BAY-FACING ROOMS: Getting close to the waterfront for a giant fireworks spectacular? Along with lots of other people? All at the same time? It's a California tradition, and one lots of us know well, year in and year out. But if you'd like to hang out in your hotel room and catch the Fourth show, the Sheraton San Diego Hotel and Marina has a deal on. There are bay-facing (read: fireworks-facing) rooms available for $159 -- use the rate plan BIGBAYBOOM -- and there's a barbecue on the hotel's bay-view lawn, too. If you can't make it on the Fourth of July, note that this rate is going on through July 9. (But, of course, Big Bay Boom is only happening on July 4.) And if you do want to see the fireworks from your room, definitely make sure, in advance, your window's pointed in the appropriate direction.
BIG BAY BOOM: Not staying at the Sheraton? There are several choice viewing locations to catch the mega sky show, should you be in the area over the holiday weekend. Harbor Island and Shelter Island are two locations suggested by the organizers, and there will be shuttle service; get the specifics on getting around and getting back to your car.
