Cabrillo National Monument, San Diego (must see)

Cabrillo National Monument stands as a tribute to the arrival of Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo at San Diego Bay on September 28, 1542. This significant moment marked the inaugural European expedition to touch the shores of what would later become the West Coast of the United States. Recognized as California Historical Landmark in 1932, the site also holds the distinction of being listed on the National Register of Historic Places on October 15, 1966, like all other historical units of the National Park Service.

Each October, the annual Cabrillo Festival Open House takes place on a Sunday. This event serves as a commemoration of Cabrillo and features a reenactment of his landing at Ballast Point within San Diego Bay. Moreover, various festivities occur within the National Monument, including Kumeyaay, Portuguese, and Mexican singing and dancing, booths offering period and regional food, a historical reenactment of a 16th-century encampment, and engaging activities for children.

Visitors to the park are treated to panoramic views of San Diego's harbor and skyline, as well as Coronado and Naval Air Station North Island. On clear days, the breathtaking sight extends to the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, Tijuana, and Mexico's Coronado Islands. Within the visitor center, guests can watch a film recounting Cabrillo's voyage and explore informative exhibits dedicated to the expedition.

The national monument's area encompasses several former military installations, including coastal artillery batteries that were constructed to safeguard the harbor of San Diego against enemy warships. While strolling through the area, one can observe many of these installations. Additionally, a former army building serves as a venue for an exhibit that narrates the captivating story of military history at Point Loma.