Services for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Visitors
Cabrillo National Monument welcomes individuals who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing to the park! We strive to provide an inclusive and accessible experience for all our visitors. The following services are available to assist you during your visit:
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ASL Interpreters: To request an ASL interpreter for formal ranger programs, please provide at least 5 days' notice. Contact the interpretation office by phone at (619-523-4285) or email to make your request. We will do our best to accommodate your needs and ensure a knowledgeable interpreter is available.
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Signing Rangers: Several staff members are learning ASL and are happy to communicate with you directly. Please visit the visitor center so we can tell you about the park and learn a few new signs from you. Our signing rangers can provide information about the park, answer your questions, and offer personalized assistance.
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Open-Captioned Videos: All films and videos shown at the park are open-captioned to ensure you don't miss any information. Captions are displayed on-screen, providing a text version of the spoken dialogue and important sounds.
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Assistive Listening Devices (ALD) in the Auditorium: These portable devices amplify sound for our videos. The Visitor Center Auditorium shows three videos on a rotating basis: "In Search of Cabrillo," "Edge of Land and Sea," and "First Breath: Grey Whales." One movie is played every hour. Pick up an ALD at the Visitor Center. English language amplification is on Channel F. The devices are easy to use and can significantly enhance your experience by making the audio clearer.
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One-Way Portable Microphones: Rangers and volunteers can wear a headphone microphone upon request to enhance sound for those who need it. This service ensures that guided tours and ranger-led programs are more accessible to visitors with hearing impairments.
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Soundscapes: Be aware that several loud sounds are heard regularly in different areas of the park. The Visitor Center is close to the North Island Naval Air Base, so you may hear loud planes and helicopters roaring through the bay area, especially near the Visitor Center or at the Cabrillo statue. Understanding this can help you plan your visit and find quieter areas if needed.
Volunteer with Cabrillo National Monument!
Local to the park? We can use your help! We have several volunteer opportunities available. One such opportunity is the Accessibility Support Assistant. Volunteers in this position will help Cabrillo National Monument remain as accessible and welcoming as possible to individuals who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing. This role involves assisting with ASL interpretation, providing information about accessibility services, and helping visitors navigate the park.
If there is something else you may need to help make your visit easier, please call ahead. For more information, ask a ranger at the park or contact us in advance. You can reach us by email or by calling 619-523-4285. We are committed to ensuring that your experience at Cabrillo National Monument is enjoyable and accessible.
