Difficult Roads Often Lead to Beautiful Destinations. Time for a Getaway?

Conduct your own training session in the Tehachapi. Embrace your solitude and immerse yourself in a lush green wilderness. Keep a wary eye open for bears on a food run. Soak up ice cold exhilaration in moss-covered swimming holes.

All aboard for a weekend escape to Tehachapi

Folks might want me to say that the famed train loop is the thing. And it is stirring to see: long, noisy trains emerging from the tunnel, lumbering, then “spiraling” or “lapping” upon themselves. The costumed guides at the Tehachapi Depot Museum helped explain this engineering marvel of the 1800s. But I was equally entranced by the self-guided wind-farm driving tour. At the start, the smallish wind towers are early models, then the tour progresses to spinning behemoths dotting the hillsides.” Los Angeles Times · Sara Lessley

This Olympic National Park Rainforest is one of the quietest places on Earth

Olympic National Park—in particular the Hoh Rainforest, one of the emerald gems of the U.S. national park system. The Hoh Rainforest is tucked deep within a glacial river valley less than 50 miles from the Pacific Ocean. It sits in the shadow of Mount Olympus, the 7,980-foot peak that gives the park its name, and is a solid half-day drive from bustling Seattle. In addition to the lush biodiversity you’d expect from a temperate rainforest, that remote quality makes Hoh one of the quietest places anywhere on Earth, almost completely free of any human noise pollution. Immersing yourself in this lush, green world can be a peaceful forest bathing experience or a challenging excursion into the wilderness. However you choose to enjoy it, you’ll find peace and quiet abounds.” The Dyrt

Curated by Steve Howard for the “High Country Eagles” digital magazine.

Take the plunge in these California swimming holes to keep your cool

Natural Bridges is a swimming hole in the Sierra foothills. This summertime hot spot near the Tuolumne-Calaveras county line rewards hikers with a swim in ice-cold Coyote Creek through a moss-covered cave. The Natural Bridges parking area is between Columbia State Historic Park and the wineries of Murphys. The round-trip hike is about two miles but make sure to pack plenty of water because the return back to the car is all uphill. Info: Natural Bridges, bit.ly/natrualbridges” By MIKE MORRIS

Drivers Should Keep an Eye Out for Bears on Tahoe Roads

Lake Tahoe’s thriving bear population is very active and many of them are getting hit by cars. Bears have been out looking for food following their winter slumber. It is also mating season and the time when juvenile bears are venturing off on their own for the first time. All of this activity can put them in the path of moving cars and these collisions are not uncommon. ‘Some years it just spikes up to the point where there’s 50 or 60. Some years, more normal would be maybe 25,’ said Ann Bryant, the executive director of the BEAR League.” Dennis Shanahan

North America’s best national parks day hikes

If you have limited time in the Grand Canyon, you can’t do much better than this beautiful hike. The wide and well-maintained corridor trail offers shady rest-houses and stretches along a delightful creek. At the trailhead, the canyon beckons in all its glory. If you suffer vertigo, look to the left for a while – the first five minutes are the hardest. Highlights include two tunnels, Native American pictographs and the visual reward of the dramatically broad Tonto Platform. Continuing down the Bright Angel adds difficulty but brings you to the shady oasis of Indian Garden. For an even more challenging and very exposed hike to expansive views of the inner gorge, cross Tonto Platform along a spur trail to reach Plateau Point. It’s a popular destination for strong day hikers, but the long, exposed stretch can be searingly hot.” Lonely Planet Michele Falzone / Getty Images

You Know What They Say About All Work and No Play, Right?

Natural beauty and awesome adventures await. From the desert to the mountains to the sea and all the pristine rivers, lakes and islands in between.

Islands and Seas

Makali‘i voyaging canoe heads to 2 islands in Papahanaumokuakea

The Makali’i voyaging canoe is embarking on a journey of more than 300 miles northwest to the islands of Nihoa and Mokumanamana. The canoe’s voyage — named Hanaunaola” — is part of a project funded by a three-year grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Native Americans. Hanaunaola refers to “sustaining generations through voyaging,” organizers said. The Makali‘i voyage to the Northwestern Hawaiian islands and back is expected to last about a month. The voyage is unique because the provisions aboard the canoe have all been grown, harvested, and prepared by the Makali‘i’s local community, including 10 schools from Hawaii island.  “Sometimes people forget that there’s 10 more islands past the island of Niihau. so going back to those islands is really, for us, about remembering,” said Paishon, who referred to them as kupuna islands.” By Nina Wu 

Currents and Coasts

Tourists See Humpback Whale Sneak Right Next to Their Boat, Its Next Act Is Chilling

Curated by Steve Howard for the “Western Skies and Island Currents” digital magazine.

It started when the whales began breaching, a term describing the action in which whales use their tales to propel themselves fully out of water, creating an enormous splash as they land. As Goodridge noted, this isn’t just to put on a show for nature lovers. “To see a whale breach is really amazing,” Goodridge told Caters News. “They actually do it to clean their skin of all the barnacles and parasites that have built up.” As the day went on, the watchers got to see more and more of a show. For the grand finale, which Goodridge managed to capture on camera, one whale breached right next to the boat. Bondi Beach is a legendary Australian beach, where surfers, swimmers, and sunbathers all converge. It’s also an amazing place to see the beautiful wildlife that thrives in the Pacific Ocean only a few miles away from Australia’s biggest city, Sydney. The area regularly plays host to humpback whale migrations throughout the summer months, which are actually Australia’s coldest as Sydney is over 30 degrees south of the equator.  Robert Jay Watson

Mountains and Rivers

Thanks to abundant snow, the West can expect a long, rollicking river rafting season

Chris Moore watched in awe this winter as the snow piled up on his multiple trips to Bear Valley Mountain Resort in the central Sierra. “I’ve never seen a winter quite like this,” said Moore, California regional manager for O.A.R.S. rafting company. What all this snow means is it’s going to be a long and exciting whitewater season, so I’m stoked. “We’re going to have big flows in the late spring and early summer and a more drawn-out whitewater season on rivers here in California.” Moore’s enthusiasm is widespread among rafting outfitters up and down the state, some of whom are still recovering from the drought, which just two years ago saw April 1 snowpack measurements of 5% of normal throughout much of the Sierra.This year, however, the snowpack is 140% of normal for the Northern Sierra and 169% of normal for the Central Sierra, according to the California Data Exchange Center.” By Brian E. Clark

Mountains and Lakes

Lake Tahoe’s top beaches

Lake Tahoe might be best known as a state-line-straddling winter destination housing more than a dozen ski resorts that were all buried in powder a few months back. Two seasons and one big thaw later, it’s now time to bask in Tahoe’s balmy flipside. More than 70 miles of shoreline ring North America’s largest alpine lake, including some of the world’s prettiest patches of sand above 6,000 feet.What’s the perfect shore on Lake Tahoe to jockey for umbrella space this summer? Here’s a personality tailored lineup.” CNN Travel Jordan Rane

Vikingsholm turns 90; Fundraising efforts underway to preserve and protect the castle

Vikingsholm was originally built to be the summer residence of Mrs. Lora Josephine Knight, a native of Illinois. Impressed by her architect nephew Lennart Palme’s Nordic-inspired home in New York, Mrs. Knight traveled to Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Finland to research ideas for her Lake Tahoe house. Together with Palme, Mrs. Knight visited old wood churches and ancient stone castles before construction on Vikingsholm began in 1929. The castle is now 90 years old and the Sierra State Parks Foundation is launching the 90 for 90 Vikingsholm Forever Endowment campaign to preserve the historic mansion for another 90 years and beyond. 90 Founding Members, with donations of $1,000 or more, can be the leaders that ensure this National Historic Landmark will remain the guardian of Emerald Bay forever.” Submitted by paula

Deserts and Lakes

How hot was it in Lake Havasu City? So hot (128) they’re celebrating the record

As anniversaries go, Lake Havasu City’s is a hot one. Twenty-five years ago, the thermometer notched a record-breaking 128 degrees for a U.S. city. Now, it hopes to beat the June 29 record scorcher — and plans a party with cookie-baking on car dashboards and stamping visitors with “We Know We’re Hot” temporary tattoos. The Arizona city posted the super-high temperature on June 29, 1994, the hottest day recorded in roughly a century of record-keeping in the state. “It was a whole week’s worth of 120 to 125 degree temperatures, and then that spike up to 128,” said Doyle Wilson, an environmental scientist and adjunct professor at Arizona State University’s Havasu campus. “We actually had our highest and second-highest temperatures ever during that three- or four-day period.” By Jay Jones

Western Adventures Just Waiting For You

We are disappointed but given the success they have had and their recent investments into the resort, we respect that this is the right time for them to move in a different direction.

