Tag: pacific ocean

Walking around the Old Point Loma Lighthouse.

The beautiful Old Point Loma Lighthouse and the nearby Assistant Keepers Quarters building at Cabrillo National Monument.
The beautiful Old Point Loma Lighthouse and the nearby Assistant Keepers Quarters building at Cabrillo National Monument.

I’ve visited Cabrillo National Monument many times over the years. I’ve blogged about it on several occasions. It’s one of the most wonderful places in San Diego.

Today, September 30, is National Public Lands Day, so admission to Cabrillo National Monument was free all day.

I grabbed my camera, jumped into my car and drove this morning to the tip of the Point Loma peninsula. Once again, I wanted to enjoy some amazing views and a pleasant walk above the Pacific Ocean and San Diego Bay. Most of my time was spent around the Old Point Loma Lighthouse.

To see and learn more about the lighthouse, including its interior and the adjacent museum, and to enjoy other fascinating aspects of Cabrillo National Monument, please feel free to explore Cool San Diego Sights.

The historic Old Point Loma Lighthouse is a major attraction at Cabrillo National Monument in San Diego.
The historic Old Point Loma Lighthouse is a major attraction at Cabrillo National Monument in San Diego.
Visitor to Cabrillo National Monument looks up at the lighthouse.
Visitor to Cabrillo National Monument looks up at the lighthouse.
Built in 1855 at the end of the Point Loma peninsula, above the entrance to San Diego Bay, the old lighthouse used to guide sailors to safety with a powerful fresnel lens.
Built in 1855 at the end of the Point Loma peninsula, above the entrance to San Diego Bay, the old lighthouse used to guide sailors to safety with a powerful fresnel lens.
Walking around the old lighthouse is a wonderful experience, with amazing views in all directions.
Walking around the old lighthouse is a wonderful experience, with amazing views in all directions.
The cluster of trees near the Old Point Loma Lighthouse are rare Torrey pines, which are native to this region.
The cluster of trees near the Old Point Loma Lighthouse are rare Torrey pines, which are native to this region.
Walking along the cliffside trail north of the lighthouse.
Walking along the cliffside trail north of the lighthouse.
Someone sits high above the blue Pacific Ocean enjoying the cool breeze and natural beauty.
Someone sits high above the blue Pacific Ocean enjoying the cool breeze and natural beauty.
South of the lighthouse, people walk toward the gray whale migration overlook.
South of the lighthouse, people walk toward the gray whale migration overlook.
Visitors to Cabrillo National Monument scan the watery horizon for ships and whales.
Visitors to Cabrillo National Monument scan the watery horizon for ships and whales.
A park ranger and volunteers were removing non-native plants. Invasive species can crowd out native species.
A park ranger and volunteers were removing non-native plants among dry stalks of California sunflower and buckwheat. Invasive species can crowd out native species.
People approach the handsome lighthouse from the south.
People approach the handsome lighthouse from the south.
Photo of Old Point Loma Lighthouse, the small museum beside it and the large Rain Catchment Basin.
Photo of Old Point Loma Lighthouse, the small museum beside it and the large Rain Catchment Basin.
Visitors to San Diego are strongly encouraged to enjoy some time at Cabrillo National Monument. A very special place.
Visitors to San Diego are strongly encouraged to enjoy some time at Cabrillo National Monument. It’s a very special place, with many paths to walk.

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

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A walk along rocks south of the OB Pier.

Walking south along the Ocean Beach boardwalk near the foot of the OB Pier, toward the old Silver Spray Apartments and Plunge.
Walking south along the Ocean Beach boardwalk near the foot of the OB Pier, toward the old Silver Spray Apartments and Plunge.

Let’s take a walk along the shore! We’re going to start at the boardwalk near the foot of the Ocean Beach Municipal Pier, pass quickly around the historic, ruin-like Plunge, then head along a rocky trail between cliffs and the crashing ocean.

We’ll see tide pools, tiny pocket beaches and amazing scenery. Many refer to this stretch as a part of San Diego’s Sunset Cliffs, even though the official Sunset Cliffs neighborhood lies farther south down the Point Loma peninsula.

