Tag: piers

An easy walk along Shelter Island’s Shoreline Park.

At the southwest end of Shelter Island, near the end of Shoreline Park, are some works of art. The female life-size bronze sculpture is Pacific Spirit, by James Hubbell, 2002.
At the southwest end of Shelter Island, near the end of Shoreline Park, are some works of art. The female life-size bronze sculpture is Pacific Spirit, by James Hubbell, 2002.

I was off from work yesterday. In the late morning I headed down to Shelter Island. It’s another of my favorite places. After a bite to eat, I enjoyed an easy, peaceful walk while gathering photos for future blog posts. Expect some cool sights in the coming weeks!

The path that extends the length of narrow Shoreline Park is just about perfect. The park itself is located at the very edge of the bay, stretching from one end of Shelter Island to the other. In one place the path traverses what seems to be more of a large parking lot than a park, but no matter. I love the place. It’s relaxed, usually non-crowded, and just beautiful. There are amazing views of San Diego Bay, sailboats and a large variety of ships, scenic Point Loma, a slice of ocean horizon, the distant Coronado Islands (when it isn’t hazy), busy Naval Air Station North Island and the skyline of downtown San Diego. I often see people sitting on lawn chairs with binoculars, just watching boats pass by, jets take off from North Island, and birds that wheel and dive through the blue sky.

People walk along the pathway which stretches down narrow Shoreline Park. Grass, benches and picnic tables invite both locals and tourists.
People walk along the pathway which stretches down narrow Shoreline Park. Grass, benches and picnic tables invite both locals and tourists.
Bougainvillea and lath provide shade on a sunny warm summer morning. Several of these structures are found along the park
Bougainvillea and lath provide shade on a sunny warm summer morning. Several of these structures are found along the park.
Bicyclist cruises past a raised Osprey nesting platform. A sign nearby provides an explanation.
Bicyclist cruises past a raised Osprey nesting platform. A sign nearby provides an explanation.
A large Navy warship entering San Diego harbor is seen beyond the Shelter Island pier. Downtown skyscrapers appear misty in the background.
A large Navy warship entering San Diego harbor is seen beyond the Shelter Island pier. Downtown skyscrapers appear misty in the background.
Fathom Bistro, Bait and Tackle sign at foot of Shelter Island fishing pier. They've been open a couple years now.
Fathom Bistro, Bait and Tackle sign at foot of Shelter Island fishing pier. They’ve been open a couple years now.
Someone next to the pathway along Shoreline Park balanced a bunch of rocks up on top of each other. Perhaps it was someone who was fishing.
Someone next to the pathway along Shoreline Park balanced a bunch of rocks up on top of each other. Perhaps it was someone who was fishing.
Another cool photo of Shelter Island's dinghy landing. I published a post with similar photos a year or two ago.
Another cool photo of Shelter Island’s dinghy landing. I published a post with similar photos a year or two ago.
Huge swaths of sand along the water are simply covered with gull tracks.
Huge swaths of sand along the water are simply covered with gull tracks.
Someone spreads a big bag of old bread along the small Shelter Island beach, sending the seagulls into a wild feeding frenzy!
Someone spreads a big bag of old bread along the small Shelter Island beach, sending the seagulls into a wild feeding frenzy!
It's a quiet weekday morning outside the Outboard Boating Club of San Diego's building near the Shelter Island boat ramp. A nearby flagpole is empty.
It’s a quiet weekday morning outside the Outboard Boating Club of San Diego’s building near the Shelter Island boat ramp. A nearby flagpole is empty.
At the base of the flagpole: The Holiday Express. This plaque cast of brass from the aircraft carrier USS Bunkerhill CV-17 is dedicated to that gallant ship and her courageous crew.
At the base of the flagpole: The Holiday Express. This plaque cast of brass from the aircraft carrier USS Bunkerhill CV-17 is dedicated to that gallant ship and her courageous crew.
Perhaps you remember my blog post "Wally the sociable sea lion greets boaters". I saw him again during another walk at the same boat launching area!
Perhaps you remember my fun blog post “Wally the sociable sea lion greets boaters.” I saw him again during another walk at the same boat launching area!
Floating peacefully along the edge of San Diego Bay, enjoying the calm water and bright sunshine.
Floating peacefully along the edge of San Diego Bay, enjoying the calm water and bright sunshine.
Someone ready to row off Shelter Island's dinghy landing, perhaps heading to a boat moored nearby.
Someone is ready to row off Shelter Island’s dinghy landing, perhaps heading to a boat moored nearby.

