Gray Whale Migration
Gray whale migration off San Diego County's coast peaks from now until February. The best view spots from land are high points close to the surf. Aside from the whale watching overlook at Cabrillo National Monument, try Sunset Cliffs, the …
Cross-Country Skiing, Christmas Berry, and Tree Aloes
Cross-Country Skiers are in for a short-lived treat late this month through February. As the clouds are clearing, you may be able to take advantage of good skiing conditions along Highway 79 through Cuyamaca Rancho State Park and along Sunrise …
Shorebird-Watching
Shorebird-Watching enters its most agreeable season this month and next, with migrant and resident birds sharing common winter grounds. Egrets, herons, terns, and a variety of other species provide endless entertainment as they go about the business of fishing and …
Total Lunar Eclipse Tonight
The Total Lunar Eclipse of December 20-21 is the first such event visible from North America in nearly the past three years. As during all eclipses of the moon, the moon will be at full phase. This eclipse event involves …
Moon of Long Nights, High and Low Tides
Extreme High and Low Tides are set to occur on a string of days next week, during a period that coincides with both the moon reaching full phase and Earth reaching the winter-solstice position in its orbit. These two factors …
Eyes on the Sky: Jupiter and the Geminid Meteor Shower
Jupiter, the "king" of the planets, appears high in the southern sky after sunset. Note its creamy yellow-white color and unblinking brightness. Aim a small telescope at Jupiter anytime during the next few weeks to see the cloud-belt-banded planet flanked …
Sunrise, Sunset, Ripening Palm Fruit
Spectacular Sunsets and Sunrises are characteristic of late fall and early winter's dry spells. You can drive up to Soledad Park atop Mount Soledad in La Jolla or Mount Helix near La Mesa for an all encompassing view. Or try …
Earliest Sunset of the Year
Earliest Sunset. (4:43 p.m. from San Diego) occurs Monday, December 6, a date that is not coincident with the shortest day (winter solstice — December 21) because of factors relating to the noncircular shape of Earth's orbit around the sun …
Sweet Gums
Liquidambar Trees, or sweet gums, the colorfully deciduous trees gracing front yards, parks, and campuses throughout the San Diego area, have been putting on a good show for the past month. The maplelike leaves of some varieties have turned from …
Venus, Tides, and December Hikes
The Planet Venus blazes like a beacon high in the eastern sky during the early stages of morning twilight in late November through December. On very clear mornings, Venus can even be spotted with the naked eye following sunrise, assuming …