#kayaking mission bay san diego
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divorcemediationcenter · 6 months ago
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Experience the beauty of San Diego's marine life with clear bottom kayak rentals. Explore crystal-clear waters while observing the underwater world beneath you. Book your adventure today!
Contact us:- San Diego Kayak Rentals 1617 Quivira Rd San Diego, CA 92109 (619) 288-8554 Website - https://sdkayakrental.com/
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sdkayakrental001 · 9 months ago
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Mission Bay Kayak Rentals San Diego CA offers both solitude and shared adventure, making it the perfect destination for all. Call us now for hourly rental & guided tour options. For getting more information about kayak rental san diego you visit:-https://sdkayakrental.com/
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travelblogonus · 1 month ago
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Fun Things to Do in San Diego, Ca
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San Diego is a gem of Southern California, known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and diverse activities that suit everyone’s taste. San Diego has it all. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top things to do in San Diego. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there are endless fun things to do in San Diego. From family-friendly attractions to luxury experiences for adults, San Diego has it all. In this guide, we’ll covering everything luxury accommodation booking to free things to do for families.
Top Attractions in San Diego
Balboa Park
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San Diego’s cultural heart, Balboa Park, is a must-visit. Home to numerous museums, gardens, and theaters, the park covers 1,200 acres and offers something for everyone. You can visit the San Diego Museum of Art, San Diego Natural History Museum, or simply enjoy the botanical gardens.
San Diego Zoo
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Located in Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo is one of the most famous zoos in the world. It’s home to more than 12,000 animals across 650 species. The zoo’s open-air, cageless exhibits offer a unique experience and are ideal for families looking for a day filled with fun and learning.
SeaWorld San Diego
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SeaWorld San Diego is a popular marine-life theme park that offers thrilling rides, entertaining shows, and close-up animal encounters. Whether you're looking to get soaked on a water ride or enjoy a dolphin show, SeaWorld is a must-see.You can enjoy scenic drives, snow tubing, and affordable accommodations, including cosy vacation rentals.
Free Things to Do in San Diego for Families
Old Town San Diego
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Explore the historic Old Town San Diego, where you’ll get a glimpse of California’s early days. Wander through preserved adobe buildings, enjoy free live performances, and visit the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. It's a great way to dive into history without spending a dime.
Mission Bay Park
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Mission Bay Park is a fantastic spot for families. With more than 4,000 acres of water and beaches, you can enjoy a range of activities from kayaking to flying kites. There are also numerous playgrounds and picnic spots that make it a family-friendly destination.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
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For nature-loving families, hiking in the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is an amazing experience. With dramatic cliffs, ocean views, and easy-to-moderate trails, it's a great way to spend a day outdoors without any cost.
San Diego Harbor Cruises
Sunset Cruises
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One of the best ways to enjoy San Diego’s coastline is on a sunset cruise. Watch the sun dip below the horizon while sipping a glass of wine—it's a truly magical experience.
Whale Watching Tours
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San Diego is also a prime location for whale watching. Between December and April, you can take a boat tour to witness these magnificent creatures during their migration.
Conclusion
San Diego offers something for everyone, from beach lovers to history buffs to adventurers. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway or a more extended stay, this sunny city has countless activities to fill your days. Don’t forget to explore last-minute hotel deals and vacation rentals to make your trip affordable and enjoyable.
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precisionmeasuringtools · 1 year ago
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san diego private fishing charters  offer a premium option for those seeking a more personalized and  exclusive fishing experience. Private charters allow you to have the  entire boat to yourself or share it with a select group of friends or  family, ensuring your fishing adventure is tailored to your preferences.
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ethanhunt02511 · 1 year ago
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Clear glass bottom kayak rental are the next level kayak adventure. Discover all the sea life Mission Bay has to offer...crab, lobster, anemonies, halibut, even eels and octopus!.For getting more information about Clear bottom kayak rental you visit:-https://cruise-sd.com/glass-bottom-kayak-rental-san-diego/
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artlung · 3 years ago
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This morning I connected to my cross country flight to Virginia via LAX. I saw the dawn. I saw places that mean a lot to me. There’s my apartment! On the hill behind it was where my high school once stood, now replaced by condos. There’s Mission Bay where I’ve swum and kayaked and not-successfully windsurfed and jet ski’d. Beyond: Navy housing we lived in when I was a teenager. Had I been on the left side of the plane I’d have seen my favorite spot: Mission Beach Jetty. But take a beat on my right is former favorite swim spot La Jolla Cove. Shores. Del Mar. Solana Beach where I worked at failed dot com EduPoint. Orange County. Los Angeles County. Beaches, apartments; jobs and job interviews; car accidents, fights, train rides, romance and catastrophe. Southern California is my home; imbued with meaning. Onward. (at San Diego, California) https://www.instagram.com/p/CZDpU2gtCht/?utm_medium=tumblr
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theyoganews · 3 years ago
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TheYogaNews.com:Yoga in San Diego
New Post has been published on https://theyoganews.com/2021/09/17/theyoganews-comyoga-in-san-diego/
TheYogaNews.com:Yoga in San Diego
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I miss San Diego, California! Doing my usual yoga routine while I’m travelling around the world. 🧘
https://www.instagram.com/arellehug/ Video Rating: / 5
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The Catamaran has plenty of San Diego activities with swimming, kayaking, sailing on Mission Bay and more. Visit the Catamaran Resort today, the preferred choice among San Diego hotels.
Catamaran Spa http://www.CatamaranSpa.com
Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa http://www.CatamaranResort.com
Catamaran Spa Facebook http://www.Facebook.com/CatamaranSpa
Catamaran Resort Twitter Tweets by CatamaranResort
Catamaran Resort Google + http://www.google.com/+CatamaranResort
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perfectirishgifts · 4 years ago
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On The Town: La Jolla By The Sea, Southern California’s Quintessential Coastal Community
New Post has been published on https://perfectirishgifts.com/on-the-town-la-jolla-by-the-sea-southern-californias-quintessential-coastal-community/
On The Town: La Jolla By The Sea, Southern California’s Quintessential Coastal Community
Aerial view from ocean looking back at La Jolla and Children’s Pool
Hundreds of seaside communities sit along the rolling, sundry shores of California, each a prominent display of the famous coastline. Still, none perhaps exemplifies the particular splendor of Southern California more than San Diego’s La Jolla. 
Walk along the 7 miles that comprise the coast of La Jolla and you find stretches of soft-sanded beaches that turn into sea-sprayed bluffs with views of Mount Soledad, tide pools and the mighty blue Pacific. Teeming with surfers, kayakers, and frequently seen sea-lions, all while basking in some of the most enviable weather in the world — it’s not hard to see why La Jolla is often called the “jewel” of San Diego.
While the coast creates the western border, the eastern limits are shaped by Interstate 5, running north to south, intersecting only at the University of California San Diego campus. This means neighborhoods remain largely unbothered by pass-through commuter traffic. The community achieves a small-town feel while still being part of a large destination city whose downtown is only 12 miles to the south. 
