Scenic Views from the Oceanside Trail
Our newest trail, the Oceanside Trail, connects the upper monument to the tidepools. Walk Along Cabrillo's Coastal Trail
Coastal Trail tours are available Thursday - Monday beginning Saturday, July 24th through August 5th at Cabrillo! Start at the Visitor Center
Learn ways that you can explore Cabrillo National Monument. Our Things to Do page will provide information on fun and educational activities Bayside Trail at Cabrillo National MonumentTrail OverviewThe Bayside Trail at Cabrillo National Monument offers breathtaking views and an immersive experience in both natural beauty and historical significance. This 2.5-mile round-trip trail provides stunning vistas of the ocean, San Diego Bay, and downtown San Diego. It is open every day from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Trail Classification:
Getting StartedThe trail begins near the Old Point Loma Lighthouse. Look for the Bayside Trail sign just before you reach the lighthouse, directing you to the left. Follow the paved road, which eventually transitions to a gravel and dirt path. The walk is a self-guided tour with plenty of detailed signs that describe the sensitive vegetation, weather, habitat, animal life, and historical sites. Directions and AccessLocation: Cabrillo National Monument, 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Drive, San Diego, CA 92106 The Bayside Trail is a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and panoramic views. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor, this trail offers an unforgettable outdoor experience at Cabrillo National Monument. Practical Information
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Scenic Views and Natural Resources
Common Plants and Wildlife Along the TrailThe Bayside Trail is a natural haven, teeming with a diverse array of native plants and wildlife. As you hike along the trail, you’ll encounter the unique Coastal Sage Scrub habitat, one of the rarest and most threatened ecosystems in the world. The Point Loma peninsula serves as a crucial stopover for many migratory birds using the Pacific Flyway, making it a vibrant spot for birdwatchers. In the spring, keep an eye out for hummingbirds, warblers, wrentits, and bushtits. During the summer, watch your step as rattlesnakes may be active along the trail. PlantsThe Coastal Sage Scrub and Southern Maritime Chaparral habitats along the Bayside Trail support a variety of plant species, each adapted to the region's Mediterranean climate. Here are some common plants you might see:
WildlifeThe rich biodiversity of the Bayside Trail extends to its wildlife, offering sightings of various birds, mammals, reptiles, and more:
The Bayside Trail is a sanctuary for these and many other species, providing a glimpse into the rich ecological tapestry of Cabrillo National Monument. Whether you're a seasoned naturalist or a casual hiker, the trail offers endless opportunities to connect with nature and observe the intricate relationships within this unique coastal environment. Military HistoryPoint Loma has played a crucial role in military defense, serving as a strategic location for the U.S. Government for over a century. In 1852, the area was designated as a military reserve, and during World Wars I and II, the Army established an intricate coastal defense system on Point Loma. The Bayside Trail features wayside signs that highlight this rich military history, including:
Additionally, modern-day military installations can be observed along the trail. Historic Ballast Point, now home to nuclear-powered submarines, underscores Point Loma's continuing military importance. Cabrillo’s statue stands on the bluff about 300 feet above, marking the halfway point of the trail and symbolizing the area's layered history of exploration and defense. |
Last updated: July 24, 2024