Tag: southern california

A San Diego gift that will last forever.

Kids play by fountain in San Diego's crown jewel, Balboa Park, one of the world's great cultural treasures.
Kids play by fountain in San Diego’s crown jewel, Balboa Park, one of the world’s great cultural treasures.

Forgive me for posting once again about Balboa Park. It’s one of the world’s great cultural treasures, and I live just steps away!

Are you looking to give a meaningful gift this holiday season? I’ve got an idea that you might consider!

I just received the latest newsletter from the Friends of Balboa Park. They’re the folks who preserve Balboa Park’s legacy for future generations. You can learn about them here.

In the newsletter, they are calling for donations to the Friends of Balboa Park Endowment Fund. One generous donor has offered to match gifts made to the endowment during 2015, up to $500,000. That means every dollar you give before the end of this year will likely be doubled.

If you’ve ever been to Balboa Park, you know how special it is. Please consider giving a donation. To do so, click here.

Over the past hundred years, countless millions of people from around the world have enjoyed visiting the park. They have experienced so much joy. Let’s make sure the next hundred years are just as wonderful.

Plaque at east end of Cabrillo Bridge. To commemorate the foresight and civic wisdom of the founders of Balboa Park this tablet is erected by the people of San Diego.
Plaque at east end of Cabrillo Bridge. To commemorate the foresight and civic wisdom of the founders of Balboa Park this tablet is erected by the people of San Diego.
View of the Natural History Museum from a point near the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center.
View of the Natural History Museum from a point near the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center.
History comes alive in one part of the Casa del Prado's fantastic facade.
History comes alive in one small section of the Casa del Prado’s fantastic facade.
People enjoy the grass near the Botanical Building.
People enjoy the grass near the Botanical Building.
Exploring life and beauty in Balboa Park's reflecting pool.
Exploring life and beauty in Balboa Park’s reflecting pool.
More natural beauty along Sixth Avenue, the west edge of immense Balboa Park.
More natural beauty along Sixth Avenue, the west edge of immense Balboa Park.
A view of the Alcazar Garden from above.
A view of the Alcazar Garden from above.
An artistic face in a fountain by the Old Globe Theatre.
An artistic face in a fountain by the Old Globe Theatre.
The House of Charm and California Tower in silhouette as day ends.
The House of Charm and California Tower in silhouette as day ends.
It's the holiday season. Make a gift to the Friends of Balboa Park, and it will be an enduring gift to the entire world.
It’s the holiday season. Make a donation to the Friends of Balboa Park, and it will be an enduring gift to the entire world.

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Catch cool waves and big fish at Ocean Beach pier!

Photo of guy surfing near the pilings of the awesome Ocean Beach Municipal Pier.
Photo of guy surfing near the pilings of the awesome Ocean Beach Municipal Pier.

The Ocean Beach pier is one of my favorite, favorite places in all of San Diego. Why? Check out these photos!

