“Sailing is not in the mainstream—and that’s something that interests me,” says John Trice, a commercial photographer and University Heights resident. “That, and my wife used to be a sailing instructor.” During the National Offshore One-Design Series in 2012, the San Diego Yacht Club invited Trice to shoot the regatta (happening again this month, March 14–16). For this shot, he was on one of the chase boats, right next to one of the marks the boats have to round. “With such a long focal length (200mm) and a wide open aperture (f2.8), the entire frame gets super compressed,” says Trice. “So anything in the immediate foreground gets really blurry. In this shot there was a swell between me and the J80 and so it almost looks like I’m below the surface of the water.” The result: We can feel the intensity of the race.
The Best Places to Dock and Dine in San Diego (and How to Get There)
Leave the car at the marina and sail right up to San Diego's best waterfront eateries
Bluewater Boathouse Seafood Grill
By Chase Scheinbaum
When Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo sailed into San Diego Bay in 1542, he clearly realized this: It’s a lovely place to drop anchor and have a bite to eat. All these years later, it still is!
Arguably it’s even better now given that you can dock a boat steps from dozens of restaurants around San Diego Bay—and 60 if you include Mission Bay.
The point is this: Sunning yourself on the deck of a boat beats sweating in traffic. Throwing a line over a cleat beats scrapping for a parking spot. If you don’t have a boat, make a friend who does. Or take some of our other advice below, where you’ll also find everything you need to know about showing up dockside for a meal and sailing off into the sunset.
How it Works:
This page and this page have comprehensive listings of every eatery that boasts a dock for a parking lot, listed by area where you’ll be sailing, whether it’s the Bay, Coronado Island, Shelter Island, Mission Bay, South Bay, and so on. Many but not all restaurant docks are first-come, first-served, and prices vary; call the restaurant or marina ahead of time to find out.
It would be nice if water taxis crisscrossed the San Diego Bay on demand. Alas, they do not. The boat-less should consider a stand up paddleboard. Or a pair of swim fins. Or one of those inflatable donuts that are all the rage on Instagram.
The Best Places to Dock and Dine in San Diego (and How to Get There)
Festivals, food, and fireworks—the essential combination for celebrating Independence Day in San Diego. Here's what's happening around town this weekend.
By Lauren Craig
Stuff to Do
4th of July Celebration, Coronado* Start the morning with the annual 15K or 5K run/walk, watch the festive parade, and listen to a concert in Spreckles Park at 4:00 p.m. 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. | ecoronado.com/4th
Rancho Bernardo’s The Spirit of the Fourth*+ Take the family to Webb Park for a picnic for a full day of music, contests, and games for the kids to love. 7:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. | spiritofthefourth.org
San Diego County Fair, Del Mar*+ Spend the whole day with a patriotic opening ceremony, an afternoon parade, and a nighttime concert along with rides and ridiculous fried foods. 9:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. | sdfair.com
Scripps Ranch 4th of July Parade and Festival Show up early for the parade and enjoy the carnival games, food, and fun at the festival afterwards. 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. | scrippsranch.org
Old Town State Historic Park Make crafts and enjoy old-fashioned activities to celebrate Independence Day like the first San Diegans did. 11:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. | oldtownsandiegoguide.com
51st Annual Independence Day Celebration & Fireworks Spectacular, Escondido* Presented by the California Center for the Arts, celebrate the Fourth with food vendors, a community art sale, performances, and more. 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. | visitescondido.com
Honor our Heroes, Celebrate our Freedom, Vista*+ Come to the Moonlight Amphitheater for the “Light Up the Night” dinner, a performance by Get Back Loretta, and the honoring of three military heroes. 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. | cityofvista.com
IndepenDANCE family Fireworks Cruise* Cruise on the California Spirit and dance the night away, taking in the 360-degree views of the fireworks. 8:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. | eventbrite.com
* includes fireworks
+ tickets are required
Fireworks
Red, White, and BOOM! 8:30 p.m., LEGOLAND legoland.com
Annual Alchemy BBQ, South Park Load up a plate filled with BBQ selections for just $12, selections including beef brisket, chicken, and corn on the cob. 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. | alchemysandiego.com
The Shores Oceanfront Restaurant, La Jolla Dine on the beach and watch the fireworks while eating a three-course meal for just $48 a person and $14 for wine pairings. 5.00 p.m. to 10 p.m. | theshoresrestaurant.com
Red, White, and Brew Pubcrawl, Gaslamp Dress up and head down to over a dozen bars along the Gaslamp district in this festive pubcrawl for $2 Draft Beers, 2-1 Mixed Drinks, and $4 shots. 2 p.m. to 2 a.m. | pubcrawls.com
Festivals, food, and fireworks—the essential combination for celebrating Independence Day in San Diego. Here's what's happening around town this weekend.
