MARINE CORPS RECRUIT DEPOT SAN DIEGO -- It is a bright sunny day on Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego and the heat is beating down on the Marines, depot personnel and civilians.
Even though the temperature is rising, there are plenty of ways to cool down and still enjoy the season both on and off the depot.
The recreational center has an internet café, small arcade, bowling alley, a bar and grill, theater, three high-definition televisions and a party area.
“There are lots of things to do at the recreational center like watching television with some food and drinks,” said Pfc. Lars A. Livingston, Basic Marine Platoon. “It is a good way to relax and get out of the hot sun. The air conditioning is also a big bonus,” he said.
Those who do not want to stay indoors can visit the depot’s boathouse to enjoy a cool ocean breeze while relaxing on the water.
The boathouse offers many activities to both service members and depot personnel and is not too far for those that just need to relax after a long day of work.
Kayaking, boating, volleyball court and a grill area are some of the few items offered at the boathouse. Service members can take advantage of the free kayaking as long as it is for physical training.
Service members can also visit the depot’s swim tank for lap swim.
“One of the main reasons that I go to the pool is the advantage of keeping cool during the heat and it also provides a full body workout,” said Gunnery Sgt. David Kile, Marine Band San Diego.
The depot swim tank is available for open swim Monday through Friday 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and all that is needed is proper military identification.
If one does not want to stay on the depot and still looking for ways to cool down on those hot days, there is always a nearby beach to go and enjoy some fun in the sun.
There are many things to do at any of the 39 local beaches that are as far north as Oceanside or near by as Coronado. Activities range from swimming, boating, jet skiing, fishing, cooking and playing beach sports.
The depot’s Single Marine Program also offers a variety of activities for Marines and service members on the depot to include cook outs, classes, shows and sports.
“I took scuba diving lessons with the Single Marine Program on the weekends and it was very relaxing because we got to have cook outs and hang out with different people,” said Lance Cpl. Jamar Frederick, traffic management office clerk.
“We had to wake up at 7 a.m. to set out the equipment that was going to be used and then waited before we went into the water. While we waited we just relaxed in the shade and got to know one another,” said Frederick.
The beach is not just for people. There are also dog beaches, like Mission Bay where dogs are allowed after 6 p.m. and before 9 a.m.
The beach is an option for those wanting to be outdoors, but there is also SeaWorld where service members and their families can enjoy a nice day viewing sea creatures. Members of the military and as many as three direct dependents may enter SeaWorld free for a day.
As the number of activities available rises along with the temperature, summer safety remains important, so keeping hydrated and putting on sunscreen is vital in enjoying those summer days without paying the stinging consequence later.