Tag: surfing

Action photos from 2019 Supergirl Surf Pro!

The largest women’s surfing competition in the world is taking place this weekend by the Oceanside Pier. It’s the 2019 Supergirl Surf Pro!

Over 100 amazing athletes from around the world are vying for glory in this very cool international surfing event. The competition is among the very best female surfers on the planet. Some of the participants will compete in the next Olympic Games!

Not only does the Supergirl Surf Pro provide great entertainment in its huge, bustling Festival Village and along the beach, but the event’s positive message of female empowerment is broadcast around the globe!

I spent a couple hours today watching the incredible surfing action from the Oceanside Pier.

My modest camera managed to get a few exciting photos!

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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 photos for you to enjoy!

Photos of a walk to the end of Oceanside Pier.

Yesterday I walked to the end of Oceanside Pier. It’s another one of my favorite places.

I experienced sunshine, the sparkle of the Pacific Ocean, a fresh sea breeze, the smell of wood, the cry of seagulls . . . and happy people all around: strolling, fishing, listening to music, talking, eating ice cream, leaning over the rail gazing down at the colorful beach and surfers in the blue water awaiting the perfect wave…

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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!

Photos of Fiesta del Sol in Solana Beach!

The Rockademy performs on the main stage at Fiesta del Sol in Solana Beach.
The Rockademy performs on the main stage at 2018 Fiesta del Sol in Solana Beach.

Today I rode the Coaster train from downtown San Diego up to Solana Beach to experience the annual Fiesta del Sol street festival!

I’d never been to Fiesta del Sol, so I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. What I found was a lot of family fun, live music, a tasty chicken quesadilla, and a perfect bench overlooking the event where I could read and gaze out at the beach and Pacific Ocean!

This cool event continues through the weekend. You’ll find it just off the Pacific Coast Highway, right next to Fletcher Cove Beach Park!

Fiesta del Sol, presented by the Solana Beach Chamber of Commerce, takes place beside Fletcher Cove Beach Park. The festival continues through the weekend.
Fiesta del Sol, presented by the Solana Beach Chamber of Commerce, takes place beside Fletcher Cove Beach Park. The street festival continues through the weekend.
Thousands turn out for a fun community event on a spring day in Solana Beach.
Thousands turn out for a fun community event on a spring day in Solana Beach.
Lots of tasty food could be found.
Lots of tasty food could be found.
Lots of art, too.
Lots of art, too.
This guy recycles surfboards.
This guy recycles surfboards.
GC Dance Company performs at Fiesta del Sol.
GC Dance Company performs at Fiesta del Sol.
Photo of Fletcher Cove Beach Park from Overlook Park. I found a nice bench where I sat and read a book.
Photo of Fletcher Cove Beach Park from Overlook Park. I found a nice bench where I sat and read a book. (After visiting the food trucks to grab a mouthwatering lunch!)
I wandered down to Fletcher Cove and looked north along the cliffs. Not many people were on the beach this overcast, slightly chilly day.
I wandered down to Fletcher Cove and looked north along the cliffs. Not many people were on the beach this overcast, slightly chilly day.
A stand up paddle surfer was out on the Pacific Ocean looking for the perfect wave.
A stand up paddle surfer was out on the Pacific Ocean waiting for the perfect wave.
Walking back up from the beach toward the colorful festival.
Walking back up from the beach toward the colorful festival.
A cool Solana Beach sign above the tops of tents at Fiesta del Sol.
A cool Solana Beach sign above the tops of tents at Fiesta del Sol.
Some people checked out a vendor's old school music for sale.
Some people checked out some old school music for sale.
Another vendor had all sorts of cool wooden items, including some awesome model ships.
Another vendor had all sorts of unique wooden items, including awesome model ships.
The Solana Beach Civic Historical Society had a fascinating display of old photos. I learned about their Heritage Museum in La Colonia Park, which I'll visit someday!
The Solana Beach Civic Historical Society had a fascinating display of old photos. I learned about their Heritage Museum in La Colonia Park, which I’ll visit someday!
Teenage rock band The Elements gets ready to perform at another stage.
Teenage rock band The Elements gets ready to perform at another stage near Pacific Coast Highway.
More food!
More food!
This artist with lots of cool surf images displays his art at various festivals. I remember seeing him at the Ocean Beach Street Fair.
This artist surrounded by cool surf images displays his artwork at various festivals. I remember seeing him at the Ocean Beach Street Fair.
These super long skateboards are Blue Murphy's original Wonderboards! Murphy was a very friendly guy!
These super long skateboards are Blue Murphy’s original Wonderboards! Murphy was a very friendly guy!
On my way back to the Solana Beach train station to catch the Coaster, I spied this friendly stiltwalker. She was telling passersby about a new gallery down the street in the Cedros Avenue Design District. (There's a glimpse of street art on a utility box. Stay tuned for much more!)
On my way back to the Solana Beach train station to catch the Coaster, I spied this friendly stiltwalker. She was inviting people to a gallery down the street in the Cedros Avenue Design District.
Lots of folks were having a great time today at Fiesta del Sol in Solana Beach!
Lots of folks were having a great time today at Fiesta del Sol in Solana Beach!

