Sun-drenched Solana Beach greets you. Feel the warmth of the California sun on your skin. Smell the salty air. This isn’t just any beach town. Solana Beach boasts a rich history. It began long before Europeans arrived. The San Dieguitos and later the Kumeyaay thrived here. They called this place Kulaumai. They lived near the San Elijo Lagoon. Imagine their lives. Picture their village.
Then came the George H Jones family in 1886. They were the first European settlers. For years the area was known as Lockwood Mesa. But everything changed with the Lake Hodges Dam. Built between 1917 and 1918 the dam spurred development. The Santa Fe Irrigation District added to the growth. Solana Beach flourished. It became a destination.
In 1922 Colonel Ed Fletcher and his brother-in-law Eugene Batchelder saw potential. They bought land from George Jones. They created the town of Solana Beach. To build beach access Fletcher used a firehose. It was connected to Lake Hodges Dam’s spillway. The water pressure eroded tons of earth. Fletcher Cove opened on July 4 1925 with horse races.
Solana Beach grew slowly but surely. It boomed after World War II and again later. In 1986 it became a city. That same year it hosted Desi Arnaz’s funeral. It was held at St James Roman Catholic Church. The city made headlines in 2003. It became the first city in the continental US to ban smoking on its public beaches. Tragedy struck in 2008. A great white shark attack killed Dr David Martin. The increase in seal population was a contributing factor.
Today Solana Beach is a thriving community. It blends history and modernity. It has the Cedros Design District. The district houses many art galleries boutiques and cafes. There’s also a farmers market and the Belly Up live music venue. The city also hosts Fiesta Del Sol and Concerts at the Cove. This special place has something for everyone. From its history to its natural beauty. Solana Beach continues to thrive. Enjoy your time here.