Tag: piers

Sunset magic on the G Street Pier.

The sun is setting across San Diego Bay above Navy ships docked at North Island.
The sun sets across San Diego Bay.  The sky changes color above Navy ships docked at North Island.

I saw magic today. I was standing out on the G Street Pier as the sun began to set.

What a pleasant evening for a walk.

Please enjoy these photos…

Birds above one last burst of sunlight.
Birds soar above one last burst of sunlight.
A slight rainbow appears at sunset above Point Loma.
A slight rainbow appears at sunset, between clouds above Point Loma.
A beautiful evening on the tranquil G Street Pier.
A beautiful evening on the tranquil G Street Pier.
The sunset turns fiery, painting the rippled water of San Diego Bay red.
The sunset turns fiery, painting the rippled water of San Diego Bay red.
Aircraft condensation trails catch the sun high in the sky, as light fades around fishing vessels docked at the G Street Pier.
Condensation trails high in the sky reflect the sun, as light fades around fishing vessels docked at the G Street Pier.
People linger into the evening at the end of the pier near Seaport Village. A pedicab with colorful lights turns around near a docked ship.
People linger at the end of the pier near Seaport Village into the evening. A pedicab with colorful lights turns around near a docked ship.
The Manchester Grand Hyatt towers turn golden in the last rays of the sun. A nearly full moon rises above them.
The Manchester Grand Hyatt towers turn golden in the last rays of the sun. A nearly full moon rises above them.
A magical moment at sunset in Tuna Harbor.
A magical moment at sunset in Tuna Harbor.
Sunset's bright red and yellow reflects from the silvery Marriott Marquis, and onto the calm water of Tuna Harbor.
Sunset’s red and yellow reflects from the Marriott Marquis, and onto the calm water of Tuna Harbor.  Pure magic.

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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!

I finished writing a short story titled The Child and the Koi. Click to read it!

Bird sightings along San Diego’s Embarcadero!

A seagull stands atop a pile of nets and floats on San Diego's picturesque G Street Pier.
A seagull stands atop a pile of nets and floats on San Diego’s picturesque G Street Pier.

You won’t believe all the birds I identified today during my walk along the Embarcadero. You really will not believe it!

Check out these fun flighty photos taken beside beautiful San Diego Bay!

American coots (also called mud hens) on rocks near the Marriott Marina.
American coots (also called mud hens) stand on rocks near the Marriott Marina.
A Canada goose on San Diego's Embarcadero! Now that's a very unusual sight! This bird seems to have joined a local flock of American coots. Maybe it was blown off course during the recent windy storm.
A Canada goose on San Diego’s Embarcadero! Now that’s a very unusual sight! This bird seems to have joined a local flock of American coots. Maybe it was blown off course during the recent windy storm.
Another strange bird near the sparkling water about to take flight! Oh, wait. My mistake.
Another strange bird near the sparkling water about to take flight! Oops. My mistake.
A female black-crowned night heron among rocks near the Embarcadero Marina Park South pier.
A female black-crowned night heron among rocks near the Embarcadero Marina Park South pier.
A gathering of pigeons on the grass at Embarcadero Marina Park North.
A gathering of pigeons on the grass at Embarcadero Marina Park North.
Rare exotic birds photographed in flight! Oops. Those are kites. Fooled me again.
Rare exotic birds photographed in flight! Oops. Those are actually colorful kites. Fooled me again!
I've arrived at Seaport Village. Okay, I'm certain these are real birds--maybe. Looks like a parrot, flamingo and some egrets.
I’ve arrived at Seaport Village. Okay, I’m certain these are real birds–maybe. Looks like a parrot, flamingo and some egrets.
Birds and sea lions await handouts of leftover fish parts. Early Saturday afternoon, and the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market is wrapping up.
Gulls, pelicans and sea lions await handouts of leftover fish parts. Early Saturday afternoon, and the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market is wrapping up.
Two sneaky gulls with watchful eyes.
Two sneaky gulls with hungry, watchful eyes.
There's gotta be some yummy fish scraps here somewhere!
There’s gotta be some yummy fish scraps here somewhere!
Commercial fishermen unload on the small dock behind this gate at Tuna Harbor. Birds wait eternally here, too!
Commercial fishermen unload on the small dock behind this gate at Tuna Harbor. Birds wait eternally here, too!
A bird in the sky above broad-winged sailboats flying across San Diego Bay.
A bird in the sky above broad-winged sailboats flying across San Diego Bay.
Seabirds love hanging out around the fishing vessels at Tuna Harbor.
Seabirds love hanging out around the fishing vessels at Tuna Harbor.
A snowy egret near the net of a live bait catching purse seiner.
A snowy egret near the net of a live bait catching seiner.
A double-crested cormorant flaps its wings in the water of San Diego Bay near the USS Midway.
A double-crested cormorant flaps its wings in the water of San Diego Bay near the USS Midway.
Birds above an ocean wave, painted on a ceramic tile by a young person. Many fun tile benches along the Embarcadero were created for a project titled Celebrating the Big Bay in 2004.
Birds above an ocean wave, painted on a ceramic tile by a young person. Many fun tile benches along the Embarcadero were created for a project called Celebrating the Big Bay in 2004.
Many birds in flight.
Many birds in flight.