 

Gusty winds during a recent storm broke a branch of the famous cypress tree on California’s northern coast.

Curated Highlights and Headlines

Explore the Pacific Coast in the Northwest region beginning in Curry County and traveling northbound. Or snorkel in Emerald Bay finding sunken treasure, or strap on boards or skis and check-off 49 other things to do in Lake Tahoe. If you’re in Surf City stop by legendary Jack’s Surfboards. Or, hit the road on one of Montana’s three unforgettable routes for winding roads and breathtaking vistas that won’t disappoint.  The choice is yours. Enjoy!

Best West Road Trips

Region: Pacific Northwest

Most people associate the Pacific Northwest with a lush region that receives large amounts of rain during the winter months, with wonderful summer days. But the Northwest has a variety of climate regions, from the Pacific Coast to the valley and, once over the mountains, a desert region — all within a few hours drive of each other. There is enough to keep the outdoor enthusiast busy.” Map – Wikitravel

 

Region: Pacific Northwest

Southern Oregon Coast, Curry County, Port Orford.

Humbug Mountain State Park
“The park and campground are dominated by Humbug Mountain (elevation 1,756 feet) and surrounded by forested hills. The campground enjoys some of the warmest weather on the Oregon coast as the surrounding mountains offer protection from cool ocean breezes.” Photo – Oregon State Parks

09M1T1

Region: Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe

Sunken ships revealed at Tahoe’s new underwater trail

A new state park designated underwater trail at Emerald Bay State Park at Lake Tahoe includes the largest collection of sunken boats in America. California State Parks will open an underwater trail to four sites in Emerald Bay that will lead visitors to a boat graveyard from the 1920s and ’30s — and provide those in boats with a chance to peer down into the lake for a glimpse. State park divers have found two large barges and 12 recreational boats, including a vintage 27-foot launch, said Denise Jaffe, associate state archaeologist with the California State Parks and a scuba diver who helped develop the project. This collection is the largest, most diverse group of sunken small watercraft of their type, in their original location, known to exist in the nation, Jaffe said. The underwater shipwreck route will be named the “Emerald Bay Maritime Heritage Trail.”Tom Stienstra sfchronicle.com  Photo: Mylana Haydu, Center for Underwater Science, Indiana University

Region: Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe

50 Things to Do in Lake Tahoe This Winter

“Tahoe just got a truckload of fresh powder—tis the season for snowmobile treks, chilly swims, mountain-view skydiving, spicy coffees, and icy seafood.
Here are 50 of the best things to do in Lake Tahoe this winter.
6. Explore the night during moonlight snowshoe hikes and star tours at Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows and The Ritz Carlton, Lake Tahoe. // tahoestartours.com
7. Ski during sunset at the Last Tracks beer and wine events at Diamond Peak. // diamondpeak.com
8. Enjoy wood fired sa’atar chicken and an Oaxacan Old Fashioned at Pioneer Cocktail Club. // pcctahoe.com”
Christina Nellemann 7×7.com Photo Courtesy of Resort at Squaw Creek

California Coast: Tip to Tip

Region: Central Coast, Monterey

Famed Lone Cypress tree damaged by recent storms
The famed Lone Cypress on the 17-Mile Drive in Monterey was damaged by California storms in Feb. 2019. Gusty winds during a recent storm broke a branch of the famous cypress tree on California’s northern coast. The Pebble Beach Company said Friday that despite the damage, an arborist has recently examined the Lone Cypress and confirmed it’s “healthy and remains secure on its rocky perch.” The tree, believed to be more than 250 years old, draws many visitors to the scenic 17-Mile Drive on the Monterey Peninsula to take photographs of it. The owner of the Pebble Beach golf links and resort registered a drawing of the tree as the company’s trademark in 1919.
Associated Press. sfchronicle.com Photo: KSBW

Region: South Coast, Orange County Beach Towns, Huntington Beach

Jack’s Surfboards
“For over 50 years, Jack’s Surfboards has been an Orange County icon and Southern California favorite for surfboards, wetsuits, clothing, footwear and accessories. Being voted as Orange County’s #1 surf shop year after year is a testament to Jack’s dedication to offering the largest and newest selections for men, women and children. Jack’s Surfboards flagship store in Huntington Beach is a destination spot for surfers and surf fans from all over the world. The huge 10,000 square foot surf shop is located just steps away from the Huntington Beach pier on the corner of Pacific Coast Highway and Main Street.  Jack’s Surfboards also has six other coastal Orange County locations that offers the same extensive selection and excellent customer service.” Visit Huntington Beach – Surf City USA.

High Country Eagles

Rocky Mountain Region, Northwestern Colorado Region

Vail Resorts and Arapahoe Basin to End Pass Partnership
For Vail Resorts’ part, the new-for-2019-20 Keystone Plus Pass replaces the Keystone A-Basin Pass and offers unlimited holiday-restricted skiing at Keystone, unlimited late-season days at Breckenridge (after April 1), five holiday-restricted days at Crested Butte, and 10 (up from six) Buddy Tickets when purchased prior to the April deadline for $369, $259 for kids. Kirsten Lynch, chief marketing officer for Vail Resorts, said that while they’re pleased to offer an option for skiing from mid-October through Memorial Day at a great price, “we want to thank Arapahoe Basin for their partnership for over 20 years. We are disappointed but given the success they have had and their recent investments into the resort, we respect that this is the right time for them to move in a different direction.
Samantha Berman. skimag.com Ski Resort Life Photo credit: Keri Bascetta

Rocky Mountain Region, Glacier Country, Yellowstone Country, Montana

3 Awe-Inspiring Montana Road Trips

There’s a reason Montana has been considered an ultimate road trip destination since the first highways were built: You can drive all day and encounter everything you need for a perfect road trip — breathtaking vistas, winding roads, welcoming locals, incredible food, and small-town culture. With over 147,000 square miles to traverse, you can experience the wonders of nature without leaving the comforts of your car. Start by charting a trip on these unforgettable routes.
Northwest Glacier: The Road to the Clouds
Highway 89 Loop: A Tour of Montana Life
Highway 89: Gateway to Yellowstone
travelandliesure.com

Coastal Cure for the Back to School Blues?

In the 1920s and 30s, Palisades Beach Road in Santa Monica was one of America’s most exclusive and fabled streets.

