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Cabrillo National Monument, San Diego

4.7

#6 of 492 in Things to do in San Diego

Monument Tourist Spot

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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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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

4,446 reviews

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4.7

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4.9

6,475 likes

• By DonaldYokum

  Recommend timing your visit to the Cabrillo National Monument so that you're there at sundown, for a lovely experience of watching the sun fall into the ocean. The NPS provides a very good display of ...  more »

• By Anshika S

  The views from this National monument are breathtaking. The whole harbor is visible from here and people can enjoy the view of ships. There is a lighthouse and people can go inside it. There are short...  more »

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Google

• By D. E. Johnson

  What a gem! So close to the City but with killer views and some nice hikes and tidepools. On a clear day you can see Mexico. Last year with all the rain they had killer wildflowers too. A nice combination of natural and cultural history and displays including WW 2 info. A frequent place for filming movies. American Idol gang was there yesterday. Entrance fee is reasonable best deal is for an annual pass.

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• By Devd Roberts

  Cabrillo is the place where the first Europeans set foot on the west coast of what would become America. This is a great place to wander and explore. There is a nice visitors center along with the old Lighthouse, tidal pools, and tons of trails. I like I coming here to get my Fitbit steps in... if bringing along the kids I suggest a handful of quarters for the pay telescopes around the park. The views are amazing. One side of the park faces the harbor and you can see North Island and Downtown. The other side is pure Pacific ocean.

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