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We will feature photos and information about places, sites, attractions, and events in California that you can do for the day, weekend. or week.

We will be investigating the jewel that is at our very door step, California. There is so much to see in California. We will be sharing photos and information about places in California for visitors as well as anyone that wants to stay home and explore what we have here everyday. We encourage you to post up photos of places you have been as well as information. No negative, all good stuff.

07/06/2024

In Cambria, we visited a trail where we have been before. It is surrounded by homes yet while on the trails, you feel like you are in the forest many miles from civilization. It is quiet and surrounded by every species of tree imaginable.

The hike travels downward as it makes its way toward the ocean, where you can hear the subtle sound of breaking waves in the distance.

Here you can find birds you don’t see in coastal San Diego such as the Steller’s Jay, and Chestnut-backed Chickadee. These Two and others, I have already compiled on my list. However, I was interested in this Brown Creeper that kept coming up on the Merlin Sound App.

I heard it but didn’t see it until I was making my way back to the car. I finally got my first view of this small brown bird in the last minute of our walk.

It turns out that it camouflages very well with the tree, and you really have to be close to see it.

I saw movement on the ground and then it hopped up on the trunk of the tree, this is it! I thought, this is going to be a piece of cake!

No piece of cake! All of a sudden it took off up the tree in seconds flat! I could barely follow it with my camera. What just happened? I wasn’t prepared for that.

It was like a miniature King Kong climbing the Empire State building but with lightning speed.

JoJo laughed and said, “I told you that the description said, that it jettisons up the tree”

Well. hahaha, I didn’t hear you.

Still shell shocked, I saw it, or another, hop on a different tree. I thought, this time I will aim the camera two feet above and ahead of it as it scrambles up the tree. This way, I am not trying to keep up with it. Once it hits my viewfinder, I will snap the photo.

This didn’t work either. It was like a Tesla, doesn’t look fast, but is.

I hung out for a bit more, to see if one of them would show its face again, no such luck.

Anyway, he is a blurry blob in most photos so, I am presenting the least blurriest to get an ID for:

#284 Brown Creeper Califor

10/01/2023

Lake Poway

Driving in the Poway area, we decided to stop by and check out Lake Poway.

What a cute little lake!

I hate to be so simplistic in my description but sometimes cute and little do the trick. I mean, it is big enough to boat around and from shore to shore it really isn’t that close. But, it is small in comparison to other lakes in Southern California.

Lake Poway is a dam and reservoir in Poway, California, a town, a little of north of San Diego.

The dam is owned by the city and was constructed for the purpose of storing plus supplying water. The lake in turn was to provide recreational facilities to the community.

There is year-round fishing for trout, bass, sunfish, bluegill, and catfish. Besides fishing there are picnic areas and playgrounds.

Providing a 2.75 trail loop, I read somewhere that the lake has one of the best hiking areas and it also meets up with other trails.

There is a small dock that I assume is for fishing but, on the day, we went, the dock and the area around it was filled with remote airplane fliers. The wind was but a slight breeze and the weather was perfect as the planes glided above with such precision. They told us that they meet one day during the week.

There was another larger dock that held numerous paddle boats as well as aluminum outboards. You can visit the lake any day, but it is only open for fishing and boat rentals Wednesday through Sunday. State fishing licenses are not required: however, a Poway Lake permit is required. You can also fish from the shoreline.

No swimming is allowed since it is a reservoir, however, Fido can come on a leash.

It is a surprisingly scenic lake with trees glistening in the sun as if they are about to change color. They provide a beautiful back drop as white pelicans drift by along with other various birds.

Overall, it looks like a great place to spend the full day instead of the hour or so that we were there.

If the beach is too crowded and you are ever in the area, think about stopping by this quaint,,,er,,cute little lake.

Story and photos: Debbie Colwell

05/01/2023

Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park
I jumped out of the car and hurriedly made my way up near the visitor center at the Leo Carrillo Ranch.
Why? Because I was in pursuit of photographing a wild peacock and rain clouds were approaching rapidly. I was told the amazing birds roam the grounds and the fields freely.