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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 photos for you to enjoy!

Cool photos near South Mission Beach jetty.

People play on the sandy volleyball courts at South Mission Beach, north of the jetty.
People play on the sandy volleyball courts at South Mission Beach, north of the jetty.

Yesterday I walked through South Mission Beach near the jetty. I got lots of fun, sunny photos for you to enjoy!

Riding a bike through South Mission Beach on a perfect San Diego day.
Riding a bike through South Mission Beach on a perfect San Diego day.
The Mission Beach boardwalk, which passes many small colorful houses and condos, is popular with bicyclists and pedestrians.
The Mission Beach boardwalk, which passes many small colorful houses and condos, is popular with bicyclists and pedestrians.
One of the cool beachfront properties on South Mission Beach. Many are available as vacation rentals.
One of the cool beachfront properties on South Mission Beach. Many are available as vacation rentals.
A row of lifeguard towers. It's winter in San Diego. During the summer these lookouts will be arranged at intervals along the beach.
A row of lifeguard towers. It’s winter in San Diego. During the summer these lookouts will be arranged at intervals along the beach.
Heading south along the path, approaching the parking lot at the jetty.
Heading south along the path, approaching palm trees and the parking lot at the jetty.
A beautiful day for a bike ride.
A beautiful day for a bike ride.
These people have paused to look at the nearby grass.
These people have paused to look at the nearby grass.
Guys play in the sun at the basketball court.
Guys play in the sun at the basketball court.
On the beach, a lifeguard building with flag flapping in the sea breeze. Pacific Beach and La Jolla rise to the north.
On the beach, a lifeguard building with flag flapping in the sea breeze. Pacific Beach and La Jolla rise to the north.
Families walk and play on the shore. The surf is gentle today.
Families walk and play on the shore. The surf is gentle today.
A seagull hangs out on a dune as surfers come in. The South Mission Beach jetty juts into the Pacific Ocean.
A seagull hangs out on a dune as surfers come in. The South Mission Beach jetty juts into the Pacific Ocean.
Someone approaches the foot of the rock jetty, which guards the channel into Mission Bay. This area is also called Point Medanos.
Someone approaches the foot of the rock jetty, which guards the channel into Mission Bay. This cape is called Point Medanos.
I stopped at the lifeguard emergency sign. Halfway down the jetty stands an old, abandoned bait shack, which appears like an arch that is covered with graffiti.
I stopped at the lifeguard emergency sign. Halfway down the jetty stands an old, abandoned bait shack, which appears like an arch that is covered with graffiti.
Gulls wheel over the entrance channel as a boat comes into Mission Bay.
Gulls wheel over the entrance channel as a boat comes into Mission Bay.
Beyond this sailboat I see the Ocean Beach Pier.
Beyond this sailboat I see the long Ocean Beach Pier.
Point Loma rises beyond a second jetty that separates the entrance channel from the San Diego River.
Point Loma rises beyond a second jetty that juts from Hospitality Point, separating the Mission Bay entrance channel from the San Diego River.
People are also out and about in Ocean Beach enjoying the sunny day. I see a few pooches running about Dog Beach.
People are also out and about in Ocean Beach enjoying the sunny day. I see a few pooches running freely about Dog Beach.
Several fishermen were casting into the blue water from the rocks.
Several fishermen were casting into the blue water from the rocks.
Now I'm circling back on North Jetty Road heading for the boardwalk. A cool windblown tree and flowers in the sand.
Now I’m circling back on North Jetty Road heading for the boardwalk. A cool windblown tree and flowers in the sand.
Like paradise on Earth.
Like paradise on Earth.
I love this place!
I love this place!