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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!

Beautiful morning photos at Broadway Pier.

Someone gazes from the Broadway Pier across the water toward Coast Guard Air Station San Diego, whose buildings shine, reflecting the early morning sun.
Someone gazes from the Broadway Pier across the water toward Coast Guard Air Station San Diego, whose buildings shine, reflecting early morning sunlight.

I was surprised at the number of beautiful photos I was able to capture this morning during my leisurely walk out on the Broadway Pier. All was quiet. The sun was rising…

The sun is about to rise above a part of the San Diego skyline.
The sun is about to rise above a part of the San Diego skyline.
A gull glides over still water.
A gull glides over still water.
Early morning light turns aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) golden. It is docked at Naval Air Station North Island.
Early morning light turns active aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) golden. It is docked at Naval Air Station North Island.
Colorful reflection on San Diego Bay of the USS Midway Museum, seen from the Broadway Pier.
Colorful reflection on San Diego Bay of the USS Midway Museum, seen from the Broadway Pier.
Bronze plaques create an historical timeline as one walks toward the pier's end. The construction of the Broadway Pier took place in 1913.
Bronze plaques create an historical timeline as one walks toward the pier’s end. The construction of the Broadway Pier took place in 1913.
An exquisitely beautiful seagull feather on the wet concrete at my feet.
An exquisitely beautiful seagull feather on the wet concrete at my feet.
Someone rides out to the end of the Broadway Pier early one Friday morning. Few people are about.
Someone rides out to the end of the Broadway Pier early one Friday morning. Few people are about.
Water droplets cling to the metal seats and tables at the end of the Broadway Pier.
Water droplets cling to the metal seats and tables at the end of the Broadway Pier.
Three large maps on the Broadway Pier show the shape of San Diego Bay in different eras. This outline of the modern bay shows where I now stand on the Embarcadero!
Three large maps on the Broadway Pier show the shape of San Diego Bay in different eras. This outline of the modern bay shows where I now stand on the Embarcadero!
Beautiful clouds and morning light frame a United States Coast Guard Cutter in the middle of San Diego Bay.
Beautiful clouds and morning light on blue water frame a United States Coast Guard Cutter in the middle of San Diego Bay.
A dreamlike vision one morning at San Diego's magical Broadway Pier.
A dreamlike vision one morning at San Diego’s magical Broadway Pier.

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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!

San Diego Marines collect Toys for Tots!

Marines stand at pedestrian entrance to Navy Pier, welcoming people to the Toys For Tots event by the USS Midway Museum.
Marines stand at pedestrian entrance to Navy Pier, welcoming people to the Toys For Tots event by the USS Midway Museum.

Most of you reading Cool San Diego Sights probably can’t make it out to the Toys for Tots event today. It’s being held in downtown San Diego, on the pier next to the USS Midway Museum. But if you’d like to make a charitable donation to the cause, please go the Toys for Tots website.

I headed on down to Navy Pier for a few minutes to see what was going on. Not only did I spy Santa and Mrs. Claus, but a dancing green elf, and some very generous people. Toys collected (and donations made) help less fortunate children to have a Merry Christmas. Thank you United States Marine Corps!

Toys and donations are being collected by San Diego Marines next to the USS Midway. Santa will be parachuting onto the aircraft carrier throughout the day!
Toys and donations are being collected by San Diego Marines next to the USS Midway. Santa will be parachuting onto the aircraft carrier throughout the day!
This funky elf is present to lend a helping hand and a laugh or two!
This funky elf is present to lend a helping hand and a laugh or two!
Donated toys will fill this United States Marine Corps truck. A banner on its side commemorates the Marine Corps Reserve Centennial.
Donated toys will fill this United States Marine Corps truck. A banner on its side commemorates the Marine Corps Reserve Centennial.
Santa and Mrs. Claus are present again for the toy drive! I saw them here a year or two ago!
Santa and Mrs. Claus are visiting again for the toy drive! I saw them here a year ago!
San Diego Marines collect toys for the less fortunate, to be distributed by charitable organizations during Christmas.
San Diego Marines collect toys for the less fortunate, to be distributed by charitable organizations during Christmas.