The beach near the foot of the OB pier is a favorite place in San Diego for tourists and locals alike.
The beach near the foot of the OB pier is a favorite place in San Diego for tourists and locals alike.
Climbing up to the high pier from the beach boardwalk below. This is almost like a stairway to heaven!
Climbing up to the high pier from the beach boardwalk below. This is almost like a stairway to heaven!
Guy at top of the steps looks down to greet surfer on the sand below!
Guy at top of the steps looks down to greet surfer on the sand below!
Loads of surfers are out on the Pacific Ocean on this perfect late summer day. The water is warm and the waves have nice form.
Loads of surfers are out on the Pacific Ocean on this perfect late summer day. The water is warm and the waves have nice form.
Looking down the Ocean Beach Municipal Pier, my own favorite pier in San Diego. It's long and always jammed with cool sights!
Looking down the Ocean Beach Municipal Pier, my own favorite pier in San Diego. It’s long and always jammed with cool sights!
Kids gaze over the rail at surfers directly below. The action is amazing today!
Kids gaze over the rail at surfers directly below. The action is amazing today!
Two surfers wait for a good wave.
Two surfers wait for a good wave.
This guy caught one, and is riding it in toward the shore, just south of the pier. That low wall you see on the right belonged to the long-defunct saltwater Plunge.
This guy caught one, and is riding it in toward the shore, just south of the pier. That low wall you see on the right belonged to the long-defunct saltwater Plunge.
Pick a wave any wave! The OB vibe is laid-back and life-loving!
Pick a wave any wave! The OB vibe is laid-back and life-loving!
Photo of someone on the foaming crest of a curler.
Photo of someone on the foaming crest of a curler.
Two surfers share a wave side-by-side. They went completely under the pier and came out the other side!
Two surfers share a wave side-by-side. They went completely under the pier and came out the other side!
This surf dude caught himself a sweet liquid ride!
This surf dude caught himself a sweet liquid ride!
While surfers catch cool waves, people farther down the OB pier try to catch some big fish!
While surfers catch cool waves, people farther down the OB pier try to catch some big fish!
These fishermen at the t-shaped end of the pier are trying to catch bass, bonito, mackerel, or just about anything that bites!
These fishermen at the t-shaped end of the pier are trying to catch bass, bonito, mackerel, or just about anything that bites!
When you stand at the very end of the Ocean Beach pier, you feel like you're far out on the ocean. I love it!
When you stand at the very end of the Ocean Beach pier, you feel like you’re far out on the ocean. I love it!
Someone's got something big on their line! A kid leans way over the rail to see!
Someone’s got something big on their line! A kid leans way over the rail to see!
He's got a nicely sized bonito! Everyone likes catching this active fish closely related to tuna. It puts up a good fight!
He’s got a nicely sized bonito! Everyone likes catching this active fish closely related to the tuna. It puts up a good fight!
And these guys caught a really big Calico bass! The fish are definitely biting today!
And these guys caught a really big Calico bass! The fish are definitely biting today!

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Photos of cool pancake fundraiser on the OB Pier!

The Ocean Beach Municipal Pier was the place to eat an awesome pancake breakfast this morning!
The Ocean Beach Municipal Pier was the place to eat an awesome pancake breakfast this morning!

This morning a very cool local event took place. The annual Ocean Beach Pier Pancake Breakfast was held near the end of the long OB pier!

Proceeds from the breakfast are used to fund the OB Food and Toy Drive, which benefits many families in the beach community who could use a helping hand. This tasty event is put on each year by the Ocean Beach Town Council!

Enjoy a few photos!

The Annual Ocean Beach Pier Pancake Breakfast raised funds for the Ocean Beach Christmas Food and Toy Drive.
The Annual Ocean Beach Pier Pancake Breakfast raised funds for the Ocean Beach Christmas Food and Toy Drive.
The Ocean Beach Town Council puts on the cool event. Some people bought tickets at the foot of the pier from Team Pancake members!
The Ocean Beach Town Council puts on the cool event. Some people bought tickets at the foot of the pier from Team Pancake members!
Here comes the OB Pier Pancake Breakfast Shuttle!
Here comes the OB Pier Pancake Breakfast Shuttle!
A long line of hungry folks waits near the much-beloved Ocean Beach pier cafe, which has been a cool place to go for many years.
A long line of hungry folks waits near the much-beloved Ocean Beach pier cafe, which has been a cool place to go for many years.
Various tables in front of the WOW Cafe had sumptuous, mouth-watering goodies ready to go.
Various tables in front of the WOW Cafe had sumptuous, mouth-watering goodies ready to eat.
A few people were lucky to enjoy breakfast right at the edge of the pier. This might be one of the most scenic dining spots in San Diego!
A few people were lucky to enjoy breakfast right at the edge of the pier. This might be one of the most scenic dining spots in San Diego!
These hungry guys have their hands full of super yummy pancakes, eggs and sausage!
These hungry guys have their hands full of super yummy pancakes, eggs and sausage!
There was even live music just outside the pier's unique cafe high over the Pacific Ocean.
There was even live music just outside the pier’s unique cafe high over the Pacific Ocean.
Tables were arranged near the end of the pier for the special, super popular annual event.
Tables were arranged near the end of the pier for the special, super popular annual event.
I tried not to stare drooling at the food as I walked nonchalantly by.
I tried not to stare drooling at the food as I walked nonchalantly by.
Speaker of the California State Assembly Toni Atkins is a powerful politician, but here she's speaking to a Queen! Toni said she's happy to be back in San Diego, where it's cooler than Sacramento.
Speaker of the California State Assembly Toni Atkins is a powerful politician, but she’s addressing a Queen! Toni said she’s happy to be back in San Diego, where it’s cooler than Sacramento.
Unfortunately, I had already eaten breakfast. Looks delicious!
Unfortunately, I had already eaten breakfast. Looks delicious!