The Housing
One of the first Californian colonies to be settled by the Spanish, La Jolla’s development began in the late 19th century, inspiring the architecture for centuries to come. Today, even modern developments evoke the Spanish Mediterranean or California Ranch styles that originated from the area.
Many residential neighborhoods such as Lower Hermosa and La Jolla Heights are business free, master-planned communities with guarded entries and consist mostly of single-family homes. 
Since the 1970s, development on the La Jolla coastline has been under a 30-foot height limit. While the limit has driven up coastal property prices, it has also ensured ocean views for most residents, even those to the east. 
The Price
In 2009, the median sales price for homes sold in La Jolla was the highest in the nation, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune. The landscape’s diversity means prices can vary greatly depending on location—approximation to the beach, views and space being large factors in price point. On the lower end, single-family homes hover around $1,000,000.
“The median home price in 2020 so far is $2,295,000, which is right around the tipping point where you start to have some combination of a little more land, move-in condition improvements, a desirable location, possibly some view, though rarely all of those, at that price point,” said Drew Nelson of Willis Allen Real Estate.
Home prices can go for $20,000,000 and up, especially for newer-built oceanfront properties that boast estate-like space and luxury. 
6266 Camino De La Costa. 4 beds, 8 baths, 6,338 square feet, listed for $14,900,000
The Vibe
Known for their famous coastline, La Jolla residents are a self-proclaimed beach community, even in the most eastern neighborhoods. Year-round availability for outdoor activities and near-constant sunshine give La Jolla a sprite and healthy demeanor, with local shops and restaurants mirroring this fresh and bright quality. 
“Having such a vibrant village makes La Jolla feel like a place you do not have to leave,” Nelson said. “You can live, work, play, shop, dine and have all of your recreational activities without getting on the freeway.”
The Village, a quietly bustling beachside neighborhood, is the mainstay for dining and shopping. Along Prospect St., restaurants such as renowned George’s at the Cove offer fine dining with sprawling views. Amongst many shops and businesses about town are walls displaying stunning murals by artists such as Isaac Julien or Roman De Salvo. 
The Schools
The public schools in La Jolla are some of the highest-ranked in the San Diego School District.
Students can start at one of three award-winning elementary schools—Bird Rock, La Jolla or Torrey Pines—all of which feed into Muirlands Middle School and then La Jolla High, which serves about 1,350 students. Each year, approximately 95% of graduating seniors from La Jolla High enter universities or colleges. 
High schoolers enrolled in private schools will attend either Bishop’s or La Jolla Country Day School. 
In 2019, the Bishop’s School was recognized as one of the most sought-after private schools in the country. It boasts a 9:1 student-to-teach ratio.
“To top it all off, La Jolla is home to UCSD,” Nelson said. “It has a gorgeous campus, some incredible architecture, and draws world-renowned scientists, innovators and researchers to the area.”
The Surroundings
A quick drive south on I-5 brings you to important San Diego destinations, such as Mission Bay Park and San Diego International Airport. One hour north on I-15 gets you to Temecula, an inland city popular for wine tastings. Forty-five miles to the north is Orange County, with Los Angeles just beyond.
From Real Estate in Perfectirishgifts
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cruisepartyinsandiego · 1 year ago
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San Diego Day Cruises and Meeting Space: Perfect Blend of Business and Pleasure
Introduction:
San Diego, with its year-round pleasant weather and breathtaking coastal views, offers a delightful blend of business and leisure opportunities. For those seeking a unique setting to host corporate events, conferences, or team-building activities, San Diego's day cruises and meeting spaces present an ideal combination of productivity and relaxation.
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San Diego Day Cruises:
Day cruises in San Diego provide a refreshing escape from traditional conference settings. Companies can host team meetings, workshops, or networking events aboard luxurious cruise vessels, offering panoramic views of the city's skyline and the vast Pacific Ocean. Participants can enjoy comfortable meeting spaces, modern audiovisual facilities, and a refreshing sea breeze that invigorates creativity and enhances productivity. After productive sessions, teams can unwind with on-deck amenities, delicious cuisine, and team-building activities that strengthen bonds in a laid-back atmosphere.
San Diego Meeting Space:
San Diego boasts an array of meeting spaces that cater to diverse business needs. From contemporary conference centers to upscale hotels with cutting-edge facilities, companies have numerous options to choose from. These meeting spaces offer state-of-the-art technology, flexible seating arrangements, and professional event planners to ensure seamless and successful gatherings. Participants can break away from meetings to explore nearby attractions, indulge in waterfront dining, or engage in team-building exercises along the beach.
Conclusion:
San Diego's day cruises and meeting spaces provide a harmonious balance of business and pleasure, making it an ideal destination for corporate events and gatherings. Combining the serenity of the ocean with well-equipped meeting facilities, these offerings offer a refreshing change from conventional venues. So, whether you're seeking to inspire creativity, foster teamwork, or simply reward your team with a memorable experience, San Diego's day cruises and meeting spaces promise an exceptional setting for a successful and enjoyable corporate event.
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imagesbyinda-blog · 4 years ago
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It was a blast having my sisters and niece come out to San Diego and visit this week. Also, to celebrate Jenny’s birthday🥳. We spent time at Ocean beach, pacific beach, Coronado island and rode kayaks in the La Jolla caves, as well as Mission bay. The house feels so empty without them. ❤️😢 (at San Diego, California) https://www.instagram.com/p/CGgMVwCpzLX/?igshid=2fnqe3v8k8p2
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sdkayakrental001 · 9 days ago
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Mission Inlet Kayak Rentals: Investigating San Diego's Waters!
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San Diego is prestigious for its bright climate, wonderful sea shores, and picturesque waterfronts. Mission Bay is an excellent objective for water fans among its numerous open-air attractions. With its quiet waters, different natural life, and beautiful environmental factors, Mission Bay offers the ideal climate for kayaking. Whether you're a novice or an accomplished paddler, kayak rentals in Mission Bay, San Diego, make it simple for everybody to investigate this waterfront diamond.
Why Kayak in mission bay San Diego CA?
Mission Inlet is one of San Diego's top sporting facilities. It is an artificial sea-going park that crosses north of 4,000 sections of land. It boasts an organization of streams, islands, and tidal ponds great for kayaking. Dissimilar to the harsher waters of the Pacific Sea, mission bay kayak rentals San Diego CA permits paddlers to float effortlessly, making it ideal for both fledgling kayakers and those looking for a casual day on the water. There are a few rental suppliers strategically placed along the bay that take care of local people and travelers alike.
These rental shops offer an extensive variety of kayak choices, including single, twofold, and fishing kayaks. Many even rent stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) and pedal boats, giving guests numerous ways of investigating the water. On the waterfront, Water Experiences offers various kayak rentals and directed visits. They give security hardware and tips to fledglings, making it an extraordinary choice for families or newbie’s. San Diego Kayak Rentals offer a wide choice of kayaks, SUPs, and other watercraft. It is known for its serious costs and also offers gathering rentals, ideal for parties or corporate occasions.