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Fishermen unroll a huge net onto Tuna Harbor pier.

Crew of live bait-catching commercial fishing boat Cougar work to unspool immense net onto the G Street Pier at Tuna Harbor.
Crew of live bait catching fishing boat Cougar works to transfer an immense net onto the G Street Pier at Tuna Harbor.

Late this morning I went down to HarborFest in Chula Vista. I’ve got to sort through a couple hundred photos–so I’ll blog about that cool event later. But first, here are some interesting pics which I took during a walk along San Diego’s Embarcadero this afternoon. As I strolled along Tuna Harbor, between Seaport Village and the USS Midway Museum, I noticed a lot of activity beside one of the live bait boats which docks at the G Street Pier. So I investigated.

Turns out, fishermen were removing a huge seine net from the Cougar, a commercial fishing boat which catches live bait.  The bait is then distributed to local sportfishing vessels. I don’t claim to be an expert on these matters or to thoroughly understand what I saw, but I believe the captions I wrote are correct. I hope so! If a correction is required, leave a comment!

A crane is utilized to help transfer the heavy net from the boat's big cylinder-like winch drum at its stern to the pier.
A crane is utilized to help transfer the heavy net from the boat’s big cylinder-like winch drum at its stern to the pier.
Lots of seagulls were attracted to this picturesque scene on San Diego Bay. Perhaps they expected to spot some fish.
Lots of seagulls were attracted to this picturesque scene on San Diego Bay. Perhaps they expected to spot some fish.
Wrestling with the huge live bait seine net, which is lined at the edges with yellow and white floats.
Wrestling with the huge live bait encircling seine net, which is lined at the edges with yellow and white floats.
Commercial fishing requires a lot of hard physical work on land, as well as water.
Commercial fishing requires a lot of hard physical work on both land and water.
Winch and crane operators work in tandem to keep the net moving from boat to pier smoothly and neatly.
Winch and crane operators work in tandem to keep the net moving from boat to pier smoothly and neatly.
Working with a smile on a sunny summer Saturday on San Diego's busy Embarcadero.
Working with a smile on a sunny summer Saturday on San Diego’s busy Embarcadero.
Just a great photo of nets, gulls and human activity on a working public pier.
Just a great photo of nets, gulls and human activity on a working public pier.

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Fishing, friendship and life on a downtown pier.

Another easy, carefree day of fishing at the Embarcadero Marina Park Pier in downtown San Diego.
Another easy, carefree day of fishing at the Embarcadero Marina Park Pier in downtown San Diego.

I have lots of favorite places. One is the small public fishing pier in downtown San Diego, located at Embarcadero Marina Park South. I walk there quite frequently. When I stand on this short pier, leaning against the rail above the bay’s gently lapping water, I feel my mind and spirit expand.

I walked past the pier last Saturday morning. I’d seen a sign announcing a Kiwanis fishing tournament, and thought it might be fun to take a few photos. But when I arrived, nobody seemed to be there. Perhaps I was too early.

When I got home and reviewed all the photos on my computer, I figured I’d blog about the pier anyway!

I casually know a few of the regulars. Back when JJ’s Sunset Deli by the Bay was open, we’d eat, sit and talk on JJ’s patio at the foot of the pier. Jim had the best ribeye steak sandwiches. I even blogged about it. But I deleted that post when he shut down and retired at the end of last year. It’s a very big shame a new tenant hasn’t taken over the cafe. It’s a small gem that adds unique charm to San Diego and thousands of fond, priceless memories.

The Embarcadero Marina Park Pier extends less than a hundred feet from the shore, but the T-shaped end is about 300 feet long. At times many fish can be caught here. It’s possible to catch mackerel, bass, croaker, halibut, guitarfish, bat rays, leopard sharks and many more local species. Kids love the place. There’s grass nearby and picnic benches, and curving paths for running and riding, and rocks to climb down that are covered at the waterline with tiny, quick crabs.

There are homeless people scattered about the park. But they’re generally just hanging out, talking, sleeping, trying to enjoy the sea breeze, some shade or warm sunshine.

Know what’s really cool? No fishing license on the pier is required! That’s the case with all public pier fishing in San Diego.

