Coastal Sage Scrub, Preserving a California Original . . .

Cabrillo National Monument protects a fragment of Point LomaÕs, and Southern CaliforniaÕs native Coastal Sage Scrub ecosystem. Adapted to dry summers, but protected from the worst of Californias hot summer by cool ocean breezes, and protected from winter freeze by relatively warm ocean air, the mix of plants and animals to be found here is unique in the world. Southern CaliforniaÕs coastline was once covered by Coastal Sage Scrub, but houses, black top, and strip malls have replaced all but scattered pockets of this unique ecosystem.

Cabrillo National Monument and the U.S. Navy work together to protect the 840 acres of Coastal Sage scrub remaining in the Point Loma Ecological Reserve. Most of the reserve is closed to the public, but visitors can enjoy the Coastal Sage Scrub along CabrilloÕs Bayside Trail. 2 1/2 miles round trip, this Òthere and backÓ trail is also a good place to see spring flowers and watch birds.