By Lauren Craig
Stuff to Do
4th of July Celebration, Coronado* Start the morning with the annual 15K or 5K run/walk, watch the festive parade, and listen to a concert in Spreckles Park at 4:00 p.m. 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. | ecoronado.com/4th
Rancho Bernardo’s The Spirit of the Fourth*+ Take the family to Webb Park for a picnic for a full day of music, contests, and games for the kids to love. 7:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. | spiritofthefourth.org
San Diego County Fair, Del Mar*+ Spend the whole day with a patriotic opening ceremony, an afternoon parade, and a nighttime concert along with rides and ridiculous fried foods. 9:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. | sdfair.com
Scripps Ranch 4th of July Parade and Festival Show up early for the parade and enjoy the carnival games, food, and fun at the festival afterwards. 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. | scrippsranch.org
Old Town State Historic Park Make crafts and enjoy old-fashioned activities to celebrate Independence Day like the first San Diegans did. 11:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. | oldtownsandiegoguide.com
51st Annual Independence Day Celebration & Fireworks Spectacular, Escondido* Presented by the California Center for the Arts, celebrate the Fourth with food vendors, a community art sale, performances, and more. 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. | visitescondido.com
Honor our Heroes, Celebrate our Freedom, Vista*+ Come to the Moonlight Amphitheater for the “Light Up the Night” dinner, a performance by Get Back Loretta, and the honoring of three military heroes. 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. | cityofvista.com
IndepenDANCE family Fireworks Cruise* Cruise on the California Spirit and dance the night away, taking in the 360-degree views of the fireworks. 8:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. | eventbrite.com
* includes fireworks
+ tickets are required
Fireworks
Red, White, and BOOM! 8:30 p.m., LEGOLAND legoland.com
Annual Alchemy BBQ, South Park Load up a plate filled with BBQ selections for just $12, selections including beef brisket, chicken, and corn on the cob. 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. | alchemysandiego.com
The Shores Oceanfront Restaurant, La Jolla Dine on the beach and watch the fireworks while eating a three-course meal for just $48 a person and $14 for wine pairings. 5.00 p.m. to 10 p.m. | theshoresrestaurant.com
Red, White, and Brew Pubcrawl, Gaslamp Dress up and head down to over a dozen bars along the Gaslamp district in this festive pubcrawl for $2 Draft Beers, 2-1 Mixed Drinks, and $4 shots. 2 p.m. to 2 a.m. | pubcrawls.com
Renewable energy companies building hundreds of power plants. Biotech startups using artificial intelligence to create personalized medicine for children with rare diseases. Hospitality companies quietly powering thousands of local events. Consumer brands growing from beach-town startups into national businesses. These are the kinds of companies driving San Diego’s economy today, and the businesses recognized at this year’s San Diego Business Impact Awards offer a snapshot of where the region is headed.
Hosted July 23 by San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation (EDC) and JPMorganChase, the second annual awards event honored four local companies for innovation, growth, and economic impact. More than 100 nominations from San Diego’s middle-market businesses were reviewed by a 10-person judging committee, with winners selected across four categories: startup, early-stage innovator, rising star, and established heavyweight.
Two-time honoree Jimbo Someck, founder of Jimbo’s organic grocery stores, also joined the event for a fireside chat on buying local, supporting emerging brands, and giving back to the community.
“San Diego’s strength comes from its makers and builders—the resilient people who endure great risks and overcome obstacles to build and scale a company,” says Aaron Ryan, San Diego Region Manager and Middle Market Banking at JPMorganChase & Co. “These awards aren’t just recognition; they spotlight the talent, grit, and innovation shaping our region’s future. By celebrating those who create and build, we foster connections and fuel the growth that keeps San Diego thriving.”