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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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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!

Boats, a pier, clutter, humor and life.

A Disney princess has been captured in a large fishing net on the Tuna Harbor pier.
A Disney princess has been captured in a large fishing net on the Tuna Harbor pier.

If you love a sunlit clutter of colorful surprises, Tuna Harbor’s G Street Pier is the perfect spot.

Curious eyes during a slow walk are sure to discover many wonders. Small humorous wonders that produce small smiles.

Enjoy a few photos.

Fishermen bike to their boat. Tuna Harbor is full of visual delights, odd clutter, humor and life.
Fishermen bike to their boat. Tuna Harbor is full of visual delights, odd clutter, humor and life.
Floats with spear-like poles rise into the sky above downtown San Diego skyscrapers.
Floats with spear-like poles rise into the sky above downtown San Diego skyscrapers.
A heron has taken sole possession of this boat in Tuna Harbor.
A heron has taken sole possession of this boat in Tuna Harbor.
Fish won't be caught in here for long.
Fish won’t be caught in here for long.
A colorful fishing boat in Tuna Harbor. Sun, sweat, grit and real life. The source of your elegant dinner.
An untidy fishing boat in Tuna Harbor. Sun, sweat, grit and real life. The source of your elegant dinner.
Truth is, the Sea Nag likes to keep things cool.
Truth is, the Sea Nag likes to keep things cool.
An indifferent gull.
An indifferent gull.
This live bait boat resembles an auto tire store.
This live bait boat resembles an auto tire store.
That's a very large houseboat. A small bird builds a nest in an odd place.
Who doesn’t love a houseboat? A small bird builds a nest in an odd place.

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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!

The most amazing sand sculptures in the world!

The end of San Diego's B Street Pier is lined with amazing sand sculptures created by world masters for the 2016 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge.
The end of San Diego’s B Street Pier is lined with amazing sand sculptures created by world masters for the 2016 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge.

At this moment, the most amazing sand sculptures in the entire world are on display in San Diego on the B Street Pier. They were created by genuine world sand masters–many have won world championships–for the 2016 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge’s World Masters Solo Competition. The artists have come in for this big competition from countries all around the planet!

You doubt these are the most fantastic sand sculptures in the world at this very moment? Take a look at some photos! All of these sculptures will be destroyed right after the special event ends.  The day after Labor Day, these truly amazing works of art become history!

