San Diego Strolls: Versatile Harbor Island Beckons

Grab the San Diego deck and pull out the Harbor Island card. Read on for more tips and tricks to visiting this picture-perfect downtown spot.

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Across from the San Diego International Airport is a man-made peninsula in San Diego Bay called Harbor Island. It beckons visitors with its panoramic views of the bay, downtown skyline and Coronado. You can sit and watch the activity of Naval ships. Or, take a walk along a flat, paved shoreline path.

Getting to Harbor Island

There is a limited number of free parking spots at Harbor Island. If you drive, you’ll likely have to pay to park. If taking the bus, use route 923. It will drop you off at N. Harbor Drive and Harbor Island Drive. 

Take a walk at Harbor Island

The path right next to the bay stretches nearly 1.5 miles one-way. It’s a great spot for those using strollers or mobility aids to get up close to the bay and away from the pedestrian congestion that’s often found along downtown San Diego’s Embarcadero. 

If you want to extend your outing, you can walk around the Sheraton San Diego towards N. Harbor Drive to reach Spanish Landing Park. The park also features paved and flat sidewalks, as well as public art.

Public Art at Harbor Island

At the westernmost point of Harbor Island, look for “Mini the Mermaid,” one of four public art pieces in the area. Spanish Landing features a mosaic tile dome in its Cancer Survivors Park as well as the sculpture “Cancer…There’s Hope,” the last piece created by world-renowned artist Victor Sallmones.

Pack a picnic or treat yourself at Tom Ham’s

With such splendid views, you’ll likely want to extend your stay on Harbor Island. For those watching their wallets, the emerald lawn of Harbor Island Park is a great spot to spread out a blanket and enjoy a picnic. 

If you’re open to a splurge, check out Tom Ham’s Lighthouse, a restaurant at a fully functioning lighthouse. The menu is seafood-centric. Even if you’re on a budget, this unique establishment is worth the money.

This article originally appeared in the San Diego Sun as part of the "Walking In The City" column. Read the original version here.