TIDEPOOL PERMITS
In order to protect this distinct and delicate ecosystem, Tidepool Permits are required for groups of ten or more to visit the tidepools at Cabrillo National Monument. If your group numbers less than ten, no permit is required.
Tidepool Permits are issued in advance by the Education Department at Cabrillo National Monument. Click here to view low tide dates by month. Please contact the Education Department at (619) 557-5450, extension 2231, for available dates and to obtain a permit. Due to staffing, please note that it may not be possible to speak directly with a Reservationist; including as much information as possible in your voice mail message - such as desired date, number of people, and contact information - greatly reduces "phone tag."
Once you obtain a Tidepool Permit and after arriving at Cabrillo National Monument, take your permit to the Visitor Center to be validated by a Park Ranger prior to entering the intertidal area.
Group leaders are expected to provide proper supervision of their group for the protection of the ecosystem.
Park Rangers and Volunteers are stationed in the intertidal area during low tides to provide information, answer questions, and enforce regulations. There are no Ranger-led group tours in the tidepool area.
VEHICLE ACCESS - PLEASE NOTE
Please remember that access to the coastal area is only by vehicle via Cabrillo Road. Travel by any other means is dangerous and not permitted. There is no pedestrian access. Parking is limited, so we encourage carpools or bus transportation.
TO PROTECT TIDEPOOL CRITTERS - SOME RULES TO REMEMBER
• Forcibly removing any living organism from any surface is prohibited.
• No scraping, probing, or prying instruments are allowed.
• No containers such as buckets or cups may be used to hold organisms.
• Nothing is to be disturbed or removed – it’s the law. Federal regulations protect all objects throughout the park.
TO PROTECT YOU – SOME SAFETY TIPS
• Watch your step on slippery rocks.
• Wear shoes with soles that provide good traction.
• Please walk – don’t run or rock-hop.
• Stay on trails and be aware that cliffs are extremely unstable and dangerous.
• Be aware of "sneaker waves" that can appear suddenly.
• Always keep an eye on the incoming tide – don’t get stranded!
FOR MORE INFORMATION
To find our more about obtaining a Tidepool Permit for your group, please contact:
| Education Department | (619) 557-5450, ext. 2231 |