Ready to go exploring? Let’s start!

People explore tide pools between the sand-filled, long-defunct Plunge and the OB Pier.
People explore tide pools between the sand-filled, long-defunct Plunge and the OB Pier.
The Plunge, often called the Sandbox, was built in 1917. Famous English Channel swimmer Florence Chadwick, who grew up in San Diego, trained here.
The saltwater Plunge, now often called the Sandbox, was built in 1917. Famous English Channel swimmer Florence Chadwick, who grew up in San Diego, trained in this historic pool.
We've passed the Plunge, which is officially part of the beach, and are now carefully traversing sandstone rocks along the base of cliffs. It can be very slippery.
We’ve passed the Plunge, which is officially part of the beach, and are now carefully traversing sandstone rocks along the base of cliffs. It can be very slippery.
Looking back north we see the Ocean Beach Municipal Pier and beach.
Looking back north we see the Ocean Beach Municipal Pier and beach.
People enjoy looking into small tide pools in the eroded sandstone. I occasionally saw some crabs.
People enjoy looking into small tide pools in the eroded sandstone. I occasionally saw some small crabs.
The easily carved sandstone is like a book containing years of names and often humorous images.
The easily carved sandstone is like a book containing years of names and often humorous images.
OB is a place for free spirits, and the rocks along the water attract many.
OB is a place for free spirits, and the rocks along the water attract many.
Looking north again. I see Pacific Beach and La Jolla in the distance.
Looking north again. I see Pacific Beach and La Jolla in the distance.
Splashing water and curious eyes.
Splashing water and curious eyes.
People peer down at us from the street level high above.
People peer down at us from the street level above.
A small group walks along the crude trail.
A small group walks along the crude trail.
A perfect day to explore nature's many wonders beside the ocean.
A perfect day to explore nature’s many wonders beside the ocean.
Someone heads toward one of the small pocket beaches tucked between rocky outcrops.
Someone heads toward one of the small pocket beaches tucked between rocky outcrops.
Standing on a tiny beach at the water's edge.
Standing on a tiny beach at the water’s edge.
The sandstone cliffs are unstable and sometimes you hear of people falling and needing rescue.
The sandstone cliffs are unstable and sometimes you hear of people accidentally falling and needing rescue.
Here comes a guy and his dog.
Here comes a guy and his dog.
As we continue to walk south, we can see the coast vanishing into the distance. The actual Sunset Cliffs neighborhood is farther down the Point Loma peninsula.
As we continue to walk south, we can see the coast vanishing into the distance. The actual Sunset Cliffs neighborhood is farther down the Point Loma peninsula.
A white sailboat out on the wide blue Pacific Ocean.
A white sailboat out on the wide blue Pacific Ocean.
In places the rocky and slippery sand footing is a bit difficult to navigate, even on the trail. Wear good shoes.
In places the rocky and slippery sand footing is a bit difficult to navigate, even on the trail. Wear good shoes!
Looking north. Spectacular scenery.
Looking north. Spectacular scenery.
More natural beauty.
More natural beauty.
The rough trail continues south. Fewer people seem to be in this section.
The rough trail continues south. Fewer people seem to be in this section.
Now we're approaching an interesting part of the walk, with a short, undulating path along a sea wall.
Now we’re approaching an interesting part of the walk, with a short, undulating path along a sea wall.
Looking back.
Looking back.
We've almost reached the end of our walk. The concrete pathway ahead has either been undermined by water, or intentionally made into a ramp for thrill seekers.
We’ve almost reached the end of our walk. The concrete pathway ahead has either been undermined by water, or intentionally made into a ramp for thrill seekers.
At the foot of old stairs that climb up to Orchard Avenue.
At the foot of old stairs that climb up to Orchard Avenue.
As we head up, someone begins down.
As we head up, someone begins down.
Two people begin their own adventure along the rocks.
Two people begin their own adventure along the rocks.
Looking back north at the short stretch we just finished.
Looking back north at the short stretch we just finished.
Someone gets exercise on the steps. At the top there is some fun artwork.
Someone gets exercise on the steps. At the top there is some fun artwork.
Sitting on a unique surfboard bench, gazing across the blue ocean.
Relaxing on a unique surfboard bench, gazing across the magical blue ocean.