The Best Way of Kayaking mission bay San Diego
Kayaking mission bay San Diego offers everything from kayaks to speedboats. Their simple booking framework and educated staff make the cycle consistent for guests. Rental costs commonly range from $20 to $30 each hour for single kayaks and $40 to $50 each hour for copies. However, this shop offers limits for half-day or entire-day rentals. Make certain to check for occasional arrangements or multi-hour bundles to get the best value. While kayaking in Mission Bay, paddlers can browse a few tourist detours, each offering a one-of-a-kind encounter. Here are a few suggested ways:
A calmer part of Mission Bay, San Diego Kayak Rentals offer quiet waters and beautiful perspectives on extravagant homes along the coastline. It's a serene course great for novices. This region is near the Mission Inlet entrance, allowing for walking near the harbor. Look for passing boats and marine life, including ocean lions, lolling close to the harbors. This circle takes you around two of the bay's biggest islands, with many sandy sea shores to stop for a break. It's an incredible choice for bird watchers, as the stream region is a safe haven for transient birds.
The Benefit of Kayak Rentals Mission Bay San Diego
Kayak Rentals Mission Bay San Diego is an extraordinary way to investigate more modest bays, sandy sea shores, and excursion spots. It's likewise near many parks and entertainment regions, so kayakers can enjoy coastal respites to partake in an excursion or just absorb the sun. The background of the city horizon and the famous Coronado Extension makes a striking difference to the more normal scenes seen elsewhere.
Mission River is important for the greater Mission Bay Park, which crosses more than 4,000 segments of land and consolidates 27 miles of shore, giving an alternate scene to outdoor exercise. This peaceful desert spring offers calm, level waters that are perfect for kayaking, especially for those expecting to move away from the humming about of the city while getting some external air and exercise.
Conclusion
 With simple kayak rentals accessible all through Mission Bay, guests can rapidly get on the water and begin investigating the delightful view, untamed life, and serene bays. Whether searching for a speedy oar in the first part of the day or an entire day of investigation, Mission Bay brings something to the table for everybody. In this way, whenever you're in San Diego, get an oar and experience the appeal of Mission Bay kayaking — it's an action you won't want to miss!
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adventureken13 · 5 years ago
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Kayaking in Mission Bay ,San Diego,CA
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thingstodoinsandiego-blog · 5 years ago
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Sail San Diego Bay in style | America's Cup Sailing Charter
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Sail San Diego Bay
San Diego is the ultimate playground for boating of every kind. A mild climate and steady winds mean that everything from sabots to super yachts, cruise ships to catamarans are aplenty for recreation and racing. San Diego is the place to get out on the water, even if you are a land lover. Adding sailing and boating to your vacation itinerary is a must and with a host of charter, rental and instructional services, plus dinner cruises, sports fishing, scuba diving excursions, seasonal whale watching and other ocean-going outings, you certainly will not find short of activities.  With such a huge variety of activities and sights to take in, San Diego is a city to be visited with time in mind. This is not a two or three day stopover destination. A little proactive planning for whale watching or deep sea fishing and sailing can yield amazing memories. For those who are interested in history, San Diego does not disappoint. With one of the richest historical cultures in the United State, residence of the Bay are not shy in sharing the information to anyone who will listen. San Diego is the ultimate destination for those wanting to learn how to sail, experienced sailors and lazing cruise boaters alike.  HarborsideSan Diego's three harbors are Oceanside, Mission Bay and The Big Bay which includes Point Loma Peninsula, Coronado, the Downtown Waterfront and Chula Vista. All of these harbours offer marina facilities, boat rentals, private charters, boat tours, scheduled excursions and boating classes. La Jolla Shores is a favourite stopover for yacht cruisers. As one of San Diego’s best beaches, La Jolla is referred to as the “jewel of San Diego.” Be sure to make use of the many guided tours for both out of water and in water activities to take full advantage of this gem. If you would prefer to stay away from motor boats or guided activities, small boats and kayaks can also be rented along the coast and at some of San Diego's inland lakes. Boat owners will find ample locations to launch, moor or repair their vessels, whether they're taking a spin around the bay. There is a reason that San Diego is a much loved stopover spot for those embarking on an around the world tour.   Tour Boats and FerriesProbably one of the best ways to see San Diego’s Big Bay is on a narrated boat tour. San Diego has a number of tour operators including Hornblower and Flagship, two of the largest which we covered in one of our previous articles. A tour boat means that you get to see the beautiful San Diego skyline and local landmarks, plus get up close and personal with marine animals, including whales, seals, sea lions and dolphins, and all you need to do is kick back, relax and take in the information given to you while you cruise the waters. Most operators also offer dinner, brunch, champagne cruises, sunrise and sunset cruises and some speciality holiday cruises. Downtown is easily accessible with one of the Water Taxis which move up and down the coast frequently. From downtown, you can also hop aboard the Coronado Ferry at Broadway Pier for a scenic ride across the bay to Coronado Ferry Landing. The quaint island offers sightseeing tours of the area. Whether strolling on the beach or riding a rental bike around the island, visitors can partake of the charm of this community, home to the Coronado Museum of History and Art, the shops and art galleries at Ferry Landing, and views of San Diego across the bay. Tours all include a stop at the Hotel del Coronado, which is said to be the inspiration for the Emerald City in The Wizard of Oz. A must for any sightseer. The Open OceanFor those wanting to see a little more or who are more adventurous boaters, the open ocean awaits. Long range sportfishermen often head 100 miles or more offshore in the more predictable season of Summer and Autumn (Fall). The Catalina Island is a firm favorite destination for coastal sailing enthusiasts with steady predictable winds creating sailing heaven. Most local cruise ships offer short routes between San Diego to Mexico, with some extending the cruise distance beyond Mexico. As stated Summer and Autumn (Fall) are the most predictable seasons to go to sea in San Diego, but if you’re manning your own vessel it is always a good idea to check the weather or better yet, consult the San Diego Lifeguard Service for the most current news and predictions. San Diego’s Rich HistorySan Diego's love affair with the sea and for boating has a long history, extending back to early Pacific explorers like Juan Cabrillo who stepped into history as the first European to set foot in California in San Diego bay in 1542. Located at the tip of Point Loma, the Cabrillo National Monument honors Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo. The National Monument offers plenty of activities for visitors who enjoy the great outdoors. Activities range from watching for Pacific Gray whales that swim by during the winter months to a guided hike along the two-mile Bayside Trail with its stunning views of the city and bay. An excellent natural harbor and important stop on the California Mission circuit, San Diego's marine traffic grew rapidly during the colonial period and into the early 20th Century. The USS Midway Museum, located on the Embarcadero’s Navy Pier, pays homage to this and visitors get a chance to explore, from stem to stern, one of the longest-serving aircraft carriers in the U.S. Navy. The guided tour gives in depth detail on the nearly quarter-million sailors who have served on the Midway between 1945 to 1992, when it was retired. If you prefer Sail San Diego Bay in style on the America's cup sailing charterThe Stars and Stripes-USA11 is a famous San Diego Boat Tour; conveniently located 2 miles from downtown San Diego, just across from the airport on shelter island drive. The small privately held company in San Diego, California which specializes in public and private personalized yacht charter for small groups was started back in 2011. “This is not something you can do just anywhere,” says Lynn Hanna, captain of the vessel, which is called Stars and Stripes.
