Tag: cool

Cool street art and signs in Ocean Beach!

Surfer walks past a community mural in Ocean Beach. The mural project was begun by OB artist Rich James in 1999. Residents each paint a square in the finished artwork.
Surfer walks past a community mural in Ocean Beach. The mural project was begun by OB artist Rich James in 1999. During special events, residents each paint a square in the mosaic artwork.

Just some more cool photos of colorful signs and street art taken while walking around Ocean Beach. I’ve arranged them in no particular order. Enjoy!

Cool street art mural on the side of a building near the foot of the OB pier.
Cool street art mural on the side of a building near the foot of the OB pier. Artist Celeste Byers collaborated with Aaron Glasson.
A small totem pole and some geraniums.
A small totem pole and some geraniums.
Surfing street art on OB utility box shows a view down the barrel of perfect wave.
Surfing street art on OB utility box shows a view down the barrel of perfect wave.
Motorcycle graphic on repair shop wall.
Motorcycle graphic on repair shop wall.
A mermaid holds ocean gifts. A mural in an Ocean Beach alley above a dumpster.
A mermaid holds a shell full of ocean gifts. A mural in an Ocean Beach alley above a dumpster.
Images of breaking surf high on a building wall.
Images of breaking surf high on a building wall.
Candy and goodies depicted on a colorfully painted Beach Sweets sign.
Candy and goodies depicted on a colorfully painted Beach Sweets sign.
This octopus on Newport Avenue seems to enjoy beer and pizza. One can grab a lot with eight tentacles!
This octopus on Newport Avenue seems to enjoy beer and pizza. One can grab a lot with eight tentacles!
A pelican, pizza and ale.
A pelican, pizza and ale.
Ocean Beach Surf School truck features cool surfer art.
Ocean Beach Surf School truck parked by sand features cool surfer art.
A splash of urban art on the side of the Hodads building.
A splash of urban art on the side of the Hodad’s building.
Another of many community murals in Ocean Beach. This one depicts underwater sea life.
Another of the many community murals in Ocean Beach. This one depicts underwater sea life.
What appears to be a tropical island scene on a utility box in OB.
What appears to be a tropical island scene on a utility box in OB.
Art along a sidewalk shows lush vegetation and the OB pier.
Art along a sidewalk shows lush vegetation and the OB pier.
Three parrots take flight.
Three parrots take flight.
Surfboards lie in wait beyond open door of the groovy USA Hostels Ocean Beach.
Surfboards lie in wait beyond open door of the groovy USA Hostels Ocean Beach.
Street lamp on Newport Avenue features palm trees.
Street lamp on Newport Avenue features palm trees.
Car with surfboard drives down Newport Avenue past tattoo parlor street art signs.
Car with surfboard drives down Newport Avenue past hair salon and tattoo parlor street art signs.
Don't believe the hype! You are already beautiful. Music, expression, love.
Don’t believe the hype! You are already beautiful. Music, expression, love.
Volkswagen bug appears to have emerged from the 60s, with peace signs and psychedelic designs.
Volkswagen bug appears to have emerged from the 60s, with peace signs and psychedelic designs.
Ocean Beach community mural features bicycles.
Ocean Beach community mural features bicycles.
The OB Christmas tree near the beach is a focal point of this cool community mural!
The OB Christmas tree near the beach is a focal point of this cool community mural!

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This blog now features thousands of photos around San Diego!  Are you curious?  There’s lots of cool stuff to check out!

Here’s the Cool San Diego Sights main page, where you can read the most current blog posts.  If you’re using a small mobile device, click those three parallel lines up at the top–that opens up my website’s sidebar, where you’ll see the most popular posts, a search box, and more!

To enjoy future posts, you can also “like” Cool San Diego Sights on Facebook or follow me on Twitter.

Unexpected faces appear in the Gaslamp!

Unexpected faces in the window of Sparks Gallery in the Gaslamp Quarter. This colorful work of art commands the attention of those passing down the sidewalk.
Unexpected faces in the window of Sparks Gallery in the Gaslamp Quarter. This colorful work of art commands the attention of anyone passing down the sidewalk.

The Gaslamp Quarter is usually bustling with humanity, as people shop, dine and take a stroll through the historic heart of downtown San Diego. But occasionally unexpected faces appear!