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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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Photos of cool surfing action at 2015 Supergirl Pro!

Professional World Surf League (WSF) Supergirl Pro Women's Qualifying Series surfer rides the foam in Oceanside, California.
Professional World Surf League (WSL) Supergirl Pro Women’s Qualifying Series surfer rides the foam in Oceanside, California.

Today I headed up the coast from San Diego to watch the 2015 Supergirl Pro surfing competition, which is held every year just south of the pier in Oceanside, California. Wow! The event is bigger than ever and simply incredible!

Supergirl Pro is the only World Surf League 6-Star Female Surfing Competition in the United States. It’s the largest women’s surfing event of its kind in the entire world. And this year there were a record 108 contestants! The ones I saw today, during the Quarterfinals, were almost superhuman. Surfing must be their superpower!

I got so many photos, I’ll break things up into two blog posts. This first post is my modest camera’s photos of the cool surfing action. I had to sharpen and alter the contrast on most images, but I’m surprised how decently many came out. I kept notes on the names of the surfers competing in each heat, but once I looked at my photos I wasn’t too sure who was who. So please excuse the fact that I don’t include the names of contestants in most captions.

Each pairing of surfers is given 25 minutes. Whoever achieves the highest score moves on in the competition, avoiding elimination.
Each pairing of surfers is given 25 minutes. Whoever achieves the highest score moves on in the competition, avoiding elimination.
Amazing athlete in Sunday's competition at the 2015 Supergirl Pro, the largest female surfing event of its kind in the world.
Amazing athlete in Sunday’s competition at the 2015 Supergirl Pro, the largest female surfing event of its kind in the world.
Cool photo of superhuman surfing action at 2015 Supergirl Pro. This year a record 108 contestants entered the huge three day competitive event.
Cool photo of superhuman surfing action at 2015 Supergirl Pro. This year a record 108 contestants entered the huge three day competitive event.
Riding a wave, hoping for glory. Supergirl Pro is the only WSL 6-Star Female Surfing Competition in the U.S.
Riding a wave, hoping for glory. Supergirl Pro is the only WSL 6-Star Female Surfing Competition in the U.S.
Tatiana Weston-Webb, professional WSF surfer from the island of Kaua'i, competes at 2015 Supergirl Pro event in Oceanside, California. She eventually went on to win the final!
Tatiana Weston-Webb, professional WSL surfer from the island of Kaua’i, competes at 2015 Supergirl Pro event in Oceanside, California. She eventually went on to win the final!
Tatiana plunges down the face of a Pacific Ocean breaker like Supergirl!
Tatiana plunges down the face of a Pacific Ocean breaker like Supergirl!
Cool photo of today's surfing champion shredding the crest of a wave.
Cool photo of today’s surfing champion shredding the crest of a wave.
Tatiana has classic form on a relatively smooth curler in choppy conditions.
Tatiana has classic form on a relatively smooth curler in choppy conditions.
Two competitors duel, trying their best to advance in the 2015 Supergirl Pro in Oceanside, California.
Two competitors duel, trying their best to advance in the 2015 Supergirl Pro in the surfing-friendly Southern California city of Oceanside.
Supergirl is flying on a surfboard! (The Silver Surfer doesn't get to have all the fun!)
Supergirl is flying on a surfboard! (The Silver Surfer doesn’t get to have all the fun!)
2015 Supergirl Pro is a super cool competition where every competitor is an absolutely amazing world-class athlete.
2015 Supergirl Pro is a super cool event where every competitor is an absolutely amazing world-class athlete.

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Cool photos of fun, funky Ocean Beach Street Fair!

Cool skateboard bench by the 36th Annual Ocean Beach Street Fair and Chili Cook-Off Festival on Newport Avenue.
Cool skateboard bench by the 36th Annual Ocean Beach Street Fair and Chili Cook-Off Festival on Newport Avenue.

Late this morning I spent a little time at one of the coolest summer events in Southern California!

The 36th Annual Ocean Beach Street Fair & Chili Cook-Off Festival was being held along Newport Avenue, drawing a huge crowd from all around San Diego. Many consider OB their favorite beach community. Once you see these photos, you might understand why!

