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Robb Field Loop Walkway: Scenic Riverside Path in Ocean Beach

There are multiple parking options along the trail. Beginning on the western end of the trail at the Ocean Beach Dog Beach Parking Lot and few hundred yards east along the Robb Field Parking Lot

Tucked along the San Diego River in Ocean Beach, the Robb Field Loop Walkway is a hidden gem for walkers, joggers, and cyclists who want a peaceful route with a touch of coastal charm. This easy, flat loop circles the athletic fields of Robb Field and connects to the scenic San Diego River Trail, offering a refreshing mix of open park space, waterfront views, and breezy ocean air.

A Walk with a View

The loop itself is about 1.5 miles, making it the perfect distance for a quick walk, a warm-up jog, or even a leisurely dog stroll. As you circle around, you’ll see wide green lawns filled with soccer players, skateboarders, and families enjoying the day. Look west and the path opens up to the San Diego River estuary, where herons, egrets, and osprey can often be spotted fishing in the calm waters.

Connection to the San Diego River Trail

One of the best parts of the Robb Field Loop is that it connects seamlessly to the San Diego River Trail, a multi-use path stretching inland for miles. If you’re up for a longer adventure, you can head east along the river toward Mission Valley or west toward the Ocean Beach Dog Beach area.

Family & Fitness Friendly

The walkway is paved and flat, making it accessible for strollers, wheelchairs, and bikes. Along the loop you’ll also find exercise stations, benches, and shaded spots—perfect for breaking up your walk with a stretch or water break. Since Robb Field is also home to a skate park, ball fields, and tennis courts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy before or after the walk.

Best Time to Visit

Morning and evening are especially beautiful times to stroll the loop. Early risers will enjoy calm air and bird activity along the estuary, while sunset brings soft colors over the river and the silhouettes of palm trees along the horizon.

A Local Favorite

While many visitors head straight to the beach, locals know Robb Field Loop Walkway as a quieter spot for exercise, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the outdoors. It’s not a strenuous hike, but rather a slice of everyday San Diego life with its mix of nature, recreation, and community.

👉 Tip for photographers: Bring your camera for the golden hour. The estuary, palm trees, and distant Ocean Beach Pier create postcard-worthy shots.

A Blooming Gem: Exploring the Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden in Balboa Park

If you’re ever in San Diego and craving a dose of natural beauty, the Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden in Balboa Park is a must-visit. Tucked along the eastern edge of the park, just across Park Boulevard from the San Diego Natural History Museum, this three-acre oasis bursts with color, fragrance, and a quiet charm that’s hard to resist. I stumbled across it on a recent trip, and let me tell you—it’s the kind of place that makes you slow down, breathe deep, and maybe even snap a few too many photos.

A Little History, A Lot of Heart

The garden’s story starts back in the late 1960s, when Dick Streeper, a rose enthusiast and then-president of the San Diego Rose Society, dreamed of a public rose haven in a city already known for its flower-friendly climate. With help from fellow rosarians and a big boost from the Parker Foundation—set up by Inez Grant Parker after her husband’s passing—the vision took root. By 1973, the first roses were planted, and over the years, it’s grown into a world-class spot. It’s picked up accolades like an Outstanding Rose Garden nod from All-America Rose Selections in 1978 and a spot in the Great Rosarians of the World Hall of Fame in 2014. Not bad for a patch of desert dirt turned floral paradise!

What You’ll Find

Today, the garden boasts over 1,600 rose bushes across more than 130 varieties—think vibrant reds, soft pinks, sunny yellows, and everything in between. Walking the winding paths, you’re hit with waves of fragrance that shift as you move from one bed to the next. There’s a little fountain in the center that adds a soothing trickle to the air, and the layout invites you to wander or just plop down on a bench and soak it all in. I went in early spring—March 31, 2025, to be exact—and while the peak bloom usually hits in April or May, there were still plenty of buds and blooms to admire. It’s open year-round, free to the public, and blooms strong from March through December.

The folks keeping it gorgeous are the Balboa Park Rose Garden Corps, a dedicated crew of volunteers. You might catch them pruning or tending the beds on a Tuesday or Thursday morning—quiet heroes making sure every petal shines. Fun fact: every January, the San Diego Rose Society hosts a pruning demo here to teach folks the ropes of rose care. It’s a cool way to see how much love goes into this place.

Why It’s Special

What sets this garden apart isn’t just the roses—though they’re stunning—it’s the vibe. It’s nestled in Balboa Park, surrounded by museums and desert landscapes, yet feels like its own little world. The contrast of lush flowers against Joshua Tree’s arid backdrop (if you’re heading there next) is a reminder of how nature can thrive in unexpected places. Plus, it’s a popular wedding spot—imagine saying “I do” surrounded by all that color. No wonder it’s racked up international praise.

Tips for Your Visit

  • Timing: Go early in the morning for soft light and fewer people—perfect if you’re into photography (like me, plotting a Nikon Z8 astrophotography session later that night elsewhere in Joshua Tree). Sunrise could be magical here too, though it’s not as high up as spots like Keys View.
  • Getting There: From San Diego, take SR-163 south to Park Boulevard, turn left, and park near the history museum lots. Cross the footbridge, and you’re there. Parking’s tight, so plan ahead.
  • What to Bring: A camera, water (no fountains nearby), and maybe a hat—spring sun can sneak up on you.
  • Pair It: Swing by the nearby Desert Garden afterward for a wild shift to cacti and succulents, just steps away.