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk around with my camera! 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 share and enjoy!

A good day to catch mackerel in OB.

Fishermen enjoy a perfect September day along the Ocean Beach Pier. Today everybody was catching mackerel.
Fishermen enjoy a perfect September day along the Ocean Beach Pier. Today everybody was catching mackerel.

Today was a good day to catch mackerel in Ocean Beach. Fishermen were pulling up shining prizes all along the OB Pier.

What was their secret? Cut bait, a little patience, slathered sunscreen, and perhaps a cool beverage and some music. Nothing more. (Not even a fishing license. It’s free to fish from a San Diego pier.)

The Ocean Beach Municipal Pier was built in 1966 and is the longest concrete pier on the West Coast. Its reach into deep water makes it an excellent place to catch a wide variety of fish.
The Ocean Beach Municipal Pier was built in 1966 and is the longest concrete pier on the West Coast. Its reach into deep water makes it an excellent place to catch a wide variety of fish.
Not everyone was fishing. Some were just out enjoying the sunshine. A guy on a bike looks down on the busy beach.
Not everyone was fishing. Some were just out enjoying the sunshine. A guy on a bike looks down on the busy beach.
This guy caught a silvery mackerel. They were really biting today along the entire length of the pier.
This guy caught a silvery mackerel. They were really biting today along the entire length of the pier.
Young and old alike were having success!
Young and old alike were having success!
Below the pier, there seemed to be as many surfers as mackerel in the ocean.
Below the pier, there seemed to be as many surfers as fish in the ocean.
Some kids at the OB Pier's T-shaped end catch another nice mackerel!
Some kids at the OB Pier’s T-shaped end catch another nice mackerel!
This guy caught one, too!
This guy caught one, too!
A curious glance backward as a photo is taken of a prized catch!
A curious glance backward as a photo is taken of a prized catch!
It appears catching that mackerel was a lot of fun!
It appears catching that mackerel was a lot of fun!

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

Stepping aboard the beautiful Bill of Rights.

The beautiful tall ship Bill of Rights is participating in the 2017 Festival of Sail in San Diego.
The beautiful tall ship Bill of Rights is participating in the 2017 Festival of Sail in San Diego.

Yesterday I stepped aboard the beautiful Bill of Rights. The tall ship, based in San Diego’s South Bay city of Chula Vista, is participating this Labor Day weekend in the Festival of Sail.

The crew of the Bill of Rights were all very nice to some silly blogger guy asking a few questions. I did learn that Bill of Rights, a two-masted gaff rigged schooner, was built in 1971 based on drawings of Wanderer, an 1856 ship that transported cargo from New Orleans to New York.

I learned Bill of Rights can be chartered for a variety of unique adventures on San Diego Bay or the Pacific Ocean. How exciting would it be to sail on her? The ship will also be used this year for Sea Cadet sailing voyages to Catalina.

Finally, I learned that Bill of Rights is about to have its mandatory every-ten-year Coast Guard inspection, which involves removing the rigging and unstepping the masts. It’s an operation that is quite expensive for a non-profit, requiring hiring a crane, etc. I was told any donations would be really appreciated! Visit their webpage here.

