The Cabrillo National Monument commemorates the landing of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo at San Diego Bay on 28 September 1542. This was the first time that a European expedition had landed on the west coast of the United States. At the highest point in the park stands the Old Point Loma Lighthouse, an icon of San Diego since 1854, with amazing views of the San Diego harbour and skyline. A statue and museum provide details of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo’s explorations. In the winter, it is possible to see migrating gray whales off the coast.
Coronado Bridge
The Coronado Bridge joins the Island of Coronado and the City of San Diego and was opened on 3 August 1969. It has a distinctive curve, is 2.12 miles long and has a vertical clearance of about 200 feet so the tallest ships can pass underneath. The Bridge won the “Most Beautiful Bridge” Award of Merit from the American Institute of Steel Construction in 1970.
San Diego Museum of Art (within Balboa Park)
The San Diego Museum of Art is the oldest and largest art museum in the region. Its collection includes Spanish and Italian old masters, together with South Asian paintings and 19th and 20th century American paintings and sculptures.
San Diego Natural History Museum (within Balboa Park)
The San Diego Natural History Museum’s exhibitions focus on the unique and bio-diverse southern California region with fascinating exhibitions and a giant screen Dolby digital 3D theatre. The Museum also hosts travelling exhibitions.
Torrey Pines State Reserve is one of the wildest stretches of land on the Southern California coast. It consists of 2000 acres of land with rare Torrey pine trees, miles of unspoiled beaches and a lagoon vital to migrating sea birds. The visitor centre is able to provide details of the 8 miles of trails. Guided nature walks are available on weekends and holidays.