GPS Talking Tour Cars: Point Loma & Beaches Loop

Exploring the picturesque landscapes of San Diego’s Point Loma and its stunning coastal beaches has never been easier, thanks to the GPS Talking Tour Cars experience. Hop into these two-seater vehicles equipped with GPS guidance and an informative audio tour, and embark on a journey that winds through historic neighborhoods, crosses the serene Shelter Island, and leads you towards the breathtaking vistas of the Point Loma peninsula. From the serene Fort Rosecrans Cemetery to the iconic Cabrillo National Monument, this tour promises to reveal the rich history and natural wonders that make this region a true gem. But the real treat lies in store as you approach the mesmerizing Sunset Cliffs and Ocean Beach.

Key Points

• The GPS Talking Tour Cars experience starts in Old Town San Diego, providing a driver orientation and safety briefing before setting off on the 3-hour journey.
• The tour winds through historic neighborhoods, crosses Shelter Island, and offers panoramic views of San Diego Bay, the harbor, and the Point Loma peninsula.
• The tour passes by Naval Base Point Loma, the Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, the Cabrillo National Monument, and the Old Point Loma Lighthouse.
• Visitors can explore the tide pools, hike the Bayside Trail, and enjoy the panoramic vistas from the Cabrillo National Monument and the Old Point Loma Lighthouse.
• The tour culminates at the stunning Sunset Cliffs and the Ocean Beach area, providing a scenic conclusion to the GPS Talking Tour Cars experience.

Starting Location and Orientation

Participants kick off the GPS Talking Tour Cars experience at Drivewize LLC in Old Town San Diego, where they’ll receive a driver orientation and safety briefing before setting off on their 3-hour journey.

The team at Drivewize provides a thorough introduction to the GoCar, a two-seater vehicle equipped with a GPS system and pre-recorded audio guide. Riders learn how to operate the vehicle and navigate the streets safely.

Once they’re comfortable, the tour guides send them on their way, equipped with helmets and a full tank of gas.

From this starting point, the tour winds through the historic neighborhoods of Old Town and toward the stunning natural beauty of the Point Loma peninsula.

Shelter Island and San Diego Bay

As the GoCar winds its way out of Old Town, it first crosses over the sweeping expanse of Shelter Island, offering riders a panoramic vista of San Diego Bay and the bustling harbor beyond.

This man-made peninsula, once a marshy mud flat, has been transformed into a popular recreation area, home to marinas, yacht clubs, and scenic parks.

Riders can take in the views of the bay’s sparkling waters, ferry terminals, and the iconic Coronado Bridge in the distance.

The tour then continues along the coastline, providing a glimpse of the city’s naval presence, with the towering cranes and ships of the commercial port visible in the background.

Point Loma and Naval Base

The GoCar soon leaves the coastal views of Shelter Island and the naval presence in the distance, turning towards the iconic Point Loma peninsula. This narrow stretch of land juts out into the Pacific Ocean, home to a significant U.S. Navy installation and several historical and natural landmarks.

As the tour continues, the vehicle passes by the gates of Naval Base Point Loma, a key strategic military location. Visitors can then explore:

1. The Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, where thousands of military members and their families are laid to rest.

2. The Cabrillo National Monument, commemorating the first European expedition to set foot on the West Coast.

3. The tide pools, home to a diverse array of marine life.

4. The Old Point Loma Lighthouse, offering panoramic vistas of San Diego and the Pacific.

Fort Rosecrans Cemetery and Monuments

Nestled along the rugged cliffs of Point Loma, Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery stands as a solemn tribute to those who’ve served their country. Its manicured grounds and rows of pristine white headstones create a serene and reverential atmosphere, offering visitors a chance to reflect on the sacrifices made by the nation’s military members.

Among the cemetery’s many monuments is the Cabrillo Memorial, honoring the Spanish explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, who was the first European to set foot on the West Coast in 1542.

Nearby, the Fort Rosecrans Lighthouse, decommissioned in 1891, now serves as a museum and popular photographic subject, providing panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean and San Diego skyline.

