Cabrillo National Monument

Juan Cabrillo landed in San Diego Bay on 28 September 1542 – his first sighting of land would have been here at Point Loma, the site of the Cabrillo National Monument. This momentous event is remembered with an imposing four-metre sculpture of Cabrillo staring heroically out to sea which was donated by the Portuguese government in 1939.The monument's visitor centre tells Cabrillo's captivating story, exploring his and others' incredible seafaring feats during the course of the 1500s through a number of exhibits, such as The Age of Exploration. The landing is recreated annually with a festival near the end of September, with many boats arriving into the city's bay.On top of the area's historical significance, it is also a place of fabulous natural beauty, offering stunning views of San Diego, and even as far as Mexico on a clear day. Wintertime is the best time to spot the many pods of whales which migrate up the west coast of the U.S.A. every year. Bring a pair of binoculars if you can, or train your eyes on the horizon to look for a huge tail or the tell-tale blowhole spray.Cabrillo National Monument forms part of a national park, and there are a number of picturesque trails, none of which are very long. Take a gentle walk along the cliffs, listening to the roar of the Pacific below you – but be careful not to get too close to the edge as it can get quite windy here! Stroll to Point Loma lighthouse, one of the oldest buildings of its kind on the west coast of America, and learn about the lives of the lighthouse keeper and his family here.Drive to the beach on the western side of the park to enjoy a quiet space by the ocean and there are also lots of tidal pools around here too, perfect for a dip in on a warm day. This area can only be reached by car.The national park is open all year round, except for Christmas Day.