A masked street performer shakes hands with a kid on a scooter. The Ocean Beach Municipal Pier stretches in the background.
A masked street performer shakes hands with a kid on a scooter. The Ocean Beach Municipal Pier stretches in the background.
San Diegans and Obetians check out a street vendor selling colorful t-shirts.
San Diegans and Obetians check out a street vendor selling colorful t-shirts.
Fun, unusual art all over the place. Lots to see at this legendary summer street festival in a laid-back, funky Southern California beach community.
Fun, unusual art all over the place. Lots to see at this legendary summer street festival in a laid-back, funky Southern California beach community.
Creative people had cool stuff on display and for sale in the Artists' Alley.
Creative people had cool stuff on display and for sale in the Artists’ Alley.
Kids were invited to express themselves with pottery, painting and chalk art.
Kids were invited to express themselves with pottery, painting and chalk art.
Young artists use their imaginations as they work behind a utility box decorated with parrots in Ocean Beach.
Young artists use their imaginations as they work behind a utility box decorated with parrots in Ocean Beach.
Public art mural on one wall depicts the annual Ocean Beach Street Fair and Chili Cook-Off.
Public art mural on one wall depicts the annual Ocean Beach Street Fair and Chili Cook-Off.
Just a typical scene from this awesome street festival.
Just a typical scene from this awesome street festival.
Someone checks out large works of colorful art in OB.
Someone checks out large works of colorful art in OB.
One booth had all sorts of awesome, unique decorative surfboards!
One booth had all sorts of awesome, unique decorative surfboards!
And, of course, food was everywhere!
And, of course, food was everywhere!
Ocean Beach is the scene of many different happy lifestyles and diverse, life-affirming interests.
Ocean Beach is the scene of many different happy lifestyles and diverse, life-affirming interests.
It wasn't even lunchtime and some folks were already chowing down.
It wasn’t even lunchtime and some folks were ready to chow down.
If these cookies don't make you drool, nothing will!
If these cookies don’t make you drool, nothing will!
All sorts of cool surf shops line Newport Avenue, where the festival was held.
All sorts of cool surf shops line Newport Avenue, where the festival was held.
Rock and Roll San Diego was teaching kids how to play drums, electric guitar and more!
Rock and Roll San Diego was teaching kids how to play drums, electric guitar and more!
A young man is training to be a rock superstar!
A young man is training to be a rock superstar!
Street musicians in OB next to a storefront on a summer day.
Street musicians in OB next to a storefront on a summer day.
Young and old were practicing maintaining balance on a board that mimics surfing.
Young and old were practicing maintaining balance on a board that simulates surfing.
Yeah, another photo of food getting ready...
Yeah, another photo of food getting ready…
Ocean Beach is jam-packed with amazing urban art, almost anywhere you walk!
Ocean Beach is jam-packed with amazing urban art, almost anywhere you walk!
People were just getting started with the community mural project!
People were just getting started with the community mural project!
Anyone could participate in painting a small square in this large mural!
Anyone could participate in painting a small square in this large mural!
Another street mural on a wall above a station where people could park their bikes.
Another street mural on a wall above a station where people could park their bikes.
Surfboards on top, cool decals plastered around. Let's walk past the Hodadmobile and check out something amazing...
Surfboards on top, cool decals plastered around. Let’s walk past the Hodadmobile and check out something amazing…
Burgers are famous at Hodad's, and so is the skateboarding demonstration beside their restaurant.
Burgers are famous at Hodad’s, and so is the skateboarding demonstration beside their restaurant.
Skater catches huge air as he performs trick from a ramp, wowing everybody watching!
Skater catches huge air as he performs trick from a ramp, wowing everybody watching!
Lots of skilled skateboarders were taking turns on this small half-pipe.
Lots of skilled skateboarders were taking turns on this small half-pipe.
Oh, man--lots of very cool action!
Oh, man–lots of very cool action!
Legendary Hodad's had a burger-eating competition!
Legendary Hodad’s had a burger-eating competition!
Some guys walking along near porta-potties by the beer garden.
Some guys walking along near porta-potties by the beer garden.
Guy chills with a Starbucks by funky sculptures on Newport Avenue near the beach. He's listening to a really great concert.
Guy chills with a Starbucks by funky sculptures on Newport Avenue near the beach. He’s listening to a really great concert.
The local band Markland performs on the Main Stage at the 2015 Ocean Beach Street Fair.
The local band Markland performs on the Main Stage at the 2015 Ocean Beach Street Fair.
Justin Markland peers at me over drums while Randy Jones entertains the Ocean Beach crowd with irrepressible vocal and physical energy.
Justin Markland peers at me over drums while Randy Jones entertains the Ocean Beach crowd with irrepressible vocal and physical energy.
Just a pic to provide some flavor of what I saw this morning.
Just a pic to provide some flavor of what I saw this morning.
Surfers come up across the beach while a guy relaxes on the sea wall.
Surfers come up across the beach while a guy relaxes on the sea wall.
People walk behind the Main Stage along the beach, toward the Ocean Beach lifeguard station. An overcast day with a few sprinkles, but it didn't matter!
People walk behind the Main Stage along the beach, toward the Ocean Beach lifeguard station. An overcast day with a few sprinkles, but it didn’t matter!
People buy tickets to sample special concoctions at the famous chili contest!
People buy tickets to sample special concoctions at the famous chili contest!
This tent featured one of the chili cook-off contestant teams.
This tent featured one of the chili cook-off contestant teams.
Stirring and scooping from one big pot of hot chili!
Stirring and scooping from one big pot of hot chili!
Unfortunately, this poor dog can't participate without a ticket. And it seems like he knows it.
Unfortunately, this poor dog can’t participate without a ticket. And it seems like he knows it.
Perhaps this chili was the winner. Looks tasty, if you don't mind that it's served from a toilet!
Perhaps this chili was the winner. Looks tasty, if you don’t mind that it’s served from a toilet!

