Your Safety

Fishhook cactus
Fishhook cactus is a beautiful part of the environment at Cabrillo National Monument, but can also be dangerous. Stay on trails and paths to avoid its prickly personality.

NPS Photo

 

To ensure a safe and pleasant visit to Cabrillo National Monument, please take a moment to review some safety tips.

 
Unstable Cliffs sign

Watch Your Step! Stay Back!

Cliff areas in the park are very unstable. Stay back from cliff edges.

 
Rattlesnake sign

Stay on the Trail

Many prickly plant species border park trails. Stay on trails to avoid having foliage tear at your skin and clothes. Rattlesnakes are often seen in the park. They are a shy and natural part of the park's ecosystem that happens to be venomous. Stay on trails so that you can avoid them and they can avoid you.
 
No Smoking Sign

Smoking

For the safety of the fragile ecosystem and the comfort of visitors, Cabrillo National Monument is a smoke-free park. All areas of the park are closed to smoking, which includes tobacco cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, and vaping.

 
Bayside Trail 2

Hiking

For your safety and to protect the ecosystem, please stay on designated trails.

 
Native Plant Communities

A Special Note About Plants

Many plant species, such as California Buckwheat may appear dead during the summer months. Actually, these plants are just dormant. During California's hot, dry summer, the stems and petals of many plants become dry and brittle to conserve water. Once the winter rains arrive these unique "drought-deciduous" plants once again become green and vibrant. For the safety of these plants and to avoid damaging them, please stay on trails and do not break off "dead" branches from plants in the park.

 
Volunteer Overlooking Tidepool Bluffs

Go Slow

Slick, algae-covered rocks in the tidepools are very slippery. Wear shoes with good traction and take your time. Go slow! You will see more this way as well.

 

Bicycling

Bicycling is allowed on paved roadways only. Please be cautious as vehicles share the roadways.

 

Skate Boards and Roller Blades

For the safety of fellow visitors, skate boards, roller blades, and skates are prohibited on all surfaces.

 

Swimming, Surfing, and Diving

Swimming, surfing and diving are prohibited within park boundaries. This is for your safety and to protect the intertidal ecosystem.

Last updated: June 29, 2022

Park footer

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

1800 Cabrillo Memorial Drive
San Diego, CA 92106

Phone:

619 523-4285

Contact Us

Tools