A mannequin high in a window makes one do a double take as one walks down Sixth Avenue through San Diego's Gaslamp.
A mannequin high in a building window made me do a double take as I walked down Sixth Avenue through San Diego’s Gaslamp!
A stylish Tatyana on a Gaslamp shop's sign.
A stylish Tatyana on a Gaslamp shop’s sign.
Doug Loves Movies so much it seems he has forgotten to shave. A funny face spotted while walking down a sidewalk.
Doug Loves Movies so much it seems he has forgotten to shave. A funny face spotted while strolling down a sidewalk, camera in hand.
This unexpected face has no skin. The Chrome Domes seem mostly bones.
This unexpected face has no skin. The Chrome Domes seem mostly bones.
A mischievous face that now looks upon an outdoor patio filled with nobody. Dick's Last Resort in the Gaslamp has closed.
A mischievous face painted next to a deserted patio. Dick’s Last Resort in the Gaslamp has closed after many years.
The Grinch is behaving unexpectedly unGrinchlike in this fun artwork inside the front window of The Chuck Jones Gallery.
The Grinch is smiling and behaving unexpectedly unGrinchlike in this fun artwork inside the front window of The Chuck Jones Gallery.
Very cool! It's Steve McQueen sporting some shades. An image above the windows of Eyes On Fifth.
Very cool! It’s Steve McQueen sporting some shades. An image above the windows of Eyes On Fifth.
This large face painted on the brick wall inside a Gaslamp Quarter restaurant is an unexpected, arresting sight.
A large face painted on the brick wall inside a Gaslamp Quarter restaurant is an unexpected, arresting sight.

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This blog now features thousands of photos around San Diego!  Are you curious?  There’s lots of cool stuff to check out!

Here’s the Cool San Diego Sights main page, where you can read the most current blog posts.  If you’re using a small mobile device, click those three parallel lines up at the top–that opens up my website’s sidebar, where you’ll see the most popular posts, a search box, and more!

To enjoy future posts, you can also “like” Cool San Diego Sights on Facebook or follow me on Twitter.

Cool, creative door handles in San Diego.

A pair of metal lobster door handles.
A pair of metal lobster door handles.

Check out some photos of cool, creative door handles that I’ve spotted while walking around San Diego. I snapped a couple of these photographs months ago, and unfortunately I’ve forgotten where I took them. I guess I’m not terribly organized! Or perhaps I’m just lazy and took no notes.

Electric guitar door handle at Hard Rock Cafe in San Diego's Gaslamp.
Electric guitar door handle at Hard Rock Cafe in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter.
Two door handles made of artistically bent rebar.
Two door handles made of artistically bent rebar.
Door handles of Yard House don't contain beer. One must step inside.
These door handles at the Yard House don’t contain beer. One must step inside.
Interesting door handles together form a disk and leaf.
Interesting door handles together form a disk and raised leaf.
One very ornate door handle in San Diego.
One very ornate door handle in San Diego.
A lion's head handle on a rusty gate.
A lion’s head handle on a rusty gate.

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

You can easily explore Cool San Diego Sights by using the search box on my blog’s sidebar. Or click a tag! There are thousands upon thousands of fun photos for you to enjoy!

Cool street art: The Nest Murals near Chicano Park.

The Nest Murals include a big blue whale on a yellow fence in Barrio Logan, not far from downtown San Diego.
The Nest Murals include a big blue whale on a yellow fence in Barrio Logan, not far from downtown San Diego.

I stumbled upon a collection of colorful murals the other day while walking through Barrio Logan. A project of The Nest, founded by San Diego artist Jorge Mendoza, this very cool street art can be found near the intersection of National Avenue and Evans Street, a block southeast of Chicano Park.

Check out these pics!

Boldly spray painted designs dazzle the eye and inspire imagination.
Boldly spray painted designs dazzle the eye and inspire imagination.
A large eye watches Evans Street, a block southeast of Chicano Park.
A large eye watches Evans Street, a block southeast of Chicano Park.
Swirls of blue, green, pink, and an old Volkswagen Beetle.
Swirls of blue, green, pink, and an old Volkswagen Beetle.
Entering an alley, we see a lot more cool street art spray painted on a fence.
Entering an alley, we see a lot more cool street art spray painted on a fence.
A brush-head and skull-flower makes one look twice.
A brush-head and skull-flower makes one look twice.
Three eyes in a blazing sun, which shines from The Nest Murals in Barrio Logan.
Three eyes in a blazing sun, which shines from The Nest Murals in Barrio Logan.
Odd creatures made of cloth, buttons and pins paint graffiti on a garage door.
Odd creatures made of cloth, buttons and pins paint graffiti on a garage door.
A hand emerges from the mouth of a fish at The Nest Murals.
A hand emerges from the mouth of a fish at The Nest Murals.
Fun colorful designs include cheese.
Colorful artwork includes images of cheese.
A face with odd geometric features in the Barrio Logan alley.
A face with odd features in the Barrio Logan alley.
Super creative street art at The Nest Murals, located near Chicano Park.
Very creative street art at The Nest Murals, located near Chicano Park.