The first part of my itinerary involved wine surfing but crashing waves were nowhere to be seen

 

Curated Highlights and Headlines

South Coast Region

Islands Along the Pacific Coast

San Miguel Island – Channel Islands National Park (U.S. National Park Service)

In addition to the variety of natural resources, San Miguel hosts an array of cultural resources as well. The Chumash and their ancestors lived on San Miguel almost continuously for nearly 12,000 years. Today there are over 600 fragile, relatively undisturbed archeological sites. The oldest one dates back to 11,600 years before the present-some of the oldest evidence of human presence in North America. Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo and his men laid eyes on San Miguel Island in 1542. Upon claiming the island for the Spanish crown, Cabrillo named it “La Posesion.” Some stories say that Cabrillo wintered and died on San Miguel Island. No one knows where Cabrillo is buried, but there is a memorial commemorating the explorer on a bluff overlooking Cuyler Harbor.” NPS.gov

New National Geographic-affiliated cruise to take tourists down California coastline

A new, one-time cruise route, called the “National Geographic Venture,” taking off from San Francisco destined for Long Beach has one objective: Give tourists a close-up coastal view of the California coastline. The journey, the result of a partnership between Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic, will take its maiden voyage this December 2 from the Bay Area to Southern California, hitting coastal landmarks like Angel Island and Sausalito, Monterey, Avila Beach, and Catalina Island before docking in Long Beach.” SF Gate · By Alyssa Pereira, SFGATE Photo: Matthew Micah Wright/Getty Images/Lonely Planet Images

South Bay

Hollywood’s First Hidden Getaway

In the 1920s and 30s, Palisades Beach Road in Santa Monica was one of America’s most exclusive and fabled streets. Dubbed by various wags “the American Riviera,” “Rolls Royce Row,” and the “Gold Coast,” this low stretch of oceanfront below the craggy Palisades featured 30 or so eclectically-styled summer homes. Stars like Cary Grant, Mae West, Peter Lawford, Orson Welles, Harold Lloyd, David Niven, Errol Flynn, Greta Garbo, and Anita Loos frolicked in the surf after long days at the studio. Most famous of all was Marion Davies’ gargantuan  “Beach House,” where epic, star-studded parties lasted all day and night.” atlasobscura.com Boston Public Library (CC by 2.0)

What to Do in Malibu

Since the iconic Alice’s Restaurant on the Malibu Pier reopened under new management as Malibu Farm Restaurant in 2015, with Helene Henderson’s breezy elevated surfer menu, it seems that everything along the cove between the pier and Carbon Canyon has upped its game. The chic coastal outpost of Soho House opened, and then something miraculous happened: The epitome of laid-back, beachfront luxury Malibu Beach Inn , once a ho-hum motel-style property with nothing but views, was transformed by visionary veteran hotelier Gregory Day, whom the Mani Brothers smartly lured from Shutters on the Beach, into just the kind of quietly luxurious ocean hideaway every Angeleno dreams about.” www.cntraveler.com/ by PILAR GUZMÁN Photo by Laure Joliet

North County, San Diego

Great white shark between 11-12 feet bites California woman’s canoe

A woman’s outrigger canoe was attacked by a shark while paddling about two miles off Oceanside Harbor on Monday, according to news reports. An expert believes the shark was a great white between 11 and 12 feet long. The woman, identified as Julie Wolfe, said she felt something hit the bottom of her canoe as though it had been struck by a car.” By LAYLAN CONNELLY | Southern California News Group mecurynews.com  Photo: National Geographic Television

 

Orange County Beach Towns

South Orange County

Massive great white shark eating dead whale off Southern California coast

Passengers aboard a 23-foot fishing boat watched in awe, Thursday morning, July 19, as an adult great white shark, estimated at 17 feet long, chomped on its buffet: a dead whale carcass floating offshore less than a mile from the San Clemente pier. The whale carcass was first reported near the Dana Point Harbor jetty on Tuesday by a captain of Dana Wharf Whale Watching, who contacted the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, according to Carla Mitroff, photographer for the charter company. On Wednesday, the Pacific Marine Mammal Center attempted a necropsy on the female whale, but was unable to determine a cause of death, before the carcass was hauled out to sea by county Harbor Patrol.” Laylan Connelly The Mercury News Instagram allwater_charters

 

North Coast Region

Del Norte Coast

The Ultimate Coastal California Road Trip

The small, charming town of Crescent City on the northern tip of California boasts a rich cultural history. Be sure to check out the postcard-perfect St. George Reef Lighthouse, which was built in 1892 and provides guidance to sailors on a reef six miles offshore.” POPSUGAR · Ashley Paige. Image Source: Flickr user Anita Ritenour

 

Sonoma County

Visit Sonoma County for a taste of the California wine scene

The first part of my itinerary involved wine surfing but crashing waves were nowhere to be seen — it’s just a cute rebranding of a wine flight, dreamt up by the folks at Gourmet au Bay, a beachside bar in the town of Bodega Bay. A tasting selection of three local, small-production wines are served on a dinky wooden surfboard. The sun burned low over the Pacific, placid but glittering, and the salty breeze was matched by the mineral tang of the white wine.” standard.co.uk/ HOLLY WILLIAMS Sonoma Valley vineyard in full bloom

Steps:

20)  Maybe the lists of best places don’t appeal to you. Where can you go to make a fresh, new start? Don’t limit your imagination. Think anywhere — across the globe. Where do you really, really want to live, work and play?  Why not live where it’s a vacation all year round?

21) Spend the time to find the best place to live and invest. It will be worth your while. The great thing about living where others spend their vacation is the year round quality-of-life.

30) Review headlines and relevant news as far back as you can find online to surface each community’s unique pulse and identify information necessary to make your decision. Is there a “ticking time bomb” issue you may uncover that eliminates the resort from your bucket list? Search on topix.com.

32) Plan extended seasonal vacations during summer and winter months. Group destination locations together in regional trips to explore what several bucket list towns have to offer in the general vicinity – with only a week or two vacation time to spend, we recommend organizing your itinerary by travel regions.

Spotlight on the South Coast Region in Time for Summer

Just in time for summer vacation. Discover what the locals enjoy. What’s it like to live here?

Life doesn’t get any better than in the famous beach towns and resort neighborhoods – Malibu, Santa Monica, along the South Bay boardwalk. Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Del Mar, La Jolla, Pacific Beach, and Coronado.

 

Highlights and Headlines: Spring 2018

South Coast Region

San Diego

Celebrate Spring With These 5 Outdoor Happy Hours

“To kick off spring the proper way, we’ve rounded up a few spots that would make William Willett (to whom we owe this clock-changing tradition) proud. When you’ve sampled all of these, you can start working through our exhaustive guide to San Diego’s very best happy hours, for any time of year.” sandiegomagazine.com/ The outdoor digs at Topside. CHASE SCHEINBAUM | Photo: Justin McChesney-Wachs

40 top things to do in San Diego

San Diego attractions and locations

You will never run out of fun things to do in San Diego, there’s always a fun event, concert or activity and with so many San Diego attractions it’s really hard to choose. So just to get you started if you’re visiting San Diego soon, check out these 40 top things to do in San Diego and you just might enjoy doing some of these activities and places to visit in the city.” http://travelphotodiscovery.com/ by Noel.

North County, San Diego

Sand replenishment begins at Cardiff State Beach.

“Sand replenishment began Tuesday at Cardiff State Beach as part of the San Elijo Lagoon restoration project.Improved water quality, greater wildlife diversity, more public recreational trails and a greater resilience to environmental change are among the long-term goals of the restoration, which has been planned for decades.” Phil Diehl. sandiegouniontribune.com/ (Union-Tribune file photo by Eduardo Contreras)”

If Trump Wants to Drill for Oil in San Diego Waters, He’ll Have to Get Through His Navy

The Trump administration has proposed opening California’s coast to oil drilling. An oil basin near Oceanside could be particularly valuable, but the military says drilling there would disrupt its operations. California politicians and environmentalists have long worried about oil spills — because they’ve seen them before. A 1969 spill in Santa Barbara blackened dozens of miles of coastline, killed thousands of birds and devastated local tourism and fishing. But the armed forces have worries of their own. Offshore drilling could flummox training and operations and, in turn, endanger national security.” voiceofsandiego.org Ry Rivard Image courtesy of Shutterstock.

