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Point Loma Tide Pools: A Window to Marine Life

Discover a vibrant marine world at Point Loma's tide pools, a natural treasure within Cabrillo National Monument.

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Explore the vibrant intertidal zone at Point Loma Tide Pools, located within Cabrillo National Monument in San Diego. Discover a diverse ecosystem teeming with sea anemones, crabs, starfish, and more, set against the backdrop of stunning coastal views and rich historical significance.

A brief summary to Point Loma Tide Pools

  • Monday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Check the tide charts before your visit and plan to arrive during low tide for the best viewing experience.
  • Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good traction to navigate the slippery rocks safely.
  • Remember not to touch or disturb the marine life in the tide pools to protect their delicate ecosystem.
  • Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water, as there is limited shade in the tide pool area.
  • Consider visiting during the fall or winter for the best chance of daytime low tides.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From San Diego International Airport, take N Harbor Dr and CA-75 S to Rosecrans St. Continue on Rosecrans St. Turn right onto Canon St, then left onto Catalina Blvd/Cabrillo Memorial Dr. Follow Cabrillo Memorial Dr to the Cabrillo National Monument entrance. The entrance fee is $20 per vehicle. Continue to the tide pool parking area.

  • Public Transport

    From downtown San Diego, take the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) bus route 84 towards Cabrillo National Monument. The bus stops at Cabrillo Memorial Hwy & Cabrillo Rd, which is a 16-minute walk (1333 yards) to the tide pools. Check the MTS website for the latest schedules and fare information. A one-way fare is typically around $2.50.

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Discover more about Point Loma Tide Pools

The Point Loma Tide Pools, nestled along the rocky shoreline within Cabrillo National Monument, offer a captivating glimpse into a dynamic marine ecosystem. These tide pools are shallow depressions that become exposed during low tide, revealing a mesmerizing array of marine life. As the tides recede, the pools become accessible, allowing visitors to observe creatures such as sea anemones, hermit crabs, starfish, sea urchins, and various species of algae in their natural habitat. The Point Loma Peninsula itself marks a significant historical point as the first landing site of Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo in 1542, the first European explorer to set foot on the West Coast. The area also features the Old Point Loma Lighthouse, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and San Diego Bay. Visiting the tide pools requires careful planning, as the best viewing occurs during low tide, particularly in the fall and winter months when low tides coincide with daylight hours. The park is open from 9 am to 5 pm daily, except for Christmas and Thanksgiving. Visitors should wear appropriate footwear with good traction, as the rocks can be slippery. It's also important to respect the delicate ecosystem by not touching or removing any marine life. Cabrillo National Monument, which encompasses the tide pools, also offers other attractions such as the Cabrillo Visitor Center, the Old Point Loma Lighthouse, and various trails, making it a destination with both natural beauty and historical significance.

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