Discover Cabrillo National Monument | San Diego’s Historic Park & Scenic Views

Suzy Lawson Jun 04, 2025
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Discover Cabrillo National Monument: San Diego’s Historic Park & Scenic Views

Have You Ever Wanted to Experience San Diego’s Natural and Historic Beauty?

Located at the tip of Point Loma, Cabrillo National Monument offers spectacular views and a deep dive into San Diego’s cultural and natural history. Whether you're hiking to the tidepools, exploring the Old Point Loma Lighthouse, or simply taking in the panoramic views of San Diego Bay and the Pacific Ocean, this park is a must-visit. To make your visit even more special, consider booking a private yacht charter to explore the bay and enjoy unbeatable views of the monument from the water. Visit our website to receive your curated travel itinerary and personalized quote for you to consider in your future travel plans - www.yachtchartergal.com

Cabrillo National Monument – A Historic & Natural Treasure of San Diego

Commemorating the arrival of Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo to the California coast in 1542, this monument provides visitors with a rich historical experience and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and San Diego Bay. It’s the perfect spot to learn about California’s early European explorers while enjoying the beauty of one of the most scenic places in San Diego.

What Makes Cabrillo National Monument Special?

  • Historic Significance: Named after Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo, the first European to explore the West Coast, the park offers exhibits and information about his voyage and the Age of Exploration.

  • Old Point Loma Lighthouse: This historic lighthouse offers incredible views of the Pacific Ocean and San Diego Bay. Inside, you’ll learn about the life of the lighthouse keeper and see artifacts from the lighthouse’s past.

  • Tidepools & Marine Life: The rocky intertidal zone is home to a variety of marine life. You can spot sea stars, hermit crabs, sea anemones, and more during low tide. This is a must-see spot for marine enthusiasts.

  • Scenic Hiking Trails: The Bayside Trail and Oceanside Trail offer breathtaking views of San Diego Bay, Coronado Island, and the Pacific Ocean. Hike through coastal sage scrub and get a close-up look at the natural habitat of the area.

  • Whale Watching: The Whale Overlook provides one of the best spots in San Diego for whale watching during the winter months, especially in January and February when the gray whales migrate from Alaska to Baja California.

  • Junior Ranger Program: The Junior Ranger program offers interactive learning for children. They can complete challenges and activities to earn a badge, making the experience both fun and educational.

Why Experience Cabrillo National Monument from a Yacht?

A private yacht charter is the best way to experience Cabrillo National Monument and Point Loma. Here's why:

  • Exclusive Views: Get a unique perspective of the Old Point Loma Lighthouse, Cabrillo Monument, and San Diego Bay. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the coast from the comfort of your private yacht.

  • Customizable Itinerary: Your yacht charter allows you to tailor your trip. Stop at Coronado Island, explore the bay, or just relax on the water with a picnic and enjoy a private experience.

  • Whale Watching from the Water: If you’re visiting during whale season, a private yacht will give you front-row access to the gray whales as they migrate.

  • Memorable Experience: There’s no better way to take in the beauty of Cabrillo National Monument and Point Loma than from the water. A private yacht ensures you have the best possible experience in complete comfort.

The Cabrillo Store – Unique Souvenirs & Gifts

Make sure to visit the Cabrillo Store, located inside the Visitor Center. Here you can find a variety of books, NPS Junior Ranger gear, and unique gifts including Cabrillo logo hats, t-shirts, and hoodies. You can also discover historical books about Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo and the military history of Point Loma.

The Cabrillo National Monument Foundation, a non-profit organization, operates the Cabrillo Store to help support the park’s educational and historical programs. Learn more at cnmf.org.

Visitor Information

Hours of Operation:

  • Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

  • Closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day

Visitor Center/Bookstore:

  • Open 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (weekdays)

  • Open 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (weekends)

Trail & Exhibit Hours:

  • Bayside Trail & Oceanside Trail: Close at 4:00 PM

  • Tidepools: Close at 4:30 PM

  • Exhibits: Close at 5:00 PM

Entrance Fees & Passes

  • Standard Pass: $10–$20 (valid for 7 days)

  • Annual Pass: $35 (provides 12-month access)

  • America the Beautiful Pass: Free to $80 (covers all national parks)

Visitor Pass Options:

  • Private Vehicle: $20

  • Motorcycle: $15

  • Individual (on foot or bicycle): $10

Accessibility

Cabrillo National Monument is committed to ensuring that all visitors can fully enjoy the park. Here are the accessible options available:

  • Wheelchair Access: Available for all major areas, including restrooms and the visitor center.

  • ASL & Audio Tours: Available for visitors with hearing impairments.

  • Service Animals: Allowed throughout the park; pets are only allowed along the Coastal Trail (not in the tidepools or other areas).

For additional information or special requests, please contact the park in advance at 619-523-4285.

Pet Restrictions

  • Pets are only allowed on the Coastal Trail and must remain on a leash.

  • No pets are allowed in the tidepools, lighthouse, or on Cabrillo Road.

  • Service animals are permitted throughout the park.

Book a private yacht charter at www.yachtchartergal.com to fully experience Cabrillo’s beauty from the water and enjoy a personalized itinerary that takes you across San Diego Bay. Don’t forget to visit the Cabrillo Store for unique gifts and souvenirs!