DK Travel : San Diego : Embarcadero

Embarcadero

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Ever since Juan Cabrillo sailed into San Diego Bay in 1542 (see Discovery by Juan Cabrillo (1542)), much of the city’s life has revolved around its waterfront. Pioneers stepped ashore on its banks; immigrants worked as whalers and fishermen; the US Navy left an indelible mark with its shipyards and warships. Tourism has added another layer to the harbor’s lively atmosphere. The Embarcadero welcomes visitors with its art displays, walkways, nautical museums, harbor cruises, and benches on which to sit and enjoy the uninterrupted harbor activity.
Morning is the least crowded time to visit the Embarcadero.

Top 10 Attractions

1. San Diego County Administration Center

1. San Diego County Administration Center

Dedicated by President F. Roosevelt, the 1936 civic structure looks especially magisterial when flood-lit at night. Enter through the west door and feel free to wander about (see San Diego County Administration Center).
2. San Diego Harbor

One of the greatest attractions of the Embarcadero is watching the bustling harbor, as Navy destroyers, aircraft carriers, ferries, cruise ships, and sailboats glide past. Be a part of the action by taking a harbor cruise.
3. Maritime Museum

3. Maritime Museum

Nautical lovers can marvel at Medea, Star of India, and Berkeley. All three vintage ships have been restored to their former glory (see San Diego Maritime Museum).
4. Piers

Glistening cruise ships bound for Mexico and the Panama Canal tie up at B Street Pier. Harbor cruises and ferries to Coronado can be caught nearby.
5. Santa Fe Depot

5. Santa Fe Depot

The train cars may be modern, but the atmosphere recalls the stylish days of rail travel. The interiors of the Spanish-Colonial style building are resplendent with burnished oak benches, original tiles, bronze-and-glass chandeliers, and wonderful friezes depicting Native American themes.
6. San Diego Aircraft Carrier Museum

The 1,000-ft (305-m) USS Midway (see Aircraft Carrier Museum: USS Midway), commissioned in 1945, was once the world’s largest warship. Many docents on board are veterans who served on the carrier.
7. Tuna Harbor

7. Tuna Harbor

San Diego was once home to the world’s largest tuna fleet, with 200 commercial boats. Portuguese immigrants dominated the trade until the canneries moved to Mexico and Samoa. Even today, some tuna boats remain and the US Tuna Foundation still keeps its offices here.
8. Seaport Village

8. Seaport Village

New England and Spanish design blend eclectically in this waterfront area with brilliant harbor views ( & (see Seaport Village)).
9. Embarcadero Marina Park

9. Embarcadero Marina Park

Relax on one of the grassy expanses to enjoy the excellent views of the harbor and Coronado Bridge. Joggers and bicyclists use the paths around the park (see Embarcadero Marina Park), and on weekends, entertainers and artists demonstrate their work.
10. San Diego Convention Center

The center was designed along nautical lines to complement the water-front location, with its flying buttresses, skylight tubes, and rooftop sails.

Practical Information

For a quick bite, try Anthony’s Fishette at 1360 North Harbor Drive. Sandwiches and salads are the best outdoor options. Pedicabs are usually available to take you down to Seaport Village. Harbor Cruises: 1050 N. Harbor Dr Narrated tours: 1 hour $15 2 hours $20 several departures daily Santa Fe Depot: 1050 Kettner Blvd San Diego Aircraft Carrier Museum: 1355 N. Harbor Dr Open 10am–5pm Adm $13