Tickets to a concert at Humphrey’s By the Bay can range from $30 to $90, but some San Diegans have found a way to hear the concerts for free.
A small community of students paddles out in kayaks, rafts and paddleboards to hear some of music’s finest artists off Shelter Island.
“People bring food and drinks to these events,” said senior Alex Ross, an RA of The Colony and applied health science major. “One couple even brought their dog.”
Ross heard the band Tegan and Sara in a kayak near Humphrey’s By the Bay last year.
“You don’t really get to see the people on stage,” Ross said. “But you do get to see the lights and hear the music and it’s just fun to be out there in the water.”
To get to Humphrey’s via the water, rent a kayak or paddleboard from the ARC for the day and start paddling from the fire pits on the southwest side of Shelter Island Drive. Head southwest, turn right around the is- land (heading north) and paddle up to the back side of Humphrey’s.
“That’s the only legal way,” said junior Jasmine Myles, who joined Ross and others at the Tegan and Sara concert. “You have to start at the loading docks by the fire pits and paddle way around to the other side where Humphrey’s is.”
Jasmine suggests starting early, as it may take a while to get from the loading docks to Humphrey’s. But once there, you can sit back and en- joy the community floating around you while hearing some of your favorite bands.
“It’s a really good time,” Myles said. “Everyone out there in the water is there to relax and have fun.”
2014 Humphrey’s By the Bay Concert Schedule
Friday, April 4: Willie Nelson and Family
Sunday, April 6: Rob Thomas
Tuesday, April 15: City and Colour with James Vincent McMorrow
Wednesday, April 16: Broken Bells
Thursday, April 17: Bryan Ferry: Can’t Let Go Tour
Friday, May 9: Ingrid Michaelson Tuesday, May 13: Lindsey Stirling Wednesday, May 14: Christina Perri with Birdy.