Cabrillo National Monument: Where History Meets the Sea
Explore the rich history and natural beauty of California's coast at Cabrillo National Monument, offering panoramic views, tide pools, and the iconic Old Point Loma Lighthouse.
Cabrillo National Monument, perched at the tip of Point Loma in San Diego, offers a captivating blend of history, natural beauty, and stunning panoramic views. Commemorating Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo's 1542 landing, the first European expedition to the West Coast, the park features the iconic Old Point Loma Lighthouse, restored to its 1880s appearance, offering a glimpse into the lives of its keepers. Explore the monument dedicated to Cabrillo, wander through exhibits detailing the Age of Exploration, and during winter months, witness the awe-inspiring migration of gray whales from the Whale Overlook. The park's diverse landscape also includes vibrant tide pools teeming with marine life, scenic hiking trails showcasing native flora, and remnants of military history, making it a multifaceted destination for all interests. Whether you're drawn to history, nature, or breathtaking vistas, Cabrillo National Monument promises an enriching and memorable experience.
A brief summary to Cabrillo National Monument
- 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Dr, San Diego, Point Loma, California, 92106, US
- +1619-523-4285
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during low tide to fully experience the tide pools and observe the diverse marine life; check tide charts in advance.
- Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, as parking can fill up quickly, particularly at the tide pools.
- Bring binoculars for whale watching during the migration season (December-March) and to enhance the scenic views.
- Wear layers, as the weather can change rapidly, with fog in the morning and sunshine in the afternoon.
- Take the MTS bus Route 84 to avoid parking hassles, though note it doesn't go to the tide pool area.
Getting There
-
Driving
From downtown San Diego or the airport, follow signs for CA-209 S/Rosecrans St. Continue on Rosecrans St, which becomes Cabrillo Memorial Dr, all the way to the entrance of Cabrillo National Monument. Be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially on weekends and during holidays. Parking is available near the Visitor Center and at the tide pools, but these lots can fill up quickly. The entrance fee is $20 per vehicle, valid for seven days.
-
Public Transport
From Old Town Transit Center, take the MTS bus Route 84 directly to the Cabrillo National Monument Visitor Center. The bus runs hourly on weekdays. Note that the bus does not go to the tide pool area; you would need to walk or find alternative transportation from the Visitor Center. A one-way fare is approximately $2.50. Keep in mind that you will still need to pay the park entrance fee of $10 per person upon arrival.
-
Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxi or ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft) are readily available throughout San Diego. A ride from downtown San Diego to Cabrillo National Monument typically costs between $30-$40, depending on traffic and demand. Be sure to specify 'Cabrillo National Monument' as your destination. Remember to factor in the park entrance fee of $20 per vehicle or $10 per person, which will be collected upon arrival.
Discover more about Cabrillo National Monument
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cabrillo Statue Plaza
0.3 km
Explore Cabrillo Statue Plaza, a historical landmark in San Diego, celebrating the spirit of discovery with breathtaking views and rich cultural significance.
Smuggler's Cove
1.6 km
Explore the historic Smuggler's Cove in San Diego, where maritime lore meets stunning coastal beauty, perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Shelter Island Dr
4.1 km
Experience the serene beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Shelter Island Drive, a hidden gem in San Diego perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures.
Kellogg Beach
4.2 km
Discover the tranquility of Kellogg Beach, a serene oasis in San Diego's Point Loma, perfect for relaxation and breathtaking ocean views.
Center Beach Restrooms
5.5 km
Discover the convenience of Center Beach Restrooms in Coronado, your essential stop for beach day refreshments with lovely ocean views.
Cherokee Lodge
5.9 km
Cherokee Lodge in Coronado: A charming and cozy lodge offering an unforgettable stay near stunning beaches and vibrant attractions in California.
Hotel Marisol Coronado
5.9 km
Discover the charm of Hotel Marisol Coronado, your perfect coastal retreat for relaxation, romance, and unforgettable memories in beautiful California.
Skating By the Sea
5.9 km
Experience the joy of ice skating at Skating By the Sea in Coronado – where winter fun meets stunning coastal views.
The Bay Company
5.9 km
Explore The Bay Company in Coronado for unique souvenirs, stylish sportswear, and a taste of the local culture.
Beach Village at The Del, Curio Collection by Hilton
6.0 km
Experience luxury and coastal beauty at Beach Village at The Del, a premier resort hotel on Coronado Island, ideal for relaxation and adventure.
Fuzziwig's Candy Factory
6.0 km
Explore a whimsical candy wonderland at Fuzziwig's Candy Factory in Coronado, offering a delightful selection of sweet treats for all ages.
Coronado Plaza
6.0 km
Explore Coronado Plaza: A vibrant shopping haven in Coronado, CA, filled with unique boutiques, delightful dining, and a picturesque coastal atmosphere.
