Cabrillo National Monument commemorates the landing of Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo’s expedition to San Diego Bay in 1524. It was the first time that a European expedition set foot on what became the west coast of the United States. You can learn about the age of exploration and Cabrillo at the park’s visitor center. From here, it is a short walk to the Old Point Loma Lighthouse, restored to its 1880's appearance and now operating as a museum. The park also encompasses several former military installations, which you can see while exploring the area. Take time to appreciate the monument’s superb views of the harbor, city skyline, and Pacific Ocean. If it is a clear day, you might even see the Coronado Islands. Plan to visit Cabrillo National Monument during your San Diego vacation using our convenient San Diego trip maker.
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Cabrillo National Monument reviews
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Wanted to see the lighthouse. the views here and the lighthouse are amazing. Short drive from Shelter Island and there is good signage to get you here.
Wanted to see the lighthouse. the views here and the lighthouse are amazing. Short drive from Shelter Island and there is good signage to get you here. more »
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This review happened during COVID (April, 2022). My wife and I went to San Diego for a short vacation. We visit National Parks whenever we get a chance. The location of this park is amazing. You get..... more
This review happened during COVID (April, 2022). My wife and I went to San Diego for a short vacation. We visit National Parks whenever we get a chance. The location of this park is amazing. You get..... more »
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Rode our bikes from Harbor Island to Cabrillo. Beautiful 9 miles in. User our senior national parks pass to get in. Beautiful vistas of North Island Coronado and downtown San Diego. Of course, the weather was perfect. Visited the tide pools even though low tide was 3 hours earlier. Still a great ride to the tide. A quick ride back to Harbor Island with a lunch stop at the Point Loma Fish Shop for their fish and chips (awesome 5 stars).
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Spectacular views of the San Diego waterfront all the way to Mexico. Great place to take pictures and whale watch. Small gift shop. Visit the military cemetery along the way. Bring your own lunch because there isn't a restaurant. Visit more often with a national park pass.
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