Beachfront Camping at its Best

Original Press Release issued by Sanaz Fakhimi, The ACE Agency

Experience Waterfront Adventure at Campland on the Bay and Mission Bay RV Resort Memorial Day Weekend

Featuring Family-Friendly Activities, Campland Rocks Live Entertainment Series, Newly Added Campsites & More

May 24-26, 2024

Campers enjoy watersports rentals on Mission Bay. Photo courtesy of Campland on the Bay.

San Diego, CA (April 25, 2024) – Campland on the Bay and Mission Bay RV Resort, the iconic resort campgrounds nestled in San Diego’s Mission Bay, are thrilled to announce the summer return of family-friendly activities and the Campland Rocks live entertainment series beginning Memorial Day weekend, May 24-26, 2024. The 147 newly added campsites atMission Bay RV Resort offer beachfront RV and tent accommodations on Mission Bay, along with resort-style amenities.

“With our two beautiful waterfront locations in Mission Bay, we offer unique experiences tailored to different kinds of camping preferences,” said Jacob Gelfand, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Terra Vista Management. “Campland provides vibrant and family-friendly entertainment, while Mission Bay RV Resort offers peaceful surroundings and spacious, new campsites. Camp overnight to enjoy all of our activities and amenities or just come for a day to enjoy the public beaches, the Campland Cantina and our watercraft rentals.” 

Pickleball players pose with Friendly the Wolf at Campland’s sports court. Photo courtesy of Campland on the Bay.

Pickleball players pose with Friendly the Wolf at Campland’s sports court. Photo courtesy of Campland on the Bay.

Campland Programming 

Guests can dive into the Campland Activities & Events calendar, offering a diverse range of entertaining activities for guests of all ages. Kids will love the arts and crafts sessions, bubble soccer, pickleball, dodgeball and ping pong tournaments, capture the flag and other games. Adults will enjoy bingo, bean bag and horseshoe tournaments. For those looking to relax and stay centered, Campland offers complimentary yoga classes held on the Central Park lawn every Monday and Thursday at 10:30 a.m. For the full calendar of events, visit Campland.com/activities-events.  

Campland Rocks Live Entertainment Series

The Campland Rocks live entertainment series returns this summer to the Central Park Stage every weekend at 7 p.m. through the end of September. Starting May 24, sway to smooth yacht rock tunes with Band Overboard. On May 25, enjoy country music by Branded, followed by electrifying rock music with Black Rock Candy on May 26. Bring your blankets and camping chairs to the Central Park Stage for exclusive performances under the stars, only for Campland and Mission Bay RV Resort guests. For more information, visit Campland.com/campland-rocks-schedule/.

Campland Cantina

Located just steps away from the Central Park Stage, the Campland Cantina offers delicious daily specials guaranteed to please the whole family, including pizza, tacos, burgers and fresh salads. Adult beverages including craft cocktails, beer and wine are also available. Every morning, guests can enjoy made-to-order breakfast burritos, pancakes and delicious breakfast sides. Dine on the patio while enjoying views of the bay or take your meal to-go. Then, after a day of fun in the sun, cool off with a trip to the Ice Cream Parlor and enjoy a variety of ice cream flavors, toppings, shakes and sundaes. 

Additionally, Campland Cantina’s happy hour promotion runs Monday-Friday from 4-6 p.m., featuring $2 off lite bites and $1 off cocktails, draft beers and wine. Indulge in Taco Tuesday through May 28 every Tuesday starting at 4 p.m. until sold out, where you can savor TJ Street Style Tacos with your choice of carne asada, pollo asada, carnitas or pescado frito, available at two for $7. 

Daytime Adventures at Campland Marina and VIP Amenities

Make the most of the premium bayfront location with watersports rentals at Campland Marina. Choose from pedal boats, kayaks and pontoon boats for a leisurely excursion, or opt for more thrilling experiences on ski boats, wave runners and stand-up paddleboards from Adventure Water Sports. For more information, visit campland.com/watercraft-rentals.

Guests can also explore the beauty of Mission Bay on two wheels with beach cruiser rentals from Campland Marina. Cruise along 12 miles of scenic trails on bikes, or navigate the parks in style with golf cart and surrey cart rentals. For more information, visit campland.com/bike-cart-rentals. Additional Campland amenities include a convenience market, coffee counter, fitness center, sports court, dog park, playground, game room, skate park, two heated pools and spas for ultimate relaxation. 