Related Links and Articles
https://sailusa11.com/faq/ https://g.page/sailsandiegousa11/review https://sailusa11.com/sailing-tour-rates/ https://sailusa11.com/san-diego-sailing-reviews/ https://www.sandiego.org/members/boating/americas-cup-sailing-san-diego.aspx https://sailusa11.com/view-availability/ https://sailusa11.com/picking-the-best-sailing-charter-in-san-diego-ca/ https://sailusa11.com/san-diego-sailing-charters-what-you-need-to-know/ https://sailusa11.com/san-diego-ca-things-to-do-in-2019/ https://www.maitaicharters.com/pro-racing https://sailusa11.com/team-building-san-diego-must-do/ https://lajollamom.com/san-diego-bay-tours/ http://bit.ly/sandiegosailingreviews See also - 7 Spectacular Boat Trips https://travel.usnews.com/features/the-best-san-diego-boat-tours Read the full article
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ethanhunt02511 · 1 year ago
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Clear glass bottom kayak rental are the next level kayak adventure. Discover all the sea life Mission Bay has to offer...crab, lobster, anemonies, halibut, even eels and octopus!.For getting more information about Glass Bottom Kayaks for rent you visit:-https://cruise-sd.com/glass-bottom-kayak-rental-san-diego/
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krystangreen-blog · 5 years ago
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San Diego is one of the best places in the world to be in the summer season whether you live here or are on a San Diego vacation. During the summer of 2019, things to do in San Diego with kids include some new events in addition to our usual, seasonal ones.
It’s by no means a complete list so if you have ideas, please leave them in the comments.
1. Watch an Outdoor Movie (Parks, Beach, or USS Midway)
This summer, make it a plan to watch one of our outdoor movies. The Summer Movies in the Park initiative began several years ago to draw attention to local parks. It’s been such a huge success that venues like the USS Midway are participating. What a unique opportunity to watch a movie from the deck of a famous aircraft carrier!
Other opportunities to watch a movie al fresco include a series shown on the Botanical Lawn by the San Diego Museum of Art that highlights themes incorporated into recent gallery installations.  
Watch a movie at the beach, hosted by Hotel Del Coronado. Sit on the sand or arrive early to secure a Del Beach chair rental. VIP Movie packages include s’mores, two Del Beach chairs and a Del Beach day bed (reserve in advance, $300).
2. Grab Tickets for the San Diego Symphony’s Bayside Summer Nights
Bayside Summer Nights is the San Diego Symphony’s outdoor summer concert series (Summer Pops) at the Embarcadero Marina Park South. I can’t tell you enough how much I recommend this experience for the entire family as it’s one of our favorite summer activities in San Diego. You’ll see a beautiful sunset over the San Diego Bay during the concert while sipping wine or noshing on gourmet fare.
Concerts this year feature the likes of the B-52s, Chaka Khan, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, and more. Grab your friends with kids and go for some fun family time (Or, go for date night). Tip: Bring glow sticks for the kids and check out their new ticket packages.
3. Explore the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park
La Jolla is home to a unique underwater park that is full of marine life. The San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park is outlined by seven sea caves, including Sunny Jim, the only sea cave in the West that is accessible by land (via the Cave Store on Coast Blvd.). Their history is an interesting one as some were used to smuggle booze during prohibition.
Take a guided snorkeling tour or rent a kayak at one of the vendors in La Jolla Shores.
4. See the La Jolla Leopard Sharks
La Jolla is home to the largest aggregation of leopard sharks in the world and it’s possible to enjoy them in even knee-deep water. Females come to incubate in warm waters near The Marine Room restaurant on La Jolla Shores beach.
Yes, they’re safe to be around. Numbers peak in July and August so plan to paddle out on SUP or kayak for a look. You can also snorkel and swim among them (minimize kicking to avoid scaring them away).
In honor of annual leopard shark season, Birch Aquarium offers multiple opportunities to snorkel with a Birch Aquarium naturalist.
5. Go Grunion Running
Yes! The grunion are running on various days all summer long. Grunion runs occur late at night so the activity suits tweens and teens best. Check the calendar and note when its open or closed season. Closed season means that there is no fishing allowed. Open season means you can actually catch them with a valid fishing license. Tip: It’s more fun with a headlamp to see the fish versus risking your phone over water or sand.
6. Sleep at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, USS Midway Museum, or Maritime Museum
Looking for a cool overnight thing to do in San Diego with kids this summer? Did you know that you can glamp with the animals at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park?
Themed overnights provide an opportunity to sleep (safely) near animals, enjoy educational programming, and participate in special close-up encounters. Don’t stress about having camping gear as it can be provided. The Roar and Snore Safari offers several tent options (including deluxe cabins with beds). 
Sleepover at the USS Midway Museum during youth, family, and movie night Overnight Adventures. You’ll dine like crew in the galley, sleep on sailor bunks, and participate in unique behind-the-scenes activities.
Join the Maritime Museum of San Diego’s Family Overnight on the Star of India on June 22.  
7. Ride Water Slides at Aquatica San Diego
San Diego’s seasonal water park is open on select dates from May 24–October 6. All ages have something to do at Aquatica San Diego between high-speed thrill rides and a special area for kids no taller than 48″. Reserve a private cabana or lounger, eat funnel cakes and California-inspired food (craft beer and frozen margaritas for 21+), and lounge in the lazy river. There are several ways to buy discount Aquatica San Diego tickets.
Shortcut to the Most Popular Ticket
Discounted Single Day Aquatica Tickets.
Save and go straight to the gate.
8. Look for Special Theme Park/Museum Experiences
So, maybe you already have an annual San Diego Zoo membership or a Balboa Park Explorer pass. Scour their websites to find additional programming to take advantage of as these attractions offer many, many edutainment opportunities led by experts in their fields.
Fleet Science Center has Saturday Science Club for kids on the second Saturday of each month.
Join Birch Aquarium for their long list of summer camps.
San Diego Museum of Natural History offers hikes, toddler story time and more. Check their family event calendar.
The list goes on.
9. Visit Balboa Park on Friday Nights
Be sure to check the Balboa Park event calendar for a Food Truck Fridays between May 31–September 27 where several museums stay open late, food trucks line Plaza de Panama, and musical performers entertain.   
10. Explore a New-to-You San Diego Museum
Why not visit a museum that you haven’t been to before? Many San Diego museums also offer extended summer hours. Visit the San Diego Museum Council’s list of museums and pick one that is new-to-you.
Don’t forget about Residents Free Tuesdays where San Diego residents receive free admission to a rotating list of Balboa Park museums on Tuesdays. And, if you expect to visit two or more museums or attractions within 30 days, consider the Build-Your-Own Go San Diego Card.
11. Hike Torrey Pines
The trails of Torrey Pines State Park are fantastic for those who want a bit of outdoor exercise but they are easily explored at a leisurely pace with kids. The views of the Pacific are fantastic and between the flora and fauna, there’s quite a bit of fun stuff to look at.
