Port of San Diego Approves Naming of Kumeyaay Beach at Spanish Landing Park
Contact: Josh Kellems, 619.642.1153, jkellems@portofsandiego.org
The Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners has approved the naming of an unnamed beach at Spanish Landing Park to “Kumeyaay Beach.” This action recognizes the Kumeyaay people’s historic relationship with San Diego Bay and their important contributions to the region. The naming request is supported by the Kumeyaay Cultural Repatriation Committee, and it is the first use of the Port’s naming policy. Located on the west side of Spanish Landing Park in the Harbor Island area, Kumeyaay Beach provides residents and visitors with direct access to the bay.
"At the Port of San Diego, we are dedicated to providing coastal access for all, and what better way to showcase this commitment than by honoring the original stewards of San Diego Bay,” said Chair Ann Moore, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. “This permanent name recognizes the Kumeyaay people’s lasting connection to the bay and surrounding lands while helping to share their history with everyone who visits our waterfront.”
“For the Kumeyaay people, the waters of San Diego Bay have long been a source of life, culture, and connection,” said Vice Chair Michael Zucchet, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. “This recognition is an opportunity to honor the region's first people, celebrate their lasting legacy, and help visitors to our waterfront have a greater understanding of their history.”
“I’m glad the San Diego Port Commission has decided to honor our People by placing the name ‘Kumeyaay Beach’ on an unnamed section of our Kumeyaay coastline,” said Jamie LaBrake, councilman of the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation.
The Board's decision followed a staff evaluation confirming the proposal met multiple criteria outlined in the Port’s naming policy, known as Board Policy No. 781. Staff found the request reflects the historical and cultural significance of the site, it commemorates a group of continued importance to the Port, member cities, and the state, and it aligns with the Port's commitment to reflecting the San Diego region’s ethnic and cultural diversity.
Following the Board's approval, the Port will update internal and public-facing maps, records, and digital resources to reflect the new name. The Port will also work with tribal representatives to develop signage that shares the cultural and historical significance of Kumeyaay Beach.
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