Lamb's Players Theatre
6.0 km
Discover the vibrant performing arts scene at Lamb's Players Theatre in Coronado, offering captivating performances in an intimate setting.
Babcock & Story Bar
6.0 km
Discover Babcock & Story Bar in Coronado, where exquisite cuisine meets stunning ocean views for an unforgettable dining experience.
Hotel del Coronado
6.0 km
Experience the timeless elegance of Hotel del Coronado, an iconic beachfront hotel blending rich history with modern luxury on the stunning California coast.
Unmissable attractions to see
Old Point Loma Lighthouse
0.1 km
Explore the historic Old Point Loma Lighthouse, a beacon of maritime history with stunning ocean views in San Diego, California.
Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo Statue
0.3 km
Explore the Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo Statue in San Diego, a monumental tribute to the first European explorer of the West Coast, offering stunning views and rich history.
Cabrillo National Monument Visitor Center
0.3 km
Explore Cabrillo National Monument Visitor Center in San Diego: A blend of history, breathtaking views, and nature's beauty await you in California.
Point Loma Ecological Reserve
0.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife at Point Loma Ecological Reserve, a must-visit nature preserve in San Diego.
Point Loma Tide Pools
0.5 km
Explore the stunning marine life at Point Loma Tide Pools, a natural wonder in San Diego perfect for families and nature enthusiasts.
New Point Loma Lighthouse
0.8 km
Discover the historic New Point Loma Lighthouse, where stunning ocean views meet rich maritime heritage in beautiful San Diego.
Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery
1.9 km
Discover serenity and honor at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, a beautiful tribute to those who served with breathtaking ocean views.
Point Loma
3.1 km
Explore the stunning coastal beauty and rich history of Point Loma, San Diego – a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
Breakers Beach
4.1 km
Explore Breakers Beach in San Diego: a perfect getaway for sunbathing, volleyball, and unforgettable sunset bonfires.
Shelter Island Shoreline Park (South)
4.2 km
Experience the serene beauty of Shelter Island Shoreline Park, where stunning coastal views and recreational activities await in San Diego.
Shelter Island Pier
4.6 km
Discover the beauty of Shelter Island Pier in San Diego - a perfect spot for fishing, walking, and enjoying breathtaking ocean views.
Shelter Island
4.7 km
Experience the tranquil charm of Shelter Island in San Diego, a perfect escape with stunning views, lush parks, and exciting seaside activities.
Coronado Dog Beach
4.8 km
Discover the joy of Coronado Dog Beach, where furry friends frolic in the sun and surf, creating unforgettable moments by the ocean.
Whale Watching San Diego Tours & Cruises - Next Level Sailing
4.8 km
Discover the wonders of whale watching in San Diego with Next Level Sailing's unforgettable tours on the beautiful Pacific Ocean.
North Beach
4.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquil atmosphere of North Beach in Coronado, California - the perfect coastal retreat for relaxation and adventure.
Essential places to dine
Vessel Restaurant
4.2 km
Experience breathtaking waterfront dining at Vessel Restaurant in San Diego – where New American cuisine meets coastal charm.
NASNI Dining Facility
5.7 km
Discover delicious diner-style meals at NASNI Dining Facility in Coronado - where quality meets affordability in a charming coastal setting.
Beach + Taco Shack
5.9 km
Experience mouth-watering tacos with breathtaking ocean views at Beach + Taco Shack in Coronado.
Sun Deck
5.9 km
Experience stunning ocean views and fresh local cuisine at Coronado's premier dining destination - The Sun Deck.
Sheerwater
6.0 km
Experience exquisite dining at Sheerwater with breathtaking ocean views in Coronado, California – where gourmet cuisine meets scenic beauty.
Chez Loma
6.0 km
Experience authentic French cuisine in Coronado at Chez Loma – where every meal is a delightful journey through France's rich culinary heritage.
Village Pizzeria
6.0 km
Experience authentic Italian dining at Village Pizzeria in Coronado - where delicious pizza and pasta meet warm hospitality.
Serea Coastal Cuisine
6.0 km
Experience exquisite Mediterranean flavors at Serea Coastal Cuisine in Coronado – where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views.
On the Rocks
6.0 km
Experience exquisite dining at On the Rocks in Coronado with breathtaking ocean views and a menu bursting with fresh flavors.
Island Pasta Coronado
6.0 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Island Pasta Coronado with delicious pasta dishes and fresh seafood in a charming coastal setting.
The Islander
6.0 km
Experience coastal dining at The Islander in Coronado – where fresh flavors meet vibrant atmosphere amidst stunning beach views.
Di Marena
6.0 km
Experience classic American comfort food at Di Marena Diner in beautiful Coronado, California - where every meal feels like home.
Little Frenchie
6.0 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Little Frenchie in Coronado, where delightful flavors meet charming ambiance for unforgettable meals.
