Family Activities:

Cabrillo National Monument

Attraction

Cabrillo National Monument

1800 Cabrillo Memorial Drive, San Diego, 92106, CA

On the Point Loma peninsula, Cabrillo National Monument features a historic lighthouse, exhibits, and stunningly scenic overlooks and trails. What is bound to get kids most excited, though, is exploring the tide pools — do your research to find out when low tide will be. This site has a Junior Ranger program; to participate, just ask for the free kids’ newspaper when you arrive at the Visitor Center. While visiting, also visit Old Point Loma Lighthouse. This centerpiece of the Cabrillo National Monument was one of the original eight lighthouses in the Western U.S. Though put into service in 1855, it was used as a lighthouse for only 36 years. You can explore the lower quarters inside the lighthouse; the tower was, at time of research, not open to visitors. You can reach the lighthouse via a short walk up from the Visitors Center.