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Bridgeworthy: Point Loma Tidepools (U.S. National Park Service)

Since the sun wasn't cooperating to enjoy a warm beach day, I decided to take the kiddos out and explore the tide pools of Point Loma. I checked the tide chart and piled the crew into the car and headed over the bridge. Tip: go when the tide is low (not high).

Driving over takes about 25 minutes and as you near the entrance, you go through Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery. This cemetery has sweeping views overlooking North Island, Coronado and downtown San Diego. My kids were fascinated by all the gravestones lined up and it was a good reminder to be thankful for all the brave men and women that serve (and have served) our country.

We arrived at the entrance, paid our $5 and easily found a parking spot at the base of the tide pools. A short walk later we were exploring all types of rocks, plants and sea animals:

My kids quickly found crabs, sea anemones, snails, shells and more. Their little heads were glued towards the ground:

We then climbed around the other side and discovered some 'lookout' areas to enjoy the view and have some snacks. The kids gave it a huge thumbs up and I was pleased to escape the island and try something new in our 'expanded backyard'.

Contact Info:
1800 Cabrillo Memorial Drive
San Diego, CA 92106
(619) 557-5450 x 0

Hours:
9am - 5pm Everyday

Cost:
$5 per car

Drive Time:
25 minutes (you can bike it too, but you better be in good shape to tackle the 'hilly' roads)

More information from their website.

Tags: activities, bridgeworthy, kids

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Photo Star Comment by SBGrad on July 7, 2010 at 6:56pm: >you can bike it too, but you better be in good shape to tackle the 'hilly' roads

Crown City Cyclists just did this ride on Monday the 5th-- we didn't go over the bridge, either.

Comment by Pamela on July 10, 2010 at 11:31am: This is one of our favorite weekend activities. Just remember to leave all the wildlife in its place. There are some great tidepools and beach combing under the cliffs at Pt Loma Nazarene and parking is usually not a problem on the weekends. It's fun to skirt around the rocks, time the waves just right and try not to get wet! Wear shorts/sandals or bathing suits just in case...

Comment by John Howell on July 12, 2010 at 9:11pm: This is a must stop for my wife and I each time we are able to return to the San Diego area. Since it is a "national park" I wanted to point something out. Any "service connected" disabled veteran (on the VA id card it states below the photo if you are) is eligible for a Free "National Parks and Federal Recreational Land Pass" This pass makes entrance to all national parks Free. Some states also acknowledge this pass in their state parks. You also recieve discounts on "national park camp sites".