Tidepools

Tidepools

Adventure to the Cabrillo National Monument tidepools!. The tidepools, or known as the Rocky Intertidal Zone, offers amazing views of the Pacific ocean and the opportunity to discover the native plants and species that live in this unique habitat.

The National Park Service has tried to strike a balance between preserving the ecosystem and yet allow visitors to explore the life in the tidepools up close and personal. Cabrillo National Monument Foundation supports the Park’s efforts to protect and preserve the Tidepools. If you would like to join us in supporting these efforts, Become a Member or Give today.

When is the best time to visit the Tidepools?

ANSWER: Mid-December to Mid-February

Access to the tidepools is controlled by NPS and may be limited or unavailable without notice. During the winter and spring on the days before and after a full or new moon, the water pulls back and we get to look at the life that is invisible to us most of the time. The low tides from mid-April to mid-September happen during the evening, night or early morning hours, so we are unable to peek in.

Generally, whenever the low tide is +.7 or less, it is possible to see into the tidepools. However, at that depth, the window of opportunity is very short. A low tide of -1.5 or lower means that you can spend a lot more time in the tidepools. It is best to come early, especially on weekends with low tides because parking is limited.

Low tide events begin when the tide passes below 0.7 feet or 9:00 AM (whichever is later).
Low tide events end when the tide rises above 0.7 feet or 4:30 PM (whichever is earlier).

Tide Charts for 2020 can be found here.

For more information about the tidepools, visit Cabrillo National Monument website.