I was only semi interested in the ranch. After about twenty minutes there, we didn’t see any peacocks. So I asked other visitors if they saw any and they sadly answered no. An employee at the center said that she hasn’t seen one in awhile and that they come out in force during spring. But, I was here now, darn it.

Oh well, let’s see what this ranch was all about then and maybe, just maybe we will get lucky and see a peacock. A Quick look up into the sky and it looked like the rain clouds may stay away...for now.

So first, who is Leo Carrillo?

Leo Carrillo was a Hollywood actor and starred in almost 100 films in the years of 1927 to 1950. He purchased land in Carlsbad and built a ranch in the style of early California. This adobe hacienda had sprawling grounds and various other buildings.

Today, the buildings and the 27 acre ranch are open to the public for self touring, educational classes, camps, and private events. There are also guided tours on certain days.

The actual residence is closed down while it is currently being refurbished but the rest of the buildings are open to view.

We saw a carriage house, stables, barns, garage, and even a cantina.

The city of Carlsbad has done well in preserving and restoring the buildings and the 27-acre park.

When you drive up all you hear is the chirping of birds, tons of them! A wide open meadow is filled with trees and the aroma of eucalyptus trees fills your lungs like a fine scented candle. Except this is real and natural.

There are trails everywhere, and you are encouraged to stay on them. Most of the buildings, we viewed from outside where they had a plaques with information.

Dogs are not allowed on the premises.

I was most impressed with the scenery. Hidden behind homes and a neighborhood, Carlsbad in 1990 set out to restore the ranch and offer it to the public to visit for free. Besides the adobe structures that serve as historical value, the city honored Leo Carrillo himself for years of good deeds. Among other things, Carrillo served on the California State Beaches and Parks Commission for 18 years.

Strange thing, as we were driving back up north, we saw a big freeway sign that said Leo Carrillo Ranch. Was that there all of this time? I never noticed it before. Funny how that works.

So,in ending, I must go back to the peacocks. About twenty minutes after the lady told me that they were no where to be seen, I hear my name called and a finger pointing to a slowly moving beautiful bird.

We found one!!! I come around the buildings to catch it from the other side. It slowly walked between two buildings, and I was only catching its back end. I had to get closer and catch it from the front. So off the beaten path I go slipping and a sliding in the mud from a recent rainfall. I almost did a face plant in a small creek.
Every muscle was pulled as I stalked the massive bird that was moving at a snail's pace. Surprisingly, I lost sight of it during the time that I was doing a mud dance and trying to right myself.

How far could it have gone? Then I saw it again up by a cement fence that surrounded part of the grounds. I was able to snap a few shots before it jumped five feet in the air and scaled the fence.

It was gone just like that! At least I was able to see one.

Now I could relax and explore more of the grounds and inhale the wonderful tree aromas.

Anyway, whether you are there to see peacocks or just curious to see what the ranch is about, it is a relaxing way to spend an afternoon. Go back in time when these buildings were constructed and get a little history into your blood.

Do stay on the trails though, as I had mud in every crack of my shoe. It was worth it though.

Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park Then & Now.

Story and photos: Debbie Colwell

31/12/2022

Ramona Grasslands Preserve

Away from the coast we travel this time forty-five minutes to the Ramona Grasslands Preserve.

Near the town of Ramona, this Preserve is open to the public for hikers, joggers, birders, and even horseback riders. I found this to be true as I was two inches from stepping in a huge pile of horse droppings. A quick shuffle and I missed it. A few minutes later I passed by the culprit, as rider and horse were enjoying a stroll through this area of prairie grasslands, rolling pastures, and wet habitats.

This is what to expect when out in nature.

The Reserve is about ten minutes from the town of Ramona which is about 45 minutes northeast from San Diego.

For as far as you can see there is wide open land which actual encompasses 3521 acres, however, only 480 of those acres are available to the public.

Additional trails are planned for the future, but it is nice to know that there will never be homes or human development on these lands.

Walk the four-mile trail to enjoy vast grasslands, old trees, and possibly wildlife. I only saw squirrels who popped their head out once in a while then scurried back in their hole as you approached. Not much bird action although they say that eagles have been seen here.

