Plumerias, also known as frangipani, are beloved around the world for their sweet fragrance and association with tropical islands. In Hawaii, they’re often woven into leis as a symbol of welcome and friendship. Seeing them in full bloom at the festival is like taking a mini vacation to the islands—without ever leaving San Diego.
Festival Details
Where: Balboa Park, Casa del Prado, San Diego, CA
When: September 6 &7 2025 (check the official Southern California Plumeria Society website for dates)
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.
Don’t miss the 2025 All American Car Show in San Diego on Aug. 23. Classic cars, trucks & motorcycles on the bayfront. Free admission!
Hosted by the Mopar Club of San Diego, this annual event brings together an incredible mix of classic cars, vintage rides, hot rods, trucks, and motorcycles—all against the stunning backdrop of the San Diego Bay.
When and Where
Date: Saturday, August 23, 2025
Time: 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM (approximately)
Location: Embarcadero Marina Park North, downtown San Diego
The Eagle is unique among U.S. military ships. Originally built in 1936 in Germany and taken by the United States as a World War II war prize, she has been serving as a Coast Guard training vessel ever since. Each summer, cadets from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy set sail aboard the Eagle to learn the fundamentals of seamanship. From handling lines to navigating by the stars, cadets experience the traditions of sailing firsthand while building teamwork and resilience.
The next time the Eagle sails into San Diego, make sure to plan a visit. Whether you’re a maritime history buff, a photographer, or just curious about life at sea, stepping aboard this legendary tall ship is an unforgettable experience.
Exploring the Orchid Greenhouse at the San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo is renowned for its diverse collection of wildlife, but there’s an equally stunning feature that often flies under the radar—its Orchid Greenhouse. Tucked away within the Zoo’s lush grounds, this hidden gem is a paradise for plant lovers and anyone seeking a peaceful, aromatic escape. Whether you’re a seasoned botanist or simply someone who appreciates nature’s beauty, the Orchid Greenhouse offers an enchanting experience that deserves a visit.
Here’s the schedule for 2025 Plant Days and Orchid Odysseyrunning from 10am to 2pm
Friday, July 18, 2025 Friday, August 15, 2025 Friday, September 19, 2025 Friday, October 17, 2025 Friday, November 21, 2025 Friday, December 19, 2025
The Orchid Greenhouse is home to over 1,000 species of orchids, each more captivating than the last. These delicate, vibrant flowers come in every color of the rainbow, ranging from the deep purples of the Cattleya to the soft pastels of the Phalaenopsis. The greenhouse is designed to mimic the orchids’ natural tropical habitat, ensuring that each bloom thrives in the ideal conditions.
Orchid Odyssey San Diego Zoo
Upon entering, you’re immediately greeted by the intoxicating scent of the flowers and the cool, humid air. The space is filled with layers of hanging orchids, potted varieties, and intricate arrangements that transport you to a tropical paradise. The layout is designed to let you take your time as you explore different sections, each dedicated to specific types of orchids from around the world, including Central and South America, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands.
The Fascinating World of Orchids
Orchids are among the most diverse plant families on Earth, with more than 25,000 species and over 100,000 hybrids. The Orchid Greenhouse at the San Diego Zoo showcases many of these varieties, offering a chance to learn about their unique characteristics. Some orchids have flowers that bloom only once a year, while others may only open for a few hours, making the greenhouse a truly dynamic environment.
What makes orchids particularly special is their intricate pollination process, which often involves symbiotic relationships with specific insect species. In the greenhouse, you’ll see firsthand how these delicate flowers attract and rely on their pollinators, adding another layer of wonder to the experience.
Conservation Efforts and Education
While the Orchid Greenhouse is an aesthetic treat, it also serves a vital conservation role. Many of the orchids housed here are endangered or rare species. The San Diego Zoo is deeply involved in global orchid conservation efforts, helping to preserve habitats and promote the cultivation of orchids that are at risk of extinction in the wild.
