Harbor Island

Set sail or just sit back and savor the city skyline views from this floating nautical-centric peninsula stretching for two miles right on San Diego Bay.

Located between Shelter Island and Downtown San Diego, and directly across from San Diego International Airport, the island boasts multiple marinas, which harbor thousands of small boats, as well as restaurants and high-rise hotels. Splashy adventures abound here, such as sailing, paddle-boarding, kayaking and Jet Skiing.

The island's two dynamic waterfront parks also make for perfect recreational spots: Harbor Island Park features a shoreline path beckoning walkers, joggers, skaters and cyclists, who enjoy panoramic views of the San Diego skyline, Coronado Island and the Big Bay. Spanish Landing Park, noted for large annual events and holiday gatherings, offers picnic tables, a playground, public art displays and pretty marina views. At its west end is a small, sandy beach. The park's particular location is also a San Diego landmark, commemorating the meeting of the Gaspar DePortola and Father Junípero Serra expeditions in 1769.

A monument to the the meeting is one of four creative art pieces around the island. Two others include "Cancer ... There's Hope," consisting of a large display of inspiring bronze sculptures; and the intricate tiles of the Mosaic Tile Dome, both at Cancer Survivors Park (connected to Spanish Landing). Also view mythical sea creature "Mini the Mermaid," a 12-foot sculpture by San Diego artist Frank Mando.

A community gem owned by the Port of San Diego, Harbor Island is ideal for gazing upon the city lights at night, catching the Port's Big Bay Boom fireworks show on the Fourth of July, and viewing the annual boat Parade of Lights in December.

For more information, contact the Port of San Diego online or by calling (619) 686-6200.