The Rocky Intertidal Zone, also known as the **tidepools**, is a popular attraction at Cabrillo National Monument, drawing over 350,000 visitors annually. It is one of the best-protected rocky intertidal zones in California.
The ideal time to visit the **tidepools** is during the **fall** and **winter** months when **low tides** coincide with park hours. In **spring** and **summer**, the tide often covers the tidepools during open hours.
Tidepools are home to a diverse range of **marine creatures** such as **starfish**, **sea anemones**, **crabs**, and **small fish**. These critters must adapt to changing conditions, such as fluctuations in **temperature**, **salinity**, and **oxygen levels**, making tidepools an excellent place to observe resilient marine life up close.
Tidepools play a crucial role in the **coastal ecosystem**, providing a habitat for a variety of species, some of which are specially adapted to survive in the challenging environment of the intertidal zone. They also offer scientists and educators a unique opportunity to study **marine life** and the effects of **environmental changes** on these delicate ecosystems.
Visitors should **tread carefully** to avoid harming the fragile creatures and plants living in the tidepools. It's essential to **watch where you step** and never **remove animals or plants** from their natural habitat. By following these guidelines, visitors can help preserve these natural wonders for future generations to enjoy.
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