The waterfront at Embarcadero Marina Park North was transformed into an automotive showcase on June 7 as the Corvette Owners Club of San Diego hosted its annual Main Street America Car Show, raising funds and awareness for the San Diego Center for the Blind and Vision Impaired. One of Southern California’s premier car shows, Main Street America brought together hundreds of vehicles ranging from classic pre-war automobiles to modern Corvettes, hot rods, muscle cars, exotic sports cars, trucks, and custom builds. Spectators spent the day exploring rows of meticulously maintained vehicles while enjoying the scenic backdrop of San Diego Bay. The event serves as one of the Center’s important fundraising efforts, helping support programs for individuals who are blind or visually impaired.
Founded in 1958, the Corvette Owners Club of San Diego is one of the oldest continuously operating Corvette clubs in the country. Each year, club members and volunteers work together to organize the event, attracting car enthusiasts from throughout Southern California and beyond.
When and Where Date: Saturday, August 23, 2025 Time: 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM (approximately) Location: Embarcadero Marina Park North, downtown San Diego Admission: Free for spectators
Rows of polished Corvettes lined the event grounds, displaying decades of automotive history. Visitors admired everything from classic models featuring chrome accents and vintage styling to the latest high-performance Corvettes equipped with cutting-edge technology. Owners proudly shared stories about their vehicles while answering questions from spectators and fellow enthusiasts.
Famosa Slough is one of San Diego’s last remaining coastal wetlands and estuaries. It sits between Ocean Beach and Point Loma near the San Diego River channel, surrounded by dense urban development, which makes it especially unique. The slough covers about 37 acres and includes tidal marsh, mudflats, shallow channels, and nesting habitat for birds
Historically, the area was part of the much larger Mission Bay estuary system, once called “False Bay.” Over the 1900s, development projects — including river channelization, trolley tracks, land filling, and wartime construction — cut the slough off from much of the original wetland system. By the 1970s, parts of it were even being filled with rubble for development projects, which triggered local activism to save it. The City of San Diego eventually purchased much of the land in 1990 for preservation and restoration.
Today, the slough is famous among birders and nature photographers because more than 180 species of birds have been recorded there, including:
black-necked stilts
snowy egrets
avocets
pelicans
kingfishers
yellow-crowned night herons
migrating ducks and shorebirds along the Pacific Flyway.
The wetland also serves as a nursery habitat for fish and marine life because tidal seawater mixes with freshwater runoff, creating a brackish estuary environment. Native plants like pickleweed dominate the marsh and turn bright red in fall.
A major reason Famosa Slough is considered important is that roughly 95% of California’s historic wetlands have been lost to development. Local volunteers and the Friends of Famosa Slough continue restoration work, invasive plant removal, habitat enhancement, and educational programs.
The slough is also protected as a California marine conservation area where taking marine life is prohibited.
If you visit, there are short walking paths, viewing benches, and excellent birdwatching especially around sunrise and high tide. It’s often described as a “hidden gem” because it feels surprisingly quiet despite being surrounded by city neighborhoods.
Konoids is a public art installation by sculptor Kenneth Capps located at Bayside Park (often referred to as Chula Vista Bayfront Park) in Chula Vista, California.
Installed in 1985 as one of the Port of San Diego’s first public art pieces, the work consists of three distorted, welded steel forms that resemble inverted cones.
Key Features of “Konoids”Artistic Intent: The three forms are designed to have a “dialogue” with one another, framing expansive views of the San Diego Bay toward Point Loma.Material: The sculptures are made of painted steel alloy.Location: You can find them on the grass near the walking paths overlooking the yacht harbor
Konoids is a public art installation by sculptor Kenneth Capps located at Bayside Park (often referred to as Chula Vista Bayfront Park) in Chula Vista, California. Installed in 1985 as one of the Port of San Diego’s first public art pieces, the work consists of three distorted, welded steel forms that resemble inverted cones. Key Features of “Konoids”Artistic Intent: The three forms are designed to have a “dialogue” with one another, framing expansive views of the San Diego Bay toward Point Loma.Material: The sculptures are made of painted steel alloy.Location: You can find them on the grass near the walking paths overlooking the yacht harbor #art#sandiego#chulavista#sculpture#artwork
Every autumn, something special takes flight across San Diego County: Hawktober, the Parks & Recreation Department’s annual tribute to our local birds of prey. This year marks the seventh edition of the event — a month-long celebration dedicated to hawks, owls, falcons, and the many fascinating adaptations that make them apex aerial hunters.