Orange County Beach Towns

South Orange County

Dana Point. Doheny Blues Festival is returning with a new lineup and a new location

“Singer and songwriter Beth Hart will perform at the 21st annual Doheny Blues Festival on May 20 at Sea Terrace Community Park in Dana Point. Founded in 1998, the festival has played host in years past to blues legends Bo Diddley, B.B. King and John Lee Hooker and rock pioneers Chuck Berry and Little Richard. The festival was forced to move this year after the California parks department notified organizers in November that they’d have to find a new venue after two decades at Doheny State Beach.” http://www.latimes.com/socal/daily-pilot BRADY MACDONALD (Photo by Studio-E Elena Garm)

Dana Point. Rhythm and Resin: The Waves, and the Beat, Roll on for Danny and Damian Brawner

“Since 1952, Dana Point’s Danny Brawner has been crafting and fine-tuning Southern California culture through his craftsmanship and his music in ways the masses often don’t take time to appreciate. Locals may have to read the back of an album carefully, or ask a local shaper who did the all-important, life-sustaining glasswork on that new surfboard. It may not even be recorded in some cases, but a little research will quickly reveal the Brawner name is deeply woven into the fabric of South Orange County culture.” http://www.sanclementetimes.com/ Daniel Ritz, By Staff

San Onofre’s Nuclear Waste Storage Tanks Already Breaking

“For now though, the waste is still headed to San Onofre, busted bolts and all. All 3.6 million pounds of it. Just a few months into Southern California Edison’s very controversial plan to relocate spent nuclear fuel to holding tanks on the beach at San Onofre, crews are finding the holding tanks aren’t working properly. “We warned them that this was going to happen, and nobody listened to us,” Donna Gilmore of SanOnofreSafety.org told the LA Times. “Now they are trying to tell us: ‘Everything is OK. Don’t worry.’ This is insane. Edison has proven they can’t keep us safe.” www.surfer.com/ JUSTIN HOUSMAN Photo: Ellis

Laguna Beach

A short biography of Tom Morey

“Morey is related to the founders of the Detroit-based Dodge Brothers automobile company. The Morey’s moved to Laguna, California, when Tom was eight. There, he learned to bodysurf on his father’s back. Tom, who loved music almost as much as the ocean, called his invention the Morey Boogie after the boogie blues tempo. Boogie was a type of jazz music that was popular before World War II. As Tom put it: “Boogie swung, and it had a wiggle and a jiggle to it… it was perfect.” www.surfertoday.com Seamus McGoldrick Morey Archive

Laguna Beach. Women’s Surf Team Wins State Championship

“Laguna Beach High School’s women’s shortboard team won the crown as team champion at the Scholastic Surf Series high school state championship. MVP went to freshman Tess Booth, who besides competing in shortboard, also competed in one longboard heat as well.” www.lagunabeachindy.com By : Guest Contributor MVP Tess Booth in action.

Balboa, Newport and CDM

Newport Beach. Newport Harbor ‘is not a port’: Coastal Commission votes to oppose city’s goal of a port master plan

“The California Coastal Commission voted 9-3 on Thursday to oppose legislation necessary to amend the California Coastal Act to establish Newport Harbor, pictured, as a port. The commission voted 9-3, with members Erik Howell, Ryan Sundberg and Roberto Uranga dissenting, to oppose Assembly Bill 1196, which would amend the California Coastal Act to establish Newport Beach as a port — a status it needs before it can seek a port master plan. It would join Los Angeles, Long Beach, Hueneme and San Diego, all deepwater industrial ports.” http://www.latimes.com/socal/daily-pilot · By Hillary Davis (File Photo)

Newport Beach. New Film ‘Surfing To Cope’ Details Brianna Cope’s Surfing Through Adversity

“Cope’s trials and tribulations as a blossoming surf star on the world stage is documented in the short film entitled “Surfing To Cope,” which premieres Monday evening at the Newport Beach Film Festival. And she has done all that while dealing with a birth defect. Brianna’s left hand is under-developed, and to cope with everything that comes along with that Cope found the ocean as a great equalizer early on in her life. She has dedicated everything since to the ocean and accomplishing her goals. “The ocean is the one place I wasn’t self-conscience,” Cope told ASN. “I feel so happy and free when I’m surfing. There is no judgement or imperfections, it’s all about the ocean and its beauty.” www.adventuresportsnetwork.com/ Ryan Brower

Newport Beach Film Festival

“The Newport Beach Film Festival seeks to bring to Orange County the best of classic and contemporary filmmaking from around the world. Committed to enlightening the public with a first-class international film program as well as providing a forum for cultural understanding and enriching educational opportunities, the Festival focuses on showcasing a diverse collection of both studio and independent films.” newportbeachfilmfest.com/events/

Surf City USA – Huntington Beach

Rethinking Localism in the Digital Age

“The other morning, I was surfing the north side of the pier in Huntington Beach. The waves were about waist high, the wind was cross shore, and I was not surfing well. After blowing my first wave of the day, I got inside my head with some negative thoughts, which often has a way of ruining my session. I’d clearly dropped in on him and surfed (almost) the entire wave blissfully unaware. Damn, I felt like a moron. I’ve surfed for 20 years and just like the rest of us, I’ll occasionally drop in on people by accident. Occasionally, they drop in on me. Sometimes I get a little mad inside when they do. But I try to practice kindness and have a positive outlook. This guy I’d just dropped in on did a great job of the latter. I paddled back out and apologized. “No worries, brother,” he said. “I was trying to synchronize with your turns.” He laughed and paddled off. I laughed.” www.theinertia.com Simon Short Instagram

Huntington Beach. FIVB Huntington Beach Open: Humana-Paredes, Pavan outlast April Ross, Alix Klineman

“The best match of the Huntington Beach Open was Friday’s championship bracket showdown between two-time Olympic medalist April Ross and new partner Alix Klineman and a Canadian pair that’s ranked second in the world. Ross, considered by many to be the best individual player in the sport, is as rambunctious as ever. She split with Kerri Walsh Jennings after winning a bronze medal at the 2016 Olympics and spent late last season mulling a decision on a partner for a run at the 2020 Olympics.” BOB KEISSER | www.pe.com/ (Photo by Kevin Sullivan, Orange County Register/SCNG)

Naples to Palos Verdes Peninsula.

Long Beach. If CSULB’s Prospector Pete had a true story, this would be it

“Prospector Pete was civil, even loving, to everyone, respecting the Golden Rule as much as the Gold Rush. He made his wealth quickly and easily and shared it with the vaunted Swiss generosity, building schools for Mexican, Chinese and indigenous boys and girls.” www.presstelegram.com TIM GROBATY (Photo by Thomas R. Cordova, Press-Telegram /SCNG)

Long Beach. Modica’s

“We are located on the ground floor of the Historic Cooper Arms building in downtown Long Beach, California. At modica’s, every dish is created using only the finest and freshest ingredients. We have created a marinara sauce to die for! With your choice of pasta you get delicious baked bread that is made daily and a fresh mesclun salad topped with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar.” http://www.visitlongbeach.com

South Bay

Malibu. This Gorgeous Malibu Beach House Is Your Dream Summer Retreat

“Immerse yourself in the epitome of beachfront luxury at this sprawling modern villa situated on the golden sands of Broad Beach in Malibu, California. Planning a California getaway that you never want to forget? Where you choose to stay plays an important role in your vacation memories. This stunning beach house in Malibu is the ideal luxury rental if you’re traveling with a group. A family reunion or friends trip, perhaps? The property is available to book on TripAdvisor.” www.tripadvisor.com

Malibu. A Taste of SoCal’s Finest Lifestyle Awaits at This $75,000-Per-Month Malibu Estate

“With the ocean in your backyard, this dreamy home is the perfect beachfront escape. With summer right around the corner, it’s time to figure out where to go on vacation this year. And while road trips to national parks have an undeniable allure, it’s equally tempting to stay put all summer long. Designed as the ultimate oceanfront escape, 24683 Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, Calif., can be rented for $75,000 a month—which means you can unpack your swim trunks and enjoy the blissful beachfront abode for as long as your heart desires.” http://robbreport.com/ Juliana Distefano

Ventura County

Ventura. Shopping in Ventura CA | Malls, Outlets & Boutiques

“Ventura offers eclectic, locally owned shops where you can find items you won’t see anywhere else. A variety of these shops lines the streets of Ventura, featuring clothing boutiques, antique stores, home and garden shops, art galleries, gift stores and other specialty shops. Starting in downtown Ventura, just steps away from the beachfront promenade, a walk through Main Street is like no other. Right away, countless storefronts will grab your attention.” visitventuraca.com

Ventura. What $900,000 buys in three Ventura County neighborhoods. There’s even a beach house.