The information sheet at the gate said that there were coyotes, snakes, and mountain lions. My walking companion mentioned how cool it would be to see a mountain lion, of which I looked her and said, “Are you kidding me!!?” She proceeded to tell me, but only if they are far away. Mountain lions are huge and can run 40-50 miles per hour, for a short period versus a human male at 8 miles per hour. Let’s see how that works out for you.

There was a stretch where the trail goes off into a heavy tree and brush area where nobody was going. In my quest to see some birds I followed that trail until I got spooked out. However, a minute later I heard the voices and laughter of about four people leaving that same place. See, no big mean mountain lions to worry about.

Although you can walk way further than we did, it is something to see with old trees, large boulders, and empty hills. There are homes in the distance too, but they don’t take away from this scenic valley.

The drive here from the coast was also spectacular which made the whole experience enjoyable.

This is a great Sunday drive and worth the price of gas, well that depends on how much you paid.
But, it is certainly an interesting place.

Luckily, we didn’t see any mountain lions and I didn’t have to try to outrun them at my pace of probably 2 miles per hour.

Only harmless squirrels...my kind of day.

Story and Photos: Debbie Colwell

27/12/2022

San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve

This is yet another place that I have driven by thousands of times and looked at but never stopped.

From the coast highway, you can see the lagoon but, I never noticed all of the trails, tiny bridges, or the pure beauty of the place.

This time, we typed the San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve into the GPS and decided to take a real look!

It was easily found from Interstate 5 and we slipped into one of only a few parking slots. There was a sign saying there were more spots across the street, but the parking angel was good to us as it always is.

I was surprised actually on how many people were there judging by the number of cars.

From the parking lot there is a sizable visitor center, with information on the lagoon, what species of animals and birds that can be found there, plus a gift ship.

Upstairs is an awesome lookout where you can see the whole area and the coastline. There was a family that brought food and were having a picnic at one of the many tables. It was a perfect spot and a clear, warm day in San Diego County.

Posters and information from the employee at the visitor center told me what birds I could find to photograph. There were plenty and I saw six species that I have never photographed before.

As we started towards one of the paths where it hit me on what a stunning place this was. There were trails galore and you can take your leashed pooch along.

People were jogging, walking, or just enjoying the peaceful day, but it didn’t seem crowded because it was so wide open.

There were walk-ways, bridges, marshlands, canals, and amazing birds to be seen. A large Gray Heron and White Egret were hanging out against the honey brown reeds. Another white bird was perched on a post across the water, it was nature at its best.

A loud weird sound was coming from a bird far up on the wires above and I could barely make it out even with the telephoto lens of my camera. On further inspection later with the trusty bird posters, I saw that it was a Belter Kingfisher. Never heard of it, never saw one but now I have, thanks to this Reserve.

I have seen Herons and Egrets many times but against this natural habitat and wonderfully preserved wetlands, they looked both serene and at home.

Do you want to get into nature and enjoy the creations on our earth? I highly recommend the San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve.

Story and photos: Debbie Colwell

11/12/2022

Coming up next. San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve. Yet another place I have driven by thousands of times. It is actually pretty awesome. Coming soon.

In the meantime, I saw 6 more birds on my list. Most were pretty far to get a pristine photo, but just enough to get an identification.

They had charts and books to help you with this and then I would Google the bird and also see other photos that people have taken while there.

I feel confident in my identifications.

39 now on my way to 50!

09/12/2022

Parker, California
If you ever want to see how vast California really is, get yourself out on a desert road. We had about seventy miles to go until reaching our final destination when, I noticed how desolate of an area we were driving. It was an awe-inspiring amount of wide-open space with a road that spanned for miles.
No cars to be seen, no buildings, structures... nothing.

It was a Friday morning, and we were on our way to Parker, California on Highway 177.

Parker, California is across the river from Parker, Arizona so I was a few football fields away from standing in another state to qualify for writing about California. However, I will intermix a little Arizona in, as there are a few things you have to see that are just across the border from where we were staying.

This part of the Colorado river is designed for only one thing, playing on the water!
There is resort after resort, storage units for boats or other watercraft, and RV storage facilities.