Cabrillo National Monument and Tide Pools

Continuing along the scenic Point Loma peninsula, visitors arrive at the Cabrillo National Monument – a tribute to the Spanish explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, who was the first European to set foot on the West Coast in 1542.

This national park offers sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the San Diego skyline, as well as the opportunity to explore the diverse tide pool ecosystems that cling to the rocky shores below.

Visitors can:

1. View the iconic Old Point Loma Lighthouse, which stands as a symbol of San Diego’s maritime history.
2. Discover a variety of marine life, including sea anemones, crabs, and starfish, in the park’s well-preserved tide pools.
3. Hike the Bayside Trail, which provides stunning panoramic views of the San Diego Bay.
4. Visit the Visitor Center to learn more about the park’s rich history and natural wonders.

Old Point Loma Lighthouse

A short drive from the tide pools brings visitors to the historic Old Point Loma Lighthouse, a beloved landmark that has guided mariners along the California coast for over a century.

Built in 1855, the lighthouse stands 400 feet above sea level, offering sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and the San Diego skyline.

Visitors can tour the lighthouse keeper’s quarters and climb the 78 steps to the top of the tower, where they’ll find the original Fresnel lens that once illuminated the night.

The lighthouse offers a glimpse into San Diego’s maritime history and provides a peaceful respite from the bustling beaches below.

Point Loma Ecological Reserve

From the Old Point Loma Lighthouse, visitors can explore the Point Loma Ecological Reserve, a protected natural area that offers a glimpse into the diverse ecosystems of the San Diego coastline.

Spanning over 700 acres, the reserve features a variety of habitats, including coastal sage scrub, maritime succulent scrub, and even a small section of native grassland. Visitors can wander along well-marked trails, keeping an eye out for the reserve’s abundant wildlife, which includes over 300 species of plants, numerous birds, and even the occasional coyote or bobcat.

The reserve offers four main attractions:

1. Coastal Sage Scrub Trail
2. Bayside Trail
3. Sunset Cliffs Overlook
4. Coastal Meadows

Sunset Cliffs and Ocean Beach

After exploring the diverse ecosystems of the Point Loma Ecological Reserve, the GPS Talking Tour Cars next take visitors to the stunning Sunset Cliffs and the vibrant Ocean Beach neighborhood.

Stretching along the western edge of the Point Loma peninsula, the Sunset Cliffs offer breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the dramatic, sculpted sandstone cliffs that give the area its name. Visitors can stroll along the clifftops, taking in the panoramic vistas and watching the crashing waves below.

The tour then continues on to Ocean Beach, a lively coastal community known for its laid-back surf culture, eclectic shops, and lively boardwalk. Here, participants can soak up the sun, people-watch, and enjoy the unique character of this quintessential California beach town.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own GPS Device or Audio Guide?

No, customers aren’t allowed to bring their own GPS devices or audio guides on this tour. The tour package includes a GPS system and pre-recorded audio guide that’s tailored to the route, so participants must use the provided equipment.

What Happens if I Return the Vehicle Late?

If a customer returns the vehicle late, they’ll typically be charged an additional hourly rate. Late returns can disrupt the schedule, so it’s important to be mindful of the rental period and return the vehicle on time to avoid extra fees.

Is There a Surcharge for Additional Drivers?

There’s typically no surcharge for additional drivers on a rental vehicle, but the rental company may require all drivers to be listed on the rental agreement and meet their eligibility criteria, such as being at least 21 years old.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

You can typically extend the tour duration if needed, though there may be additional fees. The tour company can provide more details on options and pricing for extending the experience. It’s best to check with them directly.

Are There Any Discounts or Promotions Available?

The tour provider may offer discounts or promotions from time to time, such as early booking discounts or package deals. Customers should check the company’s website or contact them directly to inquire about any current special offers.

Recap

The GPS Talking Tour Cars experience concludes at the stunning Sunset Cliffs and Ocean Beach, providing a breathtaking finale to the journey.

Visitors can soak in the panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and explore the natural beauty of the Sunset Cliffs and the lively Ocean Beach community.

It’s a perfect way to cap off an informative and enjoyable tour of the Point Loma peninsula.