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

You can easily explore Cool San Diego Sights by using the search box on my blog’s sidebar. Or click a tag! There are thousands upon thousands of fun photos for you to enjoy!

Cool urban art at Quartyard in East Village.

Some cool urban art by Exist1981, created for PangeaSeed's Sea Walls: Murals for Oceans festival. The artwork, located at the Quartyard in East Village, warns that melting sea ice due to climate change will affect polar bear populations.
Cool urban art by Exist1981, created for PangeaSeed’s Sea Walls: Murals for Oceans festival. The public artwork, located at the Quartyard in East Village, warns that melting sea ice due to climate change will affect polar bear populations.

Whenever I walk past Quartyard in San Diego’s East Village, I look around to see what cool urban art I might discover. I took out my camera yesterday and snapped a few photos of the colorful artwork!

Quartyard, at the corner of Market Street and 11th Avenue in San Diego's East Village, is a place where people can gather to eat, drink, talk, and enjoy entertainment.
Quartyard, at the corner of Market Street and 11th Avenue in San Diego’s East Village, is a place where people can gather to eat, drink, talk, and enjoy entertainment.
Mail delivery person heads into Quartyard, an unusual community gathering place made from repurposed shipping containers. Coffee, beer, concerts and food trucks are found here.
Mail delivery person heads into Quartyard, a community gathering place made from repurposed shipping containers. Coffee, beer, concerts and food trucks are found here.
A colorfully painted parking meter stands strangely by the mail box.
A cheerfully painted parking meter stands strangely by a mail box.
The Meshuggah Shack occupies one shipping container. The funky place is known for their great coffee and friendly vibe.
The Meshuggah Shack occupies one shipping container. The funky place is known for their great coffee and friendly vibe.
The Meshuggah Shack offers coffee, tea, oddities, smoothies, noshes, and other fun stuff.
The colorful Meshuggah Shack offers coffee, tea, oddities, smoothies, noshes, and other fun stuff.
Words on one shipping container at the Quartyard proclaims this is Your City Block.
Words on one shipping container at the Quartyard proclaim this is Your City Block.
Sun, water, hungry sharks and a tropical island. I'm not exactly sure what is going on in this crazy street art created by Nick McPherson and MR DVICE.
Sun, water, hungry sharks and a tropical island. I’m not exactly sure what is going on in this crazy street art created by Nick McPherson and MR DVICE.

…

This blog now features thousands of photos around San Diego!  Are you curious?  There’s lots of cool stuff to check out!

Here’s the Cool San Diego Sights main page, where you can read the most current blog posts.  If you’re using a small mobile device, click those three parallel lines up at the top–that opens up my website’s sidebar, where you’ll see the most popular posts, a search box, and more!

To enjoy future posts, you can also “like” Cool San Diego Sights on Facebook or follow me on Twitter.

History of firefighting at San Diego Firehouse Museum.

"Old La Jolla" hand drawn fire engine dating from 1886, on display at The San Diego Firehouse Museum.
“Old La Jolla” hand drawn fire engine dating from 1886, on display at The San Diego Firehouse Museum.

A simple but elegant old firehouse stands in downtown San Diego at the corner of Columbia Street and Cedar Street. Those who step inside are in for a very big surprise.

The San Diego Firehouse Museum today occupies what was once an active fire station–San Diego Fire Station No. 6. Located in Little Italy, this unique museum isn’t large, but it’s crammed with so much cool stuff and so much fascinating history, you could easily spend an hour enjoying the many exhibits. There are shiny red vintage fire engines, a steamer equipped with a huge boiler, antique hand pumpers, firefighting apparatus of every sort, helmets, badges, a big display of model vehicles, historical photographs . . . and just lots and lots of firefighting artifacts, dating as far back as the mid 1800s. Much of what you’ll see represents the history of firefighting in San Diego; other objects in the museum come from fire departments around the United States.

Here are some photos which I took during a recent visit. The volunteer on duty was very friendly and provided some interesting historical information. I learned that private events can be held in the old firehouse, and that kids love having birthday parties among all the fire engines. Museum admission is only 3 dollars for adults and 2 dollars for children and seniors. Quite a bargain!