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An amazing walk from Point La Jolla to Cuvier Park.

Sea lions sun on a large rock in the Pacific Ocean off Point La Jolla.
Sea lions sun on a large rock in the Pacific Ocean off Point La Jolla.

This blog post resumes my walk from the prior post. Here I head south down a truly amazing stretch of coastline, from Point La Jolla at the edge of La Jolla Cove to Cuvier Park. A good argument can be made that this is the absolutely most beautiful spot in all of San Diego. I’ll let you decide…

The 6,000 acre San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park off the coast includes an Ecological Reserve and the Marine Life Refuge.
The 6,000 acre San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park off the coast includes an Ecological Reserve and the Marine Life Refuge.
Numerous seals and sea lions live on the rocks and beaches of La Jolla.
Numerous seals and sea lions live on the rocks and beaches of La Jolla.
People love to walk across this rocky landscape right up to the sea cliffs to watch the surf.
People love to walk across this water-sculpted landscape right up to the sea cliffs to watch the surf.
Over the years many have carved names and messages in the soft sandstone.
Over the years many have carved names and messages in the soft sandstone.
Sea lions enjoy La Jolla just as much as human visitors!
Sea lions enjoy La Jolla just as much as human visitors!
Some of those curious humans are grouped around a small tide pool in the rock looking for sea life.
Some of those curious humans are grouped around a small tide pool in the rock looking for sea life.
An unexpected wave crashes in. Scatter!
An unexpected wave crashes in. Run!  Scatter!
Looking south along the narrow beach from Point La Jolla. One of many lookout structures is visible up on the cliff.
Looking south along the narrow beach from Point La Jolla. One of many lookout structures is visible up on the cliff.
This cool lifeguard box is sculpted with many beach related words.
This lifeguard box features many barnacle-like beach-related words. The box is titled the David C. Freeman Memorial, by artist Paul Sibel. It marks the location of Boomer Beach.
These simple, open gazebo-like structures along the walking path are good places to gaze out at the ocean.
These simple, open gazebo-like structures along the walking path are fine places to gaze out at the broad ocean.
Or you can just relax on an outdoor seat provided by nature.
Or you can just relax on an outdoor seat provided by nature.
A major attraction along Coast Boulevard is large, grassy Scripps Park.
A major attraction along Coast Boulevard is spacious, grassy Scripps Park.
Gnarled old trees dot the picturesque park, which contains many picnic areas and places to recreate on the grass.
Gnarled old trees dot the picturesque park, which contains many picnic areas and places to recreate on the grass.
Ellen Browning Scripps Park is reported to be the most photographed spot in San Diego.
Ellen Browning Scripps Park is reported to be the most photographed spot in San Diego.
More trees growing slantwise, blown by the prevailing sea breeze over the course of many years.
More trees growing slantwise, blown by the prevailing sea breeze over the course of many years.
Scripps Park contains the Abraham Lincoln Centennial Memorial plaque dedicated in 1909.
Scripps Park contains the Abraham Lincoln Centennial Memorial plaque dedicated in 1909.
Continuing south, more views of a truly spectacular coastline.
Continuing south, more views looking back north of a truly spectacular coastline.
Guy takes a nap on bench beneath a lifeguard tower.
Guy takes a nap on bench beneath a lifeguard tower.
Shell Beach is one of many tiny sandy nooks that can be found among the rocky cliffs.
Shell Beach is one of many tiny sandy nooks that can be found among the rocky cliffs.