Food isn’t allowed but you could picnic on the beach or grab a sandwich at the Torrey Pines Gliderport afterward.
12. Ride a Surrey
Have you ever seen those multiple passenger bikes cruising down San Diego boardwalks? These surreys are available for the public to rent by the hour in front of the Hilton San Diego Resort (Mission Bay), Hotel Del Coronado, Loews Coronado Bay, and other resorts mostly via Action Sport Rentals. It’s another fantastic and fun way to explore.
13. Ride an Aquacycle on Mission Bay
Speaking of fun rentals, wouldn’t the kids get a kick out of riding an aquacycle with you on top of the water. They basically look like a giant floating tricycle. We haven’t done it, so it’s on our list for something to do in San Diego with kids this summer.
The same venues that offer water sports rentals also usually offer stand-up paddle boards, kayaks, Jet Skis and other fun things to do in the water. You may also try jetpacking. Carlsbad Lagoon rentals on Agua Hedionda lagoon also has aquacycles.
14. Fly a Kite
Kite flying is not a lost art and it’s a great free thing to do in San Diego with kids this summer. Find green space (there is plenty) around Mission Bay, South Carlsbad State Beach, Dog Beach (when not crowded), or a park near you to fly a kite.
REI has kites but you could always head to a kite store like Kite Flite in Seaport Village. Make sure that the kite is kid-friendly and that you are careful not to fly it over roads, over people or near power lines.
15. Go on a Picnic
Enjoy the great outdoors by going on a picnic with family and friends. Pack a lunch (or, heck, grab some awesome sandwiches for takeout) and head to a local park with picnic facilities, the beach, Balboa Park, or wherever you like to eat outside.  
Bundle this activity with kite flying and other outdoor fun to knock several to-do’s off your summer bucket list at once. My picnic to-do includes nabbing one of the green huts along Ellen Browning Scripps Park in La Jolla in time for the sunset.
16. Attend an Outdoor Concert
A number of cities throughout San Diego County (Del Mar, Carlsbad, Coronado, Santee, El Cajon, Mission Hills and more) offer summer outdoor concerts that are free to attend. There is usually plenty of space for the kids to run around, food for sale, raffle prizes and more.
Check the list here, which also includes some fun ticketed options.
17. Attend Raptor School (La Jolla, Ramona, and Alpine)
This is one of the more unique things to do in San Diego with kids this summer though it’s available year-round. Total Raptor eXperience offers owl encounters and falconry classes for all ages at the Torrey Pines Gliderport in La Jolla and their main facilities in Ramona.
We’ve taken a basic falconry class with Sky Falconry. They offer hawk walks, falconry classes, and more at their ranch in Alpine. These classes not only provide unique interactions with raptors but also teach you about how our actions impact amazing animals like these.
18. Support San Diego’s Only Rollerskating Rink
It’s been in business for over four decades and the historic building is threatened by closure. So, get out there and roller skate with the family at Skateworld. It’s great exercise, gets kids off their electronics and its super fun. They’re offering rollerskating camps, too.
19. Take an Electric Bike Tour
This idea will suit the teens in your life (typically ages 16 and older) but an electric bike tour is an excellent way to see San Diego. This summer, I’d like to take the SoCal Riviera Tour of La Jolla and Mount Soledad with San Diego Fly Rides. I see these riders cruising my neighborhood on occasion and it looks like so much fun. Plus, there is way less pedaling (if you want) on an electric bike.
20. Visit a California Mission
This tip is especially relevant when kids are studying missions in 4th grade. But, it’s just as easy to pop a baby in a carrier for a nice walk around a new place.
San Diego County is home to the largest of the 21 California missions, Mission San Luis Rey in Oceanside. It is open daily for self-guided tours of the onsite museum and grounds, but do check their calendar for a list of events including behind-the-scenes tours, retreats, cooking classes, and workshops.
Mission San Diego de Alcala, which overlooks Old Town San Diego, was California’s first mission. Visitors can explore the grounds, attend mass or sit for quiet reflection in the gardens. An audio tour is available.
Or, it is incredibly easy to take an Amtrak train to San Juan Capistrano. The mission there is within a very short walk of the station and such a cool day trip.
21. Tour the Stuart Collection
Take kids on somewhat of a scavenger hunt to find the various sculptures and art installations in the Stuart Collection, a public art display that is sprinkled throughout UC San Diego. Stop into one of the casual campus restaurants that are open during summer for lunch or a snack. Read more about the Stuart Collection.
22. Have Afternoon Tea
If the kids are feeling fidgety in the late afternoon and you’re not feeling like an outdoor activity, how about a proper afternoon tea with scones, tea sandwiches, and sweets? Choices include:
Shakespeares Corner Shoppe
Fairmont Grand Del Mar
The Westgate Hotel
23. Attend a Luau
The Catamaran is hosting its annual summer luaus on the beach on Tuesdays and Fridays. The buffet menu includes a long list of Hawaiian favorites such as Kalua Roast Pig. Enjoy live music, lei making, and more without the long flight.
24. Take a Surfing Lesson
San Diego is home to some truly awesome summer surf camps that you can sign up for on a weekly basis or book for a half-day. They’re great for kids ages 5 and above (sometimes, even a bit younger) and adults can join in the fun, too. This is something I always encourage families who are visiting San Diego to look into. Try Surf Diva Surf School in La Jolla or San Diego Surfing School in Pacific Beach.
25. Tour the San Diego Bay
Get out on the water with the family with one of these suggestions:
Take a Seal Tour in the amphibious bus-boat that goes from land to water in a snap
Drive your own mini speedboat on a tour with Speedboat Adventures
How about Flagship Cruises harbor cruise?
Take the Coronado ferry between downtown and Coronado
Zoom around the bay in the high-speed Patriot Jet Boat
26. Pick a Pier
When was the last time you took a walk on one of our piers? Whether it’s Crystal Pier in Pacific Beach, Ocean Beach Pier, or Oceanside Pier, they’re fabulous places for ocean views and sunsets. Did you know that Oceanside Pier is the longest wooden pier on the West Coast?
27. Plan a San Diego Staycation
I’m a huge fan of being a tourist at home. Visit a part of San Diego that you’ve never actually explored before. Popular staycation hotels include:
Fairmont Grand Del Mar
Omni La Costa Resort and Spa
Hotel Del Coronado
Rancho Valencia
Cape Rey Carlsbad
Pier South
28. Go to the Beach
While this is an obvious thing to do in San Diego with kids this summer, it has to be mentioned. Top beach picks include Coronado Municipal Beach, Law Street beach, La Jolla Shores beach, Del Mar beach, and Moonlight beach for family-friendly amenities.
Go luxe at the beach by renting a cabana at Del Beach in front of the Hotel Del Coronado. You’ll love the margaritas while the kids will love the shade and food. You don’t have to be a hotel guest to book one either.
29. Join a Beach Cleanup
Check the calendars for I Love a Clean San Diego and San Diego Surfrider Foundation for opportunities to join an organized beach cleanup. Summer equals more people on our beaches, and inevitably more trash.
