Cheers for the post Martina!
As Christmas approaches and we are drawn ever deeper into the long, dark nights of winter, what better time to drift off and dream of summer camp and the beaches of California? With around 840 miles of Cali coastline, the state has space aplenty for anyone looking to spend those precious post-camp days with a little sun, sand and sea.
Here are 5 of the top spots in California for you to check out after summer camp…
1. Manchester beach, Manchester state park
The gentle curve of this “catch basin” is a favorite among beach combers and naturalists alike. Steelhead trout spawn here and the five mile stretch is home to a number of beautiful wildflowers, including poppies, lupines and irises. Tours of the Point Arena Lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse open to the public, are also available.
2. Baker beach, San Francisco
Urban sprawl or unspoiled sand, San Francisco is lucky to have both in abundance. Baker beach holds fantastic views of the Golden Gate and is perfect for sunbathing and fishing. Sadly a swim in the bay might be a little risky due to the unpredictable rips currents.
3. Gold Bluffs beach, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
During the 1850s the beach was subject to a short-lived gold rush and retains its name from those times. Due to its proximity to the giant redwood forests in the north of the state, you may be lucky enough to catch herd of elk grazing on the beach itself. It’s unlikely that you’ll find any gold these days but, if you want to enjoy nature’s golden sunset over the bluffs, then following in the footsteps of those early US settlers is easy with the green card lottery at this site.
4. Stinson Beach
Shadowed by the mighty Mount Tamapais, Stinson beach has been a local favorite for almost a century. Swimmers should be wary of the sharks but with three and a half miles of golden sand and plenty of fantastic bars and BBQ you’re sure to find a decent bite that doesn’t involve loss of limb.
5. Lost Coast, King Range National Conservation Area
California’s Lost Coast is among the least developed areas in the US and was named so after a wholesale depopulation in the 1930s. Visitors can expect to be rewarded for their persistence in navigating the winding roads to the beach with an almost unspoiled view of the Pacific.