Come aboard and let’s look around just a little bit…

Bill of Rights is a schooner whose design is based on the 1856 ship, Wanderer.
Bill of Rights is a schooner whose design is based on an 1856 ship, Wanderer.
A crew member was at work in some shade near the ship.
A crew member was at work in some shade near the ship.
She and the captain give me a friendly greeting.
She and the captain give me a friendly greeting.
Some Festival of Sail visitors were already onboard, walking about the deck.
Some Festival of Sail visitors were already onboard, walking about the deck.
Interesting people, a fantastic ship, good times.
Interesting people, a fantastic ship, good times.
More friendly crewmembers in seafaring attire chatting by the wheel.
More friendly crewmembers in seafaring costumes chatting by the wheel.
Once the sails are raised, Bill of Rights can take to the sea like those tall ships of old.
Once the sails are raised, Bill of Rights can take to the sea like those tall ships of old.
Looking along the deck.
Looking along the wooden deck.
Looking down at the main deck of Bill of Rights, a very cool tall ship based in Chula Vista.
Looking down at the main deck of Bill of Rights, a very cool tall ship based in Chula Vista.
Smiles and good times at the Festival of Sail!
Smiles and good times at the Festival of Sail!

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk around with my camera! 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 share and enjoy!

Huge catch of fish arrives in San Diego!

Fresh opah is prepared on the fishing vessel Pacific Horizon docked at the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market!
Fresh opah is prepared on the fishing vessel Pacific Horizon docked at the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market.

Look what I happened upon during my walk this morning! The fishing vessel Pacific Horizon was unloading a huge catch of opah and bigeye tuna at the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market!

I lingered to watch some of the fascinating 2017 Opahthon action!

Opahthon 2017 was held this morning on San Diego's Embarcadero at the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market!
Opahthon 2017 was held this morning on San Diego’s Embarcadero at the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market.
A crowd had gathered around the Pacific Horizon to watch a bustle of activity.
A crowd had gathered around the Pacific Horizon to watch a bustle of activity.
Guys were cleaning fish caught 800-1200 miles off San Diego in the Pacific Ocean--halfway to Hawaii! The Pacific Horizon is back after one month of fishing.
Guys were cleaning fish caught 800-1200 miles off San Diego in the Pacific Ocean–halfway to Hawaii! The Pacific Horizon is back after one month of fishing.
A curious dog on deck watches the action!
A curious dog on deck watches the action!
The guys are now filleting bigeye tuna, which were caught along with the opah. More bigeye tuna are being hoisted onto the pier!
The guys are now filleting bigeye tuna, which were caught along with the opah. More bigeye tuna are being hoisted onto the pier!
Some of the whole fish are put into large coolers.
Some of the whole fish are put into large coolers.
Working hard to prepare your tasty seafood meal!
Working hard to prepare your tasty seafood meal!
The cutting table was frequently hosed off.
The cutting table was frequently hosed off.
Lots of ice was shoveled into the coolers.
Lots of ice was shoveled into the coolers.
Today the Pacific Horizon brought an amazing haul of fish to San Diego!
Today the Pacific Horizon brought an amazing haul of fish to San Diego!
More bigeye tuna! These might be going to a restaurant near you!
More bigeye tuna! These might be going to a restaurant near you!

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

Lots of cool street art in Mission Beach!

A pelican on an electrical box on Mission Boulevard in Mission Beach.
A pelican painted on an electrical box.  Photo taken on Mission Boulevard in Mission Beach.

Enjoy these photos of street art finds in Mission Beach!

I saw lots of cool artwork while walking along Mission Boulevard from Pacific Beach Drive south to the Giant Dipper roller coaster at Belmont Park. Almost every electrical box along the sidewalk had been painted with a lively beach or ocean theme!

