Frequently Asked Questions

Old Point Loma Lighthouse with sun behind
"Can we visit the tower of the Lighthouse" is a frequently asked question at Cabrillo National Monument.

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Are there any days that the park is closed? No. We are open every day of the year, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

What can we do there? Lots! You can take a self-guided tour of the Old Point Loma Lighthouse; visit three different exhibit rooms; see the wonders of the tidepools during the winter months; hike the Bayside Trail; see a film in the auditorium; or enjoy spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and the city of San Diego.

Are pets allowed? Dogs are allowed only on the Coastal Trail located near the tidepool area, as long as they remain on a leash. Dogs must stay only on the trail and cannot be in the tidepools. Only service animals are permitted in all other areas of the park. More information.

When can we go into the tower of the lighthouse? To preserve the structural integrity of the lighthouse tower, it is normally closed to the public. However, it it is occasionally open for visitors. Information about Open Tower Days.

Are there activities for kids? Yes! Be sure to stop first at the Visitor Center to pick up a Junior Ranger activity. Then, have your child take it with them on their visit around the park to find the answers to the questions. Once completed, bring it back to the Visitor Center, where a Park Ranger will check the answers and award a Junior Ranger badge! Junior Ranger Information.

When is the best time to view the tidepools? During the winter. That's when the good low tides occur during daylight hours, and when we have Park Rangers and Volunteers stationed in the tidepools to answer questions. Tidepools Information.

Do you take volunteers? Yes! We have an active volunteer program. Folks help us in many areas: tidepool monitoring and visitor education, natural resources, Visitor Center - you name it, we've probably got a need for a volunteer! Volunteer Information.

Last updated: December 22, 2023

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

1800 Cabrillo Memorial Drive
San Diego, CA 92106

Phone:

619 523-4285

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