
Now that summer is here, it’s the perfect time to get out your bike and go for a ride. Downtown is a great place to ride because it’s scenic and easy to get around. If you’re looking for a cool adventure with no steep hills, try this favorite three-island spin: • The bike lane that runs along part of Seaport Village and the Embarcadero is not only a relaxing ride, you’ll see some exciting points of interest along the way such as the USS Midway aircraft carrier, the Star of India and the Urban Trees Public art project, which changes every year. Island Prime-C Level Lounge on Harbor Island is a good place to take a lunch break and take in the view of the bay and city skyline. The waterfront bar at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina is another pretty spot to grab lunch. If you ride all the way to the end of Harbor Island, lock up the bikes and visit Tom Ham’s Lighthouse. The nautical themed rooms look like something out of a pirate movie. • Shelter Island is an easy 45- to 60-minute bike ride from downtown. Known for its A-frame buildings and superb views of the city and bay, Shelter Island is a delightful place to explore on two wheels. While riding along Harbor Drive, pass the San Diego International Airport and go toward the Point Loma signs. Turn left on Scott Street and look for Point Loma Seafoods, Humphreys and the recently-renovated Bali Hai Restaurant. If you time it just right, Humphreys has live music on Saturdays during happy hour. The nearby NTC Promenade and Liberty Station are also worth checking out. There are plenty of art galleries and unique shops. Our favorite is Jean Isaacs San Diego Dance Theater which features an impressive dance photo gallery. • Load your bike on the ferry and take a fun 9-minute boat ride across the bay to Coronado. The view of downtown San Diego from Coronado is a whole different perspective and a great a photo opportunity. For more ideas on cool bike routes, visit www.ridelink.org New routes on the horizon? The city of San Diego is considering a number of proposed bicycle projects that would add more bike lanes and bike routes in the 92101 ZIP Code. The projects are in the early planning stages. Some of the proposed facility types include Broadway from Park Boulevard to 19th Street; Ash Street from North Harbor Drive to Eighth Avenue; and State Street from Columbia to Market. Sam Corbett of Alta Planning & Design is the project manager working with the city. Corbett believes the advantages of creating a bike-friendly community are endless. “Not only is bicycling affordable, it’s a healthy form of transportation,” he said. “It’s good for the mind and body not to mention great for the environment.” Local business owner Ramtin Dehkhoda, founder of Eco-bike, agrees. “San Diegans are progressive when it comes to the environment and healthy lifestyle habits,” he said. “This is the type of city that would embrace having more bike routes.”