Essential Safety Tips for Your Visit
At Cabrillo National Monument, your safety is our top priority. We are committed to ensuring your visit is enjoyable and free from hazards. By following these safety guidelines, you can protect yourself, other visitors, and the natural environment. Please take a moment to review these tips to make the most of your time at this beautiful and historic site.
Cliffs and Trails
Cabrillo National Monument's rugged landscape offers stunning views, but the cliffs and trails can pose safety risks. Stay aware of your surroundings to avoid accidents.
- Unstable Cliffs: Stay back from cliff edges, as they can be unstable and dangerous. Erosion and loose rocks make these areas unpredictable, so keep a safe distance.
- Stay on Designated Trails: Trails are lined with prickly plants, and rattlesnakes may be present. Staying on marked paths helps you avoid potential hazards while protecting the delicate ecosystem.
Smoking
The park's environment is fragile, and smoke poses a significant threat to both natural resources and visitor comfort.
- Smoke-Free Park: Smoking, including tobacco, e-cigarettes, and vaping, is prohibited throughout the park to safeguard the landscape and ensure a clean, healthy atmosphere for all.
Hiking
Hiking at Cabrillo is a great way to explore, but venturing off-trail can harm the landscape and put you at risk.
- Stay on Trails: Stick to marked paths to protect the park’s unique vegetation and wildlife. Staying on the trail also reduces your risk of encountering hazards.
Plant Awareness
The park's vegetation includes species adapted to dry conditions, which can look different in various seasons.
- Respect Vegetation: Many plants may appear dead during summer but are actually in a dormant state. Avoid damaging these resilient species by staying on the trails and not disturbing branches or foliage.
Tidepool Safety
The tidepools are a fascinating and fragile ecosystem where careful exploration is key to preserving its beauty and biodiversity.
- Go Slow: Rocks covered with algae are very slippery. Wear shoes with good traction and take your time to avoid slips and falls, while also getting a closer look at marine life.
Recreational Activities
To protect visitors and the natural environment, certain recreational activities are limited to designated areas.
- Bicycling: Permitted on paved roads only. Be mindful of vehicles sharing the road.
- Skateboards and Roller Blades: For safety reasons, these are not allowed anywhere in the park.
- Swimming, Surfing, and Diving: Prohibited within park boundaries to protect both visitors and the intertidal zone's delicate ecosystem.
Hydration and Sun Protection
The sunny, coastal climate can lead to dehydration and sun exposure, even on cooler days.
- Stay Hydrated: Carry water and drink regularly, especially during hot weather.
- Protect Against Sun Exposure: Apply sunscreen, wear a hat, and use sunglasses to guard against harmful UV rays.