Across the bay from the pier (which is located behind the San Diego Convention Center) is beautiful Coronado Island.
Across the bay from the pier (which is located behind the San Diego Convention Center) lies beautiful Coronado Island.
The small pier is a favorite spot for fishermen and families, especially on weekends and during the summer.
The small pier is a favorite spot for fishermen and families.  It’s an affordable way for many locals to enjoy their beautiful (but sometimes expensive) city.  The pier is most popular on weekends and during the summer.
This friendly pier regular drags the bottom of the bay hoping to snag lost fishing poles and other sunken treasure!
This friendly pier regular drags the bottom of the bay hoping to snag lost fishing poles and other sunken treasure!
Someone caught a small mackerel, which flops around on the wooden pier.
Someone caught a small mackerel, which flops around on the wooden pier.
Another beautiful San Diego day on the Big Bay. The pier is located at Embarcadero Marina Park South.
Another wonderful San Diego day on the Big Bay. The modest pier is located at Embarcadero Marina Park South.
Two brown pelicans perch on a rail hoping for a handout from sympathetic fishermen.
Two brown pelicans perch on a rail hoping for a handout from sympathetic fishermen.
Fishing poles in a line on a hazy day. Across the gentle water to the south stretches the San Diego–Coronado Bridge.
Fishing poles in a line on a hazy day. Across the gentle water to the south stretches the long San Diego–Coronado Bridge.
Joggers, bicyclists, skaters, picnickers, tourists, people attending Summer Pops concerts nearby...almost everyone likes to visit this pier for great peaceful views.
Joggers, bicyclists, skaters, city residents, tourists, people attending Summer Pops concerts nearby…almost everyone likes to visit this pier for great peaceful views.
Just spending some time on the pier, relaxing, talking, enjoying life among friends and fellow fishermen.
Just spending some time on the pier, relaxing, talking, enjoying life among friends and fellow fishermen.
Birds are plentiful on San Diego Bay...
Birds are plentiful on San Diego Bay…
And so are boats, of every kind!
And so are boats, of every kind!
Walking along the path that encircles Embarcadero Marina Park South. The small structure which housed the pier cafe, unfortunately, has been vacant this year.
Walking along the path that encircles Embarcadero Marina Park South. The small structure which housed the pier cafe, unfortunately, has been vacant this year.
Kids look excitedly into the blue water. Maybe the big one is down there just waiting to be caught!
Kids look excitedly into the blue water. Maybe the big one is down there just waiting to be caught!

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Fun, sun and extreme sports action at Supergirl Pro!

Camera aims toward surfing action from the Oceanside Pier during 2015 Supergirl Pro World Surf League (WSL) competition.
Camera aims toward surfing action from the Oceanside Pier during 2015 Supergirl Pro World Surf League (WSL) competition.

Here’s my second blog post about yesterday’s huge Supergirl Pro event near the Oceanside Pier. If you haven’t already, check out these super cool photos of the surfing action which I posted last night!

The 2015 Supergirl Pro was a three day event with a record 108 female surfing contestants. It’s the largest professional women’s surfing competition in the world. But it’s also a big fun festival celebrating women who participate in extreme sports. Amazing young women were skateboarding on a halfpipe, and visitors could learn about snowboarding.  There was also a beauty contest, and the crowd along Oceanside Beach had plenty of cool sights, sounds, delicious food and fun.

