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Boating on San Diego Bay

Get information on recreational boating on San Diego Bay along with helpful links for mariners.

 

a small, white sailboat sailing on the San Diego Bay

Zuniga Jetty Shoals Debris Removal

On November 17, 2025, the Port of San Diego will begin a project to remove marine debris, including some abandoned and derelict vessels, in the Zuniga Jetty Shoals. Debris removal helps address potential navigational hazards for other vessels in the area, and it also helps clean and protect San Diego Bay as a natural and recreational resource for years to come. 

Boaters and mariners should continue to follow all procedures, rules and regulations during this debris removal project. 

*Project start date and duration are subject to change due to weather.

Enjoy the Port of San Diego from the Bay

Sailing on the San Diego Bay

Dock and Dine

Try more than 60 waterfront restaurants on San Diego Bay!

 

Glorietta Bay Boat Launch

Boat Launching Ramps

 

 

 

Man taking a photo from the pier of the speedboat on the bright blue water under light blue skies

Shelter Island Guest Docks

 

 

a view of the blue water of San Diego Bay and the Marriott Marina

San Diego Bay Marinas

 

 

 

a man walks down a ramp towards the docks and boats

Sanitary Stations and Fuel Docks

docks and cranes used for boat repairs at the Port of San Diego

Boat Repair

San Diego Bay

Charter Vessel Regulations

San Diego Bay Charter Vessel Regulations


San Diego Bay Online Boating Reservations

San Diego Bay is a recreational haven that attracts boaters from all over the world. To make the bay more accessible and enjoyable, the Port of San Diego provides temporary anchorage areas for boaters.

The Port has established an online reservation service. Boaters may choose from anchorages or guest docks.

  • Anchorages are a maximum of 72-hour reservation. There must be a 24-hour gap before applying for another permit.
  • Guest docks allow you to stay 15 days in a 40-day period. The docks are located at the southwestern end of Shelter Island.

Reservations were accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.

Check Availability and Make a Reservation


California Boater Card

As of January 1, 2018, the mandatory boating safety education law goes into effect, and will be phased in by age. If you operate any type of motorized vessel on California waterways (including powered sailboats/paddlecraft), you will be required to pass an approved boating safety examination and carry a lifetime California Boater Card.

 Click here for more information on the California Boater Card