The San Diego Firehouse Museum is manned by friendly firefighter volunteers. It's located in old Fire Station No. 6 at 1572 Columbia Street in Little Italy.
The San Diego Firehouse Museum is manned by friendly firefighter volunteers. It’s located in old Fire Station No. 6 at 1572 Columbia Street in Little Italy.
A look inside the Firehouse Museum, which is absolutely jam-packed with cool historical exhibits. Kids love this place.
A look inside the Firehouse Museum, which is absolutely jam-packed with cool historical exhibits. Kids love this place.
Two vintage fire engines in the old firehouse. The museum's walls are lined with interesting objects that tell the story of firefighting since the mid-1800s.
Two of the many vintage fire engines in the old firehouse. The museum’s walls are lined with interesting objects that tell the story of firefighting since the mid-1800s.
The San Diego Firehouse Museum was founded in 1962 and is operated by the nonprofit Pioneer Hook and Ladder Company.
The San Diego Firehouse Museum was founded in 1962 and is operated by the nonprofit Pioneer Hook and Ladder Company.
A closer look at a 1914 Seagrave Pumper. During my visit, I learned that fire engines are also called pumpers.
A closer look at a 1914 Seagrave Pumper. During my visit, I learned that fire engines are also called pumpers.
Three additional old fire engines can be seen in a second room inside old Fire Station No. 6.
Even more old fire engines can be seen in a second room inside old Fire Station No. 6.
Water pressure controls on the side of one pumper.
Water pressure controls on the side of one pumper.
This white fire engine was stationed at the 1915 Panama-California Exposition in Balboa Park. It can be seen in old photographs and postcards.
This white fire engine was stationed at the 1915 Panama-California Exposition in Balboa Park. It can be seen in old photographs and postcards.
Another look at the historic 1915 Panama-California Exposition fire engine. This section of the Firehouse Museum is a bit dark and close, which makes it hard to take a good wide photo.
Another look at the historic 1915 Panama-California Exposition fire engine. This section of the Firehouse Museum is a bit dark and close, which makes it hard to take a good wide photo.
One glass display case in the museum contains all sorts of old fire fighter helmets and protective headgear.
This glass display case in the museum contains all sorts of old fire fighter helmets and protective headgear.
One corner of the Firehouse Museum showcases many old fire insurance marks which were affixed to buildings. One of these marks dates back to 1714.
One corner of the Firehouse Museum showcases many old fire insurance marks which were affixed to buildings. One of these marks dates back to 1714.
Smokey Bear welcomes visitors to The San Diego Firehouse Museum.
Smokey Bear welcomes visitors to The San Diego Firehouse Museum.
One wall features a collection of old fire extinguishers.
One wall features a collection of old fire extinguishers.
The Ely Adapter was invented by San Diego Fire Department's Assistant Chief Robert Ely.
The Ely Adapter was invented by San Diego Fire Department’s Assistant Chief Robert Ely.
Felt and paper stovepipe hats once worn by firefighters during parades.
Felt and paper stovepipe hats once worn by firefighters during parades.
Model of 1899 Metropolitan Steamer with 1911 Christie tractor.
Model of 1899 Metropolitan Steamer with 1911 Christie tractor.
Another display case at The San Diego Firehouse Museum contains all sorts of interesting old artifacts.
Another display case at The San Diego Firehouse Museum contains all sorts of interesting old artifacts.
A third room in the Firehouse Museum contains this 1903 coal burning steamer. Fire heats the boiler water making steam which activates a piston that pumps water.
A third room in the Firehouse Museum contains this 1903 coal burning steamer. Fire heats the boiler water, making steam, which activates a piston that pumps water.
Stairs once used by scrambling firefighters when old Fire Station No. 6 was operational.
Stairs once used by scrambling firefighters when old Fire Station No. 6 was operational.
An old photo of San Diego Fire Station No. 4 and its personnel.
An old photo of San Diego Fire Station No. 4 and its personnel.
Photos of the San Diego Fire Department testing their new Ahrens Steamer at the courthouse on Broadway and Front Street in 1906.
Photos of the San Diego Fire Department testing their new Ahrens Steamer at the courthouse on Broadway and Front Street in 1906.
A collection of colorful old hand pumpers at The San Diego Firehouse Museum.
A collection of colorful antique hand pumpers at The San Diego Firehouse Museum.
The San Diego Firehouse Museum is fantastic place to learn a bit about San Diego and the history of firefighting.
The San Diego Firehouse Museum is fantastic place to learn a bit about San Diego and the history of firefighting.

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

You can easily explore Cool San Diego Sights by using the search box on my blog’s sidebar. Or click a tag! There are thousands upon thousands of interesting photos for you to enjoy!

Cool California Carvers create sand sculpture art!

A sand sculpture representation of the famous statue Ultimate Surrender, and magical animals greet people arriving in the morning for a special festival.
A sand sculpture representation of the famous statue Ultimate Surrender and magical animals greet people arriving in the morning for a special festival.