The resorts are set up for RV’s, campers, or any other mode of camping you desire. Intermixed in these resorts are privately owned tiny homes and in the case of our place, a few bungalows for rent. All, right on the river.

Now, by bungalow, I mean a small trailer like structure. There was nothing fancy about it but, it had heat, shower, kitchen, TV, you know all the comforts of home without any form of elegance.

Across the river was another resort and further down on that side, there were nice homes with docks.

As I mentioned, river life is all about having fun, it is hot in the summer, very hot. Climbing in temperatures well over hundred degrees, flocking to the water is the course of the day.

However, it wasn’t summer. It was the first week in December and the days were warm at 65-69F, but at night it was a thirty degree shift down to the forties.

So yes, we used the heater.

The nice part of it all is that there were virtually no boats on the water, I believe I saw five total during the four days we were there. So, it made for a very quiet trip with serene mornings and peaceful afternoons. It is, however, understandably busier with much more activity and noise in the summer.

The town of Parker with all of the restaurants, hotels, gas stations, stores, etc. is on the Arizona side of the river. Where we were is actually called Parker Dam, California. We were only a few miles from the dam and once you cross over the river, you are in Arizona.

Built in 1937 and at 320 feet high, the dam itself is fascinating as you can see both sides of the water. This mighty structure is filled to the brim from the river on one side, while on the other side, it spans far below. It is amazing to see how this structure can hold back so much water.

We did venture across to go twenty miles to Lake Havasu for the holiday boat parade that was taking place that weekend. Although, not in California, I have to mention it as an excursion as you just have to visit the London Bridge. Yes, it is the real London Bridge.

Here is a snippet about the bridge from the Lake Havasu Chamber of commerce:

In 1962, it was discovered that the London Bridge was "falling down," sinking into the Thames because it was not adequate for the increase in traffic. The City of London decided to put the 130-year-old bridge up for auction, and construct a new one in its place. Robert P. McCulloch, founder of Lake Havasu City, AZ, submitted the winning bid for $2,460,000 in 1968. McCulloch spent another $7million to move the London Bridge to Lake Havasu City which took a total of three years.

As mentioned, it is something to see if you are in the area and quite a sight all dressed up for Christmas. There were seventy boats participating in the parade while the whole area was overflowing with holiday decorations, lights, and spirit. Of course, the whole town was there too, but that made it even more interesting...cue people watching.

Twenty miles back to Parker Dam, the bright lights have disappeared only to be replaced with pure darkness. With no city lights to speak of, the resort had rolled up its carpets for the evening and all of the residents were not to be heard from.
In the winter, all the retirees who get away from colder climates come here to stay. Party animals they are not.

The next day, we visited a few friends in two other resorts nearby. Each one had a feature that we wished was had in all. As an example, one had a great pool with bamboo thatched umbrellas scattered about, giving it a tropical locale atmosphere. The other had a cozy riverside restaurant and a sandy beach.
The one we were staying was more rustic but, I feel had the best view. Each one was unique.

I was surprised on how well I liked the area and the topography. If you squinted your eyes and imagined the pointed mountain structures to be vibrant green, you could almost see Tahiti. I may be pressing that a little, but the jagged peaks added such a uniqueness on each side of the water and the palm trees contributed to the appeal.

The water is cold this time of year yet cool and refreshing in the summer against the hundred-degree temperatures.

In the mornings, the river was glassy and calm with not a wisp of wind. With the risk of sounding like a Guru, this tranquility and peacefulness can be very purifying for your soul.

It is a laid-back life for sure. A great long weekend get-a-way that we recommend.

However, in summer the river is filled with boats so, peace and quiet might not be the order of the day.

It is a yin and yang type of place that I have seen at its busiest in the past, but this time I was glad to see it in its dormant stage and so will you.

Check out any of the resorts in the area for vacation rentals by owners or small resort owned cottages/bungalows.

Story: Debbie Colwell
Photos: Debbie Colwell
River Sunset Photo: Patti Serrano

06/12/2022

32, 33, 34 from our trip to Parker, California. More to come on our visit to the river!

28/11/2022

Birds 29, 30, 31 on my quest to photograph 50 in California. I think it gets harder from here.