A lady lies on a flat rock reading a book, as waves crash nearby.
A lady lies on a flat rock reading a book, as waves crash nearby.
A beautiful walkway run down from the Cave Store along Coast Boulevard for about a mile along the ocean.
A beautiful walkway runs down from the Cave Store along Coast Boulevard for about a mile along the ocean.
An artist paints a beautiful scene in a cozy view point not far from Children's Pool.
An artist paints a beautiful scene from a view point not far from Children’s Pool.
I peer over the low wall and am greeted by a squirrel!
I peer over the low wall and am greeted by a funny squirrel!
One of these double-crested cormorants on a rock has its sun-drying wings spread dramatically.
One of these cormorants on a rock has its sun-drying wings spread dramatically.
Getting very close to Children's Pool, where many seals lie side by side on its wide, sunny beach.
Getting very close to Children’s Pool, where many seals lie side by side on its wide, sunny beach.
A quick turn back northward shows waves breaking against a vertical sandstone cliff!
A quick turn back northward shows waves breaking against a vertical sandstone face!
Legal disputes have entangled Children's Pool over the years. The facility was created in 1931 by benefactor Ellen Browning Scripps as a safe spot for children to swim.
Legal disputes have entangled Children’s Pool over the years. The facility was created in 1931 by benefactor Ellen Browning Scripps as a safe spot for children to swim.
People head down to see the many seals on the warm sand.
People head down to see the colony of seals on the warm sand.
At Children's Pool Beach, a rope now keeps people from disturbing the protected marine mammals.
At Children’s Pool Beach, a rope now keeps people from disturbing the protected marine mammals.
Fisherman on the protective sea wall have cast their lines into the blue Pacific Ocean.
Fisherman on the far sea wall have cast their lines into the blue Pacific Ocean.
Continuing to walk south along more beautiful coastline in La Jolla.
Continuing to walk south along more amazing coastline in La Jolla.
Some surfers on a beach and in the foaming water below.
Some surfers on a beach and in the foaming water below.
Sculpture at the rear of La Jolla's Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego called Pleasure Point is made of rowboats, canoes, jet skies, and surfboards.
Unusual sculpture at the rear of La Jolla’s Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego called Pleasure Point, by artist Nancy Rubins. It’s made of rowboats, canoes, jet skies, kayaks, surfboards…
A stretch of green grass at Cuvier Park is the perfect place to sit or lie on a glorious Southern California day.
A stretch of green grass at Cuvier Park is the perfect place to sit or lie on a glorious Southern California day.
Tide pools become visible at low tide along this easily accessible stretch of La Jolla.
Tide pools become visible at low tide along this easily accessible stretch of La Jolla.
A dog takes a happy rest by some flowers as the surf rolls in.
A dog takes a happy rest by some flowers as the surf rolls in.

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Photos of a walk down to beautiful Bird Rock.

Looking down from the high viewing area at picturesque Bird Rock below.
Looking down from the high viewing area at picturesque Bird Rock below.

Please enjoy some photographs!

Yesterday I took a long walk through La Jolla. Before leaving home, I checked the tide chart. My intention was to photograph the tide pools at beautiful Bird Rock. I’ve read you can actually walk out to this spectacular rock in the ocean at low tide. Unfortunately, as it turned out, yesterday the tide wasn’t low enough!

But I did get my fill of natural beauty. Will you please join me as I walk from La Jolla Boulevard a couple blocks down Bird Rock Avenue, and then down to the water?

