Staycations California

Weekly photo challenge is “Glass”  Here are some interpretations of glass in California.

Sea Glass

I love looking for sea glass every time I go to the beach. I usually find at least one piece. The definition of sea glass is:
Naturally produced sea glass (“genuine sea glass”) originates as pieces of glass from broken bottles, broken tableware, or even shipwrecks, which are rolled and tumbled in the ocean for years until all of their edges are rounded off, and the slickness of the glass has been worn to a frosted appearance.”

There is no better place for sea glass than Fort Bragg California which is famous for it’s “Glass Beach” However, since it is a State Park, taking items from the park is prohibited. I wasn’t keen on taking any but I did see a few on the ground and took those home. Still, I think it should be left there for generations to enjoy.

Glass Bottom Boat

Nothing like riding on a glass bottom boat. Here in California, tons of fish could be seen off of the coast of Catalina Island. Although not in this photo, the bright orange Garibaldi Perch can often be spotted along the shores and harbor of this populated island.

Glassy Water

When I used to surf we called the waves glassy when the wind was non existent and the water had the appearance of pure glass. The same can be said of this warm California night and the water of the Oceanside harbor.

Lights or Candle Holders
Here at Bandy Canyon near Escondido, the grounds were spotted with various different lanterns and candle holders. All adding to a wonderful ambience at night.

Hotels
Glass windows and especially tinted glass add to the richness of any building. Here the Hyatt stands grandly overlooking the San Diego Bay.

More Glassy Water
Even the Pacific Ocean off of the coast of California can have a beautiful blue/turquoise tone making it look like rich glass.

<a href="https://dailypost.wordpress.com/prompts/glass/">Glass</a>

 

Best California Beaches from their readers poll.     Do you agree?  How many have you visited?

 

1.Huntington Beach

A rare empty beach at the pier in Huntington Beach

2. Hermosa Beach

3. Capitola Beach

Agree with this one. Even though it can get very crowded, it seems like a sleepy little beach town, very unique

4. Manhattan Beach

 5. East Beach Santa Barbara

6. Coronado Beach

This Beach makes it on a lot of lists. Point Loma in the background

7. Crystal Cove State Park-Laguna Beach

8. Santa Monica Beach

The amusement park pier is one of the attractions that has thousands flock here on any given day.

9.Moonstone Beach Cambria

10.Pfeiffer Beach-Big Sur

 

 

 

Gold Rush Days

Coronado Cays

Coronado Cays is a residential area with a collection of luxurious waterfront homes or condos and not exactly what you would call a tourist destination.  So why are we featuring it here?  Because there actually are a few things you can do in the area.

Coronado Cays is situated about 4 miles south of the Del Coronado Hotel and is across the street from the crashing waves of the Silver Strand State Beach. It is made up of numerous channels, inlets, and waterways all making their way out to the quieter part of San Diego bay.

The main bay is just beyond the last red buoy

As mentioned, there are a few of things you can do there and spending some time at the Coronado Cays Park is one such thing.  This large six acre grassy area is perfect for sports activities, playing with your dog, or taking a scenic stroll along the bay.  From what I could see as we drove by, it looked like you could launch your SUP or kayak along the shore to enjoy the calmer waters of this part of the bay.
There are also tennis courts,  a baseball diamond on one end, bathrooms, and a kid’s play area.

If you are hungry, the bay side Calypso Café is nearby.  Although we didn’t eat there, I looked it up on Google and Yelp and it became evident that this is a favorite of the locals and by all accounts a great place to eat.  The patio sits right on one of the channels giving you a chance to eat,  relax and enjoy the view.

The Calypso Cafe is right below the flag

 

Another unique experience is taking a gondola ride through the waterways of the Cays.   This is something I did get to do about three years ago.   The gondolier expertly guides you through the canals while you sit within the peaceful comfort of the Italian style boat.  Munchies in the form of cheese, crackers, and grapes are provided as part of the package.

You could easily fall asleep during the relaxing hour long ride as you glide through the passages with beautiful homes and boats just a few feet away.   The swaying of the gondola, the sun beating down on your face, the sea breeze, and the ambient sound of water lapping against the boat is enough to put you asleep for hours.   I definitely could have taken an hour long nap,  however, I willed my eyes to stay open as I didn’t want to miss out on any of the wonderful scenery.

Although tourists aren’t exactly flocking to the Coronado Cays and are instead opting for Sea World, the Zoo, and the Hotel Del, let’s just call the Coronado Cays our little secret.  If you live in San Diego or are just visiting and you want to spend a relaxing day at the coast or enjoy a quiet bay side lunch, this is the place.

Also, if you are traveling with the pooch, the park may be a perfect exercise excursion for him or her…or you!

 

 

Just saw this amazing video of San Diego by air. Thought I would share.