All You Need to Know About Point Loma’s Cabrillo National Monument
Are you headed on a trip to San Diego soon? Or, do you already live there and are looking for a great way to spend the day?
If you need a break from the beach, we’ve got just the activity for you: a visit to Point Loma’s Cabrillo National Monument.
What’s so great about this national monument, you ask?
Check out this guide to learn everything you need to know about the Cabrillo National Monument.
History
In 1542, the explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo landed on San Diego Bay. This was the very first time an expedition from Europe reached the coast of what would later be known as the west coast of the United States of America.
In 1913, Cabrillo’s discovery was memorialized with the construction of the monument.
In addition the statue, there is also a museum in the visitor center that is definitely worth checking out.
The Festival
Every year, there is a festival held in October to commemorate Cabrillo’s accomplishment.
There is a reenactment of Cabrillo’s landing at Ballast Point. In addition to the reenactment, the festival has singing and dancing, regional Mexican food, and children’s activities available.
The exact date of the festival changes each year, so be sure to check in periodically to see when it’s been posted.
The Park
The Cabrillo National Monument is actually part of a larger national park as well.
Within the park, there are two other main points of interest: the Loma Lighthouse and the low tides in the tide pool.
Loma Lighthouse
Construction of the lighthouse began in 1854 under Francis A. Gibbons. In 1855, the lighthouse was up and running.
Initially, the roof of the lighthouse was painted in red lead, and it housed 11 primary keepers and 22 assistant keepers.
The very last keeper at the lighthouse was Robert Israel.
He actually stayed there for 18 years before he transferred to the new lighthouse in Point Loma.
Low Tides in the Tidepool
During your trip to Cabrillo National Monument, you can still get in your daily dose of nature by visiting the low tides in the tidepool.
At the southern end of Cabrillo, you’ll find one of the best rock intertidal areas in all of Southern California.
In case you don’t know, tidepools are small shallow holes in which water gets trapped during low tide. The small pools that form become homes for numerous plants, fish, and invertebrates.
Visiting the tidepools can give you a direct and unique experience with the marine ecosystem.
Are You Ready to Visit Cabrillo National Monument?
As you can see, taking a trip to Cabrillo National Monument is definitely worth it.
And, if you live in the San Diego area, it’s easily accessible year-round. Although we definitely recommend coming in October when the festival takes place.
And, if you happen to fall in love with the Point Loma area while there, then be sure to contact us for help finding a property.