Permits & Reservations

Reservations and Permits

Cabrillo National Monument welcomes visitors year-round without requiring reservations for the general public. However, certain activities and group visits do necessitate permits to ensure the protection of park resources and a smooth experience for all visitors.

General Visitation: You are welcome to visit Cabrillo National Monument any time during operating hours without needing a reservation. Entrance fees apply, and various passes such as the America the Beautiful Interagency Passes and Cabrillo Passes are accepted.

School Field Trips: For school groups planning to visit, we offer both in-person and virtual field trip options. Teachers and organizers should review these options and fill out the application form to secure their visit.

Public Programs and Special Events: The monument hosts numerous public programs and special events that are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted. Entrance fees may still apply.

Tidepool Permits

For tidepool permits please review the Tidepool Code of Conduct and fill out the application form.

Special Use Permits

Some activities require a Special Use Permit. Cabrillo National Monument requires at least 21 business days to process permit requests.

A special park use is a short-term activity that:

• Provides a benefit to an individual, group, or organization rather than the general public
• Requires written authorization and some degree of NPS management oversight
• Is not prohibited by law or regulation
• Is not initiated, sponsored, or conducted by the National Park Service
• Is not managed under a concession contract, a recreation activity for which the NPS charges a fee, or a lease

Examples include weddings, military reenlistments, family reunions, memorial services, church services, public assemblies, political events, and first amendment demonstrations.

To find out whether your activity requires a permit, please email the park’s permit coordinator.

Application Forms

• General Special Use Permit Application (up to 600 people)
• General Special Use Permit Application (600 or more people)
• Read the Permit Conditions

Commonly Requested Permits:

Links to Permit Information

• Weddings
• Filming and photography
• Reenlistments
• Scattering of ashes/Memorial Services
• Demonstrations & Distribution of Materials

Filming, Photography, and Audio Recording

Permits and fees are not required for filming, still photography, or audio recording in most situations, especially for small groups. To be exempt from a permit, the activity must meet all of the following conditions:

• Takes place in areas open to the public
• Uses only hand-carried equipment
• Does not require exclusive use of a location
• Does not adversely impact park resources, visitor use, or park values
• Is not likely to result in additional administrative costs for the National Park Service

Permits and fees are never required for filming, photography, or audio recording associated with an activity that has already been approved by another permit, such as a wedding or demonstration.

All filming, still photography, and audio recording is treated the same under current law. Whether the project is for personal use, content creation, student work, or media, the same requirements apply.

When a permit is required, the National Park Service charges location and administrative fees, including an application fee. Entrance or recreation fees may still apply even when a permit is not needed.

For more information and frequently asked questions, visit the National Park Service Filming and Photography page.

Weddings

Plan a beautiful wedding ceremony at Cabrillo National Monument. Ensure you comply with all guidelines and obtain the necessary permits for a memorable event.

Reenlistments

Honor the service of military personnel with a reenlistment ceremony at this historic site. Special permits are required to conduct these meaningful ceremonies.

Scattering of Ashes/Memorial Services

While scattering ashes is not permitted due to legal and environmental regulations, you can hold a memorial service at the park. Obtain the required permits and follow the guidelines to honor your loved ones in a respectful and compliant manner.

Demonstrations and Distribution of Materials

Demonstrations and Distribution of Materials requires a permit.

Questions?

Email the park for more information about any permit process