Cabrillo Activities

With plenty of sunshine year round, it's easy to enjoy outdoor activities in San Diego and at Cabrillo National Monument during any time of the year.  Each month, the City basks in an average of 68% sunny days, and the typical temperature will be just over 70 degrees, even during the winter.

Some of the outdoor activities you can enjoy while at Cabrillo National Monument:

    * Hiking - The Bayside Trail is a scenic 2-mile trail that takes you through a prime example of endangered coastal sage scrub habitat
    * Birding
    * Photography
    * Whale watching (during winter months)
    * Tidepooling (during winter months)
    * Enjoying the native plants (year round) and wildflowers (during the spring and summer months)
    * Bicycling along Cabrillo Memorial Drive
    * Watching ships cruise in and out of San Diego Harbor
    * Taking in the nearly-360 degree view of the City of San Diego, Pacific Ocean, Mexico, and the surrounding mountains to the north and east
    * Solitude

You can embark on your own voyage of discovery when you visit Cabrillo National Monument.  The park is primarily self-guided, so you may explore at your own pace and discover the natural and historical wonders that are found here.  We also offer Ranger-guided walks and talks on the lighthouse, 16th century navigation and armaments, and natural history, as staffing allows.    When you arrive, be sure to check the schedules located outside the auditorium or in the Visitor Center to see what guided programs may be offered.

On the third Saturday of each month, join renowned bird expert Claude Edwards as he leads visitors on a 90-minute walk looking at "Birds and Biodiversity."  The tour begins at 9:30 AM at the Visitor Center.  There is no charge to attend, other than the regular park entrance fee.  Bring your binoculars, sunscreen, a bottle of water, and your walking shoes as Claude gives you on an enthusiastic and  fascinating glimpse into the native and migrant birds of Cabrillo National Monument.