Think about it, we only have a few days left of school. Just a week of actually learning content, review week, finals, then we're done. How are you going to spend your summer?
1. Big Sur
I cannot stress this enough, Big Sur is the most beautiful beach you will find in California. It is a longer drive than Santa Cruz, being about an hour and a half south of Monterey Bay, but take the drive. It is a very natural, unpopulated beach. With the Bixby Bridge surpassing it, many people think it's just a scenic beach, but it's not! Get out of your car, and walk. Once you get down to the actual beach, it's stunning, perfect for photographers. The water is clean and not as cold as Santa Cruz (but not as warm as Santa Monica). If you like to surf, this is an awesome spot. The waves aren't too rough, and there is no manmade current from boats. Just paddle out and ride the waves. If you're going to one beach this summer, make it Big Sur.
2. Ocean Beach
Instead of going to the typical Pier 39 in San Francisco, take a trip to the other side of the city, south of Land's End, to Ocean Beach. Ocean Beach is for photographers or professional surfers, so don't try to swim too deep in the waters. The waves are big and harsh, but that's what photographers look for. I’ve sat there for hours taking time lapse of the crashing waves. It’s insane how photogenic this beach is. Also, there's the Ocean Beach wall, which is basically a ledge covered in modern day art that overlooks the beach. If you like taking or being in pictures, I recommend Ocean Beach.
3. Ross Cove Beach
North of Half Moon Bay, on the San Mateo County Coast, you'll find Ross Cove. This beach is basically a step down from Mavericks. Ross Cove catches the outermost waves that don't hit the famous surf spot, so the swells are a little more messy. It seems to be for more moderate and experienced surfer, so if you're looking for a challenge, this surf spot is for you. If you're not a surfer, this beach has beautiful hiking trails that have a view of the whole beach. There's something for everyone here.
4.Gualala Point
Gualala Point is north of Santa Rosa, about 3 hours from San Jose. The waters here are crystal clear but quite cold. It is very good if you want to swim. There aren't really waves, but a slight motion inwards. If you don't want to get into the waters, there are many scenic trails. You could enjoy a walk on the beautiful beach or just sit and enjoy the view. Another upside to Gualala Point is the cleanliness. There is no waste on sight and the bathrooms and showers are very well taken care of.
5.Scotts Creek Beach
North of Santa Cruz, right outside of Scotts Valley lies Scotts Creek Beach. This beach is well known for its winds, which means there are great swells. Many people go there to fly kites. Another tourist attraction is the dolphin habitat. Every time I have gone, there has always been a variety of sea life visible from the shore.
6. Mavericks Beach
Mavericks Beach is best known for the Mavericks Surf Competition. The waters are freezing! You will see some of the biggest waves in the world here. It's really relaxing to sit and watch people surf. Only here will you find surfers in the waters at every hour of the day. You can go out there at 5am and a handful of surfers will be paddling out. I think that's what I love about this beach, is the heart. The surf culture is very strong. When you’re at Mavericks you really get a feel of what surfing is truly about. No matter who you talk to, you will learn something and they will open your eyes.
7.Big Basin
Big Basin is stunning. There are campgrounds on the beach, where you can rent a lodge and stay as you please. What I really like is that, although it is a populated area, the nature is preserved. You can hear the wildlife at night, and see the stars as the sun goes down. Big Basin is just amazing for night time photography because not many parks and beaches are open to the public at night. It gives us the opportunity to shoot things out of the ordinary, like waves in a very low light. I really like this beach and it not too far from home.
8. Glass Beach
This beach is about 3 hours to the north, but if you have an interest in photography, Glass Beach is a must. The beach is covered in a beautiful combination of rocks and sea glass. The colors vary from transparent, pearl green, and your typical grey rock. The sight of this beach is enchanting. It is honestly one of the most beautiful things i have ever seen. Glass Beach is more for looks than anything because after awhile it begins to hurt walking barefoot and the water is very cold. Take pictures, enjoy the beauty and move on, but Glass Beach is a must if you're making a road trip up north.
9. Capitola
If you want to stay close to home, but get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, take the short 40 minute drive to Capitola. Capitola is known for the variety of small shops, cafes, and restaurants with a view of the ocean. What's better than sitting with a nice iced tea on a beach front right? I don’t recommend going into the waters because there’s so much more to do. The water is really musty and not very clean, but at least the sand is warm. There is also art everywhere. Take a picture in front of a mural, grab something to eat, and walk around some shops.
10. Marina State Beach
You get the best of both world with this beach. To start, parking is easily accessible, there are lots along the beach, so you don't have to worry about parking miles away. Marina is a very scenic beach. You can sit and watch as whales and dolphins swim by. You can go for a swim. The waters are still cold and dirty, but not as bad as Santa Cruz. As long as you don't mind seaweed touching you, you'll be fine. There aren't strong waves, so it’s good for little kids or if you're just trying to dip your feet in.
Life's A Beach
By Raya Chavez
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