Whale-watching weekend

Each winter, 20,000 Pacific gray whales pass by the California coast after spending the summer feeding in the food-rich waters of the Arctic. The grays swim south along the coast to the lagoons of Baja California, where they mate and nurse their young in preparation for the 10,000-mile migration north to the Bering Sea. Along the way, they pass Point Loma and Cabrillo National Monument, where you can witness the annual winter journey.

Bring binoculars if you have them: binoculars make viewing much easier. A limited number of binoculars are available with a picture ID at the visitors’ center during whale season; ask for them at the information desk.

Last month, there were more gray whale sightings than normal. The large amount of bait near-shore last spring and the excellent fishing that followed throughout the summer/fall season have marine biologists believing the whales fattened up a little early.

Along with the possibility of seeing whales from shore, the event features tidepool exploration and a presentation on the marine-protected areas, ranger programs on the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, kelp forest ecology, and an interactive storytelling for children about the creation of the tides.

When: Saturday & Sunday, 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Where: 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Drive

Cost: $3–$5

Info: 619-557-5450