Enjoy some photos…

Spectators filled the beach, boardwalk and Oceanside Pier as people enjoyed many cool things to see at Supergirl Pro.
Spectators filled the beach, boardwalk and Oceanside Pier as people enjoyed many cool things to see at Supergirl Pro.
The annual female sports festival included high flying girls skateboarding a big halfpipe.
The annual female sports festival included high flying girls skateboarding a big halfpipe.
Three day surf competition schedule on a sign near the pier. I viewed the Quarterfinals on Sunday.
Three day surf competition schedule on a sign near the pier. I viewed the Quarterfinals on Sunday.
People watch an athlete defy gravity on the halfpipe at 2015 Supergirl Pro!
People watch an athlete defy gravity on the halfpipe at 2015 Supergirl Pro!
Unlike surfers in the ocean, should a skateboarder fall off their board, there's no soft landing!
Unlike surfers in the ocean, should a skateboarder fall off their board, there’s no soft landing!
Young girl watches female skating athlete at Supergirl Pro. Perhaps what she sees will provide her with inspiration.
Young girl watches female skating athlete complete a trick at Supergirl Pro. Perhaps what she sees will provide her with inspiration.
Just walking along the huge event venue, checking out interesting sponsors, vendors, food, and fun surf-related stuff.
Just walking along the huge event venue, checking out interesting sponsors, vendors, food, and fun surf-related stuff.
The Surf Diva has a big pink canopy on the sand!
The Surf Diva has a big pink canopy on the sand!
A couple of lifeguards watch the huge crowd from their tower on Oceanside's always popular beach.
A couple of lifeguards watch the huge crowd from their tower on Oceanside’s always popular beach.
Some surf graphics on a banner hung beneath the Oceanside Pier.
Some surf graphics on a banner hung beneath the Oceanside Pier.
Youth and a surfboard just north of the pier. It's another perfect sunny weekend in Southern California.
Youth and a surfboard just north of the pier. It’s another perfect sunny weekend in Southern California.
Someone walks past the Supergirl Pro staging tent, where contestants assemble and get ready to compete.
Someone walks past the Supergirl Pro staging tent, where contestants assemble and get ready to compete.
Colorful umbrellas and waders in the water can be seen for miles south along the coast, all the way through Carlsbad.
Colorful umbrellas and waders in the water can be seen for miles south along the coast, all the way through Carlsbad.
Folks in the shade of beach umbrellas look toward the surf, where dueling Supergirls are performing astonishing feats during 25 minute heats.
Folks in the shade of beach umbrellas look toward the surf, where dueling Supergirls are performing astonishing feats during 25 minute heats.
And hundreds are watching from up on the pier, as well.
And hundreds are watching from up on the pier, as well.
Amazing action like this took place for three straight days. The event is all about female strength and empowerment.
Amazing action like this took place for three straight days. The event is all about female strength and empowerment.
Walking farther out on Oceanside Pier to get closer to the powerful Pacific Ocean breakers.
Walking farther out on Oceanside Pier to get closer to the powerful Pacific Ocean breakers.
Guys on the other side of the pier seem more interested in fishing.
Guys on the other side of the pier seem more interested in fishing.
Now this person had the best view of all. A paraglider soars quietly above!
Now this person had the best view of all. A paraglider soars quietly above!
Eyes are fixed on the water below.
Eyes are fixed on the water below.
This year's 2015 Supergirl Pro winner, Tatiana Weston-Webb of Hawaii, rides a wave during the Quarterfinals.
This year’s 2015 Supergirl Pro winner, Tatiana Weston-Webb of Hawaii, rides a wave during the Quarterfinals.
When the competitors return to land, a crowd forms around them for a post-heat interview, photos and autographs.
When the competitors return to shore, a crowd forms around them for a post-heat interview, photos and autographs.
I see a pink Supergirl cape on one superheroic surfing celebrity! The event is in part sponsored by DC Comics, where the fictional character was born.
I see a pink Supergirl cape on one superheroic surfing celebrity! The event is in part sponsored by DC Comics, where the fictional character was born.
Just kicking back and taking in all the cool World Surf League action.
Just kicking back and taking in all the cool World Surf League action.
As I walk back down the pier, ready to go home, I hear something's going on at the outdoor Junior Seau Pier Amphitheatre.
As I walk back down the pier, ready to go home, I hear something’s going on at the outdoor Junior Seau Pier Amphitheatre.
It's an announcement of this year's winner of the beautiful woman contest. Supergirl Pro's main sponsor is Paul Mitchell, maker of beauty products.
It’s an announcement of this year’s winner of the beautiful woman contest. Supergirl Pro’s main sponsor is Paul Mitchell, maker of beauty products.
Blogging about an awesome surf event requires a photo of someone walking along with a surfboard on their head!
Blogging about an awesome surf event requires a photo of someone walking along with a surfboard on their head!

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Another ordinary summer day on the Embarcadero.

A pleasure boat, two sailboats, one catamaran--everyone is out on glorious, blue San Diego Bay.
A pleasure boat, two sailboats, one catamaran–everyone is out on glorious, blue San Diego Bay.

Here are some photos taken today during my walk. Nothing too earth-shattering. Just sunshine, birds, people, water, boats, music, love, life . . . and Chewbacca, Tom Cruise and Captain Ahab. Ordinary stuff.