Photo Credit: Matt Furman
Building the Infrastructure Behind Clean Energy
Heavyweight honoree SOLV Energy has grown alongside the country’s rapid investment in renewable power. “It’s an exciting time for SOLV Energy as we are experiencing significant growth,” says CEO George Hershman. “The business has doubled over the last year and has almost double-digit growth since its inception.”
The Rancho Bernardo-based company designs, builds, operates, and maintains utility-scale solar and energy storage facilities. Since its founding in 2008, SOLV Energy has built more than 500 power plants.
Growth has translated directly into hiring. About 200 employees work from the company’s local headquarters, including roughly 20 interns. “Our intern program is a big part of the way that we grow our workforce,” Hershman says. “Last year, 43 percent of our interns became full-time employees. We believe San Diego is a great community to build and grow a high-tech infrastructure and technology company because of the incredible workforce—the ability to attract top talent and draw from world-class universities.”
Photo Credit: Matt Furman
Developing Medicine One Patient at a Time
Startup honoree La Jolla Labs is tackling one of medicine’s biggest challenges by developing personalized RNA therapeutics for patients with rare diseases—many of them children with neurological disorders like ALS. Using proprietary artificial intelligence and machine learning tools, the biotech company develops treatments tailored to each patient’s specific genetic mutation.
CEO Tamar Grossman says the recognition reflects how far the company has come despite limited resources. “We’re honored to be recognized for our ability to change and save patients’ lives and turn our lean startup into a clinical company with very minimal resources,” she says.
Grossman credits San Diego’s concentration of research institutions—including UC San Diego, the Salk Institute, and Scripps Research—with creating a pipeline of talent and collaboration. “San Diego is one of the world-leading centers for technology, genomics, and RNA therapeutics,” she says. “We have over 30 RNA therapeutics companies here, and we support each other and help with anything related to drug discovery.”
She says that collaborative spirit extends beyond formal partnerships. “You can walk around Torrey Pines, go into a café, and find colleagues from the industry and have an ad hoc conversation,” Grossman says. “That’s something very unique to San Diego.”
While Snake Oil Venue Company may not be a household name, chances are many San Diegans have attended one of its events. The early-stage innovator honoree has expanded from beverage catering and mixology consulting into venue management, operating Julep Venue in Mission Hills, Bramble Bay Venue in Imperial Beach, Vesper Venue, the Chapel at Liberty Station, and five outdoor venues throughout Liberty Station—more than 500,000 square feet of event space altogether.
“We do a lot of launch parties for corporations and new products,” says CEO Mike Esposito. “I really like working on the entrepreneur side of things, where new businesses are entering the San Diego market and looking to make a splash.”
Snake Oil has executed more than 16,000 events, employed more than 1,000 people, and partnered with more than 900 local vendors, including caterers, florists, photographers, entertainers, and other hospitality businesses. The company also works with many of San Diego’s nonprofits, museums, and cultural institutions. “We get to celebrate people’s most important moments,” Esposito says. “Whether that’s a wedding, celebration of life, or quinceañera, we’re fortunate to be involved in the community in so many different ways.”
Photo Credit: Matt Furman
Growing a Beach-Town Brand into a National Business
Rising star honoree ALOHA Collection is proof that a simple idea can grow into a thriving company. Founded by two roommates who wanted a better way to carry wet swimsuits after a day at the beach, the lifestyle brand has grown into a business while maintaining strong year-over-year growth.
Now headquartered in Carlsbad, ALOHA Collection employs more than 100 people and operates its California flagship store in Encinitas, which is slated for a remodel. With roots in Hawaii, the company is known for its lightweight, splash-proof travel bags that have become a familiar sight on beaches in San Diego and beyond.
“‘Aloha’ is part of our name, but it’s also how we move through the world,” says CEO Lynna Barnard. “It’s how we show up for people, the way we travel, the way we give back.” Since day one, the company has maintained a 5 percent giveback to Hawaii conservation efforts, contributing millions of dollars over the years.
“I think what’s so inspiring about ALOHA Collection, and the founders in particular, is when you dream big, those dreams can come true when you work hard and trust in the universe,” Barnard says. “It’s inspiring to be a role model for other people wanting to start businesses from humble beginnings. Start small and watch it grow.”
Together, businesses like these form a cornerstone of San Diego’s economy—not only through the jobs and revenue they generate—but through the local workers they hire, vendors they support, and investments they make in the region. Their growth doesn’t happen in isolation; it ripples outward, strengthening the broader business community and the people who call San Diego home.