What Is Hawktober?
Hawktober is a series of free educational workshops held in county parks, preserves, campgrounds, and nature centers. The goal? To bring wildlife education to local communities, connect people (young and old) with live animal ambassadors, and deepen appreciation for the roles raptors play in San Diego’s ecosystems.
The City of Chula Vista’s 4th Fest will return again this year, offering the public a free fireworks display at the Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center on Friday, July 4. The event is open to the public and all ages are welcome. Presented by Seven Mile Casino, this year’s 4th Fest will feature a simultaneous broadcast in English and Spanish through Amor 102.9.
The Elite Athlete Training Center’s gates will open at 7 p.m. and fireworks will begin at 9 p.m. Spectators are encouraged to bring their own blankets and chairs. Food will be available to purchase through a variety of vendors.
In addition to free parking at the Elite Athlete Training Center, attendees can also park for free at the adjacent New Hope Community Church, located at 2720 Olympic Parkway. Mountain Hawk Park, located at 1475 Lake Crest Drive, will open starting at 7 a.m. and is another great spot to view the fireworks show. Street parking there is available on a first-come basis. All City parks close at 10 p.m. Please see the attached image for a map of the parking areas.
Please be aware of several restrictions at the Elite Athlete Training Center, Mountain Hawk Park, and New Hope Community Church. At the Elite Athlete Training Center, the following items are not allowed: alcohol, tobacco (including e-cigarettes and vapes), drugs, tents and canopies/pop-ups, grills, tailgating, pets and drones. At Mountain Hawk Park, charcoal grills are not allowed (propane grills are OK); enclosed camping tents are not allowed (canopies up to 10 ft. X 10 ft. are OK, with a limit of three per party); kegs, bottles, and other glass containers are not allowed; drones are not allowed. Pets must be on leash, and personal fireworks (including sparklers) are prohibited. New Hope Community Church is available for parking only – no tailgating.
Too many animals go missing around the Fourth of July. Keep pets indoors and comfortable, as loud fireworks can cause them to panic and jump or even break through fences and escape. Make sure your pet is properly identified with license and identification tags or on tape on the collar and also microchipped. If your pet escapes, check with Chula Vista Animal Services and other local shelters, and search online pet websites such as 24Petconnect and Pawboost. Neighborhood apps such as Ring and Nextdoor are also useful for posting lost or found pets.
The private use of fireworks in San Diego County is against the law. To report the unauthorized use of fireworks, call the Chula Vista Police Department non-emergency line at (619) 691-5151.
All City offices including libraries and recreation centers will be closed on Friday, July 4. In addition, trash pick-up in the City of Chula Vista will be delayed one day following the holiday.
Just a few miles south of San Diego’s bustling downtown lies a hidden gem where saltwater, freshwater, and wildlife converge in a delicate dance of life—the Tijuana River Estuary. Tucked between Imperial Beach and the U.S.-Mexico border, this vast coastal wetland is not only a peaceful escape from the city but also one of Southern California’s most ecologically significant landscapes.
A Living Sanctuary
The estuary is part of the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve, a protected area spanning over 2,500 acres. It’s one of only 30 estuarine research reserves in the United States, and it plays a vital role in protecting endangered species, filtering water, and buffering the coast from storm surges.
As you walk the trails, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a mosaic of marshes, mudflats, and salt flats—each teeming with life. Located along a massive aviary flyway over 370 species of birds have been recorded here, including the endangered light-footed Ridgway’s rail and least tern. Birdwatchers, bring your binoculars!
