Tidepools at Cabrillo
Low Tide at the Tidepools NPS Photo / Dan Zeller

Cabrillo National Monument

National Monument · California · National Park Service

In 1542, Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo climbed out of his boat and onto shore, becoming the first European to set foot on what is now the West Coast of the United States. Cabrillo National Monument not only tells the story of this 16th-century exploration but also houses a wealth of cultural and natural resources. Join us and embark on your own Voyage of Exploration.

Plan your visit

Know before you go

Phone
6195234285
Official site
www.nps.gov
Managed by
National Park Service

Getting there

Directions on Google Maps →

What's here

Highlights: Burial, Cemetery and Gravesite · National Cemetery · Explorers and Expeditions · Maritime · Coastal Defenses · Maritime - Military · Lighthouses · Ships and Shipwrecks · Military · Monuments and Memorials · Animals · Birds · Oceans · Whales · Scenic Views

Activities & features: Biking · Road Biking · Hiking · Living History · Reenactments · Historic Weapons Demonstration · First Person Interpretation · Junior Ranger Program · Wildlife Watching · Birdwatching · Park Film · Museum Exhibits · Shopping · Bookstore and Park Store · Gift Shop and Souvenirs

Photos

  • Dusk at the Old Point Loma Lighthouse
    NPS Photo / Mike Nelson
  • Spring flowers in front of Old Point Loma Lighthouse
    NPS Photo / Mike Nelson
  • Looking out on San Diego from Cabrillo
    NPS Photo / Mike Nelson

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Sources: National Park Service, Google Places · updated 2026-08-12