We're on the hunt for the best summer outdoor photographs shot by our readers
By Laurie Nicoud
Calling all local photographers! We’re on the lookout for summer outdoor shots of San Diego to feature in the magazine’s “Picture Perfect” section. Have an epic shot of the Del Mar Fair? A landscape scene from Crystal Pier? A dramatic view from your Iron Mountain hike? We want to see them all! Email your stunners to [email protected].
And take a look at Picture Perfect favorites for inspiration:
We're on the hunt for the best summer outdoor photographs shot by our readers
By Laurie Nicoud
Calling all local photographers! We’re on the lookout for summer outdoor shots of San Diego to feature in the magazine’s “Picture Perfect” section. Have an epic shot of the Del Mar Fair? A landscape scene from Crystal Pier? A dramatic view from your Iron Mountain hike? We want to see them all! Email your stunners to [email protected].
And take a look at Picture Perfect favorites for inspiration:
From advancements in cellular biology and molecular research to innovations that deepen our understanding of complex biological systems, biotechnology continues to influence how researchers explore some of science’s most important questions.
While major discoveries often capture headlines, the process behind those breakthroughs receives far less attention. Scientific progress depends on a vast network of researchers, laboratories, manufacturers, and specialized organizations working together to support ongoing investigation and discovery.
The Growing Importance of Biotechnology
In recent years, biotechnology has moved beyond the walls of research institutions and into mainstream conversation. Increased access to scientific information, educational content, and expert commentary has sparked growing public interest in the biological sciences.
Topics once discussed primarily within academic circles are now reaching broader audiences through podcasts, documentaries, digital media, and online communities. As a result, more people are developing an appreciation for the research, experimentation, and innovation that drive scientific advancement.
This growing visibility has transformed biotechnology from a largely specialized field into a subject of interest for educators, innovators, investors, and curious observers alike.
The Hidden Infrastructure Behind Discovery
Scientific breakthroughs often capture public attention, but the infrastructure that makes those breakthroughs possible rarely receives the same recognition. Behind every new discovery are years of investigation, testing, analysis, and refinement.
Behind nearly every research project is a network of laboratories, suppliers, technical specialists, and research-focused organizations working together to support scientific exploration. Laboratory infrastructure, specialized materials, quality standards, and reliable methodologies all contribute to the integrity of the research process.
When these foundational elements are in place, researchers can focus on generating insights, exploring new ideas, and building upon existing knowledge. Although much of this work occurs behind the scenes, it plays a critical role in helping science move forward.
Why Discovery Depends on More Than Researchers Alone
As biotechnology continues to evolve, research-focused organizations have become increasingly important contributors to the broader scientific ecosystem.
Among them is NewBioRx, a company operating within the biotechnology and life sciences sector. Like many organizations operating within the broader research ecosystem, NewBioRx contributes to the network of suppliers, laboratories, and scientific stakeholders that help support ongoing research efforts.
As scientific research becomes increasingly sophisticated, organizations that help support the research environment contribute to a culture where innovation can continue to thrive. Their work may not always be visible to the public, but it forms part of the foundation that enables scientific progress.
Why Science Is Reaching Wider Audiences
One of the most notable developments in recent years has been the growing public fascination with science and human biology.
Scientific concepts that were once primarily discussed within research settings are now reaching wider audiences through educational content, podcasts, digital media, and online communities. People are becoming increasingly interested not only in scientific outcomes, but also in the process of discovery itself.
The growing visibility of science has also created new connections between scientific communities and broader audiences. Individuals who operate across multiple worlds—including fitness, media, and life sciences—have helped introduce scientific topics to audiences that may not have engaged with them previously.
One example is Sam Sulek, co-founder of NewBioRx, whose involvement across fitness culture and the life sciences sector reflects the growing intersection between public curiosity and scientific exploration.
As co-founder of NewBioRx, he has helped champion a research-focused approach to scientific inquiry while supporting broader conversations around scientific literacy and discovery.
As scientific discovery becomes increasingly collaborative, public attention is beginning to extend beyond individual breakthroughs and toward the broader ecosystem that makes those breakthroughs possible. From researchers and laboratories to the organizations that support them, scientific progress remains a collective effort built on curiosity, expertise, and long-term commitment.
