Housely
Point Loma is the peninsula which shelters San Diego Bay from the Pacific Ocean. It is one of the highest land areas in the San Diego vicinity, which gives it spectacular views of the San Diego harbor area to its east and the open Pacific Ocean to its west. The first Europeans to come to California landed at Point Loma, and some describe that expedition as the beginnings of California.
In its approximately 4,000 acres, Point Loma is home to a population of about 47,000 including two military bases, Ft. Rosecrans National Cemetery, Point Loma Nazarene University, the Old Point Loma lighthouse and Cabrillo National Monument, the Naval Training Center San Diego, the Marine Corps Recruit Depot Historic District, and Rosecroft. Since many record flights took place at various places on this hilly stretch of land, it is a National Landmark of Soaring.
Visits to Point Loma and the surrounding San Diego area can include many activities in one day because the distance from one to the next is not far. It is possible to combine several brief stops into a single day. Many first time visitors to the Point Loma neighborhood begin by heading out to the furthest end of the point to see the Cabrillo National Monument and the Old Point Loma Lighthouse.
Here are 10 suggested things to do in Point Loma.
1. Cabrillo National Monument
The Cabrillo National Monument is situated on the top of the Point Loma Peninsula, at the highest and southernmost point. It commemorates the first time a European expedition had landed on what is now the United States’ West Coast. Explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo landed at Ballast Point in San Diego Bay on September 28, 1542. Each October, the Cabrillo Festival Open House celebrates this event.
Visits to the monument offer unparalleled views of the downtown San Diego skyline, the harbor below, Coronado and the Naval Air Station North Island. When the skies are clear, it is possible to see as far as Tijuana, Mexico and the Coronado islands. Whale watching from the point also draws many visitors during the Gray Whale migration period from November to March.
Since the monument takes a short time to explore, visiting the Old Point Loma Lighthouse just across the way is easy to do. Viewing the living quarters in this tiny museum takes only a few minutes. There is also a visitor center which has a gift shop and offers educational experiences during the peak summer visitor months. A visit to the Tide Pools on the Pacific Ocean side of the point is also enjoyable, but parking can be limited.
Driving to the monument requires passing through Ft. Rosecrans National Cemetery, so it is possible to pay respects with a visit to the historic central area. Visitors should be aware that the cemetery is still active and part of the roadway that passes through military areas. Soldiers on funeral duty are often posted at the main gates in preparation for military funerals, and some cemetery areas may not allow access. The cemetery is the Pacific Coast equivalent to Arlington National Cemetery on the East Coast.
2. USS Midway and Museum
Point Loma and the entire San Diego area is linked forever with its naval history. Visitors to the area shouldn’t miss touring the aircraft carrier USS Midway and exploring the museum. The location is filled with all kinds of interactive exhibits, tours, flight simulators, climb aboard aircraft, discovery areas and chances to get to know the world famous aviators.
When the naval base was still fully in operation, it was a common sight to see soldiers marching side by side along the sidewalks on Rosecrans Blvd. while passing by on the way to the point. Taking the opportunity to visit the USS Midway is a journey of discovery into a proud Naval history as well as seeing what’s new in today’s Navy.
3. Sail San Diego
The San Diego is an experience of land and sea side by side, so the quintessential activity is to take a boat out on the water. But for those who have little or no boating experience, taking a few hours to learn can be fun. Sail San Diego also offers sunset sails and private charters for those who just want to sit back and enjoy the sea.
4. Balboa Park
Balboa Park was originally 1400 acres of land known as City Park. It housed the 1915 Panama-California Exposition, and today is comprised of the amazing architecture that was built for this event. The park is actually a complex of museums, walkways, bridges and the famous Spreckels Organ Pavilion where outdoor pipe organ concerts are still presented on one of the largest instruments in the world. There are many shops, eateries and activities to pursue, so this is also an all day, or even many day excursion.
5. San Diego Zoo
One of the premier zoos in the entire world, the San Diego Zoo is known for its forward looking natural enclosures and scientific advances in animal care. The zoo is large, and will take an entire day to see everything it has to offer. For families, this is an excellent thing to include when visiting Point Loma, as it is within close proximity and easy to find. The zoo has ongoing exhibits, and also special rotating ones. One of the best ways to see the entire zoo is to ride on the Zoo Bus.
6. Old Town San Diego
Old Town San Diego is just a few minutes away from Point Loma. It is the delightful historic place where California was first settled. It includes many different kinds of entertainment, and some of the most delicious authentic Mexican food in San Diego. Some locals go simply to eat the tortillas made fresh on the spot by hand at several of the landmark restaurants. It is magical to walk through the town at night, see the twinkling lights, enjoy the music, and browse the shops.
7. Torrey Pines Gliderport
Those with a desire to glide and fly must take on the options available at Torrey Pines Gliderport. Located in La Jolla, the port is known for its optimal breezes, excellent food, and on the ocean views.
8. Seaworld San Diego
Anyone who enjoys learning about sea life will enjoy a day spent at Seaworld. The ocean park is filled with wonderful aquariums devoted to various sea life, and many educational shows about the sea creatures that live there. This is a very nice family activity and plenty of hotels surround the local area. It is located just north of Point Loma. Visitors should allow an entire day for this activity.
9. Coronado Bay Bridge
A trip to the San Diego area would not be complete without viewing or driving across the Coronado Bridge. Built in 1969 to link Coronado Island with San Diego, thousands of cars pass over the bay on a daily basis. It is an exhilarating drive which allows visitors to see Coronado Island and unique views of the San Diego city skyline.
10. La Jolla Cove
La Jolla Cove is located north of Point Loma near the Mission Bay complex which houses Seaworld. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in the San Diego Area, offering snorkeling, diving and kayaking. The colorful fish that live in the calm water are protected. The beach is small but the cove is a photographer’s gem. Swimmers and scuba divers come often. It is a great day trip.
Comments
Loading…