Gull takes flight near fishing pier at Embarcadero Marina Park South.
Gull takes flight near fishing pier at Embarcadero Marina Park South.
Folks relax as they listen to a small concert by a Seaport Village fountain.
Folks relax as they listen to a small concert by a Seaport Village fountain.
These talented kids playing classic rock tunes in Seaport Village form the band Gen-X!
These talented kids playing classic rock tunes in Seaport Village form the band Gen-X!
Chewbacca is hanging out with a Star Wars buddy near the USS Midway Museum.
Chewbacca is hanging out with a Star Wars buddy near the USS Midway Museum.
Looks like Tom Cruise has shore leave after landing his Top Gun fighter jet on that big aircraft carrier docked there behind him!
Looks like Tom Cruise has shore leave after landing his Top Gun fighter jet on that big aircraft carrier docked there behind him!
Two enjoy the sparkling water beside the Cruise Ship Terminal.
Two enjoy the sparkling water beside the Cruise Ship Terminal.
Students prepare to board the Star of India. A cool Moby Dick Marathon Reading is coming next weekend to San Diego's historic tall ship.
Students prepare to board the Star of India. A cool Moby Dick Marathon Reading is coming next weekend to San Diego’s historic tall ship.
Throwing a rope as Maritime Museum of San Diego's restored Swift Boat returns from a harbor cruise.
Throwing a rope as Maritime Museum of San Diego’s restored Swift Boat returns from a harbor cruise.

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Photos of cool sand sculptures at Sun and Sea Festival!

A long time ago at a beach very very close...it is a period of sand wars. Cool Star Wars sand sculpture at the Imperial Beach Sun and Sea Festival!
A long time ago at a beach very very close…it is a period of sand wars… Star Wars sand sculpture at the Imperial Beach Sun and Sea Festival!

The 2015 Sun and Sea Festival at Imperial Beach today had almost everything. Lots of good food, live music, happy people, the beautiful ocean, and, of course, a whole bunch of awesome sand sculptures. What it didn’t have was sun. Monsoon conditions in San Diego have produced dark skies, frequent showers, even thunder and lightning this weekend.

But nothing could stop the crowds from enjoying this great annual tradition.