30. Do Volunteer Work at Home and Elsewhere
San Diego is full of opportunities for kids to get involved in community service. 
San Diego Humane Society needs kids (and adults) to make various DIY projects like no-sew blankets for dogs, pom-poms for cats and more at home.
The San Diego Food Bank offers a myriad of ways for small groups and individuals to volunteer.
Feeding San Diego offers opportunities for ages 6 and older to fill backpacks for kids in need, sort food and more.
That’s the list of my things to do in San Diego with kids this summer. Make your plans now, fall will be here before you know it!
See also: 
11 Unique and Extreme San Diego Sightseeing Tours (ranging from hot air balloon rides to tours by biplane or Ferrari)
How to Save Money on San Diego Attractions
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thejustinmarshall · 6 years ago
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How Catching The Wave Of Her Life Got Shelby Stanger Into Podcasting
[photo by Jianca Lazarus]
NOTE: In 2018, I started recording interviews with creatives (writers, filmmakers, podcasters, photographers, editors, etc.) in the adventure world. I’m publishing the highlights of those interviews monthly in 2019.
Shelby Stanger always knew she’d be a journalist—and she finally found the perfect medium in 2016, with her podcast, Wild Ideas Worth Living. She’s a longtime surfer, native southern Californian, and had her first national newspaper clip when she was 15, and has worked with almost every type of writing since then—magazines, marketing, public relations, radio, online, and finally, podcasting, where she’s able to publish full conversations with explorers, scientists, authors, athletes, and entrepreneurs who have taken risks, challenged themselves to think differently, and found success in unconventional ways.
Some of Shelby’s podcast guests over the past few years: Jimmy Chin and Chai Vasarhelyi, Alex Honnold, Rebecca Rusch, Scott Jurek, Beth Rodden, Cheryl Strayed, and others. She’ll put out her 100th episode this spring, a milestone that’s a testament to taking a risk, following her gut, and figuring out how to build a business. The ethos of Wild Ideas draws from some of the tough decisions Shelby’s made in life and her career: quitting a dream job to start a business, chasing an assignment or a hunch across the globe, and paddling out into the occasional overhead or double-overhead wave. We sat down in July 2018 and covered some of that in our conversation.
ON HER JOB TITLE When people ask me what I do for a living, I say I have a podcast about adventure and getting out of your comfort zone. It’s the best job I have ever had. Some people still don’t know what a podcast is, though. Often the easiest thing to do is have them subscribe right there
ON GROWING UP SURFING I grew up in San Diego in a small beach town called Cardiff-by-the-Sea in North County, San Diego that’s evolved from flower fields and farms to a pretty chic beach town with really good coffee shops. We moved to Birdrock, another really nice small beach town in La Jolla when I was 13. My mom got a deal in the nineties on a house near the beach, and I grew up by some of the best surf breaks around San Diego. I’ve been pretty blessed to grow up near the water.
I started surfing when I was 12. My father was a dentist from Brooklyn, and my mom was a college professor, from Pittsburgh. Neither surfed or knew anything about the sport, but I would see male classmates surfing after school and it looked fun. I didn’t know any girls who surfed then. I played soccer in a really competitive league, and my parents were very supportive of my soccer career. I remember as a kid begging my dad to get me a surfboard, and he just wouldn’t, but he’d take me boogie boarding. He passed away when I was 11 of a sudden heart attack. It was really hard. A few months later for my 12th birthday, my older sister bought me a surfboard. It was bright green with a big Body Glove sticker on the front. I loved it and slept with it in my bed the first night. I didn’t realize until I was older the board had been owned by a pro, then buckled (or broken in half and sealed back together). I learned to surf on that board even though it was too small, totally beaten up, and hard to stand up on. I still have it on my rack and can barely surf the thing, but I still love it. Surfing is the best thing that happened to me at the time, especially after losing my dad so young. Being in nature, especially in the grand Pacific Ocean, I was able to answer a lot of questions that I couldn’t answer on land.  I was a very energetic kid, and still am, so it was also a great place to release all my energy.
Surfing will wear you out and it’ll humble you. You’ll never master it. You’re always learning, which is a beautiful thing. It was difficult to learn on that short board. Eventually, I used a big, yellow 8-foot longboard at camp. My mom was a teacher at San Diego State University, and through SDSU, there was a water sports camp for kids called The Mission Bay Aquatics Center that she sent me to, and got a big discount at. It’s a great facility on Mission Bay in San Diego and directly across from Mission Beach. I would always take surfing, but you could also take sailing, water skiing, or kayaking. Every morning for surfing, I’d walk across the street and surf for two to three hours. Then, in the afternoon, we would do all the other activities and often sailed to SeaWorld or to lunch.
I had all of these great male instructors that were gorgeous. I was 12 years old, so excited to have these cute college guys teaching me to surf, but then one week, I had a female instructor. She spoke fluent French and Spanish, she taught SAT classes, she knew how to have a good time, made funny jokes about the boys who hit on her, and was a competitive surfer and swimmer. Her name was Izzy Tihanyi, and I just fell in love with her. My mom was a single mom at the time, and she needed someone to drive me places and babysit me when she went out of town. Izzy became our babysitter. She would have amazing parties at our house and take me surfing all over San Diego. She also made awesome jokes that were sometimes inappropriate. A few years later, she started an all-women’s surf school called Surf Diva, that’s become world-famous.
My mom remarried an incredible guy who was a coach and college athletic director a few years later. We had a happy ending, to be honest. My mom rented the studio we had off the back of our house to Izzy, who started Surf Diva there. I learned all about the surf industry as a kid, and Izzy became like an older sister and now my best friend to this day. We talk every day, and later she encouraged me to teach surfing in Costa Rica where I met my fiancé.
ON GETTING HER START AS A WRITER When I was a little kid, my teachers and adults often told me I’d become a journalist. I loved writing stories, pretending I was a TV host, and I loved writing marketing ads and commercials for brands I used. When I was 15, an English teacher at my public high school said, “Hey, there’s an essay contest in the San Diego Tribune, and if you guys enter it, you’ll get extra credit. If you win, you get $100 and an automatic A for the year.” I found out later the winner’s teacher also got a $100 gift card to Nordstrom, which was a big deal at that time in the ’90s. I entered the contest with a feature story about a meaningful experience I had in a leadership program I was involved in called the Aaron Price Fellows Program, started by the folks who started Price Club which sold to Costco. The story was about a diversity program we did that made an impact on me in 1995, and it won.
I got an automatic A, $100 bucks, which is about how much you make for an article today. Ha! And my teacher got to go to Nordstrom’s. It was great. It gave me a lot of confidence that I could get paid to be a writer. The next year, I took a job as a journalist for this youth magazine out of Washington D.C. It was by, for, and about teens. I wrote a story about a family member’s battle with alcoholism, and then I interviewed one of my mom’s students. My mom taught human behavior and social work at SDSU, and one of her students was date raped, and wanted to talk about it, which was a huge deal. It wasn’t talked about, especially back then. I wrote those two stories at age 16, and people wrote in saying they thought they were powerful, and that my stories made an impact on them. I learned really young how far words could travel. But then I decided I wanted to write about surfing and action sports, because it was just the language I understood the most, and it was a way to get in the water as much as possible. I am also really sensitive and it was hard to cover such deep topics.
