The Cabrillo National Monument is well known for its historical significance and offers beautiful lighthouses, tide pools filled with sea life, and a memorial statue of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo. In 1542, Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo became the first explorer from Europe to step onto the shores of the West Coast at the site that is now Cabrillo National Monument.

The tide pools are one of the most protected intertidal spots in California and a favourite amongst travellers. During low tide, you can see diverse sea life in these pools, including sea anemones, sea stars, urchins, and more.

Cabrillo National Monument - one of the highlights of 10 Best Things to Do in San Diego for Couples and 10 Most Instagrammable Places in San Diego (Read all about San Diego here)

Highlights of Cabrillo National Monument        

At Cabrillo National Monument, you'll also find the Old Point Loma Lighthouse. It was one of the first 8 lighthouses built by the US government and was used beginning in 1855. By 1891, a new lighthouse was built at a lower point because the high elevation of Old Point Loma made it easily covered by low clouds and fog.

The lighthouse was boarded up and neglected until it was renovated in 1933, shortly after the memorial statue of Cabrillo was erected nearby. Because of the magnificent viewpoint, it remains the most photographed lighthouse in the park, which also includes the Ballast Point Light Station and Point Loma Light.

Good to know about Cabrillo National Monument     

The Cabrillo National Monument can be found at the crossroads of Cabrillo Road and Cabrillo Memorial Drive. You can access the tide pools from car parks 1 and 2, but be sure to arrive early, as these lots are closed as it gets busy.

Please be sure to be careful at the tide pools, and do not move any rocks or sea life, as the ecosystem is extremely delicate. Be sure to wear closed-toed shoes with good grip because the walk across rocks can be slippery. While you're in the area, you may enjoy a stop at Bennington Monument or Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery.

Cabrillo National Monument

Location: 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Dr, San Diego, CA 92106, USA

Open: Daily from 9 am to 5 pm

Phone: +1 619-557-5450

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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