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

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

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

Lots of cool street art in Mission Beach!

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

Enjoy these photos of street art finds in Mission Beach!

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

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

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

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

Colorful (and funny) street art in Pacific Beach!

Street mural by artist Amandalynn, painted in 2016 near Mission Boulevard in Pacific Beach.
Street mural by artist Amandalynn, painted in 2016 near Mission Boulevard in Pacific Beach.

On Saturday I walked down Mission Boulevard through both Pacific Beach and Mission Beach. I was blown away by some of the really cool street art that I found. As you’ll see, many of the colorful murals that I spied in Pacific Beach were painted just last year.

This batch of photos represents my walk south along Mission Boulevard, which is a block from the beach, from around Emerald Street to Pacific Beach Drive. In a coming blog post, I’ll share the fun and very unusual art I encountered as I continued south through Mission Beach.

A second photo of the eye-catching art, which shows beautiful ladies in a colorful underwater scene.
A second photo of the eye-catching mural by Amandalynn, which shows beautiful ladies in a colorful underwater scene.
The Pacific Beach Mermaid hangs out on a colorful wall. Art by Jared Blake Lazar a.k.a Jared Black Lazer.
The Pacific Beach Mermaid hangs out on a rock painted on a wall. Art by Jared Blake Lazar a.k.a Jared Black Lazer.
A humorous sign on the sidewalk. Head into this barber shop and come out a completely different person!
A humorous sign on the sidewalk. Head into this barber shop and come out a completely different person!

I don’t know if some critics would classify the above as art–but it was undeniably funny!

Street art on a utility box. The curl of this coffee's steam resembles the surf beyond the sand.
Street art on a utility box. The curl of this coffee’s steam resembles the surf beyond the sand.
Bunny Kitty carries a cigarette butt away as a fierce sea monster emerges from the deep. Pacific Beach art created in 2016 by Dave Persue for PangeaSeed.
Bunny Kitty carries a cigarette butt away as a fierce sea monster emerges from the deep. Pacific Beach art created in 2016 by Dave Persue for PangeaSeed.
A cool mural near The Local Pacific Beach, painted in 2016 by artists Sean Dietrich and Kai Martin. A blonde on roller skates, the PB boardwalk, beach, and a very strange car.
A cool mural near The Local Pacific Beach restaurant and bar, painted in 2016 by artists Sean Dietrich and Kai Martin. A blonde on roller skates, the PB boardwalk, surfboards, and a rather unusual car.
A very funny utility box. This side shows a woman at the beach covering the eyes of a small boy.
A very funny utility box. This side shows a woman at the beach covering the eyes of a small boy.
The next side shows Pacific Beach tourists who have spotted something that is both interesting and alarming.
Another side shows Pacific Beach tourists who have spotted something that is both interesting and alarming.
100 years of skating talent between us, but...
100 years of skating talent between us, but…
...nobody notices!
…nobody notices!
A friendly purple mermaid watches people driving down Mission Boulevard.
Another utility box is covered with mermaids.  This friendly purple mermaid watches humans driving down Mission Boulevard.
Another mermaid on the same box.
Another long-haired mermaid on the same box.
And a third happy mermaid!
And a third happy mermaid!
Two ladies walking along the edge of a parking lot toward the nearby beach. They pass someone snoozing in a hammock strung between palm trees.
Two ladies walking along the edge of a parking lot toward the nearby beach. They pass someone snoozing in a hammock strung between palm trees.
Street art on storage doors shows a surfer climbing toward a lifeguard tower at sunset.
Street art on doors shows a surfer climbing toward a lifeguard tower at sunset.
One final close look at the gorgeous art painted by muralist Amandalynn in Pacific Beach.
One additional look at the gorgeous art painted in 2016 by muralist Amandalynn in Pacific Beach.

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

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

Photos of 2nd Annual Ocean Beach Pier Surf Classic!

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

Here come some cool surf photos!

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

What a beautiful, perfect day. Check it out!

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

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

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

Cool street art and signs in Ocean Beach!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tiny surfing dogs ride big waves at Imperial Beach!