Tavern
6.0 km
Discover The Tavern in Coronado: A delightful grill offering American cuisine with unique flavors and an inviting atmosphere.
The Henry
6.0 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at The Henry in Coronado – from delicious breakfasts to creative vegan dishes.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rare Bloom Boutique
5.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local artistry at Rare Bloom Boutique, a charming gift shop in Point Loma, San Diego.
Avenu.
5.9 km
Discover Avenu in Coronado, a women's boutique offering stylish apparel and accessories amidst the charm of California's coastal paradise.
La Mer
6.0 km
Explore La Mer, Coronado’s premier women's boutique for stylish clothing and accessories, perfect for every occasion.
Paris & Me Boutique
6.0 km
Explore unique women's fashion at Paris & Me Boutique in Coronado, California, where style meets local charm in a chic shopping experience.
5L2F Fiveloaves Twofish
6.0 km
Discover quality children's clothing with unique craftsmanship at 5L2F Fiveloaves Twofish in Coronado.
En Route
6.0 km
Explore En Route, Coronado's top luggage store, where quality meets style for all your travel needs.
Geppetto's - Coronado
6.0 km
Discover joy and imagination at Geppetto's, Coronado's enchanting gift shop and toy store, where every visit brings a touch of nostalgia.
Crown Meets Sea
6.0 km
Explore the charm of Crown Meets Sea, a unique gift shop in Coronado offering handcrafted treasures and local souvenirs for every visitor.
Studio 1220
6.0 km
Explore unique women's fashion at Studio 1220 in Coronado, California – a boutique experience that elevates your style.
Seaside Papery
6.0 km
Discover the charm of Seaside Papery in Coronado, a stationery store filled with unique gifts and high-quality paper products, perfect for every occasion.
MJ's Boutique
6.0 km
Discover the essence of Coronado fashion at MJ's Boutique, where style meets local charm in a captivating shopping experience.
Wild Dove Boutique
6.0 km
Explore Wild Dove Boutique in Coronado for unique women's clothing and accessories that celebrate coastal fashion and style.
Pretty Place
6.0 km
Explore Pretty Place in Coronado: A treasure trove of unique gifts and local artisan crafts that capture the spirit of California's coastal charm.
S D Trading Co
6.0 km
Discover unique clothing and souvenirs at S D Trading Co in Coronado, CA, a must-visit for tourists seeking local treasures.
Coronado Resort Wear Company
6.0 km
Discover stylish apparel and unique souvenirs at Coronado Resort Wear Company in sunny Coronado, California, where beach vibes meet fashionable finds.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
I Bar
4.7 km
Discover I Bar in Coronado, CA – your go-to bar for refreshing drinks and a friendly atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Club Marina
5.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Club Marina, a top cocktail bar in San Diego's scenic Point Loma, known for its signature drinks and lively atmosphere.
Nabo coronada
6.1 km
Experience the vibrant coastal charm of Nabo Coronada, a favorite bar in Coronado, CA, offering refreshing drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Coronado Shores Beach Club
6.3 km
Experience the vibrant beachside atmosphere at Coronado Shores Beach Club, where relaxation meets lively social scene in beautiful California.
Little Club
7.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Coronado at Little Club, a cocktail bar and club with affordable drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Pacific Shores Cocktail Lounge
8.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of San Diego at Pacific Shores Cocktail Lounge, where cocktails meet charm in a cozy setting.
Sunshine Company Saloon
8.4 km
Discover the lively Sunshine Company Saloon in Point Loma, San Diego, a perfect blend of local charm, vibrant atmosphere, and delicious drinks.
Tony's Martini Bar
8.4 km
Experience the best martinis and vibrant nightlife at Tony's Martini Bar in Point Loma, San Diego – a cocktail lover's paradise.
Cheswick's West
8.4 km
Experience California's laid-back beach culture at Cheswick's West, a cozy bar offering stunning ocean views and refreshing drinks.
The Whiskey House
8.5 km
Discover The Whiskey House, San Diego's premier bar offering an unparalleled selection of whiskey, gourmet food, and a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
Happy Does Bar
8.6 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Happy Does Bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter – perfect for drinks, delicious food, and fun nights out.
False Idol
8.7 km
Discover False Idol, a tiki bar in San Diego offering exotic cocktails and an immersive island atmosphere that delights every visitor.
Fifth & Rose
8.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of San Diego at Fifth & Rose, a chic cocktail bar in the Gaslamp Quarter, offering expertly crafted drinks.
Prohibition Lounge
8.7 km
Discover the enchanting Prohibition Lounge in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, where vintage charm meets modern mixology and live music.
The Shout! House
8.8 km
Discover the exhilarating nightlife at The Shout! House, a dueling piano bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, with live music, delicious food, and crafted drinks.