Ready to see the cool photos? Here they are…

The annual Sun and Sea Festival in IB features food, music, fun, people-watching and sand castles galore! This banner is hung on the pier above the beach.
The annual Sun and Sea Festival in IB features food, music, fun, people-watching and sand castles galore! This banner is hung on the pier above the beach.
The Port of San Diego is a sponsor of the yearly festival, home of the famous Imperial Beach Sandcastle Competition. This sculpture was created by sand master Kirk Rademaker.
The Port of San Diego is a sponsor of the yearly festival, home of the famous Imperial Beach Sandcastle Competition. This sculpture was created by sand master Kirk Rademaker.
A second photo of Kirk Rademaker's sculpture. Tiny sand people stand out on a sand IB pier over the sandy Pacific Ocean!
A second photo of Kirk Rademaker’s sculpture. Tiny sand people stand out on a sand IB pier over the sandy Pacific Ocean!
Sandstorm Fabrication team seems to be creating a large Viking head sand sculpture.
Sandstorm Fabrication team seems to be creating a large Viking head sand sculpture.
Cool froglike creature coming to life on the beach conveys a Help Conserve Water message.
Cool frog-like creature coming to life on the beach conveys a Help Conserve Water message.
The Sandcastle Man team is building an elaborate sandcastle! Of course!
The Sandcastle Man team is building an elaborate sandcastle! Of course!
The I.B. Posse team is crafting a complex, exotic scene of Myths and Legends out of sand near the Imperial Beach pier.
The I.B. Posse team is crafting a complex, exotic scene of Myths and Legends out of sand near the Imperial Beach pier.
Looks like the fallen head of a classic statue from a time long ago.
Looks like the fallen head of a classic statue from a time long ago.
Sand sculptor is closely watched by the unblinking eyes of an inanimate subject.
Sand sculptor is closely watched by the unblinking eyes of his inanimate subject.
This team wearing tie-dye was creating a hip sand scene with a fun, fanciful 60s flavor.
This team wearing tie-dye was creating a hip sand scene with a fun, fanciful 60s flavor.
Is that a mud-covered hippopotamus rising from a river? No. Just some imaginative Southern California artwork!
Is that a mud-covered hippopotamus rising from a river? No. Just some imaginative Southern California artwork.
Peace and Love. Hippie Hippos are cool, groovy and happening!
Peace and Love. Hippie Hippos are cool, groovy and happening!
These are my favorite sand sculptures: Star Wars. Chewbacca, R2-D2, stormtroopers, the Millennium Falcon and an X-Wing starfighter. 'Nuff said.
These are my favorite sand sculptures. Star Wars icons Chewbacca, R2-D2, stormtroopers, the Millennium Falcon and an X-Wing starfighter!
Fierce looking stormtroopers seem to be hanging out on sandy Tatooine. Where it happens to be raining today.
Fierce looking stormtroopers seem to be hanging out on sandy Tatooine. Where it happens to be raining today.
Han Solo is probably hoping this gifted sand artist can get the Millennium Falcon to jump to light speed.
Han Solo is probably hoping this gifted sand artist can get the Millennium Falcon to jump to light speed.
Okay. You have to admit this is a lot of fun.
Okay. You have to admit this is a lot of fun.
San Diego Sand Castles was skillfully carving toothy land sharks.
San Diego Sand Castles was skillfully carving toothy land sharks.
Hope it doesn't bite.
Hope it doesn’t bite.
Over here we have a large mechanical shark, driven by a small fish! The real shark must be terrified.
Over here we have a large mechanical shark, driven by a small fish! The “real” shark must be terrified.
This team seemed to be digging out a whale. It's huge!
This team seemed to be digging out a whale. It’s huge!
Of course, there were Minions. Lots of Minions. Oodles of 'em. They were popping out of the sand everywhere you turned.
Of course, there were Minions. Lots of Minions. Oodles of ’em. They were popping out of the sand everywhere you turned.
Five silly Minions seem to be having a party in a sand pit.
Five silly Minions seem to be having a party in a sand pit.
Another team had some Minions, too. This guy is just riding a sand wave on a surfboard. Too bad the sun isn't out.
Another team had some Minions, too. This guy is riding a sand wave while sitting on a surfboard. Too bad the sun isn’t out.
Lastly, I spotted Baymax of Big Hero 6 being created out of sand. Lots of sculptures at the family friendly festival appealed to kids.
Lastly, I spotted Baymax of Big Hero 6 being created out of sand. Lots of sculptures at the family friendly festival appealed to kids.
A cloudy, showery day with lightning, thunder and crowds on the beach enjoying a cool Imperial Beach tradition.
A cloudy, showery day with lightning, thunder, and crowds on the beach enjoying an awesome Imperial Beach tradition.

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Improvements on North Embarcadero celebrated!

Roving lady stilt walker with parasol welcomes people to Broadway Pier celebration.
Roving lady stilt walker with parasol welcomes people to Broadway Pier celebration.

I really enjoyed checking out a special event around the Broadway Pier today. San Diego’s bayfront is in the middle of a very large-scale multi-year renovation, and the completion of the North Embarcadero Visionary Plan Phase I was marked this afternoon with a public celebration!

The big Port Pavilion on the pier itself and various improvements and new structures around the foot of the pier have added color, new life and functionality to an area popular with both tourists and locals. A once narrow sidewalk is now a broad promenade, with lots of fun and exciting new features. There are new benches, shady pavilions, beautiful landscaping and other welcome amenities.

