February 22nd we headed for Pismo Beach on the California coast between Los Angeles and San Francisco. We had no idea what we could explore in the area except spectacular coastline.
We setup in Pacific Dunes RV Resort and marveled at the sand dunes right by the resort.
The next morning we asked at the front desk about local points on interest. She gave us so many we decided to stay for a week. One of the best aspects of retirement travel is time. When we arrive in a new location we ask local people what they like to explore and we always get ideas that aren’t in the glossy brochures.
Our first drive was north along scenic highway #101 where we saw zebras grazing with cattle. We have no idea why they were together but there were many other people stopping with the same quizzical look and taking the same photos.
Our destination was an elephant seal rookery. This view shows hundreds of seals along a secluded section of coastline. There are no rocks on this beach, just seals.
In early December adult male seals, weighing up to 5,000 pounds, arrive to claim their portion of the beach.
A few weeks later pregnant females, weighing up to 1,800 pounds, arrive and form harems. Their life cycle continues with birthing, nurturing and mating.
In January the sand can’t be seen for elephant seals doing everything nature intends. Now, in late February, the late arrivals are completing their life on land for this season and preparing to return to the sea.
We can only marvel at God’s very noisy, fascinating creatures.
Way cooool!
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