Boating in San Diego holds a special place in the hearts of those that love to get out on the water and make the most of a getaway dedicated to time on the waves. Whether it’s a vacation in the name of fishing, traditional sailing, or taking tours that put you in proximity to amazing marine life, San Diego is a city of water fun with no shortage of options for adventure. When your travel plans have you headed this way, and you have a weekend to spare, start your three-day journey at Pier 32 and partner up with the Carefree Boat Club for a getaway that’s sure to be as thrilling as it is inspiring.
Day 1
Pier 32 is an ideal destination for the visitor to San Diego that arrives with a passion for casting a line. Angling is a favorite pastime of those with their eyes on the waves that find themselves in and around San Diego, and departing from Pier 32 in your reserved fishing vessel is sure to be a splash. Hop onboard one of our premier vessels equipped with multiple rod holders, large bait tanks, and plush seating options to make it a day on the water that’s not only successful by catch standards, but convenient and comfortable too! The option to stay near the marina is always available, but those that head further out into San Diego Bay will find opportunities to reel in everything from makos and marlin to bluefin tuna abound. Once you’ve reeled in your last catch for the day, sail over to Pepper Park which sits close to the marina and offers up access to a boat launch. Spend some time enjoying the green space and picnic tables overlooking the water. If you’re traveling with little ones, this is a great place to let them burn off energy on the playground. By this time, it’s likely that you’ve worked up quite the appetite. Head over to the marina, drop off your boat, and make your way to The Waterfront Grill where you can enjoy everything from steak and seafood to seasonal favorite and pasta dishes while savoring the waterfront view.
Day 2
Day two of your boating in San Diego weekend should definitely be dedicated to fun on the waves and there’s no better way to enjoy your adventure than by swapping out the fishing boat for a party pontoon and inviting your friends and family to come celebrate with you. Many of our pontoons at Pier 32 can be reserved to include multi-level decks, amazing sound systems as well as tubing capabilities and even waterslides. Head out to open sea and make time to jump the waves, enjoy the view, and enjoy time indulging in the comforts that come from a finely furnished vessel. For the history buffs that require a bit of education to truly make it a fun day, a sail over to Gun Powder point should be on the itinerary for day two. This landmark is easily accessible by boat and if you disembark, you’ll have the chance to walk the nearby trails and learn how this area was vital during World War I. Finish up your day with a savory delight by making time for a meal at Zorba’s Greek Restaurant and Buffet which isn’t far from the marina. With a firm focus on fantastic Mediterranean fare, guests will find the menu options versatile, robust, and always pleasing.
Day 3
Give yourself a chance to sit back, relax, and make the most of an amazing sailing day on the third day of your boating journey. Pick up your reserved pontoon or fishing vessel at Pier 32 and head out into open waters where you can take photographs of the shoreline and nearby cliffsides with ease, all while letting time pass you by without a care in the world. Let your surroundings do the work and feel free to be impressed when you make time for a stop at nearby destinations such as the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge or head across the bay towards Silver Strand State Beach. Don’t forget to bring your snorkel gear with you as you explore the waters as the waves are teeming with fish, plant life, and more that’s sure to inspire. Once you’re ready to disembark, Goody’s Sushi and Grill is a great choice to end your day on a tasty note and gives boaters a chance to rehash their adventures over everything from tempura to sashimi!
Land-Based Activities to Include Any Day of Your Weekend Getaway
While planning a boat-focused weekend away in San Diego is sure to be inspiring, the above ideas are just the beginning of the true potential for fun! San Diego is a bustling city where on-land adventures are often just as appealing as on-the-water excursions. Any day of your three-day getaway that you happen to have some downtime, consider adding one or more of the following San Diego landmarks to your must-visit list. Doing so is a sure way to round out your exciting itinerary and make the most of your boating adventure from start to finish.
Visit the San Diego Zoo
When you’re up for a wild adventure that puts you in proximity to some of the world’s most amazing creatures, a stop at the iconic San Diego Zoo is bound to be a treat during your getaway! Located at 2920 Zoo Drive, the San Diego Zoo is home to over 3,500 animals. The zoo is open to the public daily between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm and provides access to over 650 species and subspecies of animals from across the globe. From giraffes and lions to lemurs and red pandas, guests can learn more about the extensive conservation efforts happening to make sure these animals are around for generations to come. Looking for an even closer look? Plan on booking a behind the scenes safari that gives you an insider look at how the zoo functions on a daily basis alongside keepers and guides.
Make the Most of Time in Balboa Park
The San Diego Zoo is integrated into the infamous Balboa Park, so why not make a stop here too and explore some more? Covering 1,200 acres of land, Balboa Park is an intriguing oasis of green space within the city’s center. Here, visitors can take time to savor the many gardens, walking paths, and green belts that also provide access to stunning museums, exciting area theaters, and of course, animal sanctuaries.
Tour the USS Midway Museum
For those planning a boating weekend away to San Diego that also harbor a heart for history, a tour of the USS Midway Museum is a must. Situated at 910 N. Harbor Drive, the USS Midway Museum brings the past to life with options to browse an extensive display and exhibit collection within the parameters of a historic naval aircraft carrier. The museum is open to the public daily between 10:00 am and 5:00 pm.
Boating in San Diego – Reach Out Today
No matter when you arrive in San Diego, make the most of your boating adventures by partnering with the professionals at Carefree Boat Club. We’re dedicated to helping boaters put the fun back in this activity. Leave stress far behind and enjoy the wind and waves in style, knowing you’re on world-class vessels and have a long list of options to choose from. Contact us today to learn more about our many services. We can’t wait to welcome you to sunny San Diego!