Cabrillo National Monument

Cabrillo National Monument is a 144-acre natural reserve on Point Loma Peninsula, perched above the Pacific Ocean, San Diego Bay, and the California coastline with multiple viewpoints. The grounds feature a restored lighthouse from 1855, tidal pools along the shore, and exhibits about early maritime exploration and coastal defense structures.

Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo arrived at this point on September 28, 1542, leading the first European expedition to reach the west coast of present-day United States. This landing opened a new chapter in understanding and mapping the Pacific coastline.

The site marks where the first European expedition encountered the California coast and changed understanding of the region's geography. Visitors sense the historical weight of this moment reflected in how the landscape is presented today.

The main road through the park leads to several areas including the restored lighthouse and tidal pools accessible on foot from designated parking areas. Wear comfortable shoes for the walking paths and hillside trails, and check tide schedules if you want to explore the pools along the shore.

Gray whales pass by during their annual migration from December through March, and designated whale watching stations offer good views of this natural movement. This seasonal event draws many nature watchers who time their visits to see the whales traveling along the coast.

Location: San Diego

Inception: October 14, 1913

Operator: National Park Service

Website: https://nps.gov/cabr

GPS coordinates: 32.67306,-117.23861

Latest update: December 17, 2025 10:39