Point Loma History

The origin of the name Point Loma comes from a legend of a blonde haired little Russian girl, the sole survivor of a shipwreck, who was found wandering on shore. The local residents took her in and named her Loma and she grew up to become the cynosure of many ardent male eyes. A rejected suitor slew the girl and fled to the point where he met his rival on a narrow trail above the sea. A knife fight ensued and the men fell to their death on the rocks below. Legend has it that Point Loma was named after this girl.  Loma is the Spanish word for hill. The original name of the peninsula was La Punta de la Loma de San Diego, translated as Hill Point of San Diego. Old Point Loma Light--the first lighthouse to be erected in Southern California as distinguished from the present Point Loma Light--was constructed in 1851 and presently being preserved as a memorial. Construction began on the lighthouse in early 1854 and was completed in November 1855. The light was first lit on November 15, 1855. On March 23, 1891 the flame was permanently extinguished, since occasional fogs rendered the lighthouse useless and the Point Loma Light (new) was built that year.  

There were no permanent Indian settlements on Point Loma because of a lack of fresh water. Point Loma was first discovered by Europeans on September 28, 1542. This was the first landing by a European in present-day California, so that Point Loma has been described as “where California began”. Portuguese navigator Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo departed from Mexico and led an expedition for the Spanish crown to explore the west coast of what is now the United States. Cabrillo described San Diego Bay as “a very good enclosed port.” Historians believe he docked his flagship on Point Loma’s east shore, probably at Ballast Point. Ballast Point got its name from the practice of ships discarding their ballast there on arriving in San Diego Bay and taking on ballast as they left for the open ocean. Fort Guijarros was constructed at Ballast Point in 1797. Ballast Point and La Playa are now on the grounds of Naval Base Point Loma. 

Point Loma Today

This seaside community is a must see for tourists. Point Loma is a four-mile peninsula that offers plenty of places to stay along with an ecleptic share of restaurants, spas and night clubs.

Cabrillo National Monument and Point Loma Lighthouse is a must see when visiting Point Loma, San Diego. The views are breathtaking and the place is full of history. One of the most wonderful places in all Southern California. There is a small entrance fee but well worth it for the amazing views! While you are there check out the historial exhibit about Cabrillo and Point Loma's role as a coastal defense station for the U.S. Navy during World War II.  Get there early since Point Loma has so much to offer including the Point Loma/Cabrillo Tide Pools. Located at the tip of Point Loma, just south of scenic Sunset Cliffs National Park. A 68-acre resource based park stretching along the Pacific Ocean bordering the western edge of Point Loma. 

If you enjoy sportfishing Point Loma has the finest offshore fishing in San Diego! There is the popular five to six-hour local trips that typically run twice a day or twilight fishing that starts at 6:30 and runs until 10:30. Or enjoy a full day Coronado Islands trip! There are also mini 2-6 day trips and 7-11 day trips along Baja California. For a longer trip enjoy a 12-18 day trip! Something for everyone! For Reservations call: 619-223-1627 or check out Point Loma Sportfishing. 

Shelter Island is a neighborhood of Point Loma. This 1.2 mile Island contains one yacht club, the Silvergate Yacht Club. This resort like island offers “The Village”. More than 50,000 square feet of versatile meeting space with a total of 600 hotel rooms – all nicely appointed with the amenities and guest services your attendees will love. Sparkling pools, excellent restaurants, gift shops and fitness facilities. There are four hotels include the luxurious Kona Kai Resort Spa & Marina, Humphrey’s Half Moon Inn & Suites – renown for its famous Concerts by the Bay, the intimate Bay Club Hotel & Marina and the picturesque Island Palms Hotel & Marina.
 

From June through September, nationally known musicians and comedians perform at an outdoor concert venue on Shelter Island and is also a known spot for Fourth of July.

Restaurants in Point Loma and Shelter Island

Bali Hai Restaurant

Country Waffles

Fiddler's Green

Humphreys Restaurant

La Scala Italian Cuisine

Phil's BBQ

Point Break Cafe

Red Sails Inn

Solare Ristorante Lounge