Imagine lying upon the deck of your boat, the steady rocking motion from the waves pounding against the side causing you to drift into a meditative state. Your skin is warmed by the sun beating down upon you as you stretch out, allowing your muscles, still sore from a day exploring the surrounding area and bounding from one activity to the next, to uncramp and relax. As you take a sip from a cool drink and feel the line in your other hand jump slightly, you quickly set the drink down, and with a content smile begin to reel in your catch. If this scene has made your heart grow heavy as the sharp pangs of longing set in, then fear not, for you too can experience the joys of the water and coast with Carefree Boat Club by visiting Pier 32 Marina! So, read on as we help you discover all there is to do see during your long-anticipated boating trip.
The Charm of the Pier 32 Marina
Before you can go exploring the area, or even cast that first line, you need to first allow yourself to get settled in the striking marina of Pier 32. This first-class, state-of-the-art marina has everything you’ll need to be comfortable during your trip. You’ll not only does the marina host total deep-water access, but you’ll have access to their gated pool and jacuzzi with over 4,100 square feet of lounging and swimming space. Further, we all understand that sometimes one doesn’t want to go on a strenuous hike or jog to stay in shape; for those days when you want to stay fit, but also not go far, make the most out of their 312-square-foot fitness center. After you catch a fish or two, make sure you have an old school BBQ cook out utilizing over 837 square feet of eating space and grills. You’ll also have access to power, laundry rooms, Wi-Fi, and satellite television hookups. As well, sleep safe knowing that you’ll be safely watched over by the 37 video cameras set up to ensure that both you, your vessel, and your possessions are all safe. Finally, enjoy the complimentary restrooms and shower area that are sure to have you feeling refreshed and ready for the next activity.
The Charms of the Wild
There are many ways in which one can enjoy the shore and land surrounding you. However, make sure you take the time to see the secret wildernesses that few realize lie tucked away amongst the buildings and shops. For instance, make sure you visit the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge, which lies across the Sweetwater Channel and contains 316 acres of salt marsh and coastal uplands. Many don’t realize it, but this is actually a very important little section of nature for more reasons than one might think. Over time, 90% of San Diego’s wetlands have been filled in, drain, or diked. Thus, this isn’t just a bit of wilderness, but truly the last of a quickly vanishing aspect of the area and a vital home to many a wild critter. Take the time to explore the area and keep an eye out for the over 200 species of birds which have been recorded in the area to date, and if you’re lucky, you might spy one of four endangered species such as the light-footed rail, or even the yerba reuma, in which this is the only area it grows naturally.
If you’re looking for something a bit closer to the modern world, then make sure you check out Peppers Park, which stretches out over a modest 5.5 acres. However, while not the largest park around, it still hosts an array of activities for both you and your family to enjoy. You’ll find that they have a playground which is perfect to allow you little ones to play as you enjoy some you time as you watch then play. You’ll also find picnic tables perfect for an impulsive picnic as you watch the Seagulls dance upon the drafts and listen to the lapping of water nearby. Speaking of, while your there cast a line and enjoy some old-fashioned pier fishing which was many a young person’s introduction to the relaxing hobby.
Fun Across the Way
If you find yourself looking for a bit of quiet and serene beach to explore and relax upon, then make sure you journey across to the other side of the bay, where you’ll find the Silver Stand State Beach with 1.5 miles of ocean and natural preserve. This little stretch of paradise is both serene as well as surprisingly expansive with the San Diego Bay hugging one side and the Pacific Ocean the other. Make your way to a spot of beach and either relax and soak up the rays or dive in and enjoy the water as you swim and glide through it. You can even grab a board and glide upon the top of the waves as the salty wind whips your hair, or even grab some skis and or other such equipment and practice your water sports skills. If you’re not looking to spend the day in the water, then make sure you bring some food and have a picturesque picnic amongst the white sands or let the competition soar as you take each other on in a game of volleyball.
If you brought a line and some bait, feel free to cast a line as there are a selection of fish that tend to like to hang out near the water’s edge and sure to be the days prized catch. You’ll find such fish as perch, corbina, grunion, and even yellow-fined croaker. If you are looking for some extra privacy, and a chance to explore the sands for many an interesting find, then head over to the bay side which is only open to pedestrians. One often will find that this side is more suited to swimming as the water is noticeably warmer. Keep your eyes on the sand, for it’s not uncommon for walkers to find moon snail shells, cockle shells, or even the occasional sand dollar! As the sun begins to go down, head over to one of the many fire rings for a good old fashioned beach cookout.
A Romantic Venture
If you’re looking for something especially intimate for you and your significant other to enjoy, then make sure you check out the gondola cruises hosted by San Diego Gondola Cruises. This company brings the heart and joys of Venice, Italy to the West Coast with their 50-minute gondola rides which are not only romantic, but quite the relaxing as you lazily make your way through, he canals and waterways of the Coronado cays. You can even book a special sunset tour to make the occasion ever the more special, the cherry on top though is you can hire a professional mandolin or violin player to serenade you while you and your significant other. If it’s the time for the all-important question, the keep them in mind as they also do proposal specials!
Spots to Graze
While there is much to do in the surrounding area, make sure you keep an eye out for the various local eateries that dot the area. If you’re looking for an easy dinner where you can just doc and dine, then keep the Waterfront Grill in mind (just make sure you call for a slip reservation) or leave the boat and enjoy their intimate outdoor dining area. If you are looking for some unique cuisine that one doesn’t normally get to experience, then head over to Zorbas Greek Restaurant and Buffet where you can fill up all on the savory Greek cuisine offered therein. If you’re looking for something more familiar, then head on down to La Quinta Grill Restaurante for some good Mexican food occasionally spiced up with the rhythms of live Mariachi music or dig into some savory Chinese food with the Golden Mandarin. Of course, one can never go wrong with a good, old-fashioned, well-made pizza. If this is your craving, then make sure you head on down to Filippi’s Pizza Grotto for a good family meal of delectable Italian fairs.
Of course, all of this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Pier 32 and all there is to do here. While we would love to show you everything there is to do, it would be impossible to do so in such a short space. So, embrace the thrill of adventure and discover all there is to do in Pier 32 Marina by contacting Carefree Boat Club at (619) 488-6630!