Southern California's prevailing balmy winds provide some of the greatest sailing conditions in the world, and San Diego Bay, especially around Shelter and Harbor Islands, is the best – for sail and power boats -- not to mention the coastline itself. In addition, fresh water boating on some of the local lakes is an experience not to be missed.
La Jolla Shores has the only beachfront boat launch within City limits. Small vessels can be launched directly into the surf at the foot of Avenida de la Playa, approximately 300 yards south of the lifeguard station. This is an unimproved boat launch and vehicles are allowed to drive on the sand in a very limited area at five miles per hour or less. Four wheel drive is highly recommended.
San Diego is a town of mariners, and is certainly the place to go to get some sailing expertise, whether you're still memorizing your points of sail or you're a salty expert looking to refine your skills.
The coast guard offers some inexpensive classes as well as specialized instruction in topics such as safety and navigation. You can also check out Mission Bay Aquatic Center, which offers classes in Sabots, Holders, Lasers and Hobie Cats.
Sailing and Boating Resources
- Clubs and Organizations:
- • San Diego Yacht Club: www.sdyc.org
- • Mission Bay Yacht Club: www.mbyc.org
- • Southwestern Yacht Club: www.southwesternyc.org
- • Mission Bay Boat and Ski Club: www.sdmbbsc.org
- • Mission Bay Aquatic Center: www.mbaquaticcenter.com
- Lessons:
- • Learn to Sail San Diego (for Women): www.womensailingsandiego.com
- • West Coast Sailing in San Diego: www.westcoastsailing.com
- • Learn to Sail, Sailing Lessons: www.learntosailsandiego.com
- • J World San Diego: The Performance Sailing School: www.jworld-sailing.com
- • Marina Sailing School: www.marinasailing.com
- Tours and Bay Cruises:
- • San Diego Sailing Tours: www.sandiegotours.us
- • San Diego Harbor Excursion: www.sdhe.com
- • San Diego Boat Tours: www.sandiegoboattours.com
- • Hornblower Cruises: ww.hornblower.com
- • Fantasea Yacht Charter: www.yachtfantasea.com
- • Urban Desire Cruises: www.urbandesirecruises.com
- • Voyager Yacht Charters: www.voyageryachtcharters.com
- Rentals:
- • Seaforth Boat Rentals: www.seaforthboatrental.com
- • Downtown Boat Rental: www.seaforthboatrental.com
- • San Diego Yacht Charters & Rentals - Aolani Yacht Crusies: www.aolani.cc
- • House Boat Rentals San Diego Bay: www.californiacruisin.com
- • JMC Sailing: www.jmcsailing.com
- • Sail Away San Diego: www.sailawaysandiego.com