A sailfish swims above the sidewalk.
A sailfish swims above the sidewalk.
These fish in some kelp appear to be made of a hand and two feet dipped in paint!
These fish in some kelp appear to be made of a hand and two feet dipped in paint!
A transformer box with a small beach scene wrapping around it.
A transformer box with a small beach scene wrapping around it.
Close look at one part of the impressionistic painting of the beach.
Close look at one part of the impressionistic painting of the beach.
A typical beach scene with sand, palm tree and surfer.
A typical beach scene with sand, palm tree and surfer.
Someone with a pail and someone walking a dog.
Someone with a pail and someone walking a dog.
Three orange garibaldis in the Pacific Ocean.
Three orange garibaldis in the Pacific Ocean.
A traffic sign warns of surfers crossing!
A traffic sign warns of surfers crossing!
A red, white and blue fish above a garage door.
A red, white and blue fish above a garage door.
Some fun surfer street art in Mission Beach.
Some fun surfer street art in Mission Beach.
And right next to it is another colorful, psychedelic panel of street art. Find it at Mission Blvd and San Rafael Pl.
And right next to it is another colorful, psychedelic panel of street art. Find it near Mission Blvd. and San Rafael Pl.
A tropical scene on a wall.
A tropical scene on a wall.
Perhaps take some gyros out on your boat when you go sport fishing.
Perhaps take some gyros out on the boat when you go sport fishing.
A goose is loose!
A goose is loose!
One of several cool, nostalgic beach images on one parking lot fence. A surfer girl and a woodie overlooking the ocean.
One of several cool, nostalgic beach images on one parking lot fence. A surfer girl and a woodie overlooking the ocean.
Another cool Southern California image on the parking lot wall.
Another cool Southern California image on the parking lot wall.
A youth with a surfboard looks out at the beach and sandstone cliffs.
A youth with a surfboard looks out at the beach and sandstone cliffs.
There seems to be a large hole in this wall. I see ocean waves through it!
There seems to be a large hole in this wall. I see ocean waves through it!
We must take care of our land and sea. Live aloha.
We must take care of our land and sea. Live aloha.
A wacky tiki character on a corner of a Mission Beach shop.
A wacky Deadhead tiki character at the corner of a Mission Beach shop.
Another painted scene shows natural beauty along San Diego's coastline.
Another painted scene shows natural beauty along San Diego’s coastline.
Another cool woodie with surfboards on the roof.
Another cool woodie with surfboards on the roof.
Whales and seals and fish on one watery wall.
Whales and seals and fish on one watery wall.
And a dolphin, too!
And a dolphin, too!
The most important things in life . . . aren't things.
The most important things in life . . . aren’t things.
Two sailboats painted on an electrical box.
Two sailboats painted on an electrical box.
Another underwater scene on a utility box, faded by the sun.
Another underwater scene on a utility box, faded by the sun.
A ringed planet appears to be surfing! Cosmic, dude!
A ringed planet appears to be surfing! Cosmic, dude!
Street art celebrates the Mission Beach Centennial, 1914-2014. The Giant Dipper roller coaster, the main attraction of Belmont Park, is in both the artwork and the photograph's background.
Urban art celebrates the Mission Beach Centennial, 1914-2014. The Giant Dipper roller coaster, the main attraction of Belmont Park, is in both the artwork and the photograph’s background.
More garibaldis on a large electrical box near Mission Beach's famous roller coaster.
More garibaldis on a large electrical box near Mission Beach’s famous roller coaster.
A migrating gray whale and pod of dolphins are part of the previously shown underwater mural.
A migrating gray whale and pod of dolphins are part of the previously shown underwater mural.

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk around with my camera! 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 share and enjoy!

Photos of 2nd Annual Ocean Beach Pier Surf Classic!

People gather near the beach to watch the 2nd Annual Ocean Beach Pier Surf Classic.
People gather near the beach to watch the 2nd Annual Ocean Beach Pier Surf Classic.

Here come some cool surf photos!

I went to the 2nd Annual Ocean Beach Pier Surf Classic today and enjoyed walking around and watching the action from atop the OB pier.

What a beautiful, perfect day. Check it out!