“Here’s a look at what about $900,000 buys in the Ventura County cities of Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks and Ventura.VENTURA: This two-bedroom cottage, built in the 1950s and since updated, is a stone’s throw from San Buenaventura State Beach.” http://www.latimes.com Neal J. Leitereg (Realtor.com)

Islands along the Pacific Coast

Channel Islands: California’s Majestic National Park You Didn’t Know About

“Remote yet accessible, this archipelago stretches north along the coast from LA, and the Channel Islands National Park comprises the five northernmost islands. Just hours from the city, the National Park sees less than 20,000 overnight campers a year and is the perfect spot to escape the crowds, especially mid-week.The closest islands are visible from the coast, but a deep channel separates them from the mainland. This allowed wildlife to develop in isolation until humans arrived and there are 145 endemic or unique species in the archipelago including the diminutive island fox.”  https://awol.junkee.com Alexis Buxton-Collins Image: Channel Islands National Park

Channel Islands. Bald eagle chicks hatch on California’s Channel Islands

“Channel Islands National Park says the two chicks hatched 14 hours apart on Santa Cruz Island, and a third egg chick was expected Friday. The hatchings are a sign of progress in restoration of the species to the island chain where the birds disappeared in the 1960s due to the effects of DDT and other human activities.” https://www.sfgate.com

Are You Ready for Natural Beauty and Awesome Adventures?

We’re nearing the end of our journey inching up the coast of California, town-by-town, beach-by-beach choosing roads that hug the Pacific Ocean whenever we can.

 

Looking for awesome vacations and potential second or first homes we’d love.

 

Highlights and Headlines: April 2018

South Coast Region

San Diego

Point Loma. 7 Things to Do, See, and Eat in Point Loma.

You know that a peninsula is worthy of national monument status when even the “new” lighthouse has been safely guiding ships into port for over 125 years. The city’s history can be traced back to this very spot, and today the area is dotted with pristine marinas, dockside dining, and miles of walking and hiking paths that beckon locals and tourists alike who are looking for fun on the waterfront.” By: San Diego Magazine sandiego.org 

North County, San Diego

Del Mar. Ultimate California beach house wants $18.75M.

This beach house in Del Mar, in San Diego County, is the stuff of dreams—and magazines. Recently featured on the cover of Dream Homes magazine, the 1982 home was designed by architect Sim Bruce Richards, a Taliesin fellow, and the influences of Frank Lloyd Wright are clear.” By Lauren Ro  Courtesy of Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Orange County Beach Towns

South Orange County

Capistrano. More Sharks Offshore, But Don’t Panic. 

Experts Say We’re not on the Menu. Whale-watchers spot a young white shark off Capistrano Beach last May aboard Capt. Dave’s Dolphin Safari from Dana Point.” By Rita Robinson.  lagunabeachindy.com Photo courtesy of Jason and Jenny Armstrong.

Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach. Art Ninjas Add Local Color by Stealth.

Muralist Jeff Lavinsky during installation of “Main Beach Mandala, located south of Main Beach. lagunabeachindy.com Photo courtesy of Jeff Lavinsky.

 

Balboa, Newport and CDM

Newport Beach. Gray whale entangled off the Wedge in Newport Beach; rescue efforts halted for the day.

Leslie Evarts saw the gray whale in the distance from her Laguna Beach home, grabbed her stand-up paddleboard and rushed out to the water, with hopes of seeing the 30-foot sea creature up close.” By LAYLAN CONNELLY Orange County Register Photo courtesy of Ryan Lawler, Newport Coastal Adventure 

Surf City USA – Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach. FIVB Huntington Beach Open: Humana-Paredes, Pavan outlast April Ross, Alix Klineman.

USA’s Alix Klineman, left, and partner April Ross get tangled up during their three-set loss to Canada’s Sarah Pavin and Melissa Humana-Paredes on Friday at the FIVB Huntington Beach Open.” BOB KEISSER | Press-Enterprise (Photo by Kevin Sullivan, Orange County Register/SCNG)

Naples to Palos Verdes Peninsula.

Long Beach. Tacos and Mexican food for Cinco de Mayo — the best in the Long Beach area.

 Tacos are popular in Southern California, whether they’re basic with ground beef, lettuce, tomatoes and cheese, or more elaborate creations, such as these Brisket tacos.” By MERRILL SHINDLER | MrEats@aol.com |presstelegram.com (File photo) 

South Bay

Malibu. Malibu Surfrider Beach.

Malibu Lagoon is comprised of 22 acres of wetlands, gardens, and sandy beach, while Malibu “Surfrider” Beach has almost a mile of ocean frontage with 0.7 acres of property, and famous Malibu Pier is a great place for saltwater fishing.beaches.lacounty.gov 

 

Ventura County

Ventura. California’s Ventura County Coast: Surf, Style & Shakespeare.

As I learned firsthand this summer, the entire Ventura County Coast, comprising the cities of Ventura, Oxnard, Camarillo, and Hueneme, on the southern end of California’s central coast, offers many such glorious juxtapositions, embracing surfing, style, Shakespeare, and much more.” By Robert Firpo-Cappiello budgettravel.com  Courtesy Ventura County Coast

Islands along the Pacific Coast

Catalina Island. Avalon Harbor Lights Tour.

Experience the romance and mystery of Catalina by night on this narrated adventure into the hills above historic Avalon. Your open air biofuel Hummer will take you east along the waterfront past Lover’s Cove before heading up to Mt. Ada for spectacular views of the twinkling city and harbor lights below.visitcatalinaisland.com 

Central Coast Region

Santa Barbara County

Montecito. Cheers to Montecito – Visit Santa Barbara.

Along the coast of The American Riviera® lies the town of Montecito, a seaside haven that balances sweeping coastal views and a savory culinary scene. Treat yourself to an extended vacation full of indulgent restaurants, premium wines and coastal bliss.santabarbaraca.com 

San Luis Obispo County

Avila Beach Dining | California Highway One Coast Road Trip.

Our Central Coast beach-side location holds beautiful views with a casual atmosphere. An excellent dining experience is our top priority. Our menu has something for everyone…fresh fish, hand cut steaks, refreshing salads and our specialty appetizers. We offer breakfast, lunch and dinner. Come and have a drink at our cocktail bar, or dine on our outdoor patio while gazing out across the beautiful San Luis Bay.http://highway1discoveryroute.com 

Monterey County

Big Sur. 3 Days in Monterey and Big Sur.

En route, you’ll pitstop on the Monterey Peninsula before snaking along through the wilderness of Big Sur. It needs our tourism more than ever, after suffering near economic catastrophe when it was cut off from the outside world during the winter storm season 2017; bridges were destroyed and roads blocked at both its northern and southern reaches. Thankfully, for locals and visitors alike, the northern section has already reopened, across Pfeiffer Canyon, but the southern connection, at Ragged Point, is still under construction (scheduled to open late 2018 but check with CalTrans for fresh updates). “ Crystal Le blog.thedyrt.com Getty Images

Santa Cruz County

Santa Cruz: 5 places to catch a good wave.

Steamer Lane is one of the best surfing breaks on the West Coast.ELLIOTT ALMOND (Shmuel Thaler – Santa Cruz Sentinel) 

 

Peninsula Region

Half Moon Bay.  12 Reasons to Love The Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay.

The Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay was the perfect place for our staycation.  We were not only able to catch up after my week in New York City, but escape the everyday of our area.  We were able to relax without the pressure of needing to do anything and everything (in true Jess- fashion), but could focus our energy on ourselves.  There’s no such thing as the go-go-go attitude at the Ritz, and just being there instantly puts you into a calm and relaxed state.” JESSICA  apassionandapassport.com 

San Francisco Region

San Francisco. New Hotel in a Former Military Barracks Has a Breathtaking View of the Golden Gate Bridge. 

