Tag: South Bay

Chula Vista Celebrates the Fourth of July at 4th Fest

From the City of Chula Vista Media Relations

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.

Experience San Diego from the Water aboard a Harbor Cruise Vessel

San Diego bay has a long and storied past. Its protected tidal areas offered the Kumeyaay people, who lived along the coast and inland valleys, areas to fish, harvest shellfish, and used plank canoes called tomols to navigate coastal waters. The ocean was central to their diet, trade, and spiritual life. In 1542, Portuguese explorer Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo, sailing under the Spanish flag, became the first European to enter San Diego Bay, naming it San Miguel. In 1602, Sebastián Vizcaíno renamed the bay San Diego, in honor of Saint Didacus.

During the Mexican-American War, the U.S. Navy took control of San Diego in 1846. San Diego became a U.S. Navy coaling and resupply station. The harbor remained relatively quiet until the early 20th century, when the Navy dramatically expanded its presence. San Diego became a U.S. Navy coaling and resupply station. The harbor remained relatively quiet until the early 20th century, when the Navy dramatically expanded its presence. Thousands of ships were built, serviced, and deployed from the harbor, making San Diego critical to Pacific warfare operations.

San Diego remained one of the largest naval complexes in the world through the Cold War and beyond. Today, the city hosts the Pacific Fleet, numerous aircraft carriers, and serves as a major center for military research, training, and logistics. Civilian maritime activity also thrives, with cargo shipping, cruise lines, commercial fishing, and recreational boating playing important roles.

I took this series of images during a 2 hour sailing which started off heading south towards the Coronado Bridge and then turning north towards Shelter Island. A thick marine layer was moving in so the trip ended before sunset unfortunately .

Where River Meets Sea: Exploring the Tijuana River Estuary

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.

Sweetwater Marsh National Wildlife Refuge

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.

Discovering the Living Coast Discovery Center: Where Nature Meets Education

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 : Living Coast Center

Animals on the Bay Day 2025

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!

Visit https://www.thelivingcoast.org/programs-events-upcoming-events/animals-on-the-bay-day-2025/ to purchase the reduced $5 tickers.

New for 2025 are timed Entry Tickets in 4 different time blocks

10am-11am, 11:30am-12:30pm, 1pm-2pm, 2:30pm-3:30pm

ATTENDING PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS

Welcome to the Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center in Chula Vista

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.

To learn more about the Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center in Chula Vista visit their website https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/sange-gaylord-pacific-resort-and-convention-center/overview/

New South Bay Park Grand Opening

Discover Your New Favorite Park: Features Galore!

This isn’t just a patch of grass; Sweetwater Park is thoughtfully designed to blend recreation with the unique natural beauty of our bayfront environment. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Play Naturally: Kids (and the young at heart) will love the nature-themed playgrounds. These aren’t your average swings and slides; they incorporate educational elements about local wildlife, making playtime both fun and informative.
  • Walk, Bike, Explore: Lace-up your sneakers or grab your bike! The park boasts 2.5 miles of new pathways, some paved and some with softer surfaces, perfect for a leisurely stroll, a morning jog, or a family bike ride. Plus, it connects seamlessly with the existing Sweetwater Bicycle and Pedestrian Path.
  • Connect with Nature: True to its location next to the Sweetwater Marsh National Wildlife Refuge, the park features sand dunes, meadows, mounded grasslands, and specialty gardens filled with native plants. It’s a fantastic spot for bird watching, enjoying stunning bay views from scenic overlooks, or simply finding a quiet moment. Keep an eye out for the Kumeyaay signage integrated throughout the park, honoring the area’s original inhabitants.
  • Art on the Bayfront: Look for the striking “Rigors of Flight” public art sculpture by Roberto Salas. This impressive 25-foot-tall piece, resembling a wishbone, pays tribute to the abundant birdlife of the region.
  • Relax and Gather: Plenty of seating areas and picnic spots are strategically placed for you to relax, enjoy a snack, and soak in the beautiful surroundings.

More Than Just a Park

Part of a Grand Vision (The Chula Vista Bayfront Master Plan): Sweetwater Park wasn’t just a standalone idea. It’s a key piece of the massive 535-acre Chula Vista Bayfront redevelopment project. This ambitious plan, a joint effort between the Port of San Diego and the City of Chula Vista, has been in the works for decades. The goal has always been to transform our underutilized industrial waterfront into a vibrant destination with resorts (like the adjacent Gaylord Pacific), convention space, housing, retail, and crucially, significant new public parks and improved access to the bay.

Why You Need to Visit ASAP!

  • It’s BRAND NEW! Be among the first to explore this fantastic addition to Chula Vista.
  • Something for Everyone: Whether you want active play, peaceful nature walks, or a spot for a picnic with a view, this park has it.
  • Beautiful Setting: The focus on native plants and natural design makes it a truly lovely place to spend time, with great views of the bay.
  • It’s FREE! Access to this amazing community resource costs absolutely nothing.
  • It’s Ours! This is a wonderful new asset for all Chula Vista residents to enjoy.

Planning Your Visit

Ready to check it out? Here’s the essential info:

  • Location: You’ll find it on the Chula Vista Bayfront, just north of the Gaylord Pacific Resort. The Port lists the address as 845 E St, Chula Vista, CA 91910 (near the Gunpowder Point Drive area).
  • Hours: The park is open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM.
  • Parking: Good news! There’s ample public parking available (around 219 spaces).
  • Cost: Free!

Go Explore Sweetwater Park!