New campsites at Mission Bay RV Resort North. Photo courtesy of Mission Bay RV Resort. 

New campsites at Mission Bay RV Resort North. Photo courtesy of Mission Bay RV Resort

Discover the Serenity of Mission Bay RV Resort

For those seeking a tranquil and peaceful camping experience, Mission Bay RV Resort offers 147 spacious, new campsites nestled in the serene Northeast corner of De Anza Cove. With full hookups, restrooms and showers available, along with the newly renovated pool and clubhouse, guests can indulge in a relaxing camping getaway surrounded by stunning views of Mission Bay.

Positioned steps away from the sports court, which offers basketball and pickleball, as well as the pool and spa, these spacious sites are ideal for campers seeking the perfect balance of relaxation and recreation. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to the Mission Bay Public Golf Course and Practice Center just across the street. Additionally, all of Campland’s activities and amenities are accessible to guests at Mission Bay RV Resort, just a short stroll or bike ride away over the Mike Gotch Memorial Bridge. 

For guests who are new to camping or do not own an RV, Campland and Mission Bay RV Resort have a directory of local RV rental companies listed on their websites that will deliver an RV to your site, hooked up and ready to enjoy. RV arrangements must be made directly through the rental companies. Tent camping is also available at Campland and Mission Bay RV Resort. To book a reservation or to learn more about resort amenities, please visit Campland.com and MissionBayRVResort.com.

Campland on the Bay®, San Diego’s favorite resort campground, offers affordable waterfront RV and tent camping along the shores of Mission Bay in San Diego. Campland has repeatedly been voted Best Staycation Location by San Diego Union-Tribune readers. For over 50 years, Campland has provided family-friendly fun, drawing campers back year after year and bringing generations together to create memorable experiences. The resort offers a wide range of amenities, activities and recreational opportunities onsite, including watersports, skateboard park, and a cantina, just steps away from a scenic public beach. Campsite offerings include full hook-ups with beachfront or nature preserve views in shady or sunny areas.

Web: www.Campland.com

Phone: (858) 581-4260

Address: 2211 Pacific Beach Dr, San Diego, CA 92109

Facebook: facebook.com/Campland

Instagram & Twitter: @CamplandUSA

Mission Bay RV Resort™, San Diego’s iconic RV campground provides an affordable waterfront destination, the ideal basecamp to relax and explore the beautiful city.

Overlooking the tranquil shores of De Anza Cove, scenic RV sites are steps from the sandy, public beach and calm, waveless waters. Mission Bay RV Resort offers showers, restrooms, laundry facilities, full hook-ups and a newly renovated pool and clubhouse with complimentary access to additional resort amenities and activities at nearby sister property, Campland on the Bay. Mission Bay RV Resort recently unveiled 147 new premium-sized campsites on the northern end of De Anza Cove. 

Web: www.MissionBayRVResort.com

Phone: (858) 270-4300

Address: 2727 De Anza Rd, San Diego, CA 92109

Facebook: facebook.com/MissionBayRVResort

Instagram: @MissionBayRVResort

Inclusive, Equipment-Free Hotel Room Workouts

This article originated from: Split Second Foundation

When you’re on vacation, the last thing you probably want to think about is hitting the gym. But keeping up your exercise routine doesn’t have to be a hassle, especially if you are living with a disability or medical condition. There are simple ways to get a good workout in without leaving your hotel room and without the use of equipment. 

Split Second Foundation, a non-profit that provides resources, including inclusive gyms for the disabled and geriatric communities, shares inclusive health and wellness tips to keep in mind on vacations as well as a few exercises that can be done in a hotel room without equipment.   

Set feasible goals. One of the biggest challenges of trying to stay on track with your fitness routine while traveling is deciding when and where you’ll work out as well as what exercises to do. But don’t put too much pressure on yourself, it is vacation after all, and don’t forget to factor in the walking tours, hikes, beach excursions and other physical activities you are doing during your vacation. These activities also count towards your 30-60 minutes of physical activity a day.

Don’t forget to stretch. Stretching is important for decreasing muscles stiffness and increasing range of motion whether you are working out or not. Additional benefits to stretching include reducing stress, reducing risk for injury, and decreasing pain in some circumstances.

You don’t need machines or equipment. One of the biggest misconceptions about working out is that you need to have access to a ton of equipment or space. You don’t need a special area or the ability to get into certain positions to exercise. You can find exercise that can be performed sitting, standing, or lying down to fit your needs and/or space.

