Originally from San Jose, CA., Dr. Kristal Kawamoto started her SoCal life at UCLA, where she graduated with honors in Physiological Science. Her passion for health and medicine led her to obtain her Doctorate of Optometry degree from Southern California College of Optometry in Fullerton, also with honors. During her 4th year internships, Dr. Kawamoto treated various ailments from glaucoma to diabetic retinopathy at VA hospitals in Hawaii and Arizona. She also stayed active with various community service organizations, including trips to El Salvador, where she provided hundreds of much-needed eye exams.
Dr. Kawamoto was practicing in Gardena, CA before she made her move to the San Fernando Valley, where she joined the elite group of doctors at El Portal Optometry. Here, she continues her philosophy of forming lasting relationships with each patient and providing the absolute best care possible.
She continues to stay active in her community and profession as well, serving as president and now trustee for the Asian American Optometric Society. Dr. Kawamoto has a passion for the outdoors, animals, and food, and you will often find her travelling, snowboarding, or cheering on her favorite Bay Area teams.