The OB Pier stretches into the Pacific Ocean on a beautiful morning in early February. A fun surf competition is underway.
The OB Pier stretches into the Pacific Ocean on a beautiful morning in early February. A fun surf competition is underway.
I believe these guys were signing up people for a beach cleanup.
I believe these guys were signing up people for a beach cleanup.
Catching a football on the beach while two surfers head toward the water.
Catching a football on the beach while two surfers head toward the water.
Considering the event is only two years old, a nice turnout was evident along the boardwalk.
Considering the event is only two years old, a nice turnout was evident along the boardwalk.
A musician plays in OB during a surf community celebration.
A musician plays in OB during a surf community celebration.
I believe the winners in different categories would take home one of these small surfboards.
I believe the winners in different categories would take home one of these small surfboards.
Hanging out on the sea wall and the sand berm. The latter protects the nearby street and businesses from high water during winter storms.
Hanging out on the sea wall and the sand berm. The latter protects the nearby street and businesses from high water during winter storms.
A horn sounds. The 10:30 heat is starting out across the beach! May the best surfer win!
A horn sounds. The 10:30 heat is starting out across the beach! May the best surfer win!
The surf competitors enter the water.
The surf competitors enter the water.
One of the surfers has caught a nice wave. The surf was very high today and made for some good rides.
One of the surfers has caught a nice wave. The surf was high today and not terribly choppy, making for some pretty good rides.
Pacific Beach and La Jolla can be seen in the distance.
Pacific Beach and La Jolla can be seen in the distance.
Two surfers tackle a good breaker!
Two surfers tackle a good breaker!
OB is a haven for Southern California surfers.
OB is a haven for Southern California surfers.  It’s fun to watch from the pier.
A nice shot. This local surfer went under the pier and emerged near the competitors.
A nice shot. This local surfer went under the pier and emerged near the competitors.
A fun surf photo. (About the best my little camera can manage at a distance.)
A fun surf photo. (About the best my little camera can manage at a distance.)
People on the pier look out across the turbulent water.
People on the pier look out across the foamy water.
Keep having a good day!
Keep having a good day!
More cool action at the 2nd Annual OB Pier Surf Classic.
More cool action at the 2nd Annual OB Pier Surf Classic.
A line of pelicans flies overhead.
A line of pelicans flies overhead.
People enjoy a warm San Diego winter day on the OB pier.
People enjoy a warm San Diego winter day on the OB pier. One of my favorite places.
Leaning over the rail watching surfers below.
Leaning over the rail watching surfers below.
The guys surfing the south side of the pier were catching some fairly big waves.
The guys surfing the south side of the pier were catching some fairly big waves.
Today we were under a high surf advisory. Perfect for experienced surfers!
Today San Diego beaches were under a high surf advisory. Perfect for experienced surfers!
Surfer in a wetsuit about to paddle under the pier.
Surfer in a wetsuit about to paddle under the pier.
Some photographers and videographers were recording the action.
Some photographers and videographers were recording the action.
Wow! Check out this pic of the surf competition! Very cool!
Wow! Check out this pic of the surf competition! Very cool!
Riding in toward the shore.
Riding smoothly in toward the shore.
Meanwhile, along the beach people were simply enjoying life.
Meanwhile, along the beach people were simply enjoying life.
An artist was displaying some cool surf art at the competition.
An artist was displaying some colorful surf art at the competition.
An announcer calls the action so everyone can follow along.
An announcer calls the action so everyone can follow along.
A wonderful day at the 2nd Annual Ocean Beach Pier Surf Classic. Here's to many more years of success!
A wonderful day at the 2nd Annual Ocean Beach Pier Surf Classic. Here’s to many more years of success!

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk around with my camera! 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 share and enjoy!

Pelicans and gulls near La Jolla Cove.

Brown pelicans come in for a landing on a cliffside near La Jolla Cove.
Brown pelicans come in for a landing on a cliff near La Jolla Cove.

Yesterday I spent some time at one of the most beautiful places in San Diego. I walked along the cliffs near La Jolla Cove, just taking in the fresh ocean breeze, sunshine and scenery.

I managed to get several fun photographs of pelicans and gulls flying above the water and perched on the rocks.

Sea birds fly along the water's edge as the surf breaks. The cliffs of Torrey Pines stretch in the distance.
Sea birds fly along the water’s edge as the surf breaks. The cliffs of Torrey Pines stretch in the distance.
A pelican and gull share a cliff above the turbulent, foaming Pacific Ocean.
A pelican and gull share a cliff above the turbulent, foaming Pacific Ocean.
A seagull descends gracefully with outstretched wings.
A seagull descends gracefully with outstretched wings.
Photo of pelican standing on a dark rock provides interesting contrast.
Photo of pelican standing on a dark rock provides interesting contrast.