Come June 27, Lodge at the Presidio will open as San Francisco’s closest hotel to the Golden Gate Bridge. The three-story building was constructed between 1895 and 1897 as military barracks on Infantry Row for the U.S. Army. The exterior has been entirely preserved, and the renovated interior will have historical elements and spectacular views of the bridge, Alcatraz, and the city skyline.” Miranda Smith afar.com  Courtesy of the Presidio Trust

North Bay Region

Marin County. 15 Of The Best Beaches In California To Visit.

Stinson Beach is a mere 20 miles north of the city of San Francisco and two and a half miles from the secluded (and totally lovely) Bolinas Bay. Once here, make sure you take a dip in the ocean as it’s highly rated as one of the best beaches in California for swimming. If you’re more of a rambler, then take the California hiking trails from the beach lead you to Mount Tamalpais State Park.handluggageonly.co.uk/ 

North Coast Region

Sonoma Coast

Bodega Bay. Escape Reality With a Weekend on the Sonoma Coast.

It can be hard to wrap your mind around Sonoma County, an area that starts 45 miles north of San Francisco. It’s nearly the size of Delaware and encompasses rolling vineyards, dense redwood forests and, perhaps most surprisingly, a wild and foggy stretch of coast. Many tourists know that this shoreline includes the fishing village of Bodega Bay, where Hitchcock filmed “The Birds,” but the Sonoma Coast has many other draws for travelers.Rachel Ward wheretraveler.com/ The coastline along Highway 1. (Courtesy Timber Cove Resort)

Mendocino Coast

Gualala.  Gualala Country Inn.

Hike the trails of the pristine ocean beaches, explore the Redwood forests, or kayak the Gualala River. Dive for the abalone or golf the local Scottish links-style PGA quality golf course.gualalacountryinn.com/ 

 

Humboldt County

Orick. Beaches in Orick, CA.

Surrounded by parks and a natural setting, the small town of Orick offers plenty of outdoor recreation. Humboldt Lagoons State Park offers a marshland habitat of native birds, animals and plants. It is also a prime location for fishing, boating and hiking. Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, meanwhile, is most famous as the filming site of the movie Jurassic Park II. In reality, though, this natural area is a haven for preservation of native redwood forest.” californiabeaches.com 

Del Norte County

Klamath. Historic Requa Inn, Klamath, CA.

With more than a century of history, the Historic Requa Inn offers a quaint bed and breakfast in remote Klamath. Uniquely tucked away within a World Heritage Site, towering redwoods surround the inn, with various state parks, recreation areas and the coast all within a 40-minute drive.californiabeaches.com 

Rain, Mud and Despair

From drought to flood, from fire to mud, California bakes, burns and floats, always on the brink of calamity.

She tried to hold onto the door frame, but the force was overwhelming. He was thrown against a fence and pinned there, buried in mud up to his neck.

Central Coast Region

Act One:

Massive Landslide Isolates Big Sur

Rock Slides in Big Sur and Mudslides in Santa Barbara Block Pacific Coast Travel

Big Sur suffers another round of weather woes

More Big Sur Rock Slides

Rock slides from heavy rainfall have CLOSED #Hwy1 overnight south of Big Sur at Mile Marker 42 near Coast Gallery,” Stan Russell wrote late Monday on TheBigSurBlog. “Crews will assess damage & begin clean-up at dawn. Be safe out there!” 

 

What To Know Before A Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip…

Iconic Bixby Bridge in Big Sur

“The Bixby Bridge is just south of Carmel, meaning you’ll have to pull a U-turn after viewing. But it’s completely worth it. In our opinion, it’s one of the most pristinely beautiful and inspiring places on earth. Anywhere – literally, anywhere. Try to time your trip for early morning or late afternoon, while the sun is still out, giving yourself ample time to make it back onto main roads before dark.” 

Act Two:  

Drought, Wind and Fire

Rob Lowe Fights Wildfire, Feeds Firefighters

Rob Lowe Instagram

Rob’s home was spared even though it looked like the blaze was knocking at his front door early Sunday morning. The Thomas Fire‘s been raging for 2 weeks now and has made its way to Santa Barbara where Rob, Oprah, Ellen and Katy Perry’s folks have had to evacuate their homes. 

Act Three:

Rain, Mud and Boulders

Tracking a path of destruction from Montecito’s mountains to the ocean

San Ysidro Creek cut a path of destruction through the center of Montecito early Tuesday morning when intense rain released a deluge of debris from the Santa Ynez Mountains, which were burned by the Thomas fire. 

Family Members Frantically Search for Loved Ones Missing in Montecito Mudslide

Below, in blue, was scrawled “Augie & Karen Johnson,” with a question mark in front of their names. Below and next to it were other names, also with question marks, as people searched for loved ones. One name at the top had been crossed out, with “He is OK” scrawled next to it.  and ,

Mud, darkness and destruction turned Montecito into death trap

“But the rain was heavy enough that she woke up at 3 and watched it with her boyfriend, Norm Borgatello. They stepped out the front door to look, her family described later, and a cold sludge of gravel and mud and boulders picked them up. She tried to hold onto the door frame, but the force was overwhelming. He was thrown against a fence and pinned there, buried in mud up to his neck. She was swept away. “Josie!” he called out, over the roaring river. “Josie!”” 

Photos Of California Mudslides Show How Much Damage It’s Caused

“I came around the house and heard a deep rumbling, an ominous sound I knew was … boulders moving as the mud was rising,” resident Thomas Tighe told CBS SFBayArea. “I saw two other vehicles moving slowly sideways down the middle of the street in a river of mud.” 

After fire and mudslides, Montecito struggles; Ventura and Santa Barbara counties rebound

Montecito Inn – Huffington Post

The Montecito Inn has been evacuated and closed indefinitely. The Four Seasons Resort the Biltmore Santa Barbara, a 22-acre beachfront luxury hotel, is closed indefinitely amid substantial flood damage, a representative said. The San Ysidro Ranch resort, which shut for “an extensive cleaning” after the fire, remains closed indefinitely. Santa Barbara: Visit Santa Barbara spokeswoman Karna Hughes said most attractions are open, including the Santa Barbara Zoo, Old Mission Santa Barbara and the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. – LA Times

The California deal: Accepting the calamity along with the splendor

“Yes, we have summer and at times a bit of winter, but the cycles in California follow a different calendar. From drought to flood, from fire to mud, California bakes, burns and floats, always on the brink of calamity. We are here by the millions in defiance of reason, lured to a bountiful garden that at times seems unfit for human habitation.” 

Rain, rain, don’t go away. It’s good for this old soul

“Out here, disasters often prey on hillside castles overlooking the sea. If that seems fair or just, try sweeping three feet of muck out of your child’s closet some time. There is nothing fair about any of this. Heartache is heartache. Precious photos are precious photos. No one owns the exclusive rights to hard luck. We can’t take a hint though. This has been going on for decades, and we rebuild in vulnerable areas, because they bring us nearer to nature and soothe our jangled souls. “It’s worth the risk,” we say. “Ever seen our sunsets?”” 

Train service to Santa Barbara restored; 101 Freeway open as far as Carpinteria

“For many travelers, Amtrak trains may be the best way to get from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara for the foreseeable future. Caltrans said late Friday that the 101 Freeway would not reopen Monday, as originally thought.” 

101 Freeway, overwhelmed by Montecito mudslide, to remain closed indefinitely

“U.S. Highway 101, a major north-south artery that carries 100,000 vehicles through the Central Coast each day, was initially expected to open Monday, but officials said cleaning up one part of the freeway was proving more difficult than imagined. In a section of the road near Olive Mill Road — one of the lowest points in the city — there was 2 feet of standing water and storm drains were clogged, Jones said. Once all the mud and debris is removed, the pavement and overpasses must be evaluated for structural safety, and then signs and guardrails reinstalled and lines repainted.” 

 

Falling for “The American Riviera”

“Inspiration Point rewards hikers with stunning views of the greater Santa Barbara area, including the northern Channel Islands.”