Have you visited Sweetwater Park yet? Let us know what you think in the comments below!

Celebrating Día del Niño in Chula Vista

Get Ready for Joy! Celebrating Día del Niño in Chula Vista

Spring is in the air in Chula Vista, and that means one of the most vibrant and joyful community celebrations is just around the corner: Día del Niño (Day of the Child)! Traditionally celebrated near the end of April (often close to April 30th), this special day is all about recognizing, honoring, and celebrating children. And here in Chula Vista, the community typically comes together for a fantastic, family-friendly event filled with fun, laughter, and learning.

Date: Saturday April 19th, 2025 Memorial Park and 3rd Avenue from 10am to 3pm

What is Día del Niño?

Originating in Mexico and celebrated widely across Latin America and increasingly in the US, Día del Niño is a day dedicated to the little ones in our lives. It emphasizes the importance of children in society, promotes their well-being, and provides a wonderful occasion for families to spend quality time together. It often intertwines literacy and learning with pure fun!

What to Expect at Chula Vista’s Celebration (Based on Past Events)

Chula Vista’s Día del Niño events are typically a feast for the senses, designed to bring smiles to children’s faces. Based on past celebrations, families can often look forward to:

  • Loads of Activities: Think colorful craft stations where kids can get creative, exciting games to play, engaging story times, and maybe even face painting or balloon artists.
  • Live Entertainment: Often, there’s music or performances geared towards a young audience, adding to the festive atmosphere.
  • Community Connections: Various city departments (like the Library, Parks & Rec, Police, and Fire) and local organizations often participate, setting up informational booths, offering activities, and sometimes bringing cool vehicles like fire trucks or police cars for kids to see up close.
  • Focus on Literacy: In line with the spirit of Día del Niño/Día del Libro, many events include free book giveaways or reading-related activities, promoting a love for books and learning.
  • A Vibrant Atmosphere: Expect parks or community centers buzzing with energy, laughter, and families enjoying a day dedicated entirely to kids. Best of all, these events are usually free to attend!

Stay Tuned for 2025 Details!

Here is a photos of some of the cars that joined the 2025 car show

Bayside Park: Chula Vista’s Waterfront Escape

Note: Due to construction activities in the area, street parking is limited and park permits for Bayside Park are unavailable at this time. The new Gaylord Resort across the street is scheduled to open on May 15th, 2025. Once the property is open the renewed Bayside Park with be expanded and have a few new features. I will return and report on all the improvements sometime in May 2025.

THE FISHERMAN description
Stephen Fairfield
metal sculpture
Chula Vista Bayside Park
2007

If you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic spot in the South Bay, look no further than Bayside Park in Chula Vista. Tucked away at the foot of J Street, this park is a true local gem offering a perfect blend of recreation and tranquility.

Sweeping Views and Salty Breezes

The first thing that strikes you at Bayside Park is the view. You get expansive, beautiful vistas across San Diego Bay. On a clear day, you can easily spot the iconic Coronado Bridge arching across the water, the shimmering downtown San Diego skyline, and the naval ships navigating the bay. It’s a fantastic spot to simply sit on a bench, feel the gentle bay breeze, and watch the world go by. Sunsets here? Absolutely spectacular.

Something for Everyone

Bayside Park isn’t just about passive enjoyment; there’s plenty to do:

  1. The Fishing Pier: A major draw is the popular fishing pier extending out into the entrance of the marina. You’ll often find locals casting a line, hoping for a bite. Even if you’re not fishing, a stroll out to the end of the pier offers even better panoramic views and a feeling of being right out on the water. (Remember to check California fishing license requirements if you plan to fish!).
  2. Walking & Biking Path: A paved path winds through the park and connects to the wider Bayshore Bikeway, making it ideal for a leisurely stroll, a brisk jog, or a scenic bike ride along the water’s edge.
  3. Playground Fun: Got kids? They’ll love the playground area, offering a safe and fun space for them to burn off some energy while you soak in the views nearby.
  4. Picnic Perfect: With plenty of grassy areas and picnic tables scattered throughout, Bayside Park is an excellent choice for an outdoor meal. Pack a lunch, spread out a blanket, and enjoy dining al fresco with an unbeatable backdrop.
  5. Relax and Unwind: Sometimes, the best activity is no activity at all. Find a comfortable bench or a spot on the grass, read a book, listen to music, or simply watch the sailboats and kayaks glide by.

Practical Matters

  • Location: Find it at 999 Bayside Parkway, Chula Vista, CA 91910 (at the western end of J Street).
  • Parking: There’s usually ample free parking available in the adjacent lot, though it can get busier on weekends and holidays.
  • Amenities: You’ll find public restrooms available for convenience.
  • Accessibility: The paved paths make large portions of the park accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.

Make a Day of It

Bayside Park is located near the Chula Vista Marina, so you can easily extend your visit by exploring the boats or grabbing a bite at one of the nearby waterfront restaurants. It’s also relatively close to the Living Coast Discovery Center, offering another great family-friendly activity focused on local wildlife.

Your Chula Vista Oasis Awaits

Whether you’re a long-time South Bay resident who hasn’t stopped by in a while or a visitor exploring the area, Bayside Park offers a refreshing escape. It’s a place to connect with the beauty of San Diego Bay, enjoy simple outdoor pleasures, and recharge your batteries.

So next time you’re looking for that perfect waterfront spot, head down J Street and discover the charm of Bayside Park. You won’t be disappointed!

Have you visited Bayside Park? Share your favorite memory or tip in the comments below!