20/11/2022

Last count on my road to photographing thirty birds in California was nineteen. Now I add nine more for twenty-eight.

Twenty-eight in less than a month is way more than I thought as I gave myself a challenge of thirty in a year.

Once I started identifying random birds that I shot, I was surprised on all of the varieties there actually were. I still haven't shot some common birds that I know I can get just around my neighborhood.

So new challenge...fifty.

Here are the nine I just recently shot. Most were very high and a tad out of my telephoto range but enough to get an identification.

Over four-hundred different species in California, I hope you will join me in looking up into the sky!

15/11/2022

A Small Year

This year I am now retired and I challenged myself to a goal. I am going for a Small Year!

What is a small year? First you need to know what a Big Year is.

In the birding world(bird watchers) they have a competition that starts on January 1 to December 31st.
In this time they must spot as many bird species as they can and mark it off of the list. The US/Canada competition has a record of 726 species seen. Yes, they are on their honor, no photographs need to be taken.

They travel thousands of millions, spend thousands of dollars and have a connection on the web where people can report sightings.

In my case, I am going for the Small Year of only 30 species and all in California, even though our state has 450.
Also, I am going to photograph them.

Why, you ask of such a small amount? Because, when I started counting birds on my hand, that I knew that I could possibly see, I ended with about 18. I had the pelican and the seagull by the shore, no brainer. A crow, a hawk, hummingbirds, check. Black bird, finch, check. Then the list started getting shorter

Happy to say within a few weeks I had 19. Some, as identified later were unexpected. Some, the identification is enough to drive you crazy.

Join me while I document the 30 and join in if you have the time.

Here are my first 19.

04/11/2022

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
This is another State Park that we visited while we had a free entry pass for a week.

Twenty miles north of San Diego, the Torrey Pines State Park is a hiker's dream.

However, we weren’t going to do any hiking as I was recovering from a leg injury, we just wanted to take the dog for a walk and look at the pretty Torrey Pines.

But we read ahead of time that dogs were not allowed in the park. Okay, there goes that idea.

So, we bought a sandwich and were going to find a comfy bench to enjoy it with the scenic sights.

That is until we saw this sign: No Food or Drink Allowed on trails. Okay, there goes that idea.

So, we chomped down our sandwiches in the car, and headed out for investigation time.

What is it about Torrey Pines that brings in so many visitors daily? Let’s find out.

Torrey Pines is a stretch of land that has been preserved and remains so, as the rest of San Diego and environs are developed. These 2,000 acres are home to Pinus Torreyana, better known as the Torrey Pine, one of the rarest pines in the United States. In fact, there is only one other place that the Torrey Pine grows naturally, Santa Rosa Island just off the coast from Santa Barbara. Since that island is miles offshore, it is special that it grows here on the mainland.

This natural reserve is a protected area because it contains threatened plants, animals, and habitats. That explains no dogs or food, understandable. However, tell my shirt that, as I am looking down at the mustard stains from eating in the car.

It also has steep cliffs, deep valleys, and ocean overlooks. Benches are scattered about for hanging out and enjoying your day in nature.

Beside world visitors, locals come by every day to walk along the tranquil trails, or rest at the stunning outlooks. Plus, you cant beat this place with its venue for exercise, running, and jogging.
A friend of mine said it is one of their favorite places to hike with its natural habitat and ocean views. Although on this day, it was so gray, you couldn’t tell the water from the sky.

There are two beaches you can access while in the Torrey Pines Reserve but make sure you are informed about the tides. On high tide the waves leave no room to stroll safely between the waves and the cliffs.

We also explored the visitor center where there was information about the park and docents were scattered about to answer questions.

In the center, a well-informed lady told us about the animal species in the reserve and I was most amazed at a huge stuffed mountain lion. I didn’t realize how big they were and was surprised they were in the area. She assured me that they are rarely seen and only come out at night anyway. She had many stories of other sightings and ‘inquisitive me’ was most grateful to hear it all.

We walked a little down a path and then made our way back to the car, my leg could only go so far.

