733 February 22, 2022 Morro Strand State Park

One last set of laps at the showgrounds in Santa Barbara and then we took off, north on 101 or the Historic Camino Real.  We traveled up and over hills and mountains.  We occasionally had a glimpse of the coast; the road runs parallel to the shore. This ride took us mostly inland on another scenic route.

The forecast was for winter weather with temperatures in the 50’s.  There were wind warnings with gusts from 35-45.  There was also a chance of rain.  When we left Santa Barbara, the sky was vividly blue, with a slight breeze.  We found sections of stronger wind as we drove.  There were low hanging clouds on the peaks that gradually became dense and grey.

Can you spot the rainbow in these clouds?

We had light rain intermittently.  California desperately needs rain.

We followed the gently rolling road through a landscape of verdant green hills, gnarly trees, Bared rock, and white fenced ranches.

We passed miles of well-tended vineyards…more than I have ever seen in one place.

We also passed acres upon acres of strawberry fields.  Workers were harvesting the bright red berries.

At Santa Maria, the sky was bright.

When we got to Morro Strand State Park Campground, we had a pleasant surprise.  Our campsite (even without hookups) is the best site in the park.  We have a view of the ocean and a path to the beach. 

These little beach squirrels are EVERYWHERE!

This afternoon, we took a long walk on the beach.  We walked a mile and we were still a long way away from Morro Rock!  It was very windy and brisk.

There were hundreds of whole sand dollars scattered on the beach.

Later, we took the Jeep and drove to see Morro Rock.  This is a domed 573 foot, 23-million-year-old, volcanic plug.  We walked around the great rock.

Otters like the protected Morro Bay.  There were several moms with babies.  I took tons of pictures but otters are slippery and quick.  Moms float with babies on their bellies to nurse.

Serious surfers!

The view of Morro rock from the town.

Houses perched on the hillsides all wanting a view of the ocean. Windows across the front of every home.

Sunset.