It’s a long and scenic coastal road between between L.A. and San Francisco. After one night and a day of chores in Santa Barbara (oil change, Trader Joe’s, wash Lulu) my sights were set on Big Sur and the spectacular drive/hikes/dramatic ocean scenes I’d heard and read about. Side note about unintentional but good timing in Santa Barbara: 8 days later and I would have been in the midst of Deltopia where packed Spring Break parties overwhelmed law enforcement and paramedics. I suppose this could be called ‘the wild’.
The Historic Old Mission Santa Barbara.
I stayed just south of Big Sur at San Simeon State Park. No planning ahead, just stopped in and there happened to be a cancellation! And! there happened to be a maze of hiking trails into the rolling green hills and away from the noisy crashing surf. After a lovely long stretch of the legs and since the campground was far from adequate, I took Lulu and spent the evening at a nearby scenic pull-out at the seashore. Sunset, gulls galore, rocky outcrop shoreline, dinner. Knowing Site 67 secured back at the campground, I was able to stay out long after sunset to enjoy the night sky.
Topping off fuel at small-town Cambria was a memorable stop. This is the highest price yet at around 6.85/gallon.
The Elephant Seal Rookery was a highlight. An unexpected educational hike with State Park Naturalists and just 3 others was a treat.
Elephant Seal Rookery in March.
These are resting pups and some moms. Birthing and breeding months (read male fights for harems) are December-February. Our naturalists said the seals can be ferocious and so loud one needs to yell to be heard above the noise.
A quiet and dramatic fight for life from both the snake and the gecko’s point of view. The gecko fought valiantly, but ultimately the snake had his breakfast.
Onward now to the much anticipated Big Sur!