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Writer's picture Denise Vasquez

How Accessible Is Accessible: Cabrillo National Monument

Updated: Oct 2


Photography by Denise Vasquez ©2021


When I first moved to San Diego California back in 2017, I had no idea we had a National Monument here. I learned about Cabrillo National Monument while doing research on the internet, seeking parks nearby. The National Park Service now has an app that lists the parks, what to see, things to do, amenities, park news, wheelchair accessible locations and more! I noticed that some areas are listed on the app as being wheelchair accessible, but be aware that some of these locations are not ADA Compliant. For example, Joshua Tree National Park has the Cholla Cactus Garden listed as Wheelchair Accessible. Like I discuss in my How Accessible Is Accessible: Joshua Tree National Park blog & video, the terrain there is very sandy, rocky & uneven, so be aware of that! To read the blog and watch the Youtube video, click HERE.


This is one of the many reasons I started the “How Accessible Is Accessible” travel series. Many places that say they are accessible, are not fully accessible. Having some accessibility does not mean it is ADA Compliant & ADA is the law. My mission is to show what is fully accessible and what isn’t, in hopes of bringing awareness to the changes that need to be made so parks can be ADA Compliant, equally accessible, and safe for everyone!

Photography by Denise Vasquez ©2021


Let’s get back to beautiful Cabrillo National Monument. Cabrillo National Monument is open for day use only, and I highly recommend getting there as early as possible because the park has a lot of accessible areas to explore and enjoy!


When you first arrive at the gate, show your ACCESS PASS if you have one to get FREE entry into the park, and be sure to ask the ranger at the gate for a parking pass next to the Lighthouse. If you are permanently disabled and don’t know about the ACCESS PASS, read my blog to learn how you can obtain one by clicking HERE.


If you love history, I highly recommend visiting The Lighthouse. It’s located up a steep hill from the visitor center, there are three accessible parking spots located behind the Lighthouse, but you need a pass from the ranger at the gate to park there. Once you park at this location, you can also visit the Kelp Forest and Whale Overlook which is a beautiful location to sit, take in the ocean views & whale watch during certain months.

Photography by Denise Vasquez ©2021


Be sure to stop at the Visitor Center first, because not only do they have park information, but they have foreign language and tactile Braille brochures (see the video below where Elizabeth Skinner talks more about it & shows me how a talking pen works). Around the Visitor Center you’ll find accessible paved walkways, restrooms, water fountains, seating areas and even some binoculars to take in the beautiful ocean views of San Diego.


From the Visitor Center, look to see if the museum is open, and then take a short walk over to the Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo Statue. Once you've seen the statue, take a short drive up to the Old Point Loma Lighthouse. If you love taking in ocean views, hearing the sounds of the waves crashing upon the shore and watching the Pelicans gliding in the wind like I do, there are two locations I love. You can either drive to the Tidepools (keep in mind this location closes at 4:30pm) where you’ll find a short paved trail to an area where there is seating to take in the ocean view, or you can drive to past the Tidepools and head up to a quieter location at the Sea Cove parking lot, where you can sit on the bench to take in the ocean views from the cliffs, or stay in your vehicle.

Photography by Denise Vasquez ©2021


Beware of wildlife! Do not put your hands where you can not see them because there are rattlesnakes and biting animals outdoors. Remember, wildlife is wild! They recommend leaving your pets at home, and if you do bring your pets, they are allowed only in the tide pool areas as long as they’re on a six-foot leash at all times. If you have a service animal, always check with the parks about their rules and regulations.


There is nowhere to get food, so I highly recommend bringing your lunch, sitting on one of the benches and enjoying the views!


As far accessibility goes, I rate Cabrillo National Monument a 10 out of 10. Thank you Elizabeth Skinner for taking the time to talk to us, and thank you Cabrillo National Monument for making your park accessible for everyone!

Photography by Denise Vasquez ©2021


I trust that my research, area exploration, and personal experience sharing have been beneficial! I initiated this project in 2017. Through my journey, I have come to realize the importance of revisiting locations multiple times to provide updated information. This not only benefits me but also aids individuals with disabilities, the elderly, or those with limited mobility. Moreover, it helps raise awareness among trail users and park staff.


If you appreciate my blog and find the content in my blogs, TikToks, and YouTube videos useful, you can show your support for my project by making a donation. Any amount is welcome as every contribution, no matter how small, is valuable. Sustaining this project requires significant investments of time, money, and effort. I have poured my heart, soul, and resources into it, and the knowledge that my work is creating an impact motivates me to continue. Your donation will assist in funding my time, research, planning, travel, gas, accommodation, scouting, photography, memory cards, hard drives, and the creation of content shared in YouTube videos, blogs, Instagram posts, TikToks, and more.


Thank you for backing The Disabled Photographer Project! If you wish to contribute, you can make a donation here:



The project is also currently seeking partnerships, sponsors, grants, and ambassadorships. For inquiries contact Denise Vasquez denisevasquezphotography@gmail.com


If you are considering hiring me for consultations, photography, content creation, workshops, or panels, please don't hesitate to reach out via the contact form on my website.


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