Escape to Santa Barbara Along California’s Central Coast.
The focal point of any trip to Santa Barbara is the downtown area, characterized by unique shopping, great food and distinctive architecture.

Santa Barbara, on California’s Central Coast Region, lies between the foothills of the Santa Ynez Mountains and the beaches on the Pacific Ocean.

As a reminder of the city’s founding in 1786 Mission Santa Barbara sits on a hill as a home to Franciscan friars and a museum.

Mediterranean-style white stucco buildings with red-tile roofs

“Mediterranean-style white stucco buildings with red-tile roofs” keep the Spanish colonial heritage alive.

And, then there is State Street.

Home to one-of-a-kind boutiques. World class restaurants. Intimate wine tasting rooms. “And local seasonal fare.”

Highlights and Headlines: November 2017

Escape

Not just for college seniors and senior citizens

“If Santa Barbara makes you think of retirees and college kids, you’re not technically wrong: those contingents still thrive here. But thanks to a few new boutique hotels and a budding restaurant scene, the city is now an ultra-chill and just-hip-enough place to hang by the beach for a few days. Here’s your game plan.” Santa Barbara Is the LA Road Trip You Need to Be Taking – gq.com

Polo

Fancy Sports, Fancy Places

“Unlike other areas of the US and the world, sporting events with dress codes and signature cocktails aren’t really a thing in California. But the people behind the SB Polo and Wine fest are here to change that, and not just for the sake of getting fancy for a night.” Interview: Grab your Fancy Hat for The Santa Barbara Polo & Wine Fest – culturecollide.com

Wharf

Historic Stearn’s Wharf

“When completed In 1872, it became the longest deep-water Wharf between San Pedro and San Francisco. Named for its builder, local lumberman John P. Stearns, the wharf served the passenger and freight shipping needs of California’s South Coast for over a quarter century.” Stearn’s Wharf – Visit Santa Barbara

Funk

Artistic Millennials with Boutique Ambitions

““Over the past few decades, this district, which spans the area between the ocean and Highway 101 and is adjacent to the Amtrak station, has enjoyed an upswell of boutique tasting rooms, cafes, galleries, and shops that cater to Santa Barbara’s contemporary side.” The Funk Zone – Visit Santa Barbara

Hiking

Inspiration Point by way of the Tunnel Trail

““For a usually warm, usually busy, always beautiful half-day hike in Santa Barbara, Inspiration Point by way of the Tunnel Trail, is a great bet. Not to be confused with the Inspiration Point offshore on Anacapa Island or the hike to Inspiration Point in the San Gabriel Mountains by way of Echo Mountain, this Inspiration Point rewards hikers with stunning views of the greater Santa Barbara area, including the northern Channel Islands.” Inspiration Point – outdoorproject.com

Downtown

Santa Barbara, Shops on State Street in the city of Santa Barbara in southern California

““The focal point of any trip to Santa Barbara is the downtown area, characterized by unique shopping, great food and distinctive architecture. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, you’re sure to find something you’ll love here.” Downtown Santa Barbara – Visit Santa Barbara

 

Sovereignty

Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians

“The House Committee on Natural Resources passed H.R.1491, the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians Land Affirmation Act, at a markup session last month. The bill ratifies a Bureau of Indian Affairs decision to place the land, known as Camp 4, in trust.” Chumash Tribe still willing to negotiate into land-into-trust agreement with county –  indianz.com

Luxury

Ritzy Bacara Santa Barbara

“It appears that Bacara Santa Barbara will soon become a Ritz-Carlton as the hotel is currently going through some ownership changes and with the new buyer comes a new management contract for the resort. Currently Bacara Santa Barbara is part of the Meritage Collection.  Is Bacara Santa Barbara Becoming a Ritz-Carlton? – Points Miles & Martinis

Mansions

Hidden Hillside Montecito Mansions

“Hillside homes in this Santa Barbara, California, area have to-die-for views and lots of space for running around” Montecito: A Celebrity Paradise That’s Surprisingly Under the Radar – Mansion Global

Ellen Degeneres in Carpinteria

Carpinteria, a beach town situated in-between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara on the central coast of California. The stylish beachfront property sits right on the sand and has four bedrooms and four-and-a-half bathrooms with floor to ceiling windows providing breathtaking ocean views. Sold! Ellen Degeneres snaps up a stylish beachfront property – dailymail.co.uk

 

Wine

Babcock Winery & Vineyards

“His offerings include an entire portfolio of stunning “Terroir Extraordinaire” Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays. At the winery, one can also find beautiful estate grown renderings of Pinot Gris and Sauvignon Blanc, along with Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon that are selected from some of Santa Barbara County’s most stunning vineyards.” Babcock Winery & Vineyards – Visit Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara Wine Collective

“Adjacent to the Santa Barbara Wine Collective is sister property, and newly opened Helena Avenue Bakery. This artisan bakery offers rustic, wholesome breads and handmade seasonal pastries. Helena Avenue Bakery also specializes in hand-crafted, made from scratch, baked sweet and savory treats.” Santa Barbara Wine Collective – Visit Santa Barbara

Top Ten Best West Road Trip Summer Stories

“The sharks are now getting bigger. They may be able to tolerate slightly cooler conditions. The bigger they get, the less likely they are to migrate…”

Beware. Beach Closings.
“24th annual Civil War reenactment goes forward in Huntington Beach. Despite increased tensions around the country surrounding Confederate monuments.”

 

1. Big Sur –  Central Coast:  Monterey and San Luis Obispo Counties.

“Every day, the isolated stretch of Big Sur loses $300,000 in revenues, according to Kirk Gafill, manager of the world-famous restaurant Nepenthe. San Luis Obispo and Monterey counties could face a $554 million loss in revenue due to closures, according to a recent study by Visit California, which promotes tourism. The economic impact could ripple out further, if visitors cancel summer plans to the Golden State. “Santa Cruz Sentinel

2. Sharks – South Coast Region: Capistrano, Dana Point. Oceanside. Central Coast Region: Santa Cruz, Santa Barbara. Peninsula Region: Half Moon Bay.

“Sharks are thriving in Southern California but dying in San Francisco Bay. In Southern California, great white sharks have begun to arrive after spending the winter off Baja California. Recently, one of the sharks bit a chunk out of a mother’s leg as she swam off San Onofre State Beach.

Shark bite victim. “A doctor said the victim was “remarkably calm” through the ordeal, adding her strong physical condition was a major factor in her survival. Korcsmaros is an aerobics and fitness trainer in Corona del Mar and a mother of three — aged 16, 22, and 24. Korcsmaros had multiple tooth marks on her right side, extending from her shoulder in a semicircular pattern to her lower pelvis. She also had lacerations on her right arm, an open chest wound and multiple rib fractures and had lost about a liter of blood, doctors said.” Los Angeles Times

Beware. Beach Closings.

“Lifeguard crews who had been searching by boat and helicopter for shark activity in the water off Newport Beach reopened the state beach. Lifeguards had reopened the beach between the Balboa Pier and the Wedge.”Los Angeles Times

Dana Point. San Cemente.““The best evidence I have is that the last two winters none of those animals have migrated south to Baja but one — a 2-year-old, 8-foot shark,” Lowe told patch.com. “That, we attribute to El Nino because the water [temperature] never got below 60 degrees. “The sharks are now getting bigger. They may be able to tolerate slightly cooler conditions. The bigger they get, the less likely they are to migrate ” patch.com

“Surfers are back at it again off Cowell Beach in Santa Cruz, just one day after a shark attack near Steamer Lane. Over on Santa Cruz Main Beach, locals and tourists sat on blankets and chairs enjoying Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk free movies on the beach.” KSBW

Santa Barbara County. We were in waist-deep, blue-green surf at Padaro Beach, the sweet little stretch of paradise you can see from Highway 101 at Santa Claus Lane. It was late morning on Sunday, a gray, cool day, with surprisingly warm water. Los Angeles Times.

Half Moon Bay. A tape measure shows the spread of teeth marks in Pat Conroy’s kayak. HM Review.

