Splash into Paradise

Hey there, fellow ocean lovers—I'm Justin Halbert, your go-to realtor and lifelong Point Loma local with over 5 years helping families dive into this unbeatable slice of San Diego paradise. Born and raised right here where the cliffs kiss the sea, I've spent countless sun-soaked mornings paddling out on my board and evenings anchoring in the bay with friends. If you're dreaming of a home where your backyard is basically the Pacific, Point Loma isn't just a neighborhood—it's a lifestyle. And let's talk about what makes it truly magical: the water activities that keep us locals hooked. From epic surf sessions to serene kayak floats, here's my insider's guide to the spots we hit when the tourists head home. Grab your wetsuit; we're going in.

Surfing the Swells: Ride the Waves Like a Loma Local

Nothing says "Point Loma proud" like catching a dawn patrol wave before the office grind. While the neighborhood's rugged cliffs aren't always surf-central, we're spoiled with quick access to some of San Diego's most consistent breaks. My top pick for locals? Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, where the dramatic sandstone bluffs frame those epic point breaks that locals chase like gold. It's not for the faint-hearted (watch those rocks!), but on a good day, you'll score long, peeling rights and lefts that feel like your own private session—punchy, powerful, and pure bliss.

For a more mellow vibe when the cliffs are firing too hard, head to Ocean Beach, just a stone's throw north across the peninsula. This gritty, dog-friendly stretch delivers beginner-friendly rollers to head-high beasts on a south swell—perfect for honing your cutbacks without the La Jolla crowds. Pro tip from a guy who's wiped out here more times than I can count: Time your visit for low tide and check the swell forecast religiously. And if you're house-hunting, snag a property on the west side of Rosecrans Street—views of those golden-hour sunsets over the surf are priceless.

Boating Bliss: Set Sail from Our Backyard Bays

Point Loma's boating scene is next-level, thanks to our prime perch on San Diego Bay. As a realtor who's closed deals on waterfront slips, I can tell you: Owning a boat here means freedom on the water whenever the itch strikes. Launch your kayak from Liberty Station's marina—a historic Navy Yard turned hip hub with easy access to the bay's glassy waters. Locals love firing up the outboard for a sunset cruise toward Coronado, dodging seals and spotting dolphins like it's no big deal.

Deeper into the bay, Shelter Island is our go-to for day charters or lazy afternoon drifts. Rent a pontoon or join a sailing club here; the protected waters are ideal for novices, with steady trades that make for smooth spinnaker runs. Feeling adventurous? Push out to the open Pacific via the channel—it's a rite of passage for any Point Loma boater. I've got clients who swear by bayfront condos in this area; the morning coffee views of masts bobbing in the breeze? Chef's kiss. If you're eyeing a vessel-ready home, let's chat—I've got listings with private docks that'll have you motoring out before escrow closes.

Swim and Kayak Your Way Through Hidden Coves

For those chill water days, Point Loma's swimming and kayaking spots are pure zen. Dive into Kellogg Beach, a secluded gem tucked below the cliffs near Cabrillo National Monument. This tide pool paradise is where locals go to snorkel amid colorful anemones and darting garibaldi fish—crystal-clear water, minimal foot traffic, and that raw, untamed feel. Pack a mask and fins; the underwater rock formations are like a secret aquarium.

Kayakers, unite at Spanish Landing Park on the bay side. Launch your sit-on-top into the calm shallows, paddle past historic ships at the Maritime Museum, and weave through the marina maze toward the airport's flight path (bonus: watching jets skim the waves is oddly mesmerizing). For a longer haul, locals paddle south to Sun Harbor Marina, where you can beach-hop and picnic on man-made beaches that feel worlds away from the city buzz. Safety first—always check currents via the NOAA app—but trust me, these outings are the ultimate stress-melter. Dreaming of a kayaking-friendly lifestyle? Point Loma's east-side homes often come with bay access trails; I can hook you up with tours.

More Waves of Fun: SUP, Fishing, and Whale Watching

Don't stop at the basics—Point Loma's waters are a playground for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) at North Point Loma Beach, a locals-only sliver with glassy morning conditions before the wind kicks up. Cast a line from the Point Loma Seafoods pier for halibut and calico bass; it's fresh-off-the-hook dinner waiting to happen. And come winter (yes, even in SoCal), join the whale-watching frenzy from Cabrillo's tide pools—gray whales migrate right past, breaching like clockwork from December to April.

We've got eco-tours too: Book a guided SUP yoga session in the bay or a night kayak glow paddle under bioluminescent waters. It's these little-known thrills that make living here feel like winning the coastal lottery.

Anchor Your Life in Point Loma: Let's Make Waves Together

As your Point Loma insider realtor, I've seen it all—from first-time buyers snagging cliffside cottages to savvy investors flipping bay-view bungalows. This isn't just a place to live; it's where water calls you home every day. Whether you're chasing surf reports or plotting your next bay BBQ, Point Loma delivers that salty, soul-filling magic. Ready to stake your claim? Drop me a line at justin.halbert@compass.com or call (619) 432-5181—let's find your slice of this aquatic heaven before the next swell hits.

Catch you in the water, 

Justin Halbert 

Local Expert Realtor, Compass 

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