Here are lots of photos from the 2016 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge! The Labor Day Weekend event at San Diego’s B Street Pier presents so many genuinely cool sights, I’m dividing my many photographs into two blog posts.

This first batch features a sand sculpture near the entrance to the event, plus one sponsored sculpture. The remaining sculptures you will see here, which are completely amazing, were being finished this morning by local Southern California teams. This particular competition is between Cool California Carvers!

My next post will feature fine art sand sculptures created by the world’s best sand artists that will blow your mind, so stand by!

During the 2016 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge, San Diego is transformed into "SAND iego"!
During the 2016 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge, San Diego is transformed into “SAND iego”!
Inside the 2016 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge on the B Street Pier, food trucks, vendors with art, and some sponsored sand sculptures attract the eye of visitors.
Inside the 2016 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge on the B Street Pier, food trucks, vendors with art, and some sponsored sand sculptures attract the eye of visitors.
This way to the Cool California Carvers, who on Saturday morning are still working on their sand sculptures. We'll check out the World Masters Solo Competition in my next blog post!
This way to the Cool California Carvers, who on Saturday morning are still working on their sand sculptures. We’ll check out the World Masters Solo Competition in my next blog post!
Looking down the length of the B Street Pier near the San Diego Cruise Ship Terminal. These artists you see are some teams representing the Cool California Carvers.
Looking down the length of the B Street Pier between the Broadway Pier Port Pavilion and the San Diego Cruise Ship Terminal. These artists you see belong to teams representing the Cool California Carvers.
Magnify It! That's the name of this complex three-part sand sculpture, being built by the Sand Squirrels and SD Sand Castles.
Magnify It! That’s the name of this complex three-part sand sculpture, being built by the Sand Squirrels and SD Sand Castles.
Peer through the telescope-like eyepiece and you see a peace sign superimposed on planet Earth!
Peer through the telescope-like eyepiece and you see a peace sign superimposed on planet Earth!
These creative people are the I.B. Posse. Their sand sculpture is titled United We Stand.
These creative people are the I.B. Posse. Their sand sculpture is titled United We Stand. I see they are working from a small model.
Talented sand sculptors work on the flaming torch from New York's Statue of Liberty.
Talented sand sculptors work on the flaming torch from New York’s Statue of Liberty.
Carving the base of Lady Liberty's torch.
Carving the base of Lady Liberty’s torch.
Reaching upward together with peaceful aspirations.
Reaching upward together with peaceful aspirations.
Team Archisand is creating an unusual sand sculpture called REAL-EYE'z.
Team Archisand is creating an unusual sand sculpture called REAL-EYE’z Your Futur.
Small people stand together behind a mask-like face made of sand.
Small people stand together behind a mask-like face made of sand.
Many of these fantastic works of sand art really catch the eye!
Many of these fantastic works of sand art really catch the eye! We’ve got some great local teams!
This sand sculpture seems to recreate a coral reef. I don't know its title. I do know Team San Diego San Castles created it!
This sand sculpture seems to recreate a coral reef. I don’t know its title. I do know Team San Diego San Castles created it!
A close-up photo of some marine life living in a coral reef made of carved sand--on a pier!
A close-up photo of some marine life living in a coral reef made of carved sand–on a pier!
A team called The Sandcastle Man is bringing some Crazy Dreams into reality. Yes, that's the name of this sand sculpture.
A team called The Sandcastle Man is bringing some Crazy Dreams into reality. Yes, that’s the name of this sand sculpture.
We're All Mad Here! It must be an Alice in Wonderland themed sand sculpture! I see a team member of Archisand.
We’re All Mad Here! It must be an Alice in Wonderland themed sand sculpture! I see a team member of Archisand.
I see Alice, the White Rabbit and the Mad Hatter!
I see Alice, the White Rabbit and the Mad Hatter!
Visitors to the 2016 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge check out artwork being created by one Cool California Carvers team.
Visitors to the 2016 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge check out artwork being created by one of the Cool California Carvers teams.
And that team is called The Sand Squirrels. The title of this cool art is The Captain's Tale.
And that team is called The Sand Squirrels. The title of this cool art is The Captain’s Tale.
That sea-going captain appears to be a pirate who has discovered a treasure chest. Or perhaps it's a mirage made of beach sand on some deserted island...or a city pier!
That sea-going captain appears to be a pirate who has discovered a treasure chest. Or perhaps it’s a mirage made of beach sand on some deserted island…or on a city pier!

…

I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

You can easily explore Cool San Diego Sights by using the search box on my blog’s sidebar. Or click a tag! There are thousands upon thousands of fun photos (including amazing sand sculptures) for you to enjoy!

Getting ready for two epic Labor Day events!