I went to journalism school at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. My first journalism class assignment was to spend the night at a homeless shelter and write about it. A subsequent assignment was to interview a member of the Mafia in class. The professor or that course wrote for Esquire. He later got fired from Emory, but he advised me to get a summer internship at a local newspaper. That was great advice.
The summer after my freshman year of college, I taught surf lessons at Surf Diva in La Jolla. I also walked into my community newspaper in San Diego and got an internship, and they paid me for every story I wrote. I did everything they asked, and was so excited to see my name in print. By the second week there, I told them I wanted to write about surfing and adventure sports. I pitched a few stories, made it happen, and they ended up giving me my own adventure/surfing column every week called “Breaking News,” with a picture of a wave over my face. I interviewed famous surfers and adventurers for five newspapers all over San Diego county, and basically did the same thing I’m doing now when I was 19.
The next summer, I traveled to and interned for a newspaper in Cape Town, South Africa. The current topics of the news at the time were racism, drugs, crime, and AIDS, topics that would really test me emotionally if I took them on. I decided to write about sports, and I ended up covering all of these topics through the lens of sports.
ON HER FIRST JOB For my first “real” job out of college, I was the journalist for the Vans Warped Tour.
I graduated early, and I was up for jobs at the Associated Press, at MTV, and the Eco-challenge, which was the precursor to the Survivor show. I met someone at Vans earlier that year when working for a newspaper in Atlanta and covered a Vans Skatepark opening. We stayed in touch, and when I graduated I asked if they had any jobs open. They didn’t have anything, but the next day, he called back. “Actually, there’s this guy who was supposed to be the journalist for the Vans Warped Tour, but we think he just wants to be a roadie and he does too many drugs, sooo…”
The VP hiring for the job was leaving that afternoon to Canada, so I got in my car, drove two hours north, and talked my way into that job. No girl had ever been hired for that position, but I had just spent 6 weeks camping through Fiji, Australia and New Zealand so told them I could handle life on a tour bus.  That was it. I was on the Warped Tour. I had a little digital Cannon Elph camera, and I took 100s of pictures a day, and I wrote two daily stories including profile pieces on all the bands, nonprofits, and roadies. It was two-months, and a hundred or more bands a day played at every stop.
There was no Wi-Fi then, so the hardest part was sending the stories because back then I had to find a phone line to do so. Most Vans Warped Tours are held in parking lots or fairgrounds. Often, the phone lines were being used by the tour managers and agents, who to 21-year-old me, were very intimidating. I often had to hitchhike with the most non-ax murder-looking-like kid to the nearest Kinko’s or to their house to send in the stories. Each photo took two minutes to send. I traded a lot of free Vans shoes to use phone lines, and Vans was very generous to me. I had to be resourceful. Also, all sorts of chaos happens on a traveling punk rock series so I learned to adapt quickly. It was a really good experience. It taught me a lot about how to get the story and do good work under deadline every day.
The biggest interviews I did were about people like musician Greg Graffin of Bad Religion. Instead of a traditional story about his music career, we went to a book store in Montreal and did a story called “A Summer Reading List by Greg Graffin,” because he was a professor, I think at Cornell at the time. A lot of the punk rock guys are really smart. I wrote about Greg, the guys from NOFX, The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, and went surfing with a band called No Use for a Name every time we stopped near a beach. I tried to do less obvious stories since I got to see these guys every day.
I had some really good experiences when I was younger, and I think having a first job like that out of college made me think all jobs should be that exciting. I ended up going in house at Vans from about 2004 to 2009 in different capacities, first running women’s marketing. I’m not very coordinated in terms of style, and styling photo shoots wasn’t my strongest trait. I ended up getting to do international sales and marketing for Australia, New Zealand, all of Latin America, Asia and Canada two years after running women’s marketing. I freelanced a bit for different sports magazines on the side, but I quit in 2009, because I wanted to tell stories full-time again.
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ON DECIDING TO QUIT HER VANS JOB People said I was absolutely crazy for quitting my job at Vans. I also thought that maybe I was a spoiled millennial, even though I am almost too old to be a millennial.  Everybody thought I was a trust fund kid ‘cause I grew up in La Jolla. I asked my mother, and she’s like, “Yeah, no. Unfortunately, you’re not a trust fund kid.” But I grew up with a lot of trust fund kids. I thought maybe, somewhere tucked away I had one. But I don’t. At the time my dad died, we were well-off, because he was a dentist, but he didn’t know he was going to die so young at age 47, so there was no life insurance, business insurance, nothing. People sued my mom when he died for dental work that he didn’t finish. It was crazy. But my mom is a total survivor, and just went back to work and kicked butt and made it happen. Today she is one of the leading interventionists in the country, speaks all over the world, writes books, and has positively impacted countless lives.
At 28, I had this dream job at Vans. I was helping run international sales and marketing for everywhere except the USA, Europe and Africa with one other guy. It was a great job. I was making good money, and I really loved the people there. The vans crew was like family. I felt spoiled, ungrateful for my job, and I went into a deep depression. It took me about a year and a half to quit, but I started freelancing on the side. I sold a small story to Outside Magazine. Once I had that, I figured, OK, Outside’s a big enough name that once I’ve sold a story to them, I can probably sell stories to other magazines. I know now from my experience they are one of the hardest magazines to pitch. I took a freelance writing class on “how to pitch magazines.” You have to know how to pitch to do this work, and that was a game-changer for me.
ON THE WAVE THAT CHANGED HER LIFE Before I quit my job, I’d been freelancing at night and after work, and primed myself to be in a position to quit. I saved up money from Vans, and I had unused vacation time. The day I went into my boss’s office to quit, a PR contact called me. She said, “Hey, Shelby, there’s this opportunity; A guy backed out to go on a boat trip to the Mentawai Islands, (this beautiful island chain off of Indonesia) to go surf these giant waves with a group of watermen.”
I told her, “I can’t surf those waves though,” and she said, “You don’t have to surf, you just have to write about these guys. Ideally they want you to be a guy.” Because if you’re on a boat and if it’s just dudes and you’re the one girl, it could be a little awkward. But I convinced them, because I had done the Warped Tour on a tour bus with mostly men, I could handle it. They said yes.
It was a trip where the guys were the first to paddleboard some of these big waves in Indonesia. I just thought I would stay on the boat and say, “I’m a journalist; I’m just here to write about you, not surf.” I didn’t think I’d actually have to surf the waves. But after being on a boat for so many days, you just want to get in the water and surf. I kind of had no choice but to drop into these waves.
It became a good metaphor for life; You eventually have to get off the boat and go. Or you just get seasick, sunburnt, and salty.
I didn’t surf the biggest of the big waves, but I definitely surfed a wave that was double overhead and took some big ones on the head. I was with this guy, Brian Keaulana, who’s one of the best lifeguards in the world and he runs water safety for most major movies filmed in Hawaii. He gave me all this sage wisdom while I was there. I’d ask him these dumb questions, like, “Brian, what do I do when I get scared and I’m held underwater?”
