South Bay, San Diego

South Bay
Region of the San Diego Metro Area
Imperial Beach Pier in South Bay
South Bay cities and neighborhoods
County	San Diego County
Population	453,901

South Bay is a region in southwestern San Diego County, California consisting of the communities and cities of Bonita, Chula Vista, Imperial Beach, Lincoln Acres, National City, and South San Diego.

South Bay is a mix of heavy industrial complexes and shipyards, alongside classic Southern California style neighborhoods. One of its cities, Imperial Beach, bills itself as Classic Southern California for being relatively untouched in terms of other coastal cities.

The area encompassing the South Bay was originally inhabited by the Kumeyaay peoples. Under Mexican rule, several Mexican land grants were established in the region, including Rancho Janal, Rancho Otay, and Rancho de la Nación. In the 1870s, South Bay Salt Works began operations. National City was incorporated in 1887, Chula Vista in 1911, and Imperial Beach in 1956. South San Diego, including the communities of San Ysidro, Nestor, Palm City, and Otay Mesa, were annexed by the city of San Diego in 1957.

The term "South Bay" has referred to the region since at least the early 20th century, with one reference dating from 1918.

In October 2007, South Bay was quickly encroached upon by the Harris Fire, part of a series of fires that ravaged California in the 2007 Fire season.

Traditionally more residential and calmer than busier North County, 2010 saw that regional cities were taking on projects that included the development of luxury resorts in efforts to revitalize the South Bay. On May 18, 2010 further development of the Chula Vista Bayfront was authorized by the Unified Port of San Diego and City of Chula Vista. Plans included marina expansion, luxury resort development, and the addition of a conference center. Additionally, in Imperial Beach, on September 29, 2010 the Seacoast Inn was demolished to make room for a $20 million resort.

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