Cabrillo National Monument: A Gem in San Diego

Cabrillo National Monument is one of the best locations in San Diego for a breathtaking view of the city. This National Monument honors explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo’s first landing at San Diego Bay on September 28, 1542. Consequently, Cabrillo was the first European to set foot on what we now recognize as the West Coast of the United States. Perched on a high hilltop on the west side of San Diego Bay, this site is renowned for its expansive city views, hiking trails, and vibrant tide pools.

For those interested in optimal visibility, winter offers the clearest skies. Visiting in the late afternoon provides an opportunity to witness spectacular sunsets. Moreover, the best time for whale-watching is during winter, while tide pooling is most rewarding from November through March. It’s worth noting that early summer, particularly June, may bring persistent fog to the area.

Best View Points

Visitors are encouraged to bring a snack, as there are no dining options at the monument. In addition, limited trash cans are available, so please take your trash with you.

• Views: On a clear winter day, you can see downtown San Diego and even into Mexico.
• History: Discover more about Juan Cabrillo and explore a nearby historic military building to learn about the area’s significant military history.
• Visitor’s Center: This facility offers daily programs, interactive experiences with rangers, and opportunities to learn about 16th-century navigational instruments and armor.
• Living History: Engage with reenactors who bring the history of Cabrillo National Monument to life through demonstrations that illustrate time spent at the lighthouse or military service in the area.
• Old Point Loma Lighthouse: Check out San Diego’s first lighthouse, which has been meticulously restored to resemble its 1880s appearance.
• Whale Watching: The Whale Overlook, situated near the lighthouse, is a premier location for whale-watching, particularly in January and February.
• Hiking: Enjoy a self-guided two-mile trail that begins near the lighthouse—especially scenic during the blooming wildflowers in spring.
• Tide Pools: Access these fascinating marine ecosystems on the west side of the park during extreme low tides, typically occurring in winter.

Tips for Visiting

• Save your parking pass, as it is valid for seven days after purchase, allowing repeat visits.
• Consult the calendar of events to coordinate your visit with available programs.
• Be prepared for limited cell phone service; the area’s geography can impede connectivity.
• For those who may struggle with the uphill walk to the lighthouse, disabled parking passes are available at the visitor’s center.
• Leave pets at home, as the Cabrillo National Monument is a wildlife preserve, though pets are permitted in the tidepool area if leashed.

Getting to Cabrillo National Monument

Cabrillo National Monument
1800 Cabrillo Memorial Drive
San Diego, CA
Cabrillo National Monument Website

Cabrillo National Monument is situated in Point Loma, offering beautiful vistas on the west side of San Diego Bay.

To reach the monument, take Harbor Drive northwest past the airport. For detailed directions, including public transport options, refer to the official website.