Trails, Views, and Tranquility
The Bayside Trail and River Mouth Trail offer easy, flat hikes with stunning views of the wetlands and the Pacific Ocean beyond. Interpretive signs along the way tell the story of the estuary’s ecology, history, and the ongoing efforts to protect it.
Don’t forget to stop by the Tijuana Estuary Visitor Center—a small but informative hub with exhibits, maps, and knowledgeable staff who can help guide your visit.
A Cross-Border Story
What makes the Tijuana River Estuary truly unique is its binational character. The Tijuana River originates in Mexico, flowing through the bustling city of Tijuana before crossing the U.S. border and emptying into the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, it faces challenges like pollution and urban runoff—but also inspires collaboration and conservation across borders.
Why It Matters
Estuaries like this one are among the most productive ecosystems on Earth. They provide nursery grounds for fish, shelter for birds, and natural flood control for communities. In a time of climate change and habitat loss, places like the Tijuana River Estuary remind us of nature’s resilience—and our responsibility to protect it.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re a birder, hiker, photographer, or simply seeking a quiet moment in nature, the Tijuana River Estuary is worth a visit. Come for the peaceful views, stay for the deeper connection to a landscape that quietly sustains life in so many ways.
Breathe Easy in the Marsh: Discovering the Sweetwater Marsh National Wildlife Refuge
Living in San Diego, we’re lucky to be surrounded by pockets of natural beauty. But nestled right here, offering a vital sanctuary for wildlife and a tranquil escape for us, is the Sweetwater Marsh National Wildlife Refuge. This isn’t just another patch of green; it’s a dynamic coastal wetland teeming with life and holding significant ecological importance.
The entire San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge, which includes other units besides Sweetwater Marsh, totals around 2,620 acres of land and water in and around San Diego Bay. So, while the broader refuge is larger, the specific Sweetwater Marsh unit you might be exploring is about 316 acres in size.
In order to access the trails located within the Sweetwater March you must park your vehicle at the parking lot located outside the refuge at 1000 Gunpowder Point Drive, Chula Vista, CA 91910, then take a free shuttle bus provided by the Living Coast Discovery Center. The Discovery Center and the Refuge are open Wednesday through Sunday 10am-5pm. Check the Living Coast Discovery Center website for most up-to-date information. There is no fee to walk the 1.5 miles of trails, however there is a fee to explore the Living Coast Discovery Center
More Than Just Mudflats:
For those unfamiliar, a salt marsh might just seem like muddy ground. But look closer, and you’ll discover a vibrant and crucial habitat. The Sweetwater Marsh is one of the few remaining significant salt marshes in Southern California, acting as a natural filter for our waters, a buffer against coastal erosion, and a vital nursery for countless fish and invertebrates.
A Haven for Feathered Friends (and More!):
If you’re a bird enthusiast, prepare to be delighted. Situated along the Pacific Flyway, the refuge is a critical stopover and home for a stunning array of migratory and resident birds. Keep your eyes peeled for elegant avocets and stilts gracefully wading through the shallows, various sandpipers and willets scurrying along the mudflats, and majestic herons and egrets patiently stalking their prey.
But the Sweetwater Marsh is particularly significant for the California least tern and the light-footed Ridgway’s rail(formerly California clapper rail) – both federally endangered species. The refuge provides crucial nesting and foraging grounds for these vulnerable birds, and dedicated conservation efforts are underway to ensure their survival. Witnessing these rare species in their natural habitat is a truly special experience.
Your Invitation to Explore:
The Sweetwater Marsh National Wildlife Refuge isn’t just for the birds; it’s for us too! Several easy-to-moderate trails meander through the marsh, offering fantastic opportunities for:
Birdwatching: Bring your binoculars and prepare to be amazed by the diversity of avian life.
Walking and Hiking: Enjoy a peaceful stroll amidst the natural beauty, taking in the fresh air and scenic views of the bay and surrounding landscape.
Photography: Capture the stunning scenery and the fascinating wildlife that calls this refuge home.
Learning and Discovery: The nearby Living Coast Discovery Center acts as an excellent gateway to understanding the ecology of the marsh and the importance of conservation. You can often spot the same species in the wild after learning about them at the center!