3. Best and Worst Beaches. South Coast Region. Central Coast Region. San Diego, San Clemente and Santa Cruz.

Fabulous Fun at the Hotel del Coronado

Coronado Beach dropped from No. 7 last year to No. 9 this year. The website describes the beach fronting the Hotel del Coronado as the “toast of Southern California; it is a veritable oasis by the sea …” Dr. Beach.

“The San Clemente Pier came in No. 2 on Heal the Bay’s annual top 10 Beach Bummer List. Shark sightings have closed stretches of the beach recently, but swimmers should also worry about bacteria levels.” (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)

Santa Cruz. In 2017, only the third most contaminated. In October, the city-created Cowell Beach Working Group released data that recent steps to address the issue, believed to be caused by animal waste, had reduced bacteria counts by about 50 percent.

4. Mavericks. Peninsula Region. Usually a winter story. In May contest crashes. 

The End of The Big Surf Competition?

“Mavericks Invitational board member Brian Overfelt itemized that claim. He said it includes $1.25 million left unpaid per an intellectual property agreement with Cartel, $450,000 in remuneration for his work and that of contest founder Jeff Clark and his wife Cassandra, $360,000 in sponsorships lined up before Cartel allegedly scuttled them, and $85,000 or 10 percent of the gross revenues made by Cartel on the Mavericks name.” HMB Review.

“In August a 95-page “motion to sell” submitted to the court on Wednesday, the former surf contest organizers detailed their wishes to turn over the reins to the World Surf League. HMB” Revew.

5. Martins Beach. Peninsula Region. Vinod Khosla. Surfrider Foundation. 

“The ruling, filed Wednesday, doesn’t settle the tangle of litigation over public entry to the sweeping crescent south of Half Moon Bay. But it does affirm a lower court decision that billionaire Vinod Khosla has to unlock the gate to Martins Beach Road while the legal fight continues.” LA Times.

Access Denied. Granted. Still Not Open.

“The controversy over Martins Beach began in 2010, when Khosla closed a gate at the top of a private road that provides the only access to the cove from Highway 1. The previous owners, the Deeney family, had allowed the public to visit the beach for decades — advertising the spot with a billboard and operating a store and restrooms — in exchange for a modest parking fee.” Mercury News.

“The family that sold Martin’s Beach had, for almost a century, allowed surfers, fishing enthusiasts and others to reach the sand on foot or by car via an access road. Eventually the family provided public restrooms, a parking lot and a general store. Khosla posted “do not enter” signs, hired security and shut the gate.” LA Times.

6.  US Open in Huntington Beach – South Coast Region

“Thousands will crowd the shoreline Saturday through Aug. 6 for the U.S. Open of Surfing in Huntington Beach, as they did here in 2015.” (File photo | Daily Pilot)

Surf City’s Open

“Huntington Beach´s Brett Simpson surfs the south side of the Huntington Beach Pier, site of the U.S. Open of Surfing on July 29-Aug. 6. Simpson, who won the contest in 2009 and 2010, will try to become the first three-time winner since Rob Machado won it in 1995, 2001 and 2006.” (Courtesy of Brian Bott) LA Times

7.  Jack O’Neal – Central Coast: Santa Cruz, Pleasure Point

Jack O’Neill Windsurfs in Santa Cruz.

“Jack O’Neill windsurfs off Santa Cruz August 5, 1982. Inventor of the wetsuit and surfing world icon, O’Neill died at his Pleasure Point home Friday.” (Dan Coyro — Santa Cruz Sentinel file)

“On Sunday, thousands gathered at Pleasure Point, both in the water and on the cliffs, to remember surfing legend Jack O’Neill.” (William Scherer — Contributed) Santa Cruz Sentinel

8. 50th anniversary of the Summer of Love

“50th anniversary of the Summer of Love this year, it’s time to chill, man. Here are places in San Francisco and the Bay Area to celebrate the Summer of Love:” LA Times

“1960s art is all over Haight-Ashbury, ground zero for the Summer of Love. This mural, of the Grateful Dead’s Jerry Garcia, is seen on a Wild SF Walking Tour.” LA Times

50th Anniversary of that Lovin’ Feeling.

“Perhaps no art form more exemplifies San Francisco’s Summer of Love than the music of the era. It led an explosion of culture and expression in the balmy summer months of 1967, and a counterculture revolution swept through the city by the bay. Tens of thousands of young folks swarmed to the Haight-Ashbury and Golden Gate Park, and they brought with them the sounds of change.” SFTravel.

9. Monterey Pop 50th Anniversary. Central Coast. Monterey. Debut of Jimi Hendrix

Hendrix, Joplin and Garcia.

At the 1967 festival, the lineup spanned the sweet folk-rock of Simon & Garfunkel and the Mamas & the Papas, the scorching R&B of Redding, the fiery blues-rock of Joplin and her San Francisco-based band Big Brother & the Holding Company, the blue-eyed soul of Johnny Rivers and the exotic ragas of Shankar. LA Times.

10. Confederate Celebrations Where the North and South Compete. North Coast Region: Duncans Mills. South Coast Region: Huntington Beach

Civil War West Coast Style

24th annual Civil War reenactment goes forward in Huntington Beach. Despite increased tensions around the country surrounding Confederate monuments.

Duncans Mills Northern California’s largest civil war reenactment and one of the largest reenactments west of the Mississippi!

Goin’ Coastal

“California Regions – the last leg of your journey. From the desert and the mountains to the sea. Ending In Santa Monica at the Pier. It’s all there if you dare!”

Seemingly Endless Southern California Beaches
And, when standing at the end of the pier you look at the beaches to your left and right, you realize your next road trip adventure calls you with its siren song.

You want rugged?

Check.

You want mysterious deserts?

Check.

You want Redwood coastal wilderness?

Check.

In California the travel regions vary greatly, ranging from  the rugged interior mountains to the harsh southern desert to the forested northern coastal regions.

California’s 10 travel regions are broken down into:

California’s Ten Travel Regions
  • Southern California
  • Desert
  • Central Coast
  • San Joaquin Valley
  • Sacramento Valley
  • Sierra Nevada
  • Gold Country
  • Bay Area
  • North Coast
  • Shasta Cascades

If you’re interested in the Desert and part of the Southern California region, you may enjoy the “California Regions” edition of “Best West Road Trips – Route 66

Get Your Kicks on Route 66

“California Regions – the last leg of your journey. From the desert and the mountains to the sea. Ending In Santa Monica at the Pier. It’s all there if you dare!”

The Mother Road ends at the Santa Monica Pier.

Well, not exactly, but the attraction more than makes up for historical inaccuracy.

You can’t drive any further west unless you plan to plunge into the Pacific Ocean.

Here’s my recommendation.

Park.

Stroll out onto the pier and take a selfie at the End of the Trail sign.

Near the intersection of Route 66 and Pacific Coast Highway

Then go for it.

Make your way past the crowds and attractions to as far as you can walk.

Then standing there at the end of the pier look at the beaches to your left and right.

Turn around and look back to where you came.

That’s when you realize your next road trip adventure calls you with its siren song.

The iconic, and more breath-taking scenic road trip on Pacific Coast Highway.

That’s what we did.

World Famous Hotel Del Coronado

We invite you to retrace our coastal steps.

We begin in the South Coast Region with the historic beach Hotel del Coronado in San Diego.

Then we head north with the ocean on our drivers side.  

Always on our drivers side.

We hug the coast, not necessarily always on PCH, but  traveling through Southern California beach towns to the laid back Central Coast, into the Bay Area and finally to the North Coast before terminating at Pacific Northwest towns and destinations like Tumwater and Port Angeles, Washington.

Mapping Out Your Best West Road Trips

We’re taking our time.

Exploring everything we can on  a road trip in sequence.

One town after another up the Pacific Coast.

Vacation beach towns, missions, piers and light houses.

And so much more.

More for road trippers, vacationers and more for anyone who wouldn’t mind moving to a resort community.

Fall in love on vacation, stay for a lifetime.