Santa Cruz - everybody knows Boardwalk, Mystery Spot and even municipal Wharf (right next to Boardwalk). But the whole coastline west of Boardwalk has several beaches and state parks and running trails overlooking the sea - fantastic views and a great drive.
That's how you get to Natural Bridges State Beach. Beach itself is very small, but... you can see for yourself - a naturally made bridge like structure and a great view of the ocean.
Apart from the scenery, it is also known for something else - Monarch butterflies who come south for the winter and stay in the Monarch grove (Eucalyptus tress?) right next to this beach.
Going south on 1 takes you to Seaside sand dunes, Monterey, Carmel (yes, the city for which Clint Eastwood was the Mayor), and then on to Big Sur.
Monterey Bay Aquarium and 17 mile drive (pebble beach) are the "default" destinations for bay area visitors, but I usually skip 17 mile drive; Once in a while I visit Monterey Bay Aquarium, if for nothing else, just to see these beautiful Jelly fish displays!
...and Otters having fun...
Of course, the view from the Aquarium is stunning too..
While I skip pebble beach, I don't miss out on Point Lobos state park (just another 5 miles down Highway 1 towards Big Sur). Unbelievable views of the ocean, the "barking" of the sea lions from the sea lion rocks, bird island, and if you are in the mood and able, you can do scuba diving here from the coves below.
No wonder it is called "greatest meeting of the land and water"!
No comments:
Post a Comment