2015-8 Point Arena Lighthouse, California
Hello All,
Departing Fort Bragg, California, we followed the shoreline highway southbound. As we worked our way along the coast we stopped to investigate areas that caught our eye. It is truly a magnificent drive loaded with scenic beauty. Upon reaching the small coastal town of Jenner we turned inland. Santa Rosa would be our home base for the next four days while exploring this part of the state.
One of the first stops we made was at the Mendocino Headlands. We had visited the area earlier in the week but wanted one last look at the town of Mendocino. It is truly engulfed in sheer scenic beauty.
Departing Fort Bragg, California, we followed the shoreline highway southbound. As we worked our way along the coast we stopped to investigate areas that caught our eye. It is truly a magnificent drive loaded with scenic beauty. Upon reaching the small coastal town of Jenner we turned inland. Santa Rosa would be our home base for the next four days while exploring this part of the state.
One of the first stops we made was at the Mendocino Headlands. We had visited the area earlier in the week but wanted one last look at the town of Mendocino. It is truly engulfed in sheer scenic beauty.
Continuing southbound we came to the little town of Elk, where we spotted a cute little church on our left. We pulled over to the right shoulder and snapped a photo of it.
Then we noticed a bobcat walking through some grass on the right side of the highway. It is not often a person gets the opportunity to photograph these elusive animals—we were very lucky indeed! And, to our surprise it stopped and posed while checking us out.
Becoming bored with us it slowly walked out of sight. It was an experience we won’t soon forget—the bobcat in the little town of elk!
Scenic vistas along the shoreline highway abound. And as the road curves following the rugged shoreline you are provided with many different perspectives to take in. We find it to be an excellent way of forgetting your troubles.
Even the occasional home along the way seemed to be well manicured. The tree in this front yard caught our eye.
But, the natural beauty of the coastline is simply awesome. We thoroughly enjoyed the ride.
Our next stop was at Manchester Beach State Park where we became fascinated with the ice plant in full bloom. It has such a brilliant flower. The short succulent plant makes a wonderful natural ground cover.
Without a doubt the rugged coastline of Point Arena really highlights the scenic beauty of the lighthouse located there. In our travels we have photographed numerous lighthouses. But, few have the overall seascape that Point Arena Lighthouse has. We thought it made for spectacular photos!
We had to laugh when this turkey vulture flew into the frame as we snapped this photo. There were quite of few of them soaring on the currents in the area.
Here is another shot of a turkey vulture we snapped—on purpose this time! They are commonly known as buzzards and have long "fingers" at their wingtips. When soaring they hold their wings slightly raised, making a ‘V’ when seen head-on. Their keen sense of smell allows them to find food while soaring.
We found the coastline south of Point Arena to be extremely rugged also. Over the years the pounding waves had carved out some amazing formations.
On the far right in the following photo you can see folks on the rock. In the middle of the photo note the natural bridge they had to cross to get there.
Here is a closer shot of the natural bridge.
On the left is a lady carrying a toddler across the bridge! In our opinion she wasn’t exercising good judgment!
There were a number of young folks out on the point. Again, not necessarily the smartest behavior, as one slip and it would be a long swim to shore—or worse!
Occasionally a rogue wave would crash into the rocks making a huge splash.
These Pacific harbor seals were much more adept at being out on the rocks than people. They reach five to six feet in length and can weigh as much as 300 pounds. Much of the time they lay on the rocks like a blob--never moving.
However, when a wave breaks over the rocks they lift their heads and tails in unison—it is fun to watch. As soon as the water passes under them they flop down on the rock again. These lovely animals have spotted coats in a variety of shades from white or silver-gray to black or dark brown.
Our next adventures will take us around the coastal areas between Bodega Bay and San Francisco Bay. It would be our pleasure to have you along for the ride.
Until next time,
Dave & Barb
The Traveling Browns
Until next time,
Dave & Barb
The Traveling Browns