Touring * Fitness * Beginner * Artistic *

In San Diego, take Interstate 5 and follow the signs to Interstate 8 west. Exit immediately onto Ingraham Street and drive across the channel to Vacation Island. Parking lots are available on both sides of Ingraham where it passes through the island. Bike paths connect the two sides on the south end of the island via underpasses under Ingraham. Map: The San Diego County Bike Map is available free by calling (619) 231-2453.

Wide sidewalks, a grove of palm trees, fine views across the bay, and lots of picnic facilities--these are just some of the charms of Vacation Island. Best of all for beginning skaters, the location is far enough away from the crowded Mission Beach scene that sidewalk traffic is about 80 percent lower. That makes Vacation Island a safe and appealing place for novices to get a feel for their wheels on their maiden voyages. Ten-foot-wide pink concrete sidewalks encircle Vacation Island and wind through the park on both sides of Ingraham Street. Throughout, the pavement is bordered by a soft cushion of thick lawn. Some very gentle slopes and curves near the man-made pond on the west side will challenge beginners, who will appreciate having the lawn nearby in case they need to make emergency stops. More advanced skaters might want to come to Vacation Island for a laid-back roll or to skate laps around it for a nonimpact aerobic workout. In the summertime, cool breezes off the bay will keep even the most devoted fitness nut cool.