabrillo is an excellent place to learn about the warm waters, and the creatures that live in it, of the southern California Coast. Several vantage points along the western portion of the monument provide excellent viewing of the gray whales that migrate to these environs each winter. Tidepooling is a popular activity at the beach areas during low tides. Exhibits and books at the visitor center will help you determine the species you're viewing along the coast.

Climate - The southern California coastal climate is mild with little variation in temperature year round. Be prepared for high winds, fog and sea spray at any time of the year. Visitors to the islands should dress in layers, with short and long pants, windbreaker, hat, sunscreen and waterproof outer clothing

Location - Cabrillo National Monument is located on the southern tip of Point Loma, approximately ten miles south of the city of San Diego.

Current Conditions & Trip Reports

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Number of People Encountered: 50+ ppl
Recommend to a Friend: Highly
Report: We have traveled to San Diego from Penna. four times. One of the most enjoyable places to visit is the Cabrillo Monument. We have been there each time we have visited the area and always see something new. The tidepools are especially interesting. We were there in Octoberr, 2001 and the fighter jets patroling the skies above San Diego were awesome! We highly recommend visiting this spot.

More Information

Contact Information:
Cabrillo National Monument, 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Drive , San Diego, CA, 92106-3601, Phone: 619-557-5450, Fax: 619-557-5469, cabr_superintendent@nps.gov

Additional Information:
California National Forests & Parks - California's National Parks, Monuments and Forests cover lands from the Pacific Ocean to the crest of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
California's Historic Sites - This section includes the major historic sites within California. California's rich history is showcased in its many historic sites and monuments.
San Diego Area - San Diego is the second largest city in California with a population of over a million people. The mild climate and beauty of the area attracts many new visitors and residents every year.
San Diego County - With its rich Hispanic heritage, temperate climate, deep sea habors, sandy beaches and a variety of fun-filled attractions, San Diego County is quintessential California.
Southern California -