With its 34 miles of scenic waterfront and an average summer temperature of 75 degrees, sparkling San Diego Bay is an ideal summer getaway. In addition to enjoying a variety of recreational activities on the water like sailing, kayaking and sportfishing, visitors to the "Big Bay" can choose from an entertaining mix of summer events, including San Diego's largest 4th of July fireworks display, mouthwatering food and wine/spirits fests, a sensational sandcastle contest and more.

The following are this summer's top fun-filled events that showcase San Diego's picturesque natural harbor.

Red, White and Blue

• On July 4, thousands of spectators converge on San Diego's bayfront beaches, parks and promenades to view the Port of San Diego Big Bay Boom, the largest Independence Day fireworks extravaganza in the country, set to music over San Diego Bay.

Pedal Power

• Visitors can enjoy a rare opportunity to bicycle over the San Diego-Coronado Bridge during the 8th Annual Bike the Bay on Aug. 23. This popular, non-competitive 25-mile ride along the Bayshore Bikeway loops around San Diego Bay, passing through the cities of San Diego, Coronado, Imperial Beach, Chula Vista and National City.

Ships Ahoy

• Visitors can enjoy a rare opportunity to bicycle over the San Diego-Coronado Bridge during the 8th Annual Bike the Bay on Aug. 23. This popular, non-competitive 25-mile ride along the Bayshore Bikeway loops around San Diego Bay, passing through the cities of San Diego, Coronado, Imperial Beach, Chula Vista and National City.

Wine and Dine

• The annual Farm to Bayfood and wine festival takes place on Aug. 8 at the Living Coast Discovery Center in Chula Vista, celebrating the flavors that make San Diego so unique. Sample dozens of San Diego's top local restaurants, wineries and craft breweries set against a beautiful backdrop of San Diego Bay. Guests can also enjoy live music and mingle with native wildlife.
• Bartenders and chefs shake things up on Aug. 22-23 at the San Diego Spirits Festival, located at the Port Pavilion on the Broadway Pier downtown. Guests can sample more than 60 high-profile liquor brands and over a dozen restaurants. can savor delicious offerings to soak up all your favorite libations!

Family Fun

• A free and fun family-friendly celebration, Chula Vista Haborfest takes over Bayside Park at the Chula Vista Marina on Aug. 22. Highlights include four performance stages with live entertainment, animal encounters courtesy of the Living Coast Discovery Center, historic seafaring vessels, boat rides, an exotic car show, art displays, a SeaWorld Aquatica Youth Zone, SeafoodFest and Baja Wine Garden and Craft Beer & Margarita Garden.

Sun and Sand

• On Sept. 4-7, guests can watch more than 300 tons of sand be carved into astounding castles and sculptures at the U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge and 3D Art Exposition, located on the B Street Pier downtown. This Labor Day weekend event also features live entertainment, food trucks, kids' activities including a sandy play area and art displays.