I’ll post some of my better photos, and you can enjoy a bit of what I saw…

San Diegans check out a revamped part of the North Embarcadero.
San Diegans check out the newly revamped section of the North Embarcadero.
Benches along Harbor Drive are festive today for the celebration
New benches along Harbor Drive are festive today for the celebration
Musicians at foot of Broadway Pier entertain folks for the Port of San Diego.
Musicians near entrance to Broadway Pier entertain folks for the Port of San Diego.
A crazy magician wowed young and old on the action-packed pier today.
A crazy magician wowed young and old on the action-packed pier today.
Exactly who are you pointing at!
Exactly who are you pointing at?
New tables and chairs provide great view of the bay at end of Broadway Pier.
New tables and chairs provide great view of the bay at end of Broadway Pier.
Brave souls soar down a zip-line with a docked cruise ship in background.
Brave souls soar down a zip-line with a docked cruise ship in background.
A kids fun zone featured a very cool Seal Tours amphibious vehicle.
A kids fun zone near the pier featured a very cool Seal Tours amphibious vehicle.
Chalk art created on the pier celebrates San Diego sights and tourism.
Chalk art created on the pier beneath the zip-line celebrates San Diego sights and tourism.
Artist of Mexikota Art works on a canvas south of the pier near Harbor Drive.
Artist of Mexikota Art works on a canvas south of the pier near Harbor Drive.
Folks check out a new sign which features nearby places on the Embarcadero.
Folks check out a new sign which features nearby places on the Embarcadero.
The unique design on this restroom was created by renowned artist Pae White.
The unique design on this restroom was created by renowned artist Pae White. This artwork is titled Birds’ Words.
Art for the North Embarcadero improvement was created by Pae White.
Art for the North Embarcadero improvement was created by Pae White. The pavilion buildings’ glass colors were selected based on how sunlight affects the bay.
Mariachis take a break between performances near one new colorful pavilion.
Mariachis take a break between performances near one new colorful pavilion.
Mural around walls of a pavilion shows timeline of this bustling stretch of San Diego Bay.
Mural around walls of a pavilion shows timeline of this bustling stretch of San Diego Bay.
Both North and South Embarcadero have seen dramatic changes over the decades.
Both North and South Embarcadero have seen dramatic changes over the decades.
More colorful glass artwork incorporated into a new pavilion.
More colorful glass artwork incorporated into a new pavilion along Harbor Drive.
San Diego's waterfront has become more beautiful, user-friendly and interesting!
San Diego’s waterfront has become more beautiful, user-friendly and interesting!

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Tuna Harbor Dockside Market grows downtown!

Artistic chalkboard tells curious customers how to prepare yummy rock fish.
Artistic chalkboard tells curious customers how to prepare yummy rock fish.

I recently heard on the local news that the new Tuna Harbor Dockside Market in downtown San Diego has grown quite a bit since its modest beginning. When I went to the outdoor fish market’s grand opening a month or so ago, there were two tables with freshly caught fish and tanks of crabs and sea urchins. And a really, really long line!

During my walk late this morning I decided to see how things are going. So I headed down to the Embarcadero with my trusty camera. I arrived at the pier just north of Seaport Village about eleven o’clock, and it appeared most of the shopping crowd had already departed. Some of the commercial fishermen were removing unsold seafood from their tables.

The dockside market has certainly expanded! The tents now number half a dozen or so, and stretch in a row a good distance down the pier.

Today’s catch included live sea urchin, rock crab, top snail, whelk snail, rock fish, black cod, thorny head rockfish, sheepshead, yellowfin tuna, albacore tuna, box crab, razor crab, mackerel and perch! I’m told many chefs at local restaurants have become happy customers!

The number of fresh fish tables has more than doubled in one month.
The number of fresh fish tables has more than doubled in one month.
Late in the morning, frozen albacore looked to be a pretty good deal.
Late in the morning, frozen albacore looked to be a pretty good deal.
Lots of colorful rockfish including starry, Bocaccio and Santa Maria.
Lots of colorful rockfish including starry, Bocaccio and Santa Maria.
Looking toward downtown along the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market this morning.
Looking toward downtown along the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market this morning.
Fishing boats docked at pier where fresh fish are sold every Saturday.
Fishing boats docked at pier where fresh fish are sold every Saturday.
Fisherman checks live crab on top of a trap.
Fisherman checks live crab on top of a trap.
Sign board at foot of pier indicates today's prices.
Sign board at foot of pier indicates today’s prices.

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Slanting light and color on Tuna Harbor pier.

New ropes, floats and lobster traps on San Diego's Tuna Harbor pier.
Bright new ropes and floats among lobster traps on San Diego’s Tuna Harbor pier.

Early this year I published a blog post about delightful heaps of junk on a working pier. As I recall, those heaps of junk were indeed quite delightful.

But they don’t compare with the extraordinarily awesome piles of stuff I saw today!

Very late this afternoon I took a walk along the same G Street Pier, on San Diego’s picturesque Embarcadero.  Just minutes before sunset, the sunlight was beaming almost horizontally across the glittering blue water.

Here are a few things that I saw:

Late afternoon sunlight brings out super bright colors.
Late afternoon sunlight brings out some startling bright colors.

My friend Jeremy reports that lobster season is just a few weeks away, so that probably explains all the brand new, unfaded lobster-catching gear that I saw along much of the pier.