Visitors to the Orchid Greenhouse can learn about these important initiatives through informational displays and guided tours. Knowledgeable staff and volunteers are always on hand to answer questions, explaining how the Zoo’s breeding programs and conservation projects contribute to preserving orchid species for future generations.
A Photography Haven
For photography enthusiasts, the Orchid Greenhouse is a dream come true. The vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and the way light filters through the glass panels create perfect conditions for capturing stunning photos. Whether you’re looking to snap close-ups of delicate blooms or create a wider landscape shot of the greenhouse, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to experiment with your camera.
Don’t forget your macro lens if you want to capture the minute details that make orchids so mesmerizing—the texture of the petals, the subtle color gradients, and the tiny pollination structures are all fascinating subjects.
Tips for Your Visit
Best Time to Visit: The Orchid Greenhouse is open year-round, but it’s particularly stunning during spring when many orchids are in bloom. If you’re aiming to avoid crowds, visiting early in the day or during weekdays is ideal.
Plan for a Relaxing Experience: The greenhouse is a peaceful retreat within the bustling zoo, so take your time to savor the beauty and tranquility of the space. It’s a perfect spot for a short break from the main zoo attractions.
Join a Guided Tour: If you’re keen to dive deeper into the world of orchids, be sure to join one of the Zoo’s guided tours. These often include fascinating insights into orchid biology, conservation, and the zoo’s work with endangered species.
Conclusion
The Orchid Greenhouse at the San Diego Zoo is a captivating blend of nature’s beauty, botanical education, and conservation efforts. Whether you’re a flower enthusiast, a photographer, or simply in search of a serene escape, this hidden sanctuary offers a one-of-a-kind experience. The next time you visit the zoo, don’t miss the chance to explore this blooming oasis—it’s a reminder of how diverse and delicate the natural world truly is.
Tucked along the marina-lined coast of Harbor Island, a quiet revolution takes place every weekend. It doesn’t make headlines or draw big crowds, but it changes lives—one sail at a time. Challenged Sailors San Diego (CSSD) is a volunteer-powered nonprofit that brings the joy and freedom of sailing to individuals with physical and cognitive disabilities.
Every Friday and Saturday, from 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., you’ll find CSSD’s custom fleet of Martin 16 sailboats slicing across San Diego Bay, helmed by people who are often navigating more than just the wind and tide—they’re navigating challenges like paralysis, vision loss, PTSD, or traumatic brain injury. But out on the water, those barriers seem to vanish.
Adaptive Sailing for All
What makes CSSD so unique is their accessibility-first approach. Their Martin 16 sailboats are specially designed with stability and ease of control in mind. Sailors sit in supportive bucket seats, and many use a joystick—or even a sip-and-puff system—for full control of the boat. A trained volunteer companion sits just behind, ready to assist when needed, but always letting the sailor take the lead.
Whether someone is a first-time participant or a returning sailor, CSSD creates a safe and empowering experience. No previous sailing experience is required, and participation is completely free of charge. This is more than recreation—it’s liberation.
“Anywhere You Want to Go”
One of the most moving stories shared by CSSD volunteers is of a woman in a wheelchair who asked, “Where do we go?” Her sailing companion responded, “Anywhere you want.” She burst into tears. It’s a reminder that freedom of movement—something many of us take for granted—is a powerful gift.
CSSD serves a wide range of sailors, from veterans and stroke survivors to young people with cerebral palsy or autism. Some are lifelong San Diegans. Others are visiting just for the day. All leave with a shared sense of accomplishment—and often, a smile that speaks louder than words.
Volunteers at the Helm
CSSD is 100% volunteer-run. Everyone from the companion sailors to the dockhands to the chase boat operators donates their time and energy. Many are lifelong sailors. Others are newcomers drawn to the cause. But all share the same passion: making sailing accessible to everyone.
Interested in volunteering? No sailing experience is needed for many roles, and training is provided. If you’re looking to give back to the community in a way that’s fun, active, and deeply meaningful, this is one crew worth joining.
How to Get Involved
CSSD offers several ways to participate:
Sail with them: If you or someone you know has a disability and would like to try sailing, simply sign up on their website and the team will contact you to schedule a day.