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

Meet your meal on a pier!

Shoppers at the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market learn about whelks and other food from the sea.
Shoppers at the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market learn about whelks and other food from the sea.

Late yesterday morning I revisited the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market. It’s a place whirling with human activity, fascinating sights, and fishy, oceany smells. The fresh seafood market spontaneously appears on the pier between Seaport Village and Tuna Harbor every Saturday morning. It features the catch of local fishermen. And lots of shoppers, should you arrive early.

During my casual visit I noticed some interesting information on a table that described what our local fishermen catch. So I took some pics. I also enjoyed being shown various species of edible sea creatures by a few of the friendly vendors, though I’m afraid I purchased nothing. My cooking skills amount to pushing buttons on the microwave. I admit it.

If you’d like to read some of the literature I spotted on a table, click the images.

Sidewalk signs try to lure people out onto a pier near Seaport Village. Fresh seafood caught by local fishermen is sold here every Saturday morning.
Sidewalk signs try to lure people out onto a pier near Seaport Village. Fresh seafood caught by local fishermen is sold here every Saturday morning.
I arrived at the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market at about eleven o'clock, after the usual early morning crowd of fresh fish shoppers had departed.
I arrived at the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market at about eleven o’clock, after the usual early morning crowd of fresh fish shoppers had departed.
Some freshly caught silvery Pacific bluefin tuna on ice for sale. That's a lot of eating!
Some freshly caught silvery Pacific bluefin tuna on ice for sale. That’s a lot of eating!
I noticed people by the edge of the pier looking across the water toward downtown San Diego.
I noticed people by the edge of the pier looking across the water toward downtown San Diego.
Something below in the water has caught their attention...
Something below in the water has caught their attention…
It's a sea lion just hanging out, probably hoping for a handout!
It’s a sea lion just hanging out, probably hoping for a handout!
The Mary Beth docked nearby appears equipped and ready to go out for more fish.
The Mary Beth docked nearby appears equipped and ready to go out for more fish.
Some colorful artwork at the fresh fish market depicts a fisherman and scenes from above and beneath the ocean.
Some colorful artwork at the fresh fish market depicts a fisherman and scenes from above and beneath the ocean.
Meet your meal! At one table I discovered some interesting photos and literature, including a diagram of deep-set buoy gear used to catch swordfish.
Meet your meal! At one table I discovered some interesting photos and literature, including a diagram of deep-set buoy gear used to catch swordfish.
This poster shows the most common seafood commercially harvested in California. Many of these species can be purchased at Tuna Harbor Dockside Market.
This poster shows the most common seafood commercially harvested in California. Many of these species can be purchased at Tuna Harbor Dockside Market.
More info on the table describes the wavy turban snail and Kellet's whelk, which I'm told make for good eating.
More info on the table describes the wavy turban snail and Kellet’s whelk, which I’m told make for good eating.
I believe I've seen brown box crabs, Pacific rock crabs, and red sea urchins at this very market! The latter can live up to 200 years, and is considered a delicacy.
I believe I’ve seen brown box crabs, Pacific rock crabs, and red sea urchins at this very market! The latter can live up to 200 years, and is considered a delicacy.
Some guys cut up fish. Customers can have their purchase filleted on the pier.
Some guys cut up a huge fish, making steaks. Customers can have their purchase cleaned on the pier.
A big pile of whelks. To cook these, boil!
A big pile of whelks. To cook these, boil!
Look at all the seafood one can choose from at this one tent. The Tuna Harbor Dockside Market continues to grow and now occupies about half of the pier.
Look at all the seafood one can choose from at this one tent. The Tuna Harbor Dockside Market continues to grow and now occupies about half of the pier.
Fresh fish! Lots of tuna!
Fresh fish! Lots of tuna!
I and some other folks are shown a sea urchin. The kelp and starfish are just for show--they aren't normally eaten!
I’m shown a spiky sea urchin. The kelp and starfish are just for show–they aren’t normally eaten!

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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.

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