And he says, “Sing a song.”
So I picked “That’ll Be the Day” by Buddy Holly, you know, “That’ll be the day when I die.” That’s a terrible song when you’re underwater. I told Brian that, and he says, “Pick a different song.”
So I picked, “You Are My Sunshine.” So, I’d get held underwater and I’d sing “You are my sunshine, my only sunshine …” And then eventually I’d come up.
I would paddle for waves, and I had way too small of a surfboard. Somebody on the boat gave me their board to borrow. Which was nice—you want a bigger board for bigger waves to paddle into them. I had mostly surfed waves in San Diego my whole life, and now I was in Indonesia, at this reef break. If you fall at La Jolla Shores you have nice stuff under you—sand. In Indonesia, if you fall, it’s coral reef.
So I paddle for these waves and I just kept falling, or I wouldn’t make them. I asked Brian what I should do. And he says, “You can start saying ‘make it, make it, make it.’” I had just quit my job, I’m the only girl on this boat trip, and I have a lot to prove to myself. At one point, everybody else is on the boat eating lunch except for Brian and I, and all of a sudden, a triangle of water comes up.
Usually when waves come up from the sea, they come up like a rainbow, they’re arced and gently slope to the sides like a rounded A frame. At this one break, called Mutz, which translates to “pussy,” (this is no pussy wave, and it’s a totally sexist name for a wave). This wave comes up like a triangle and juts out, and it’s basically hollow inside and I’ve never been barreled in my life.
This triangle of water is coming toward us and he says, “You gonna go?” And when this Hawaiian god-like looking man looks at you and says “are you going to go?” you go. So, I’m paddling and start saying, “Make it, make it, make it. Make it, make it, make it. Paddle, paddle, paddle. You are my sunshine, make it, make it, make it.” The wave goes, I get to my feet, I stand up, and for like a nanosecond crystal clear water goes over my head, I’m covered up, maybe not fully barreled, but smiling ear to ear. I have the worst style. My butt is sticking out, but I have the world’s biggest smile.
I come out the other side and I’m changed. I just wanted somebody to see it. Just then I see a photographer who I thought was eating lunch, sitting in the channel, and he got it all on film. I ended up sending that picture to everybody back home and at Vans from the boat, which cost like $80 per email to send via Satellite Phone. I think my bill came to $500, which is what I’d make for a story about the trip. The boat captain was so excited for me, at the end of the trip he waived the bill.
A few years later, I would interview a famous older surfer named Mickey Munoz. He said, “You know, Shelby, one time I got barreled in Indonesia and I came out 15 years younger on the other side.” And I believe that. I know it sounds hippy, but I think if you have an experience like that in nature, you come out changed. For me, I wasn’t younger but I went from depressed, scared, self-doubting Shelby to this confident girl who’s like I can do anything. So from 2009 to 2016, I carried that and then I started the podcast because I knew I needed to evolve.
ON STARTING HER OWN PODCAST I’d written for lots of different publications, but podcasting was just so appealing. I had sold a story in 2015 to a popular magazine, and the conversation was so great, but it was edited in the magazine and the whole conversation wasn’t captured well in print.
It felt really good interviewing these people for stories, these adventure outliers. One day in 2009, I was seeing my parents in San Diego for the weekend and I had to interview someone over the phone for a story I was working on for Outside about the fittest athletes who weren’t sponsored, but did their extreme feats for the love of it. My stepdad overheard me taking a call, and he said, “You just look so alive talking to this guy.” That’s exactly what I love doing, ever since I was a little kid. I love interviewing people with awesome stories of having taken the road less traveled and going for it.
I decided on podcasting in 2016. I like that podcasts are whole conversations, in context, the most old-school form of journalism, and it’s a business too. You have to have business sense to run a podcast that makes money. I could do both. In 2015, I took a business accelerator course through an all-women’s co-working space called Hera Lab in San Diego—the woman who taught the class also teaches entrepreneurship at UCSD. It was 12 weeks, every Monday. The first Monday was: write your business plan.
The course was an actual hands-on, just do it, approach to start a business and we didn’t really talk about theory because we just got busy on our business. We started with the finances, which is a big reality check and a must-do if you want to start a business because starting a business often costs money. For a podcast, you also need to know who your audience is, but also who your buyer is. We wrote profiles of who our audience was, and I wrote profiles on who my potential sponsors were and the people making those decisions. That was impactful. I actually got my first sponsor from the exact avatar I created of who I thought was behind the dream company I wanted to work with.
I had an idea of who my listener was. My listeners were my friends. They liked their jobs, but they kind of wanted to do something else. They either wanted to go on a grand surf trip or a big hiking trip, write a book or start a business. They just wanted something a little bit more extra in their life, and they knew what they wanted to do it, but they needed some inspiration and courage to go for it. I thought most of the listeners would be women since I am, but turns out it’s a pretty even split between men and women and I have some die-hard male fans. I think that’s cool because I just wanted to showcase great people – men and women, going for it.
ON MAKING IT AS A FREELANCER Back in college, I had taken a magazine journalism class, and the professor said, “You’re never going to make it as a freelance writer. That doesn’t exist.” So I dropped his class, and I was really mad. I just found this guy to be so un-encouraging.
I think from 2009 to 2015, I really wanted to prove that one professor wrong. On the side of magazine writing, I did some other things—I did copywriting and PR for Nike and Prana. I went in-house for a year and did marketing for Body Glove. I learned a lot in that time. I also was a business reporter, which is the job that impacted me the most. I reported on the business of the outdoor and action sports world for a site called Shop-Eat-Surf. I worked for this awesome woman who had been a business reporter for the Orange County Register, and she started this website to report on the business of surf brands. My job was to interview CEOs of companies. I learned a lot about business, and wanted to start my own. But the only thing I know is media. And I didn’t want to put another product we didn’t need into the world. I wanted to create something that helped people.
ON GIVING BACK I teach surf lessons once a year during an annual veteran’s surf clinic. Many of the veterans were wounded and/or have PTSD and they come for a week. I take the week off in September, and I’ve taught a blind vet to surf, a bunch of amputees and other amazing men and women who have served our country. It’s so powerful and so emotional that week. That’s usually the best thing I do all year.
I get so much out of it. I mean, they get a lot out of it. Surfing’s just such a good metaphor for life. There’s so many unknowns, and no wave is the same, so you have to let go of control and just learn the feeling of catching a wave. There’s really nothing like it. To watch someone without arms and legs catch a wave, and see the smile on their face, it’s pretty incredible.
ON DOING SOMETHING DIFFERENT If I were to do anything else, I’d probably like to work with teens. I’m still like a big camp counselor. And, I just like teens—they’re sort of at the maturity level where I have stayed, at least in terms of their sense of humor and zest for play. I thought for sure by almost 40, I would be different and I wouldn’t still skateboard—I thought by 21 I wouldn’t skateboard. I remember seeing a 21-year-old skateboarding when I was 15 being like, “That is so weird—she is 21 and she’s still skateboarding.” And now I’m 38, and still skateboarding.
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