Who was the first explorer to navigate into what is now California?

The first explorer to navigate into what is now California is Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo. In 1542, Cabrillo sailed under the Spanish flag and is credited with the first extensive exploration of the California coastline. He entered the bay of San Diego and named several locations, marking a significant moment in the history of European exploration in North America.

Cabrillo's expedition was vital for the Spanish, as it laid the groundwork for future exploration and eventual colonization. His journey provided invaluable information about the geography, native peoples, and potential for settlement in the region. The legacy of Cabrillo's exploration is celebrated in various ways, including national monuments and historical sites dedicated to his achievements.

While Sir Francis Drake also explored parts of the West Coast in 1579 and Gaspar de Portolá is known for leading land expeditions in the late 18th century, they did not hold the distinction of being the first to navigate California's coastline. Junípero Serra, a Franciscan missionary, is well known for his role in establishing missions in California but was not an explorer in the same sense as Cabrillo.