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This station provides shore support and living quarters for over 50 naval ships of the Pacific Fleet, and is one of only two major fleet support installations in the country.

Two of you sit in the front of a beautifully restored 1920s biplane and soar over beaches, golf courses, and houses, while the pilot flies behind. The Beech Belle, a restored World War II VIP biplane, is great for that special occasion. If you’re looking for an extra thrill, a pilot will put you through aerobatic loops and rolls, or you can take the controls in top dog air combat.

Dedicated to the European discovery of San Diego and Alta California, this draws over one million people a year. The statue of Cabrillo is a replica of an original that could not withstand the wind and salt air (see Cabrillo Statue).

Just off Mission Beach is the final resting place for the Yukon, a decommissioned Canadian warship, the coastguard cutter Ruby E, and a barge, all deliberately sunk to create an artificial reef. A research tower here collapsed on its own, with its dangling wires and protrusions only adding to the otherworldly, ethereal atmosphere. Thousands of invertebrate marine life have taken up residence here. Charter boats will take you out.

Feeling lucky? Nine tribal casinos promise non-stop Las Vegas-style action and jackpots galore. Starting as a small bingo hall 20 years ago, Indian gaming is now a billion-dollar industry of resort hotels, concert venues, and golf courses. Today, San Diego County has the highest concentration of casinos in the state of California. Thousands of slot machines, video poker, and gaming tables in immense, striking buildings will satisfy the gambler in you.

You can watch or take part in inflating a brilliantly colored balloon. Hop in the basket and begin to float over the valleys and hills with a glass of champagne in hand. Flights leave early in the morning or at sunset. Most hot-air balloon companies have moved recently to Temecula where there are fewer housing developments to impede their landings.

The kelp forests off San Diego’s coast provide valuable resources for Kelco, the largest kelp harvester in California. The company produces 70 different products from kelp, including stabilizers used in everything from salad dressing and ice cream to beer and car wax.

In July and August, the Maritime Museum presents nautical-themed movies aboard the 1863, full-rigged merchant vessel, Star of India. Folding chairs are set out on deck, and movies such as 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea are projected onto a special sail. There’s usually a fireworks display over the harbor at night (see San Diego Maritime Museum).