Although we didn’t hike more towards the shoreline, the Pacific Ocean views are amazing I am told so, if anything, this is something to see if you are in the vicinity. Remember, no dogs or food!

Hiking or no hiking, food or no food, come see for yourself and don’t forget to admire the rare name sake pines, after all, the next place is 23 miles across the sea from Santa Barbara. Now that’s a hike.

Story and Photos: Debbie Colwell

22/10/2022

Crystal Cove State Park
Recently we received a pass to get into California State Parks free for a week. So, we made the most of it and set out to visit a few coastal parks in Southern California.

First up was Crystal Cove State Park which I have driven by hundreds of times in my life, but never stopped to see what it was all about. Mainly because it cost money to get in and I was always heading somewhere else.

After spending a few hours at stop number one, I am sorry I never took the time, it is an amazing beach.

Just south of Newport Beach as you are descending into the lowest part of Pacific Coast Highway, is when you get your first glance. Now at sea level, you can feel the ocean breezes and the sight before you looks like something from a travel magazine.

The water was always a crystal blue color and the large bluffs at the end of the long stretch of sand were rugged and scenic. At the top of the cliff far above the breakers sat a few large modern homes, the envy of any car passing by, I am sure.

With the pass in hand, this time, I was going to finally take a stroll on this beach and get a closer look.

As it turns out, Crystal Cove State Park actually has three entrances with each one having a different look from the other. So, we would visit all three.

Entrance One, Moro Beach
The first entrance was at the lowest part of Pacific Coast Highway as mentioned, and we were easily waved through the guard gate with our trusty pass. Normally it’s a $15 a day charge.

There were numerous parking areas at different levels and clean bathrooms. Also, scattered about were picnic tables and gazebos for large groups. We chose a spot that appeared to be at the lowest level and closest to the beach.

Grabbing our stuff, we glanced to see where people were walking and headed that way. We soon came upon a tunnel filled with water. We hesitated as we really didn’t see the beachgoers walking through here and we didn’t know how deep it was.

A young lady came by, and we asked if this was the way to the beach and she nodded yes. She saw us wavering a little, and looked back at us and said, “you won’t be disappointed” So, we trudged through the above ankle-deep water and headed to the sea.

Once out of the tunnel, boy, she was right, it was gorgeous!!!, and we were definitely not disappointed.

It spanned as far as you can see in both directions but only ending south by a massive and rugged bluff.
The one with the beautiful homes that I envied...er...admired.

This is where we headed first.

The sand was clean, and the sea was sparkling on this warm October day. There were only a handful of people enjoying sunbathing and less than that in the water. By California standards the water was still swim-able at 70 degrees F. However, the waves were harsh as they hit the shore, making it unfriendly for swimmers in my opinion. In some parts it was a little calmer.

As we approached the cliff, there were a few surfers catching the waves as the breakers formed along the wall of the towering bluff.

Large green mossy rock formations were embedded into the sand making it very picturesque. There were these odd shapes intermixed with the rocks that looked like they were made out of cement. On research later, I couldn’t find out what they were. Or maybe I didn't try hard enough.

Regardless, I decided that this is in the top ten beaches I have seen though my travels and it was there in front of me all my life!

The beach is mostly sand but in one area we found a thirty-foot wide section where small rocks were bringing in our beach-combing treasure...sea glass! Each time a wave came in, it would open up a new layer where more glass was exposed. We picked for about a half an hour and then decided to walk back to where we came in.

Far north we could see another group of surfers and more of the shoreline which spanned very far. As we splashed along in the ankle-deep water, pure relaxation hit us like a ton of bricks. There is nothing more therapeutic than dipping the feet into the sea.

We decided next, to check out entrance two which would be a short drive up the road via PCH.

Entrance Two
About a mile or so away, sits the second entrance to Crystal Cove State Park. Plenty of parking here but it is higher up on Coast Highway, so you have to hike down a trail from far above the ocean.

I stayed on top and snapped some photos while Staycationer JoJo made the trek all the way down via a man-made trail.

Once down on the sand, she looked so tiny, making me wonder just how high up I was. A few people trudging up the steps were huffing and puffing as if they had just run a marathon. There were plenty of
groups heading down the hill, so I guess the steep trail doesn’t deter most.

