Activity Overview
If you're looking to get back to nature and you happen to find yourself in the San Diego area, you should think about heading westwards to Point Loma. Getting from downtown San Diego to Point Loma takes around 20 minutes if you manage to avoid any traffic and the temptation to pull over to take some photos by the roadside.
From certain areas of Point Loma you can enjoy the spectacular views across San Diego Bay or even visit one of the several historic landmarks in the area. Point Loma includes the landing site of Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo, who led the first European expedition to California way back in 1542.
As the tide descends, the tidepools are formed by the residual water left in the rock formations. Plenty of interesting creatures can be found and you and your family can head along to check out some these wonderful lifeforms.
Things to Do
- Check out the visitor center to find out more about the tidepools and the ecosystem that can be found there.
- The area around the landing site is where you and your family can enjoy a number of Point Loma's important sights and monuments such as the Cabrillo National Monument, the Point Loma Lighthouse, and the area's fantastic tidepools, home to a wide range of fascinating plants and animals.
- Arrange a walk with one of the park rangers during low tide when the tidepools are accessible by the general public.
Point Loma Tidepools Insider Tips
- Be sure to check a tide chart before you visit so that you don't miss the tidepools. You can also call (619) 557-5450-(0) for more information on the tides.
- Be sure to bring appropriate shoes and clothing in order to walk around the tidepools. Sandals and open-toed shoes are not recommended.
- Don't forget that while the creatures that inhabit the tidepools are not dangerous to humans, that humans can be dangerous to them and check with a ranger which creatures you can touch without doing them harm.
- There are not really any places to eat in the area so make sure to bring snacks, drinks, or even a picnic.
