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An out of the way local treasure, but worth
the effort is the Cabrillo National Monument in Point Loma. Take I-5,
exit Rosencrans and follow route 209 up a windy and scenic road to reach
the monument. At the summit you can experience the spectacular panoramic
views of the San Diego Harbor and skyline, visit a monument of Juan
Rodriguez Cabrillo, the first European explorer to set foot on the western
part of the United States, and glimpse one of the earliest lighthouses
on the west coast, built in the mid 1800’s.
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This is a great place to explore, while
visiting San Diego, and can be a fun day out
for the locals as well. Surfing, swimming and diving are prohibited
but there is a fantastic trail that follows the old U.S Army roadway.
The Bayside trail is about a 3.2 mile roundtrip hike. The hike is moderately
steep, with a 300-foot descent, but offers amazing views and an array
of colorful native plant life. Unfortunately there is not beach access
from this trail.
Cabrillo National Monument boosts one of
the last rocky intertidal areas open to the public. Tide pool exploring
is a popular past time here. Visitors have a great change to check out
the vibrant underwater wildlife along the San Diego coastline. It is
best to explore the tide pools during low tide in the winter. As you
are exploring you might also want to keep an eye out for the Gray whales.
The Gray whales pass Point Loma during their annual migration. The best
time to whale watch is during January and February. There are lookout
points located at the top.
The visitor center should be the first stop. There you can find information
on the monument, a snack shop, films, exhibits and panoramic views of
the San Diego Harbor. There is also a bookstore with information about
the area’s cultural and military history, the local wildlife,
and the information on the famous explorers. There are several places
to sit with a picnic lunch, to sit and just enjoy the view.
Parking will not be a problem. There is
ample parking at the top of the hill. There is an entrance fee for the
Cabrillo National Monument, which includes all day parking and a visit
to their local history museum.
$5.00 per vehicle
$3.00 per bicycle, motorcycle or walker
Annual passes and senior citizen discounts are offered
- Open 9am-Sunset
- No camping
- No fires
- No alcohol
- No pets (except leashed in tide pool area)
- Public Restrooms available
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