Just a delightful mess of stuff touched by slanting light beside the bay.
Just a delightful mess of stuff touched by slanting light beside the bay.
Steel rebar and nets form interesting patterns of light and shadow.
Steel rebar, nets and tarp form interesting patterns of light and shadow.
A pleasing pile of rusted metal frames of some sort.
A pleasing pile of rusted metal frames of some sort.
Huge cylinder used by live bait boats to haul in nets glows with reflected sunlight.
Resting on the pier, a huge cylinder-like drum used by commercial fishing boats to haul in a seine net seems to glow.
Seagull flies off tall mound of fishing nets while another gull watches.
Seagull flies off tall mound of fishing nets while another gull watches.
White rope curled softly atop parallel shining rods of metal.
White rope curled softly atop parallel shining rods of metal.
Crazy ship's structure on pier almost conceals docked fishing vessel.
Crazy ship structure lying on the pier almost conceals a fishing vessel docked in Tuna Harbor.
Part of San Diego's skyline rises beyond angular steel jumble.
Part of San Diego’s shining skyline rises beyond angular steel jumble.
Another delightful tangle on the wonderfully untidy pier.
Another delightful visual tangle on the wonderfully untidy pier.
Ghostly white dried material clings to stacked lobster traps.
Ghostly white dried material clings to stacked lobster traps.
Purple floats strung on colorful rope across traps on pier.
Sun-touched purple floats strung on cheerful green and yellow rope.
Faded image of a face on a protective tarp smiles upside down.
Faded face on a crumpled protective tarp smiles happily upside down.

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US Sand Sculpting Challenge and 3D Art Expo!

People arrive at the 2014 US Sand Sculpting Challenge and 3D Art Expo in San Diego.
People arrive at the 2014 US Sand Sculpting Challenge and 3D Art Expo in San Diego.

Here comes one more cool blog post concerning the 2014 US Sand Sculpting Challenge and 3D Art Expo!

If you haven’t yet, please check out the SUPER AWESOME previous photos of the solo Sand Master competition at this event!

Now I’m going to cover the rest of what I saw. In addition to the incredible top international individual sand sculptors, a number of great teams also competed for fame and prizes. They started on their unique artwork today, so their creations seem in these early morning pics to have barely begun. I also enjoyed looking at many art exhibits, and a few sand sculptures dedicated to event sponsors.

The fun event on the B Street Pier was sponsored in part by Chevrolet.
The fun event on the B Street Pier was sponsored in part by Chevrolet.
Teams create fantastic sand sculptures out toward the end of the pier.
Teams create fantastic sand sculptures out toward the end of the pier.
Many displays of art dotted the exhibition, as well as food trucks and a stage.
Many displays of art dotted the exhibition, as well as food trucks and a stage.
The teams began their sculpting on Saturday, the day of my visit.
The teams began their sculpting on Saturday, the day of my visit.
This funny dude sifting sand said he hadn't found gold yet!
This funny dude sifting sand said he hadn’t found gold yet!
Teams from far and wide get started on their wonderful creations.
Teams from far and wide get started on their wonderful creations.
Some of the artwork you could enjoy was really sensational!
Some of the artwork you could enjoy was really sensational!
I saw the Sandcastle Man at the Imperial Beach event, too!
I saw the Sandcastle Man at the Imperial Beach event, too!
Now that's about as advanced as I am--a pail and shovel!
Now that’s about as advanced as I am–a pail and shovel!
These sand heaps will be two demons cast into heaven by Buddha.
These sand heaps will be two demons cast into heaven by Buddha.
MakerPlace was there demonstrating their creative local facility.
MakerPlace was there demonstrating their creative local facility.
What a beautiful Labor Day weekend by the bay on the Embarcadero!
What a beautiful Labor Day weekend by the bay on the Embarcadero!
A close look at an artist sculpting with great care.
A close look at an artist sculpting with great care.
Gazing back toward downtown, adjacent to the cruise ship terminal.
Gazing back toward downtown, adjacent to the cruise ship terminal.
The live entertainment hadn't started yet early this morning.
The live entertainment hadn’t started yet early this morning.
Another sponsor, Foster Farms, had their own very cool sand sculpture!
Another sponsor, Foster Farms, had their own very cool sand sculpture!

Tomorrow I’m checking out the equally awesome Festival of Sail, so stay tuned!

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