Point Loma

The Point Loma Peninsula is a historic site a few miles southwest of city centre San Diego with historic monuments and panoramic views. It bills itself as a place where history comes alive. It's known for its historic monument to the first Spanish explorer to arrive in California, its breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay, and the city skyline. It's a place where people can find vibrant coastal communities, art galleries, live entertainment, and at the same time, an escape from the hustle and bustle of the world around.

Whether you're looking for great eats at a local brewpub, a boutique shopping experience, the chance to surf, or arts and culture, you're sure to find it here. It's a great place to come for a romantic getaway looking at the blazing sunset over the Bay, a family holiday where there's always something fun and exciting going on, or for experienced surfers to catch some serious swells. Just be careful of unstable cliffs and ocean rocks.

Point Loma - one of the highlights of 10 Most Popular Neighbourhoods in San Diego (Read all about San Diego here)

Point Loma Peninsula highlights

Point Loma Peninsula offers a wide range of attractions for everyone, from families with kids to those looking for an intimate escape from city life and those looking for historic attractions. It's famed for the Cabrillo National Monument, a tribute to the first European to ever set foot in California. The Point Loma Lighthouse showcases the history of the region.

Of course, many come here for cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. Point Loma Marina is your place to go for restaurants and brewpubs, boutique shopping, seafood dining, and even sport fishing. The Arts District showcases galleries, shopping, and a waterfront park, including nearby Humphrey's Concerts for live events. This area is also famed for its tidepools which are great for fossil hunting and kids' swimming and play areas.

History of Point Loma

The original Spanish name for Point Loma was La Punta de Loma de San Diego, which translates as "Hill Point of San Diego." It's rare that there were no local indigenous settlements here before Portuguese sailor Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo led an expedition for the Spanish Crown from Mexico to explore the West Coast. Cabrillo was the first European to set foot on what is now present-day California.

It would be another 200 years before a permanent settlement arose here. By 1852, San Diego's relationship with the US military would begin at Point Loma. It later served as the posthumous headquarters of Madame Blavatsky's Theosophical Society. In the 1930s, it was a popular gliding site. Today it's a thriving destination for visitors from all over the world and known for its shopping, dining, arts, culture, and entertainment attractions.

Good to know about Point Loma Peninsula

Point Loma Peninsula has several local beaches, but these are generally not for recreational use, so you won't find bathrooms, showers, or lifeguards on duty. Most people who come here to swim do so in the tidepools, which are generally safe. It's important to take care on the sea cliffs; while they provide outstanding views, they can be unstable and dangerous.

Surfers here should also beware that the tide includes large swells and breaks that can come dangerously close to rocks. As such, it's much better for experienced surfers than it is for those looking to just dip their toes into the sport for the first time. Most marine activities are located on the eastern Bay side of the peninsula with yacht clubs and sportfishing docks. The western side is favoured for ocean views and sunsets.

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