Tidepooling in Cabrillo National Monument

Located along the coast of southern California, Cabrillo National Monument boasts magnificent tidepools that bridge water and land. On the western side of Point Loma lies this rocky intertidal zone, a window into a unique ocean ecosystem. During periods of low tide, pools form along this shore in rocky depressions. Here you can see flower-like anemones, elusive octopi, spongy deadman's fingers, and a myriad of other creatures. Cabrillo National Monument provides some of the best tidepooling of any park.

The tidepools are a wonderful discovery zone, but also one that requires care and caution. The intertidal area is a very sensitive ecosystem. Few animals in it can harm humans, but many of them can be hurt, and even killed, when handled or touched by people. Ask a ranger or volunteer how you can best explore the tidepools without disturbing them. A great way to visit tidepools safely is to go on a guided ranger walk, which is available during most low tides. Low tides that occur during convenient daylight hours are most common in the winter during full and new moons. Check a tide chart or give the Visitor Center a call before you visit for the best time to explore the tidepools.

https://www.nps.gov/cabr/planyourvisit/things2do.htm