Rockin' Bobbin, by Kirk Rademaker, world sand master from Stinson Beach, California.
Rockin’ Bobbin, by Kirk Rademaker, world sand master from Stinson Beach, California.
The Rockin' Bobbin, which resembles a machine with many parts, is a wonderful example of complex sand art.
The Rockin’ Bobbin, which resembles a machine with many parts, is a wonderful example of complex sand art.
I Want To Fly, by world sand master Katsuhiko Chaen from Japan.
I Want To Fly, by world sand master Katsuhiko Chaen from Japan.
A large winged foot carved of sand appears ready to take flight.
A large winged foot carved of sand appears ready to take flight.
Armadillo Lizard, by world sand master Susanne Ruseler of the Netherlands.
Armadillo Lizard, by world sand master Susanne Ruseler of the Netherlands.
The friendly world-class sand sculptor Susanne Ruseler poses for photos by her fantastic artwork.
The friendly world-class sand sculptor Susanne Ruseler poses for photos by her fantastic artwork.
Alpha Waves, by world sand master Fergus Mulvany of Dublin, Ireland. This sculpture won second place at the 2016 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge.
Alpha Waves, by world sand master Fergus Mulvany of Dublin, Ireland. This sculpture won second place at the 2016 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge.
Alpha Waves photographed from a different angle. The layered sand art is truly amazing.
Alpha Waves photographed from a different angle. The layered sand art is truly amazing.
And another photo from behind.
And another photo from behind.
Yell, by world sand master Benjamin Probanza of Mexico City.
Yell, by world sand master Benjamin Probanza of Mexico City.
An angry face yells at a graceful woman made of sand.
An angry, melting face yells at a graceful woman made of sand.
Another photo of the astonishing sand sculpture Yell.
Another photo of the astonishing sand sculpture Yell.
My Inner Self Revealed, by world sand master Melineige Beauregard of Montreal, Canada.
My Inner Self Revealed, by world sand master Melineige Beauregard of Montreal, Canada.
Peering through the amazing layered sand sculpture reveals a human form.
Peering through the amazing layered sand sculpture reveals a human form.
The tender, small inner self is revealed.
The tender, small inner self is revealed.
The Man Who Wasn't There, by world sand master Rusty Croft of Carmel, California.
The Man Who Wasn’t There, by world sand master Rusty Croft of Carmel, California.
This abstract work of sand art makes the viewer think about its potential meaning.
This abstract work of sand art makes the viewer think about its potential meaning.
A photo of the rear of this surreal sand sculpture reveals an open door.
A photo of the rear of this surreal sand sculpture reveals an open door.
Yesterday upon the stair I met a man who wasn't there he wasn't there again today Oh how I wish he'd go away...
Yesterday upon the stair I met a man who wasn’t there he wasn’t there again today Oh how I wish he’d go away…
What Is The Real Face, by world sand master Agnese Rudzite-Kirillova of Latvia.
What Is The Real Face, by world sand master Agnese Rudzite-Kirillova of Latvia.
Is this the real face, or a mask worn in public?
Is this the real face, or a mask worn in public?
What is the real face? Where is it?
What is the real face? Where is it?
Nostalgia, by world sand master Ilya Filimontsev of Moscow, Russia. This incredible sculpture won first place at the 2016 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge!
Nostalgia, by world sand master Ilya Filimontsev of Moscow, Russia. This incredible sculpture won first place at the 2016 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge!
Proof that sand sculptures can sometimes be classified as fine art.
Proof that sand sculptures can sometimes be classified as fine art.
Side view of the stunning, award-winning sand sculpture on San Diego's B Street Pier.
Side view of the stunning, award-winning sand sculpture on San Diego’s B Street Pier.
Surrender To Diversity, by world sand master Michela Ciappini of Italy.
Surrender To Diversity, by world sand master Michela Ciappini of Italy.
An unusual sand sculpture features a rabbit perched upon an upside-down alligator!
An unusual sand sculpture features a rabbit perched upon an upside-down alligator!
Out Of Reach, by world sand master Thomas Koet of Melbourne, Florida.
Out Of Reach, by world sand master Thomas Koet of Melbourne, Florida.
Many hands reach for a very beautiful woman, but she is out of reach.
Many hands reach for a very beautiful woman, but she is out of reach.
The most amazing sand sculptures in the world can be found in sunny San Diego. Until Labor Day weekend ends!
The most amazing sand sculptures in the world can be found in sunny San Diego. That is–until this Labor Day weekend ends!

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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 and sometimes truly amazing 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!

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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!

Cool photos: OB Pier celebrates 50th anniversary!

Visitors to the Ocean Beach Pier during its 50th anniversary celebration look at posters with information that concern the amazing concrete pier's construction and history.
Visitors to the Ocean Beach Pier during its 50th anniversary celebration look at posters containing information about the amazing concrete pier’s construction and history.

I enjoyed a walk along the Ocean Beach Municipal Pier this morning around 10 o’clock, just as the pier’s 50th anniversary celebration got underway! One of my favorite places in San Diego, the OB Pier has a fascinating history.

Here are some cool photos of what I saw and learned! To enlarge the posters containing historical information, click the images!