Bench on La Jolla Boulevard sidewalk spells out Bird Rock with colorful tiles.
Bench on La Jolla Boulevard sidewalk spells out Bird Rock with colorful tiles.
This bench features sea shells. Let's head down Bird Rock Avenue, a few steps away.
This bench features sea shells. Let’s begin our walk down Bird Rock Avenue, a few steps away.
Kid skateboards down hilly Bird Rock Avenue toward the small lookout point.
Kid skateboards down hilly Bird Rock Avenue toward the small lookout point.
Local guy is already here enjoying the beautiful view and ocean tranquility. Few tourists come here.
Local guy is already here enjoying the beautiful view and ocean tranquility. Few tourists come here.
Gazing north along the rocky shore. La Jolla Cove is on the other side of that distant jutting land.
Gazing north along the rocky shore. La Jolla Cove is on the other side of that distant jutting land.
Looking down over the view point rail at rugged rocks at the edge of the shining Pacific Ocean.
Looking down over the view point rail at rugged rocks at the edge of the shining Pacific Ocean.
Here's where we're going to descend to the water.
Here’s where we’re going to descend to the water.
Heading down the short staircase to get a closer look at the beauty of Bird Rock.
Heading down the short staircase to get a closer look at the beauty of Bird Rock.
We quickly glance up at the viewing area, where we were a moment ago.
We quickly glance up at the viewing area, where we were a moment ago.
Gazing south as we stand on large jagged boulders. Someone is walking along the base of the cliff.
Gazing south as we stand on large jagged boulders. Someone is walking along the base of the cliff.
We carefully head a bit south, too. Watch your step! The tide is fairly low and we get close to the splashing water.
We carefully head a bit south, too. Watch your step! The tide is fairly low and we get close to the splashing water.
These stones were made smooth and rounded by that great Earth-encompassing rock tumbler, the mighty ocean!
These stones were made smooth and rounded by that great Earth-encompassing rock tumbler, the mighty ocean!
Look out! A foamy wave is crashing in!
Look out! A foamy wave is crashing in!
Finally, we turn westward to look at Bird Rock. At a distance, the birds are just visible in this photo!
Finally, we turn westward to look at Bird Rock. At a distance, the birds are just visible in this photo!

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A hike down to the grinding rocks at Mission Trails.

Visitors enjoying Explore Mission Trails Day head down Grinding Rock Trail.
Visitors enjoying Explore Mission Trails Day head down Grinding Rock Trail.

About 60 miles of hiking trails through a wilderness environment can be found just 8 miles from downtown San Diego. Seriously!

This morning I enjoyed a very short walk (about a mile) at Mission Trails Regional Park. I went on the occasion of Explore Mission Trails Day, an annual event that showcases this amazing, enormous urban park.

The relatively easy hike was from the Visitor and Interpretive Center to some grinding rocks on the banks of the San Diego River, then back. Led by our guide, Linda, a small group learned what life was like for the ancient Kumeyaay people, who’ve lived in this dry, rugged area of Southern California for thousands of years, long before Europeans arrived. The Kumeyaay lived off the land. The very land where we walked.