Your smartphone really is smart. The internet really is a treasure trove for health and fitness goodies. Search YouTube and other platforms for exercise videos or just moves that you can do with your limited space and time while on vacation.

Recommended Exercises:

  1. Sit Ups or Crunches. Position yourself lying down on your back in the hotel bed. Place your arms at your side, across the chest, or behind your depending on the level of difficulty you desire. Gently lift your shoulder blades off the bed and slowly lower them back down to the bed in a controlled manner. When you lift your shoulders, your abdominal muscles are engaged. Repeat for sets of 10. To complete sit ups, raise your entire torso off the bed and slowly lower yourself back down to the bed in a controlled manner.  Five sets of 10-15 repetitions are recommended taking 30 second breaks between each set.

Crunches and sit ups are important for strengthening the core musculature. A strong core is important for improving balance and stability.

  • Ankle Pumps. This exercise can be performed lying down, sitting in a chair, or standing up. If you don’t have the ability to move your feet on your own, you can get help from a partner or use a strap positioned around the ball of your feet.

To perform ankle pumps sitting or lying down: point your toes down towards the ground as if pressing on a gas pedal then lift your toes in the opposite direction up towards your body. Repeat 25 times. Three sets of 25 repetitions is recommended. Take 30 second breaks between each set to allow muscles to rest. 

To perform ankle pumps standing: position yourself next to a sturdy surface to help with balancing, lift your heels off the ground so that you are standing on your toes. Then slowly lower your heels back to the ground. Three sets of 25 repetitions is recommended taking 30 seconds rest breaks between each set.  

  • Torso Push Ups. This exercise should be done sitting up in a chair either with legs bent or seated on a firm surface with your legs extended.

If you can use your hands, place them on the armrests of your chair or on the surface where your body is positioned and push directly down, extending your elbows and pressing your shoulders down towards the floor. Your torso may rise from your seat. Slowly lower your torso and relax your arms. Repeat 10 times. Three sets of 10 repetitions is recommended.

If you cannot use your hands, position yourself in a chair with armrests. Place your forearms on the armrests, then push down through your elbows and depress your shoulders down towards the floor. Your torso may or may not raise from your seat. Slowly lower your shoulders and/or torso and relax your arms. Repeat 10 times. Three sets of 10 repetition is recommended.

  • Prone Press Ups. An alternative to this chair push-up is called a prone press up. To do such, position yourself lying on your stomach with your hands in the direction of your head. Your elbows should be bent and positioned on either side of your torso. Push down through your elbows and depress your shoulders down towards the floor. Lift your head and shoulders away from the surface you are laying on. Slowly lower your shoulders and/or torso and relax your arms. Three sets of 10 repetitions is recommended, taking 30 second breaks between each set to allow the muscles to rest.

About Split Second Foundation

20.6 million Americans live with some form of ambulatory disability, requiring a mobility device. Many of these people face an isolated world with few social interactions, health complications, a higher risk of suicide, a shorter life expectancy and few places to turn to for assistance. Split Second Foundation, a Louisiana-based non-profit 501(c)(3), helps provide support, recovery tools and tactics, ongoing fitness exercise, education, and answers to people living with a disability or medical condition.

Fourteen Instagram-Worthy Hawaiian Beaches

Sun, Sand, And Selfies: This Is The Definitive List Of Hawaii’s Most Instagrammable Beaches

Sunset over Hawaiian Beach. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

This story originated from Hawaiian Wedding Photography.

Do you want to be surrounded by crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and warm, tropical climates while relaxing on your vacation? If so, Hawaii should be at the top of your list.

Kris Labang, the owner of Hawaii Wedding Photography, discusses Instagram’s most popular Hawaiian beaches, and why you should choose them for your vacation or wedding. 

RankNumber of HashtagsBeach NameIsland
1218,430Lanikai BeachO’ahu
2206,995Hanauma BayO’ahu
3161,448Kailua BeachO’ahu
484,422Hanalei BayKaua’i
576,845Ka’anapali BeachMaui
653,822Po’ipu BeachKaua’i
734,642Hapuna BeachBig Island
830,307Makena BeachMaui
921,727Ko Olina BeachO’ahu
1020,040Tunnels Beach Kaua’i
1117,236Ho’okipa BeachMaui
1216,421‘Anini BeachKaua’i
1310,308Punalu’u BeachBig Island
147,131Kawela BayO’ahu 

Lanikai Beach

Lanikai has been described as the most beautiful beach on O’ahu. It’s only forty-five minutes from Honolulu, and ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking. Kris says, ‘In fact, it’s so beautiful that superstar Rihanna often comes here on vacation, staying at the Paul Mitchell Estate.’

