Falky foo wrote "

anybody know how much the average slip fee is for, say, a 26 footer in
southern calif?

Well I paid $320 a month at Harbor Island West Marina (San Diego) for a 28 foot
slip last year. Be advised, San Diego slips are probably the most expensive in
So. Calif, and San Diego is the most boater hostile area....free anchorages?
Only if you don't like your boat. Guest docks at restaurants and such....HA!
But the weather is good and the fishing is too.
Best of luck
Mike