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San Diego Boat Tours - Coronado Islands Picnic
If you are looking for a real unique get away for the day (or longer)
why not give the Coronado Islands a try. Located 15 miles off shore
and in Mexican waters they offer seclusion and a very unique get away.
They
can present hazards to navigation as on the ocean side of the island
the water depth plunges giving rise to unpredictable conditions. There
are basically 4 islands and anchoring in Moonlight Cove on the middle
island provides a great place for an afternoon
picnic and swim.
Over the years the island has been know by many names, with perhaps the most
colorful being "Dead
Man's Island". They have an infamous past as during prohibition,
in the early part of the 20th century, they were a hot bed for rum running. In
fact, so may people frequented the islands that a casino was established which
attracted Hollywood stars such as Charlie Chaplin and
May West. The
casino lasted until after the stock market crash which ushered in the depression.
An interesting historical note is that in May of 1943 the islands were used for
target practice by L. Ron Hubbard (future founder of Scientology). He believed
they belonged to the United States, but unfortunately for him he later discovered
that they were Mexican territory and was relieved of this command.
For a nature lovers the islands are rich in life supporting a host of species. Seagulls
and pelicans are plentiful along with many other types of birds. Several
of the local bird clubs make frequent trips to the island for photography. Perhaps
the species drawing the most attention are the pinnipeds (fin-feet) (seal, sea
lions). Do you know how to tell the difference between
them? The
middle island also supports a colony of Elephant Seals. These animals commonly
weight 6000lbs.
Note: Remember to bring your passport/photo
id as we have to check in at US Customs on arrival back in San
Diego. |