Port of San Diego Declares July 2026 as Parks and Recreation Month

The Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners has proclaimed July 2026 as Parks and Recreation Month. The Port of San Diego joins many communities across the country and the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) in celebrating the vital role parks, recreation, and public spaces play in strengthening communities, enhancing quality of life, and improving public health.

The Port manages public access to 23 parks across its five member cities - Chula Vista, Coronado, Imperial Beach, National City, and San Diego. Port parks provide access to the San Diego Bay waterfront by offering welcoming spaces for recreation, relaxation and community gatherings. In addition to maintaining these public spaces, the Port also provides and maintains public boat launches, fishing piers, venue facilities, and over 70+ public artworks as part of its Tidelands Art Collection. These amenities bring art, history, and culture to the waterfront experience.

"At the Port of San Diego, we are committed to providing more coastal access to all, and what better way to do that than to celebrate and enhance our 23 incredible Port parks along the waterfront", said Chair Ann Moore, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. "Whether it's beautiful public art, exciting community events, or fun recreational opportunities, our parks help connect people to San Diego Bay and to one another. As we celebrate

Parks and Recreation Month, let us recognize the incredible work of our dedicated Parks and Recreation and Field Operations teams who manage our parks for all visitors and residents to enjoy."

Each year, the Port issues hundreds of park use permits and partners with community organizations to host free public events and regional celebrations through initiatives such as the Tidelands Activation Program. These events activate waterfront parks, create memorable experiences for residents and visitors, and support the Port's commitment to providing vibrant, accessible public spaces for all. The Port is also a major sponsor of regional events such as the Big Bay Boom and the Holiday Bowl Parade.

The Port continues to invest in its parks to improve community access and enhance the waterfront experience. Since opening Sweetwater Park on the Chula Vista Bayfront in 2025, the Port has continued advancing park improvements, including a newly enhanced Pepper Park in National City, ongoing improvements at the Port's park in Barrio Logan, a groundbreaking for a new playground and splash pad in Harbor Park in Chula Vista, and a groundbreaking for a new splash pad in Imperial Beach. The Port is also partnering with the USS Midway Museum to transform Navy Pier into Freedom Park.

Celebrated nationally for more than 40 years,

Parks and Recreation Month recognizes the essential role parks and recreation professionals play in creating healthy, resilient, and connected communities. Throughout July, the Port encourages residents and visitors to explore the waterfront, attend community events, discover public art, and enjoy the many recreational opportunities available along San Diego Bay.