The Botanical Building inside Balboa Park was built for the 1915 Panama-California Exposition, which celebrated the opening of the Panama Canal. The exposition was meant to bring attention and interest to San Diego as the first United States port of call for ships traveling north after passing westward through th canal. The botanical building is one of four structures that remained permanent after the exposition.
The building is 250 long, 75 feet wide and 60 feet tall. It is one the largest lath structures remaining in the world. Since its opening, it has served as a living museum, housing a diverse collection of plants from around the globe.
The Botanical Building reopened in December of 2024 after a 3 year long restoration and renovation. It will take many years and decades for the plant life to grow and mature to the stature it had prior to the 2021 closing. It is open daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Santee Lakes: A Hidden Gem for Outdoor RecreationA 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.
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.
Coronado Community Center 1845 Strand Way, Coronado, CA 92118
The bronze statue “Handstand” was created in 2010 by actor and artist Daniel Stern. The statue stands 8 feet and features a man in a suit and hat stand on one hand. The sculpture was installed at the Coronado Community Center in 2012.
The artist Daniel Stern is perhaps best known for his portrayal of the Marvel Urchins as one of the bumbling burglars in the first two title of the Home Alone series.
Click here for more Art Around the Bay Locations
I moved to San Diego in 2023 and I enjoy taking my dog out on adventures on my days off. I plan on posting new locations and events pretty often. Please bookmark socalexposure.com and stop by occasionally for updates.
598 Grand Caribe Causeway, Coronado, CA 92118 Hours: 6:00 a.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Grand Caribe Shoreline Park is located south of the roundabout on Grand Caribe Causeway in the Coronado Cays neighborhood. Dogs are allowed on leash at all Port of San Diego parks, however I have encountered many people allowing their dogs off-leash here to swim in south bay. On leash or off leash please continue to clean up after your pet. Far too many dog shit piles left right ON THE TRAIL. There is limited access to the shoreline. A dirt path winds it way south and around the marina channel for Coronado Cays. Be mindful that a high tide will affect the width of the beach.
I have observed everything from house finches, Anna’s Hummingbird, Great Egrets to Willets while walking the path.
Sheltering Wings (1996) Artist: Christopher Slatoff Medium: Bronze Sculpture on pedestal base Location: Grand Caribe Shoreline Park Port of San Diego Bronze Public Art Collection
The art around the Port of San Diego’s waterfront offers a singular experience, unique to each person who happens by. From monumental to intimate pieces…traditional bronze sculptures, vibrant murals, fountains, kinetic artworks, light projections, sound art, and conceptual artworks – we invite you to immerse yourself in the arts at the Port of San Diego.
Coronado Bayside; Imperial Beach; Chula Vista Bayfront; National City Marina District; and San Diego’s Embarcadero and Shelter Island.
Click on the links to learn more about its location
Exploring San Diego 