Is the Shelter Island boat launch free?

Yes. The Port of San Diego states there is no cost to launch a boat at its ramps. Paid parking meters apply in some Port lots from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., so check posted signs.

How far is the ramp from the ocean?

About 3 miles, which is the closest bay launch to the Pacific.

Are there restrooms and parking?

Yes, restrooms and a large parking lot are available at the ramp.

Where can I buy bait?

Everingham Brothers Bait Barge is on the right side of the channel as you leave the harbor and sells anchovies and sardines 24 hours a day.

Where can I get fuel after launching?

Pearson Marine Services (2435 Shelter Island Dr) and High Seas Fuel Dock (2540 Shelter Island Dr) are close by.

Do I need a Boater Card?

Yes. The California Boater Card is required for all operators of motorized vessels, regardless of age, since January 1, 2025.

Shelter Island Boat Launch Ramp San Diego: Hours, Parking & Tips

Overview

The Shelter Island Boat Launching Ramp is a several-acre public facility at the northwestern end of San Diego Bay, operated and maintained by the Port of San Diego. It is the closest bay ramp to the Pacific, about 3 miles from the ocean. The ramp is at 2210 Shelter Island Drive in Shelter Island Shoreline Park.

Why boaters use it

The Port says there is no cost to launch a boat at its ramps. A large parking lot and restrooms are immediately available. From the ramp you can be on the open ocean in about 3 miles, and it is a common starting point for bay and offshore trips. An Everingham Brothers bait barge on the right side of the channel as you leave the harbor sells anchovies and sardines 24 hours a day.

Before you go

The ramp is popular and the trailer lot can fill on weekends and holidays, so arrive early. Keep trailers hitched to the tow vehicle and prepare the boat in the staging area rather than on the ramp. The ramp is in a 5 mph basin, and you leave through the Shelter Island Yacht Basin entrance past the range markers where traffic is heavy.

Getting there & access

Getting there

The ramp is part of Shelter Island Shoreline Park, which is open 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Paid Port parking applies at meters from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, excluding holidays.

Parking and trailers

A large lot serves the ramp. Keep your trailer attached to your vehicle and park only in marked spaces. Weekends and holidays are the busiest times.

Heading out

From the ramp, run through the Shelter Island Yacht Basin entrance at 5 mph, then past Ballast Point and Point Loma. Watch for crosscurrents at Ballast Point and stay clear of Navy vessels and security zones.

Bait and fuel

The bait barge is on the right side of the channel as you leave. Fuel docks are on Shelter Island Drive at 2435 and 2540.

Amenities

Restrooms — On site
Large parking lot — Immediately available
Bait barge — Everingham Brothers, anchovies and sardines, 24 hours
Fishing pier — At Shelter Island Shoreline Park
Pump-out — Free 24-hour public pump-out at the Harbor Police dock, 1401 Shelter Island Dr
Fuel nearby — Pearson Marine Services and High Seas Fuel Dock