It is named after Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo, a Spanish explorer who was the first to sail up the California coast.

[2] Rocks from Catalina Island, 25.1 miles (40.4 km) away from the coast of San Pedro, were originally used in the construction of the breakwater.

However, due to many problems and set-backs, rocks from Chatsworth, California, were transported to San Pedro for the construction of the breakwater.

[2] Cabrillo Beach is 370 acres (150 ha) of land located at 3720 Stephen M. White Drive San Pedro, California, specifically the Port of Los Angeles West Channel.

Situated within the parking lot, the aquarium has been teaching the public about the coast and its marine life for over 75 years.

[6] In the twentieth century, the bathhouse was a place for people to rent beach gear, such as towels and swimsuits, and boats.

Just northeast of the bathhouse, across the parking lot, there is the Cabrillo Beach Youth Waterfront Sports Center, which was established in 1946.

This complex is an aquatic center for the Southern California youth that exposes them to water safety, rescue methods, care and use of equipment, and physical fitness.

[7] About 20,000 young people go through the Cabrillo Beach Youth Waterfront Sports Center each year.

Cabrillo Beach is a popular destination for those interested in water sports, such as swimming, windsurfing, kitesurfing, kayaking and scuba diving.