If you get married here, Kris suggests spreading some rose petals on the beach beforehand. However, parking is limited, and the local amenities are sparse. Also, you’ll need to purchase a beach permit for your wedding beforehand.

Aerial view of Lanikai Beach. Photo via Shutterstock.

Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay was shaped by volcanic forces millions of years ago, but it’s now a peaceful marine sanctuary. If you arrive between December and April, you may catch a glimpse of humpback whales in the bay, which is a center for conservation and a goldmine for keen photographers.

Kris advises, ‘Wedding planners should encourage attendees to watch the sunrise before – or perhaps during – the festivities. There are also plenty of scenic walks where you could take pictures as a newly married couple!’ 

Hanauma Beach. Photo: Shutterstock

Kailua Beach

Barack Obama grew up in Honolulu but rented a beach house here during his presidency. Superstar couple Beyonce and Jay-Z also own a local private estate here.

Some great places to get married include the Male’ana Gardens and Ko’olau Ballrooms and Conference Center. There are a wealth of venues to choose from around Kailua Beach, which shows just how great this destination is for weddings. 

Kailua Beach. Photo via Shutterstock

Hanalei Bay

Kris says, ‘People who love food, mai tais, and live music will enjoy the Tahiti Nui restaurant and bar. If you watched the movie ‘The Descendants’ you’ll have seen George Clooney in this very bar!’ 

At Hanalei Bay, vacationers and wedding visitors can explore and swim, or join the kayakers, stand-up paddle boarders, and boaters. Put safety first, however, and only venture out when the waters are calm. 

Kris says, ‘Dwayne Johnson and Lauren Hashian got married in Hawaii, and so did Miles Teller and Keleigh Sperry. Whether you follow suit or simply come for a vacation, you’ll understand why Instagrammers so love these beaches.’

Hanalei Bay. Photo: Shutterstock

ENDS

About Hawaii Wedding Photography

With over 20 years of experience shooting weddings in Hawaii, Kris knows how to get that perfect shot every time for his clients. Based in Honolulu, Hawaii, Kris captures the couple’s most special moments on the beautiful Hawaiian Islands.

Kris Labang is the company owner of Hawaii Wedding Photography. 

The Methodology

Several travel websites (including The Lonely Planet) were consulted to find notable beaches in Hawaii. They were then searched for on Instagram to find the hashtags associated with each beach. Their number of hashtags was recorded and then ranked in a table for easy reference. 

Making a Splash at Myrtle Beach

Recently, I was fortunate enough to visit Myrtle Beach, South Carolina and we had a blast. We spent hours at Broadway on the Beach. First up was a trip through Ripley’s Aquarium. The new penguin exhibit was the first stop, and it turned out to be the highlight of the aquarium. I had no idea they could swim underwater as quickly as they did. They all had name tags and apparently know their names. The people beside us called one of the penguins by name, and he charged at the glass in front of them.

The viewing tunnel was amazing. The sharks were so close you could count their teeth.

Far less scary were all the colorful fish darting about the tank and the sea turtle who was just taking his time moving around.

After the aquarium, we were off to WonderWorks. We played with bubbles, tried our hand at trivia, and tried out the tornado simulator. We also enjoyed their 6D motion ride. A little shopping completed our time at Broadway on the Beach.

Our hotel was perfectly located on Ocean Boulevard at the Pavilion. The ocean beckoned from the balcony and out the front door of the hotel was a street lined with shopping, food and attractions, all within walking distance. We walked up and down Ocean Boulevard, stopping at several souvenir shops. We went to Ripley’s Believe it or Not Odditorium, where there was no shortage of creepy exhibits. Next up was the Sky Wheel; the views from the top were amazing.

It was too cold to get in the water, but we did go down to the beach and walked in the sand. It was great to listen to the waves crash from the balcony.

All in all, it was a fun trip, and I am glad I got to see Myrtle Beach for myself.

Tracking down history, one dirt road at a time

I enjoy discovering new places and seeing new things, whether across the country or in my own ‘back yard’.  Recently, I set out to find some historic churches in my area.  After mapping out some locations, my journey began.