Volunteer: Help on the water or on the dock. All roles are vital, and everyone is welcome.
Donate: CSSD relies on donations to keep the sails full and the experiences free. Every dollar helps bring joy to someone’s day.
Out on the bay, there are no wheelchairs. No labels. Just wind, water, and the thrill of command. Challenged Sailors San Diego reminds us that inclusion isn’t just about access—it’s about creating moments of joy, confidence, and connection. And sometimes, that all begins with a simple push away from the dock.
Lavender season typically peaks from late May through early July, when the hillsides come alive with vibrant purple blooms. Farms across Ramona open their gates to visitors for a brief but beautiful window of time, offering U-pick experiences, handmade products, and peaceful strolls through aromatic rows of lavender.
One standout is the newly expanded lavender field at Oasis Camel Dairy, a unique destination where camels roam nearby and the scent of lavender fills the air. Yes—camels and lavender! It’s a pairing you didn’t know you needed.
This is the second year for the Camel Valley Lavender Farm located in Ramona, California. The 2 acre field has over 3000 lavender plants with 5 different varieties of lavender. The Lavender field is open on select Saturdays in June and July.
Access to the lavender field is FREE on Saturday and Sunday’s June 21st through July 27th, 2025. There is gift shop that sells hand crafted lavender products as well as plant seedlings. You can pick your own bundle of lavender for $15 .
The founders of Oasis Camel Dairy Farm purchased 8 acres along the southern edge of the camel grazing pasture and have repurposed 2 acres for growing lavender. Twice a day at 11am and 2pm some of the 21 dromedary camels that live on the Oasis Camel Dairy make their way to the fence line for a snack of hay.
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.
Sunset View Park spans approximately 11.2 acres and features 0.3 mile walking-hiking trail, large grassy areas for playing soccer, frisbee etc. There is a full-court basketball with multiple backboards and a enclosed roller hockey field along with a children’s play area.
If you’ve ever strolled along the waterfront on Shelter Island and looked up to see a large bird hovering gracefully above the bay, chances are you’ve spotted an osprey. Known as the “fish hawk,” this striking bird of prey has made a comfortable home here in San Diego’s maritime backyard.
A Natural Fisherman in an Urban Setting
Shelter Island offers the perfect blend of natural habitat and human-made infrastructure that ospreys have come to favor. With calm bay waters rich in fish and an abundance of tall structures like light poles, boat masts, and channel markers, ospreys have carved out a niche among the marinas and piers. It’s not uncommon to spot their bulky stick nests perched high above the docks, often near the Shelter Island Launch Ramp or around America’s Cup Harbor.
A Front-Row Seat to Nature
Watching an osprey hunt is a thrilling experience. These raptors soar high, scanning the water with laser-sharp vision. Then, in an instant, they dive feet-first into the bay, emerging with a wriggling fish clutched in their powerful talons. It’s a daily drama that plays out just steps from the sidewalk — and a reminder that even in the heart of the city, nature thrives.
Season of the Osprey
While ospreys can be seen in San Diego year-round, their breeding season typically runs from March to August. During these months, you might see pairs working together to build or repair nests, calling out with sharp whistles, or feeding their young. If you’re lucky, you might spot fledglings learning to fly — a heartening sight that signals the continued health of our coastal ecosystem.
A Conservation Comeback
Ospreys weren’t always so easy to spot. In the mid-20th century, their numbers plummeted due to pesticide use, especially DDT. But since the ban of such chemicals and the protection of nesting sites, osprey populations have rebounded across the U.S., including right here in San Diego Bay. Their presence on Shelter Island is a quiet conservation success story.
Where to Look
For the best osprey-watching:
Walk along the Shelter Island shoreline promenade near the boat launches.
Look up at tall poles or navigation beacons — nesting sites are often quite visible.
Early morning and late afternoon are great times to see them hunting.
Bring your binoculars, a camera, and a sense of wonder. Whether you’re a birder, photographer, or casual observer, spotting an osprey in action is always a memorable moment.
Exploring San Diego 