Getting ready for the 2016 US Sand Sculpting Challenge and 3D Art Expo at the B Street Pier. A sand sculpture will soon rise here to welcome Labor Day crowds along the Embarcadero.
Getting ready for the 2016 US Sand Sculpting Challenge and 3D Art Expo at the B Street Pier. A cool sand sculpture will soon appear here to welcome passing Labor Day crowds on the Embarcadero.

Two epic events are coming to San Diego’s Embarcadero this coming Labor Day weekend! The 2016 US Sand Sculpting Challenge and 3D Art Expo, which will take place near the Cruise Ship Terminal on the B Street Pier, and the 2016 Festival of Sail, which will take place at and around the Maritime Museum of San Diego!

I’ve blogged about both amazing annual events the past couple years. The sand sculptures, created by some of the best sand artists in the entire world, are utterly mind-blowing. The tall ships are a feast not only for the eyes, but for the senses once you step aboard.

I took a slow easy walk along the Embarcadero a short while ago and snapped a few pics of very early preparation for both events. If I feel well enough next weekend, expect to see lots of super cool photos from both epic Labor Day weekend events!

One of several U.S. Navy floating docks has been set in position near the Maritime Museum of San Diego, in preparation for the 2016 Festival of Sail.
One of several U.S. Navy floating docks has been set in position near the Maritime Museum of San Diego, in preparation for visiting tall ships at the 2016 Festival of Sail.
Californian, official tall ship of California, will participate in the 2016 Festival of Sail this coming Labor Day weekend. Right now it's docked at the Maritime Museum.
Californian, the official tall ship of California, will participate in the 2016 Festival of Sail this coming Labor Day weekend. Right now she is docked at the Maritime Museum, her home.
Gaff-rigged topsail schooner Bill of Rights, based in South Bay's Chula Vista, will be one of many amazing tall ships participating this year in the Festival of Sail.
Gaff-rigged topsail schooner Bill of Rights, based in South Bay’s Chula Vista, will be one of many amazing tall ships participating this year in the Festival of Sail. I spotted it cruising across San Diego Bay today.
Visitor to the Maritime Museum of San Diego sits peacefully on a bench near the aft of the 1904 steam yacht Medea. Big crowds will arrive on Labor Day weekend!
Visitor to the Maritime Museum of San Diego sits peacefully on a bench near the aft of the 1904 steam yacht Medea. Big crowds will arrive here on Labor Day weekend!
The 2016 Festival of Sail takes place Labor Day weekend on the Embarcadero. If you are in San Diego and love historical ships, you must go!
The 2016 Festival of Sail takes place Labor Day weekend on the Embarcadero. If you are in San Diego and love historical ships, you must go!

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

Taking flight at the Torrey Pines Gliderport!

Paraglider high above the Pacific Ocean catches a warm summer updraft created by sandstone cliffs at San Diego's famous Torrey Pines Gliderport.
Paraglider high above the Pacific Ocean catches a warm summer updraft created by sandstone cliffs at San Diego’s famous Torrey Pines Gliderport.

The world-famous Torrey Pines Gliderport is possibly the coolest, most awesome place in all of San Diego. Hang gliders and paragliders float silently in the sky above rugged sandstone cliffs and the blue Pacific Ocean, painting a rare scene that few will ever forget. Here are some photos that I took this morning.

I arrived too early–the wind necessary to sustain gliders, I learned, doesn’t usually kick in until about 11:30. No worries. There were so many interesting things to photograph, and the weather and scenery were so pleasant, I just moseyed around and sat here and there and let each moment unfold.

Please enjoy the following photos and make sure to read the captions for more detailed explanations!