Again, this was a very intriguing and scenic beach with rock formations and parts that looked like tide pools that would be exposed in lower tides. On research later, I found out that in reality there are at least four tide pool areas.

Entrance Three
If you wanted peace and quiet, this is not the spot for you. This is part of the Crystal Cove State Parks’s Historical District and honestly when I was down on the beach, I actually felt like I had gone back in time.

This seaside community was built between 1920 and 1940 and still has that feel and look.

Some of the rentals were on the lower levels and are closed while receiving a whole new refurbishment, however, on the upper level they are still available to reserve.

As we were heading down a bunch of stairs to check out the restaurant, we saw a rental titled ‘something Lodge’. One of us in our group thought it was for the public, so she stepped inside to explore. It was actually a cottage being rented out for the weekend. The guests were a little surprised when she walked in, but one in particular said, “Come on in!!” So we did.

She proceeded to show us all around, first with the multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, then the kitchen and, finally the two patios with stunning panoramic views. She was just a super nice, friendly woman and we were grateful plus surprised to get a tour of this unique cottage.

Don’t get me wrong, this rental is rustic so don’t expect a modern five-star experience. I mean there were two old picnic tables in the kitchen, that should give you an idea. But it was huge and perfect for a coastal family getaway.

After our unexpected tour, we headed further down to the lowest level where there is a store, bar, and restaurant. I am told the food is great at the Beachcomber Cafe and judging by how many people were there, I am sure this is true. A few picnic tables were set up where you can dine right on the sand and the patio was filled with seaside patrons.

I was also told that a shuttle will transport you from the parking lot to this cute little community.

More cottages were at sea level, and these were the ones getting fixed up while the others were on the bluff overlooking the ocean. There were also what looked like private homes along this stretch of the beach, and all looked like they were preserving the look of the era they were built.

The whole scene looked like something from the 60’s and it is truly a charming and magical place where I want to stay someday. It is not hard to let your imagination soar to a simpler time.

For now, I was just happy we were able to see it after all of these years. The pass worked great and saved us money by not having to pay at each entrance gate.

We headed back to our car and back into 2022. It was nice traveling back in time and visiting secluded beaches, shoreline restaurants, and old cottages. The stress just melted off or was that my sweat after climbing the steps back to our car. Next time, the shuttle will work just fine.

Either way, you will be at a better stress level at any of these three locations.

This was a perfect day, and as we say after a lot of our stories...bring yourself, bring a friend, bring a camera, and definitely bring your imagination.

Stories and photos: Debbie Colwell

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The Funicular at Strands Beach in Dana Point A couple friends sent me a video of something that I didn’t know existed in Southern California. An actual tram that transports you down a long steep slope and then ends at a ramp where you can continue the trek to the beach. I had to investigate this myself since I was given a general idea of where it was. As it turns out, I found it quite easily near Dana Point in Orange County. We zeroed in on it at Strands Beach which is only a few miles north of Dana Point Harbor, however it was closed. It was only open until 5:00pm and from what I understand, as of right now, only the weekends. The other option to get to the beach was to take the long stairway to the bottom. Bring on the Stairs!! Since the view from top was only of the ocean, our curiosity killed us on what the actual beach looked like. So, like daring out-of -shape ninjas, we began our journey down the stairs…and there were a lot of them. Finally arriving at the end of the stairs, there was still a paved trail to go before you actually touched the sand. I had to stay up with the dog and couldn’t take pics but I’ll have to come back one day this summer to snap a few. One of us did make the trek and reported back that the beach was stunning. Even though it was high tide, there was still plenty of sand for chairs and family activities. Except for the harbor and neighboring Doheny Beach, Dana Point is known for its location high above the coastline. On this beach, the view was spectacular because of the towering cliffs that spanned as far you can see. It was a cool day and the water was still chilly but even with that, it still looked inviting to take a swim. So now back to the stairs. I am here to report that, walking the stairs up, isn’t really that much fun unless you are super fit and love getting your heart rate going. It is pretty steep, but they managed to make it easier by breaking up the amount of stairs at given section

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