We gathered at the kiosk near the parking lot for an easy morning nature walk.
We gathered at the kiosk near the parking lot for an easy morning nature walk.
Hiking through common, aromatic Southern California sagebrush toward distinctive mountain, South Fortuna.
Hiking through common, aromatic Southern California sagebrush toward a distinctive mountain, South Fortuna.
We pause under a coast live oak, which produces acorns and shade valued by the native Kumeyaay.
We pause under a coast live oak, which produces acorns and shade valued by the native Kumeyaay.
Large nest created by a woodrat (also known as pack rat). The Kumeyaay would bang a nest with a stick and hope to capture a snake, to eat.
Large nest created by a woodrat (also known as pack rat). The Kumeyaay would bang a nest with a stick and hope to capture a snake, to eat.
We cross a small wooden footbridge and take in nature's sights and smells on a beautiful day.
We cross a small wooden footbridge and take in nature’s sights and smells on a beautiful day.
These tiny pinkish white flowers are flat-top buckwheat. Their tiny seeds are edible. The blooms attract butterflies.
These tiny pinkish white flowers are flat-top buckwheat. Their tiny seeds are edible. The blooms attract butterflies.
It's easy to forget you are in the San Diego city limits in this open wilderness.
It’s easy to forget you are in the San Diego city limits in this open wilderness.
Water erosion visible in the gradually descending dirt trail. As the morning was overcast and cool, no snakes were out sunning.
Water erosion visible in the gradually descending dirt trail. As the morning was overcast and cool, no snakes were out sunning.
Yucca fibers were used by the Kumeyaay to make nets, sandles, baskets and other useful things.
Yucca fibers were used by the Kumeyaay to make nets, sandles, baskets and other useful things.
Linda, our tour guide, talks about the ancient history of this region and its indigenous peoples. The Kumeyaay moved about depending on the season and availability of resources.
Linda, our tour guide, talks about the ancient history of this region and its indigenous peoples. The Kumeyaay moved about depending on the season and availability of resources.
Dodder is an orange colored parasitic plant. According to Kumeyaay legend, a woman who failed to guard a camp against invaders ran away, and some of her hair snagged in the bushes!
Dodder is an orange colored parasitic plant. According to Kumeyaay legend, a woman who failed to guard a camp against invaders ran away, and some of her hair snagged in the bushes!
A patch of poison oak! Leaves of three, let it be!
A patch of poison oak! Leaves of three, let it be!
We approach the San Diego River, but first pass beneath a large arching tree. If you see a native tree in San Diego, there's probably water nearby!
We approach the San Diego River, but first pass beneath a large arching tree. If you see a native tree in San Diego, there’s probably water nearby!
Smooth boulders on the bank of the San Diego River in Mission Trails Regional Park.
Smooth boulders on a bank of the San Diego River in Mission Trails Regional Park.
Family investigates the life-giving water. The Kumeyaay at times would follow the river all the way to the coast, where some witnessed the landing of explorer Cabrillo.
Family investigates the life-giving water. The Kumeyaay at times would follow the river all the way to the coast, where some witnessed the landing of explorer Cabrillo.
Many mortar-like holes in the nearby boulders are where Kumeyaay ground acorns, seeds, roots, herbs and other edible resources found in this arid environment.
Many mortar-like holes in the nearby boulders are where Kumeyaay ground acorns, seeds, roots, herbs and other edible resources found in this arid environment.
Walking stick leans up near some Yucca fiber creations brought by our guide. The basket on the right was made with willow branches. Natural salicylic acid found in willows kept out insects!
Walking stick leans up near some Yucca fiber creations brought by our guide. The basket on the right was made with willow branches. Natural salicylic acid found in willows kept out insects!
Starting back up toward the Visitor Center during a very cool hike in San Diego! If you go for a hike, bring water and sturdy shoes!
Starting back up toward the Visitor Center during a very cool hike in San Diego! If you go for a hike, bring water and sturdy shoes!

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San Diego museum honors Little League Champs!

From the South Bay to the World Series, a very special exhibit at the New Americans Museum.
From the South Bay to the World Series, a very special exhibit at the New Americans Museum.

It’s been over five years already? Time flies!

I can still remember the excitement throughout San Diego as a bunch of local kids stole our hearts and battled their way to become Little League World Series Champions in 2009!

During my visit to the New Americans Museum today, I checked out a special exhibit which relives and commemorates the historic victory. The Park View team, based in Chula Vista, California (in San Diego’s South Bay not far from the Mexican border), scored a dramatic, storybook 6-3 come-from-behind victory over Chinese Taipei.

Super cool!

San Diegans rooted for our local kids as they battled the world's best baseball teams.
San Diegans rooted for our local kids as they battled the world’s best baseball teams.
Photo shows President Obama honoring the 2009 Little League World Series champs.
Photo shows President Obama honoring the 2009 Little League World Series champs.
Memorabilia on display in San Diego museum recalls the historic victory of young Park View baseball players.
Memorabilia on display in San Diego museum recalls the historic victory of young Park View baseball players.
Park View Little League 2009 coach Ric Ramirez talks with visitors at cool New Americans Museum exhibit.
Park View Little League 2009 coach Ric Ramirez talks with visitors at New Americans Museum exhibit.
Awesome kids from San Diego's Chula Vista community win the Little League World Series in Williamsport in 2009!
Kids from San Diego’s proud Chula Vista community won the 2009 Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

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