The Torrey Pines Gliderport was established in 1928 and is an active aviation facility. It is also a favorite place to enjoy incredible natural scenery and perhaps get a bite to eat.
The Torrey Pines Gliderport was established in 1928 and is an active aviation facility. It’s also a favorite place to enjoy incredible natural scenery and perhaps get a bite to eat.
Looking north along the San Diego coast from a point above Black's Beach. A solitary figure looks out at the mighty ocean from atop a weathered sandstone cliff.
Looking north along the San Diego coast from a point above Black’s Beach. A solitary figure looks out at the mighty ocean from atop a weathered sandstone cliff.
A hang glider is moved on the grassy hill near the Gliderport. Students, instructors and experienced gliders alike must wait for a good, steady wind.
A hang glider is moved on the grassy hill near the Gliderport. Students, instructors and experienced gliders alike must wait for a good, steady wind.
While I wandered about I made a cool discovery! Atop the hill beside the Torrey Pines Gliderport, the folks of Sky Falconry were getting ready for a morning class.
While I wandered about I made a cool discovery! Atop the hill beside the Torrey Pines Gliderport, the experts of Sky Falconry were getting ready to teach a morning class. Anyone can fly a bird of prey!
Several hawks trained to fly and return on command have a chance to stretch their wings before the class of falconry students arrives.
Several hawks trained to fly and return on command have a chance to stretch their wings before the class of falconry students arrives.
Taking flight indeed! A beautiful raptor flies past its handler. Beyond, the blue Pacific Ocean stretches to the horizon.
Taking flight indeed! A beautiful raptor flies past its handler. Beyond, the blue Pacific Ocean stretches to the horizon.
The Sky Falconry class has begun and I take another photo, then leave these good people in peace. There is much else to see...
The Sky Falconry class has begun and I take another photo, then leave these good people in peace. There is much else to see…
A view looking south from the Torrey Pines Gliderport. Someone stands on the lifeguard perch that overlooks the beach below. La Jolla Cove and a bit of Scripps Pier can be seen in the background.
A view looking south from the Torrey Pines Gliderport. Someone stands on the lifeguard perch that overlooks the beach below. La Jolla Cove and the end of Scripps Pier can be seen in the background.
Some activity! Someone wearing a bulky but lightweight paragliding harness sets out across the grass from the patio area at the Torrey Pines Gliderport.
Some activity! Someone wearing a bulky but lightweight paragliding harness sets out across the grass from the patio area at the Torrey Pines Gliderport.
Students have begun to learn the basics of paragliding, including how to safely launch. Not enough wind to take to the air yet.
Students have begun to learn the basics of paragliding, including how to safely launch. Not enough wind to take to the air yet.
A quick photo through the Torrey Pines Gliderport's casual patio area, with picnic benches. I spotted an outdoor grill and pool table nearby!
A quick photo through the Torrey Pines Gliderport’s casual patio area, with picnic benches. I spotted an outdoor grill and pool table nearby!
The Giderport's well-stocked Cliffhanger Café has yummy hamburgers . . . and jaw-dropping views nearby!
The Giderport’s well-stocked Cliffhanger Café has yummy hamburgers . . . and jaw-dropping views just steps away!
A short hallway that leads into the Torrey Pines Gliderport store features many photos of past hang gliding and paragliding action.
A short hallway that leads into the Torrey Pines Gliderport store features many photos of past hang gliding and paragliding adventures.
Just south of the Gliderport's launch area, a bench makes a perfect place to experience sun, ocean and sea breeze.
Just south of the Gliderport’s launch area, a bench makes a perfect place to experience sun, ocean and sea breeze.
A forlorn concrete monument stands near the dirt parking lot, south of the Torrey Pines Gliderport. On one side a tile mosaic depicts a sailboat and gliders in the sky.
A forlorn concrete monument stands near the dirt parking lot, south of the Torrey Pines Gliderport. On one side a tile mosaic depicts a sailboat and gliders in the sky.
On the opposite side is a corroded historical marker. To honor the spirit, ingenuity, and enthusiasm of the pioneers who flew gliders in the 1930's at Torrey Pines.
On the opposite side is a corroded historical marker. To honor the spirit, ingenuity, and enthusiasm of the pioneers who flew gliders in the 1930’s at Torrey Pines.
Another look north at beautiful high cliffs of eroded sandstone. The coastline melts away into San Diego's North County.
Another look north at beautiful high cliffs of eroded sandstone. The coastline melts away into San Diego’s North County.  No gliders yet!
A couple of surfers prepare to descend the cliff to Black's Beach far below. For those who don't follow the established trail, it can be a very treacherous descent, and one occasionally sees rescues on the local news.
A couple of surfers prepare to descend the cliff to Black’s Beach far below. For those who don’t follow the established trail, it can be a very treacherous descent, and one occasionally sees rescues on the local news.
A raised outdoor eating area at the Torrey Pines Gliderport is the perfect place to watch all the aerial action. But still too early...
A raised outdoor eating area at the Torrey Pines Gliderport is the perfect place to watch all the aerial action. But still too early…not enough wind…
The Torrey Pines Gliderport bills itself as America's premier flight school. One can enjoy tandem paraglider and hang glider flights with an instructor.
The Torrey Pines Gliderport bills itself as America’s premier flight school. One can enjoy tandem paraglider and hang glider flights with an expert instructor.
The breeze has picked up a bit. More students are trying out their equipment on safe land. A happy dog is loving life.
The breeze has picked up a bit. More students are trying out their equipment on safe land. A happy dog is loving life.
A paragliding student learns the ropes. In the distance you can see the equally famous Torrey Pines Golf Course, which hosted the epic 2008 U.S. Open.
A paragliding student learns the ropes. In the distance you can see the equally famous Torrey Pines Golf Course, which hosted the epic 2008 U.S. Open.
More spectators have arrived and the nearby grassy hill has become more active. The falconry class is still underway.
More spectators have arrived and the nearby grassy hill has become more active. The falconry class is still underway.
Almost enough lift!
Almost enough lift!
Carrying all the paragliding gear back up the hill. When actually gliding, if too much elevation is lost, some gliders will land on the beach. Then the climb is much, much worse!
Carrying all the paragliding gear back up the hill. When actually gliding, if too much elevation is lost, some gliders will land on the beach. Then the climb is much, much worse!
Just a cool shot of a paraglider spreading her wings.
Just a cool shot of a paraglider spreading her wings.
Finally! The breeze is pretty good now! The first paraglider is ready to launch! Lift is provided by wind that rises along the long cliffside.
Finally! The breeze is pretty good now! The first paraglider is ready to launch! Lift is provided by wind that pushes up against the long cliffside.
And he's off, among the birds!
And he’s off, among the birds!
A tranquil ride above and through the beautiful blue. Paragliders wind their way back and forth along the cliffs, catching the updraft.
A tranquil ride above and through the beautiful blue. Paragliders wind their way back and forth along the cliffs, catching the updraft.
A photo that provides a hint of why the Torrey Pines Gliderport is such a special place.
A photo that provides a hint of why the Torrey Pines Gliderport is such a special place.
A fantastic ride through the sky!
A fantastic ride through the sky!
Another paraglider has joined the aerial dance. The lower part of his body is enclosed in a cool-looking pod harness.
Another paraglider has joined the slow aerial dance. The lower part of his body is enclosed in a cool-looking pod harness.
Paragliding above Black's Beach, a favorite destination for surfers and Southern California nudists!
Paragliding above Black’s Beach, a favorite destination for surfers and Southern California nudists!
Just gliding along.
Just gliding along.

