7/22 California Coast (Carmel to L.A.)

I finished up the coastal route to Los Angeles last night. It was dark, so I missed out on the scenery of the last hour or so of the trip, including Santa Barbara.

What an amazing road! It's too bad there isn't an "Atlantic Coast Highway" that's as beautiful as this.

Carmel

Carmel, looking towards a section of the famous golf course, "Pebble Beach."

Carmel

I want to live in this house!

This little ground squirrel had no fear. He's obviously accustomed to people and begging for food; he actually followed me... I almost thought he was going to attack my shoes.

I found a great beach that was full of these gigantic elephant seals.

Hearst Castle is way up on that hill.

7/21 California Coast (S.F. to Monterey)

I drove west from Yosemite to continue on the Pacific Coast Highway south towards Los Angeles. I thought I would get a lot further than I did today but got sidetracked and spent a lot of time in Santa Cruz and Monterey.

I sat for a while, watching a bunch of crazy surfers at a very well known place in the surfing world called "Steamer Lane" in Santa Cruz. Not a place for beginners! The waves come big and late, very close to the rocky wall... and spectators have a great view because we're able to get so close. These guys are insane! I put up a few short videos too. Zach and Ben... you'll love these!

Monterey grew! I don't remember it very well (20+ years ago was when I saw it last)... but the Fisherman's Wharf seems to be much bigger and more popular. And Cannery Row is now a hot nightspot... all the old canneries are now restaurants, bars, and shops.

A little south of San Francisco.

Santa Cruz

From the end of Fisherman's Wharf pier in Monterey, looking back towards the marina.

Sea lions relaxing. The little guy on the left was scratching his ear for about 5 minutes. It was cute!

A couple of sea otters playing.

Cannery Row

7/17 Northern California Coast (to San Fran)

This was another beautiful day that was partially diminished by fog. A lot of the coastal land is privately owned as well, so many incredible views were blocked by insanely rich people's homes.

A drove a great scenic byway off the 101 called the "Avenue of the Giants." What a great name for redwood country.

I know my car is not very big... but it looks tiny here!

I trespassed to get a couple of these pictures. Ssh!!! Don't tell.