I had to travel down dirt/sand roads, but the churches were worth the effort.

I found the Chapel at Burnt Fort in Camden County, where I live.  It was restored several years ago.

Burnt Fort Two

 

 

Several miles away, in Brantley County, Georgia, I got to see two Primitive churches:

 

Pilgrims’ Rest Baptist

Pilgrim's Rest

 

and High Bluff Baptist

high bluff

For the full article about my journey, check it out here.

Travel Back in Time in Coastal Georgia

Located in southeast Georgia, sleepy St Marys is best known for their waterfront and being the ‘gateway’ to Cumberland Island.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

However, this picturesque Navy town has a gorgeous Historic District as well.  Nestled on palm-tree lined Conyers Street are two historic churches.

conyers st

St Marys Methodist Church was established around 1799, making it St Marys oldest congregation.  John Garvin was the church’s first pastor; however, missionary George Clark shared the gospel with residents starting in 1792.  The present building, which has been renovated several times, was built before the Civil War.  During the war, the building was utilized by northern troops as a Quartermaster’s Department.  The church was given a deed to the land in 1878.  Since it was founded, over 105 pastors have led services at this historic church; Roy White is the current pastor.

methodist church st marys

 

Located a block away from the Methodist Church is the stunning First Presbyterian Church.  Build in 1808, it served as a meeting place for those in St Marys and the surrounding area.  In 1822, Horace Southworth Pratt  became the church’s first ordained pastor.  In 1828, the church was known as the Independent Methodist Church, but it was changed to the current name in 1832.  The church is currently headed by Pastor Rick Douylliez.

1st Presbyterian Church St Marys

Both churches still have services every week, and welcome visitors.  If you’re ever in my coastal town, be sure and check out the churches and the other beautiful buildings in the Historic District.

 

 

History restored in Burnt Fort

Just off a lazy two lane road, at the end of an unpaved sandy path, you’ll find a tucked-away treasure.

Burnt Fort Two

The Chapel at Burnt Fort, Georgia, was originally built in the late 1800s.  It was used until the mid 1940s, when low attendance forced the doors closed.  The building collapsed in the 1960s, but a decade later,  local residents (including some descendants of the original settlers of the area) restored the church to its former glory.  The property also houses the only one-room school house left in Camden County, Georgia

Burnt Fort

There is also a cemetery, with marked graves dating back to the 1850s, and numerous unmarked graves as well.

burnt fort threeThis beautiful chapel is definitely off the beaten path, but completely worth the drive.  I love visiting new places and finding unexpected surprises, so it was a great day.  If you’re ever in beautiful southeast Georgia, be sure to see it for yourself.  You won’t be disappointed.

 

 

Amelia Island Florida

As much as I love long road trips, it’s also fun visiting attractions “in my own backyard”.  We recently enjoyed a day trip to Fort Clinch on Florida’s Amelia Island.  This quiet state park is located just north of Jacksonville, and we had a blast discovering all this park had to offer.

There are plenty of scenic turnouts and miles of trails to explore.  We stopped and walked down a short path that looked out over a marsh and provided a great view of the lighthouse.

Fort Clinch 2 (1)

 

After a short walk down a boardwalk, we enjoyed a relaxing time at the beach; there is nothing more calming than sea breeze and crashing waves.  The beach is great for swimming, surfing, shelling and shark-tooth collecting.

 

 

Fort Clinch 3

Of course, the crown jewel of Fort Clinch State Park is the Fort itself, which can be accessed through the visitor center.

 

fort clinch 1

 

There are numerous buildings to explore, and someone is on site every day to answer any questions you may have. If you are ever in northeast Florida, be sure and check out the fort.  You won’t regret it.

All photos are mine except the one of the fort, which is courtesy of http://www.floridastateparks.org/fortclinch

 

Georgia Paradise

I spent some time on St Simons Island, Georgia today.  I love “the island” and plan to return again soon.  In addition to numerous shops and restaurants, there is beautiful ocean-front park featuring a lighthouse.

st simons 6

There are several miles of shoreline, including both rocky and sandy beaches.

st simons 4

There are so many ways to create a perfect day on the island:  bicycling, strolling along the sidewalks enjoying the shopping and dining options, fishing off the pier, or just relaxing on a bench taking in the sights and sounds of the ocean.

st simons 1

St Simons Island is a peaceful oasis offering something for everyone.