…

This blog now features thousands of photos around San Diego!  Are you curious?  There’s lots of cool stuff to check out!

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Three achievements that have touched many people.

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I haven’t walked or blogged much in the past few weeks. I’m a bit under the weather. I’ll try to get out on Sunday to find something interesting!

I’ve been thinking differently about Cool San Diego Sights lately. So many hours have been spent–mostly pleasurable ones–in building my blog. But what does all this effort amount to? I enjoy walking and making cool discoveries. It feels good to preserve and share those discoveries. And to spread some sunshine. Happiness in this troubled old world is a good thing.

I enjoy the interaction with other bloggers and people on social media, even if I only sit at my computer for a short while each day.

I enjoy the occasional surprises, such as being contacted by artists and others whose work I’ve documented. That is really amazing!

I’ve also been fortunate in rare instances to do some significant good, or touch people in a way that can make a real difference. There are three achievements in particular that I thought might be worth sharing again.

The first was helping in a small way to uncover an important part of San Diego and United States Navy history. The Navy Bicentennial Commemorative Plaque is on public display on the Greatest Generation Walk, a few steps from the USS Midway Museum, and it is passed by thousands of people every day. But it seemed all knowledge of its origin had been lost. I merely posted a plea: help solve a mystery! And, mysteriously, thanks to the magic of the internet–and perhaps word of mouth–over time information trickled in. Finally I was sent several amazing old photographs of the plaque’s creators and its forging, and a typewritten article revealing the details of its origin. I titled that post Creating a plaque: Navy history in San Diego revealed!

A second achievement, the one that probably makes the biggest difference in the lives of people, was a post I wrote about how to help the homeless in San Diego. I am absolutely astonished at how almost every single day, people coming to my blog click the links to the charities and organizations that strive to assist the homeless. There have been hundreds of clicks. I seldom ask my readers to share anything on my blog, but if you are so inclined, I titled that post 20 Ways To Help the Homeless in San Diego.

And finally, I wrote a short story that seems to have touched many deeply. It has even gone a bit viral in surprising places all around the world. It’s about how to change the world. I titled that post A short story to make you smile and cry. Realizing short stories don’t really fit on a photo blog about San Diego, I created another blog for my short works of fiction. If you like to read, perhaps click Short Stories by Richard.

Thank you all for following Cool San Diego Sights. This blogging thing is a strange, mysterious undertaking. Hundreds of visitors each day, from everywhere around the planet, most coming from search engines, and I have no idea who those people are. The whole experience has changed my life in far too many ways to mention.  For the better!  When I first started the blog, I had no notion that I would arrive here.

Well, hopefully on to more adventures! Have a great rest of the weekend!