Tiny dogs surf mighty waves in Imperial Beach during the 11th Annual Unleashed by Petco Surf Dog Competition!
Tiny dogs surf mighty waves in Imperial Beach during the 11th Annual Unleashed by Petco Surf Dog Competition!

And now for something on the light side. Surfing dogs!

Enjoy these funny photos of tiny dogs riding “huge” ocean waves near the pier at Imperial Beach! This morning I swung by the 11th Annual Unleashed by Petco Surf Dog Competition, just to check out the action. The first 10-minute heat featured smaller breeds. These dogs are some of the most talented surfing athletes you’re likely to ever see! Well . . . maybe. But they definitely appeared to be having fun!

All you non-dog athletes, take note! No aspiration is too lofty! No wave is too large!

A crowd gathers on the beach in the morning, as the very popular Surf Dog Competition is almost ready to begin!
A crowd gathers on the beach in the morning, as the very popular Surf Dog Competition is almost ready to begin!
A pooch says Hi while hanging out with a few buddies. It's going to be another great day in San Diego!
A pooch says “Hi” while hanging out with a few buddies. It’s going to be another great day in San Diego!
This thoughtful dog is checking out the perimeter of the surf competition starting area, which is fenced off from interfering human types.
This thoughtful dog is checking out the perimeter of the surf competition starting area, which is fenced off from those often interfering human types.
We're almost ready for the first heat! These small dogs pose atop their surfboards for photos and make the most of their superstar status.
We’re almost ready for the first heat! These small dogs pose atop their surfboards for photos and make the most of their superstar status.
A line of people awaits the start of the Unleashed by Petco Surf Dog Competition's first 10-minute heat of the day!
A line of people awaits the start of the Unleashed by Petco Surf Dog Competition’s first 10-minute heat of the day!
And these small surf dogs are off, making toward the Pacific Ocean with the help of a few human assistants!
And these small surf dogs are off, making toward the Pacific Ocean with the help of a few human assistants!
The excitement has built to a doggone unbelievable level. Which four-legged contestant will catch the best waves and impress the judges?
The excitement has built to a doggone unbelievable level. Which four-legged contestant will catch the best waves and impress the judges?
The crowd watches these talented canine athletes as they take to the thundering waves!
The crowd watches these talented canine athletes as they take to the thundering waves!
Those are awfully big breakers! Only the most talented and fearless dogs will master this tough competition.
Those are awfully big breakers! Only the most skillful and fearless dogs will master this tough surfing competition.
An amazing dog athlete has successfully caught the first wave! Here he comes! Great form!
An amazing dog athlete has successfully caught the first wave! Here he comes! Great form!
A tiny canine contestant receives encouragement as the annual surf dog competition gets underway.
A tiny canine contestant receives encouragement as this year’s surf dog competition in IB gets underway.
This innovative dog--I believe his name is Samson--doesn't adhere to those old surfing traditions. He rides backwards.
This innovative dog–I believe his name is Samson–doesn’t adhere to those old surfing traditions. He rides his surfboard backwards.
Oh my goodness! Three dogs on one wave! Remember this moment, because you'll probably never see it again!
Oh my goodness! Three dogs on one wave! Remember this moment, because you’ll probably never see it again!
Two furry athletes vie for surfing supremacy.
Two furry athletes vie for surfing supremacy!
I'm thinking of submitting this amazing photograph to SURFER Magazine. I wonder if it might make the cover. (Just kidding!)
I’m thinking of submitting this amazing photograph to SURFER Magazine. I wonder if it might make the cover. (Just kidding!)
Samson seems to have finally straightened himself out. Maybe he just wants to leap back onto dry land.
Samson seems to have finally straightened himself out. Maybe he just wants to leap back onto dry land.
These best buddy pals are happy just to walk along the beach. No need to show off surfing skills.
These best buddy pals are happy just to walk along the beach. No need to show off their mad surfing skills.
And these two sneaky dogs want to pretend they're honest-to-goodness surfers. Can't fool me!
And these two sneaky dogs want to pretend they’re honest-to-goodness surfers. Can’t fool me!
Tiny surfing dogs have mastered the mighty waves at Imperial Beach during the Unleashed by Petco Surf Dog Competition. They are superstars, indeed!
Tiny surfing dogs have mastered the mighty waves at Imperial Beach during the Unleashed by Petco Surf Dog Competition. They are superstars, indeed!

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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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