Exploring an Aquatic Ecosystems

Of all the many ecosystems you can explore, very few let you spy on their natural state as the tide pools along the shore.  Formed when water is trapped in depressions on rocky shorelines, and fully exposed at low tide, these mini-worlds are filled with fascinating tiny creatures and beautiful flowering plants.  November to March is the optimal time to explore the many tide pools of San Diego, and here are just a few that we love to visit.

Flat Rock, at Torrey Pines State reserve, is named for the horizontal slab of rock that look like it's emerging from the ocean during high tide.  During low tide it is a captivating tide pool filled with sea anemones, mussels, hermit crabs, and sea stars.  A visit here requires a bit of a hike, but one that’s lined with tall pine trees and a cool ocean breeze.  

For those wanting to explore a smaller rocky intertidal zone (a fancy word for an area that is under water during high tide and above water in low tide), than check out Shell Beach in La Jolla.  Located at the south end of Ellen Browning Scripps park, this tide pool gets big crowds during the weekend because of the occasional seal which suns itself atop the reef so we recommend visiting during the week.  

We love the tide pools under the Ocean Beach Pier (at the foot of Newport Avenue) because they are so accessible.  They’re a close drive from Mission Bay and do not require a hike, so it's easy to explore with little ones.  If they look too crowded or the tide isn’t low enough, you can always grab a bite on the pier or at some of the great eateries in Ocean Beach and wait for better conditions.  

At the north end of Pacific Beach, you’ll find Tourmaline Surfing Park's tide pools,  which are carved into the sandstone.  This is not your typical pool, as it does not see as much flowing sea water over the rocks, so you’ll find different marine life here than at a traditional tide pool.  

One of the more famous tide pools in San Diego is at the base of Point Loma, below the lighthouse of Cabrillo National Monument.  Like Flat Rock, this reef also requires a hike, but the vast area and unique formations are well worth a visit.  Ideally, you’ll get there as soon as the park opens at 9:00 a.m. to avoid excessive waiting, as the parking lot will close temporarily when the tide pools get too crowded.   Stop by the park’s visitor center for an educational slide show about the pools before you make the trek.  There are also rangers wandering around who can offer tips and interesting facts about the area.  

Birch Aquarium in La Jolla offers two ways to explore these under water communities.  The first is at their Preuss Tide-Pool Plaza on site, where they have recreated the ecosystem in three different pools.  There are glass windows that look into the complex intertidal worlds and docents are also averrable for any questions you might have.  The Plaza sits above La Jolla and also offers gorgeous panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and San Diego.

The Aquarium also offers ‘San Diego Tidepooling Adventures,’ where you can visit Dike Rock, just north of the Scripps Pier, and learn about this amazing environment.  A trained naturalist will explain exactly how all these creatures can survive in such contradictory climates (wet and dry in both salt water and fresh, depending on the rainfall).  You must be at least 2 years old for this tour and pre-purchased tickets are required ($12 for Aquarium members and $15 for non-member). 

All visits should be planned during low tide, and you can track the tide schedule HERE.  Tide pools are known for being slippery and the rocks can have very jagged edges, so non-slip shoes that you won’t mind getting wet are ideal.  Always face the ocean when walking and examining so you are aware of unexpected and approaching waves.  

Remember, tide pools are a very fragile eco-system, and while they provide fascinating entertainment for us, we must be careful not to get too close to the animals living there.  These areas are protected so no poking or picking up sea creatures, or taking ‘souvenirs’ (this includes  shells, which are where hermits crabs call ‘home’) with you.  You can truly observe these eco-systems in their most pure state when observing and not touching.  We want these pools to last forever so we need to make sure we tread lightly when visiting.

Looking closely into the clear waters on these rocky reefs is like spying on life forms on another planet.  The San Diego coastline is brimming with these pools that can captivate both adults and children.  Spend a fews days with us, at Mission Bay Vacation Rentals, exploring these dazzling and delicate ecosystems.  

Surf's Up, San Diego!

Memorial Day Weekend is the unofficial start to summer and we can’t wait to hit the beach.   Perfectly timed for the holiday weekend, the San Diego Surf Film Festival starts today and in honor of the ultimate ocean sport, we are highlighting some of our favorite surf spots.  Whether you enjoy catching a wave or just want to be spectator, San Diego has some diverse and fun options.  

Starting tonight until May 23rd, La Jolla will host the 4th annual San Diego Surf Film Festival.  This festival highlights not just independent film making, but also those who are passionate about our oceans and of course, surfing.  Over 20 international films will be shown, along with Q&As from filmmakers, live music, and art exhibits.  There will also be a group beach clean up in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, as part of the festival activities, for those want to help keep our coastlines beautiful.  Check out their Schedule for events and tickets.  

Tourmaline Surfing Park is bordered by 75 feet high cliffs and is beloved by locals for the long, gentle, rolling waves.  An ideal place to learn to surf, or catch some waves with a long board or kite surf, this beach offers something for everyone.  There is a designated area for swimmers so if surfing isn’t your thing you can still enjoy this small piece of heaven.  Located just one mile north of Pacific Beach’s Crystal Pier, you’re not far from shops and restaurants if you want to take a break from hanging ten.  

For more advanced surfers, or those who like watching the pros do their thing, Sunset Cliffs in Point Loma, is your ideal destination.  Intricately carved coastal bluffs, sea caves and arches meet ocean waters and offers stunning views.  The different coves and wave breaks make for strong and slightly dangerous tides, which draw the experienced surfers.  The cliffs also offer a beautiful park where you can take in the sunset and gorgeous view of the Pacific.  Bring your camera, this is one of California’s most beautiful beaches.

For those who want to hang 10 with old-school surfers from back in the day, and have some quality time with your dog, then Ocean Beach is your perfect fit.  The unofficial motto of O.B. is ‘Keep O.B. Weird.”  Like the locals, the waves are mellow and it’s not unusual to see drum circles on the beach, especially at sunset.  For those who want to enjoy the beach with “Man’s Best Friend,” then check out Ocean Beach’s special designated areas where dogs can roam free without a leash.  

What better way to spend Memorial Day than soaking up the rays on San Diego’s beaches?  This weekend you can enjoy surfing in the theater, as a spectator, as a beginner or a pro.  Set up camp with Mission Bay Vacation Rentals and then hit the waves or relax on the sand, what ever floats your boat.