Final Thoughts

The Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden isn’t just a pretty face—it’s a testament to community, persistence, and the simple joy of growing something beautiful. Whether you’re a flower nerd, a casual stroller, or just someone who needs a break from the grind, it’s got something for you. I left with a full camera roll, a lighter mood, and a new appreciation for roses—and honestly, that’s a win in my book. Next time you’re in San Diego, give it a wander. You won’t regret it.

Thunder in the Desert: Blue Angels Winter Training in El Centro

Winter Training at El Centro, CA

Thunder in the Desert: Blue Angels Winter Training in El Centro

Every winter, the quiet desert town of El Centro, California, transforms into a hub of high-octane excitement as the U.S. Navy Blue Angels take to the skies for their winter training sessions. This annual event, held at Naval Air Facility El Centro, offers aviation enthusiasts and the public a unique opportunity to witness the precision and power of these iconic pilots.

For those unfamiliar, El Centro serves as the Blue Angels’ winter home, where they hone their skills and perfect their breathtaking aerial maneuvers before the official air show season begins. The clear, dry desert air and wide-open spaces provide ideal conditions for training.

What to Expect During Winter Training:

  • Daily Practices: From January to March, the Blue Angels typically conduct daily practice sessions, weather permitting. These sessions showcase the team’s signature formations, including the diamond, delta, and opposing solos. The morning session starts at 8am and the afternoon session starts at 1pm. Times subject to change without notice.
  • Awe-Inspiring Maneuvers: Witness the sheer precision and skill of the pilots as they execute complex maneuvers with incredible synchronization. The roar of the F/A-18 Super Hornets is an experience in itself!
  • Free Admission: While the exact schedule and viewing areas can vary, the practices are generally open to the public, offering a fantastic and free opportunity to see the Blue Angels in action.
  • A Unique Atmosphere: El Centro’s friendly, small-town vibe adds to the experience. You’ll find locals and visitors alike gathering to watch the practices, creating a sense of community and shared excitement.

Why It’s Worth the Trip:

Seeing the Blue Angels in their training environment offers a different perspective than a typical air show. You get to witness the raw skill and dedication that goes into their performances. The relative informality and the desert backdrop make it a unique and memorable experience.

If you’re a fan of aviation, or simply looking for a thrilling winter outing, a trip to El Centro during the Blue Angels’ training season is a must-do. Remember to check the official Blue Angels and NAF El Centro websites for the latest schedules and viewing information before you go. And bring your earplugs!

Fishing, Camping, and Fun: Explore Santee Lakes

Santee Lakes: A Hidden Gem for Outdoor Recreation A picturesque paradise in the heart of San Diego’s East County

Nestled in the rolling hills of San Diego’s East County, Santee Lakes is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. This sprawling recreational area offers a diverse range of activities for visitors of all ages, from fishing and boating to hiking and picnicking.

Santee Recreational Lakes is a 190-acrea privately owned park and campground run by the Padre Dam Municipal Water District. The park is made up of seven lakes that are filled with recycled water from a water treatment plant nearby. There is plenty of parking along the loop road that runs around the property. Lakes 1-6 have flat paved concrete sidewalks next to the roadway. 

Dogs are not allowed in the day use area of the park. Between Lakes 6 and 7 in the north there is a limited  dog walk area accessible on the west side. 

The campground offers cabin rentals and RV sites for pricing and availability check there site 

I originally found out about the Santee Recreational Lakes through the Palomar Audubon Society website. I was looking for birding groups in my area and joined them on a walk of Santee Lakes. I have since been pack many times on my own and have scene a variety of both native and transient birds at the lakes. 

A Haven for Anglers

Santee Lakes is a popular destination for anglers, with its well-stocked waters teeming with various fish species, including rainbow trout, catfish, and bass. The lakes offer a variety of fishing opportunities, from bank fishing to renting a pedal powered swan boat.

Picnicking and Camping

Santee Lakes is a great place to spend a day with family and friends. The park has several picnic areas equipped with tables, grills, and playgrounds, making it an ideal spot for a picnic lunch or barbecue. For those who want to stay overnight, the park also has a campground with RV hookups and tent sites.

Additional Amenities

Santee Lakes offers a variety of other amenities to make your visit enjoyable, including a snack bar, a bait shop, and a boat rental facility. The park also has a visitor center with information about the area and upcoming events.

A Day Trip Worth Taking

If you’re looking for a relaxing and fun-filled day trip, Santee Lakes is the perfect destination. With its stunning natural beauty, diverse recreational opportunities, and family-friendly atmosphere, Santee Lakes is a hidden gem that is sure to delight visitors of all ages.

Tips for Visiting Santee Lakes:

  • Santee Lakes is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild.
  • Admission to Santee Lakes is free to walk in, but there are fees for parking your car, boat rentals, and fishing permits.
  • Be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially during the summer months.
  • Santee Lakes is a popular destination, so it’s best to arrive early to avoid crowds.
  • To find out more visit their website https://www.santeelakes.com