A table near the OB Pier gate welcomes people to the 50th anniversary celebration with flyers and event info.
A table near the OB Pier gate welcomes people to the 50th anniversary celebration with flyers and event info.
This San Diego Fishing Pier plaque was unveiled on July 2, 1966, 50 years ago when the Ocean Beach Municipal Pier first opened to the public.
This San Diego Fishing Pier plaque was unveiled on July 2, 1966, 50 years ago when the engineering marvel known today as the Ocean Beach Municipal Pier first opened to the public.
A good crowd turned out for the beloved pier's big day! Here we are looking west toward the Pacific Ocean.
A good crowd turned out for the beloved pier’s big day! Here we are looking west toward the Pacific Ocean.
Later in the day, a new plaque would be unveiled near the stairs down to the beach.
Later in the day, a new plaque would be unveiled near the stairs down to the beach.
Turning for a moment back east toward Ocean Beach. It's a pleasant if somewhat overcast morning in July.
Turning for a moment back east toward Ocean Beach. It’s a pleasant if somewhat overcast morning in early July.
A stand up paddle surfer next to the OB Pier. It's possible to watch a lot of surfing action from the top of the pier on almost any given day.
A stand up paddle surfer next to the OB Pier. It’s possible to watch a lot of surfing action from the top of the pier on almost any given day.
The familiar old Pier Cafe has a brand new red, white and blue paint job!
The familiar old Pier Cafe has a brand new red, white and blue paint job!
People were poking their heads through a couple of fun photo props, set up just for the special occasion.
People were poking their heads through a couple of fun photo props, set up just for the special occasion.
As we approach the hub of the anniversary event, just past the Walking on Water Cafe, a lady peers through the jaws of a shark!
As we approach the hub of the anniversary event, just past the Walking on Water Cafe, a lady peers through the jaws of a shark!
The United States Postal Service had a temporary philatelic station out on the OB Pier! Anyone could have a special pier postcard stamped with a custom-designed postmark!
The United States Postal Service had a temporary philatelic station out on the OB Pier! Anyone could have a special pier postcard stamped with a custom-designed postmark!
Before the OB Pier was built, the Mission Bay Bridge across the San Diego River was used by trolleys, cars and fishermen. The Del Monte Avenue Steel Pier's construction was halted due to WWII.
Before the OB Pier was built, the Mission Bay Bridge across the San Diego River was used by trolleys, cars and fishermen. It no longer exists. The Del Monte Avenue Steel Pier’s construction was halted due to WWII.
The Souvenir Dedication Program Book dated July 2, 3, and 4, 1966. The original opening celebration was also around the Fourth of July!
The Souvenir Dedication Program Book dated July 2, 3, and 4, 1966. The original opening celebration was also around the Fourth of July!
Planning the pier. Historical photos of the people who commissioned and built the truly amazing 1971 feet long concrete pier--the longest on the West Coast. Its original purpose was simply for fishing, out beyond rock and kelp beds!
Planning the pier. Historical photos of the people who commissioned and built the truly amazing 1971 feet long pier–the longest concrete pier on the West Coast. Its original purpose was simply for fishing, out beyond rock and kelp beds!
Engineering the OB Pier was no small feat. Thirteen months were required for the pier's completion because of various design changes.
Engineering the OB Pier was no small feat. Thirteen months were required for the pier’s completion because of various design changes.
Poster shows photos of the OB Pier construction back in the 1960s. 2 foot diameter piles were place 12 feet deep into bedrock. Slabs placed on top were welded securely.
Poster shows photos of the OB Pier construction back in the 1960s. The 2 foot diameter piles were place 12 feet deep into bedrock. Slabs were placed on top and everything was welded securely.
I couldn't help but notice a surfer in this old photograph! Nothing can deter a good ride on the mighty ocean, even half a century ago!
I couldn’t help but notice a surfer in this old photograph! No obstacle can deter a good ride on the mighty ocean, even half a century ago!
Photo shows concrete pilings and steel. The pier has survived countless huge storms over the decades.
Photo shows concrete pilings and steel. The pier has survived countless huge storms over the decades.
A poster highlights events at today's Ocean Beach Pier 50th anniversary. There will be spectacular fireworks this Fourth of July!
A poster highlights events at today’s Ocean Beach Pier 50th anniversary. There will be spectacular fireworks this Fourth of July!
Photos of the opening celebration weekend in 1966. Governor Edmund Brown cut the ribbon and cast the first fishing line . . . but gave up after 5 minutes! Festivities included parades, a surfing and variety show, and a sandcastle contest.
Photos of the opening celebration weekend in 1966. California Governor Edmund Brown cut the ribbon and cast the first fishing line . . . but gave up after 5 minutes! Festivities included parades, a surfing and variety show, and a sandcastle contest.
This cool dude gave me the thumbs up while hanging a display for the OB Pier's 50th anniversary. That's Ocean Beach style!
This cool dude gave me the thumbs up while hanging a display for the Ocean Beach Pier’s 50th anniversary. That’s OB style!
Generations of San Diegans have been fishing here for half a century. I wonder . . . how many fish have been caught over the years?
Generations of San Diegans have been fishing here for half a century. I wonder . . . how many fish have been caught over the years?
A gull and the OB Pier hover over the restless ocean. This 180 feet extension of the south arm at the pier's end was added at a later time, and remains a favorite spot for fishing way out where the water is around 30 feet deep.
A gull and the OB Pier hover over the restless ocean. This 180 feet extension of the south arm at the pier’s end was added at a later time, and remains a favorite spot for fishing way out where the water is around 30 feet deep.

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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!