Cabrillo Beach Park

"So much to offer"

This beach and park have a lot to offer families.  A playground shaped like a ship with a climbing rock structure attracted my kids right away.  A bathroom (think "dirty beach bathroom") was right next to the playground which was about 200 yards from the water.  A view of Long Beach harbor with it's conglomeration of ships, cranes and cargo gives a unique perspective to our culture and industry.  Picnic tables, a hot dog stand, and school groups from Los Angeles schools completed the picture of this beach.

A short walk took us to the area of the beach that is open to the waves.  More firepits were available here.  A walkway led to the tide pools that attract many visitors.  Despite it being high tide, we walked along the rocks and cement walls, past a creepy gated cave covered with graffiti, and below the cliff wall to enjoy the ocean and the sun.  Several large, rusted pieces of metal were lodged on the rocks, which reminded me to keep a close eye on my kids in this wild, yet urban section of beach.

The Cabrillo Marine Aquarium sits in the parking lot of this beach park.  It is a great "little" aquarium that is a delight to explore.  A salt marsh is located on the north side of the parking area and provides a habit for many shore birds and animals.  

Parking is $1.00 per hour.