A Call to Respect and Protect:
As we enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the Sweetwater Marsh, it’s crucial to remember that it’s a protected area. Let’s all do our part by:
Staying on marked trails: To protect the delicate marsh environment.
Observing wildlife from a distance: Giving them the space they need.
Leaving no trace: Packing out everything we bring in.
Respecting all rules and regulations: Ensuring the long-term health of this vital ecosystem.
So, the next time you’re looking for a breath of fresh air and a chance to connect with nature right here in Chula Vista, head over to the Sweetwater Marsh National Wildlife Refuge. It’s a reminder of the incredible biodiversity that exists right in our backyard and a place where we can all appreciate the beauty and importance of our coastal wetlands.
Just south of downtown San Diego, where the city gives way to wetlands and salt marshes, there’s a place where you can get eye-to-eye with a sea turtle, watch raptors take flight, and walk through native coastal habitats—all in a single afternoon. The Living Coast Discovery Center in Chula Vista isn’t your typical zoo or aquarium. It’s a hands-on, outdoor classroom for all ages, wrapped in the sights, sounds, and scents of the San Diego Bay.
More Than a Wildlife Center
Originally founded in 1987 as the Chula Vista Nature Interpretive Center, the Living Coast has evolved into a nonprofit organization that blends conservation, education, and wildlife rehabilitation. Each exhibit and trail is designed to highlight the unique ecosystems of Southern California—from salt marshes and mudflats to coastal sage scrub and open ocean.
But the Living Coast is more than just a place to look at animals—it’s a place to learn how to care for them and the environment they depend on.
What You’ll See
Green Sea Turtles floating gracefully in Turtle Lagoon, a favorite stop for kids and adults alike.
Leopard sharks and bat rays at the Shark & Ray Experience, where you can even touch some of the animals in the interactive pool.
Birds of prey like bald eagles, owls, and hawks along Raptor Row, all non-releasable rescues living out their lives in sanctuary.
Aviaries and nature trails that bring you face-to-face with local bird species and panoramic bay views.
Aquatic exhibits showcasing jellyfish, seahorses, octopuses, and other marine life found just off the California coast.
Everything is designed to be close, accessible, and immersive—no crowds or long walks between exhibits, just a focused, meaningful experience.
Ideal for Families, Students, and Nature Lovers
One of the Center’s biggest impacts happens behind the scenes. With over 15,000 schoolchildren visiting each year, the Living Coast is a hub for environmental science education. Interactive programs, field trips, and conservation workshops give young visitors a hands-on way to explore biology, ecology, and sustainability.
Know Before You Go
Location: Sweetwater Marsh, part of the San Diego National Wildlife Refuge
Access: The parking lot is off Bay Boulevard; a free shuttle takes visitors into the refuge
Hours & Tickets: Check www.thelivingcoast.org for current hours, admission prices, and seasonal events
Best Time to Visit: Mornings are ideal—cooler temperatures and active animals
A Local Gem Worth the Detour
The Living Coast Discovery Center is the kind of place that stays with you. Whether you’re snapping a photo of a burrowing owl or quietly watching a ray glide by, it’s a reminder that incredible wildlife doesn’t just live in remote places—it thrives right here in our own backyard.
Animals on the Bay Day is back! For just $5 per person, you can spend the day with the Living Coast while engaging with animal ambassadors, meeting the faces of our partner organizations, exploring the wildlife refuge, participating in educational activities, enjoying food trucks, and more!
Set to open on May 15, 2025, the Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center is poised to become a landmark destination on the West Coast. Located in Chula Vista, California, this $1.3 billion development is the largest hotel built on the West Coast and the sixth addition to the Gaylord Hotels portfolio under Marriott Bonvoy. The Gaylord Pacific Resort is expected to generate significant economic benefits for Chula Vista and the broader San Diego region. The Bayfront Developement project includes upgrades to parks, open spaces, retail shops, and restaurants, preserving coastal resources and honoring local heritage.
Exploring San Diego 