Whether it’s the Pacific crashing on rocks or the Gulf of Mexico roaring in the sunshine, there’s something magical about big bodies of water. The power and the majesty of the ocean remind us that we are only one small part of a greater world.
The central California coast is dotted with lighthouses that have guided ships through our well-known fog. In ancient times, mariners would be guided by large fires lit on hilltops and lighthouses just marked entrance to a port. Over time, they became navigational aids on coastlines. Modern electronic navigation systems have replaced their historical function, leaving lighthouses as romantic figments of the past. They’re fun to look at and if you can go inside, all the better.
You can’t see that these are pelicans, but they are, at Twin Lakes Beach in Santa Cruz. We saw hundreds of them.
The rock at top right is a pelican resting spot. I wonder how long it takes them to get tired?
The Gulf coast is known for its shells, but at this Santa Cruz beach we saw feathers and more feathers. This one’s soft and fluffy white. Beautiful.
This feather’s more streamlined and sleek.
Stones worn smooth by sand and tide.
Just like our edges smooth with time and age.
Shell fragments
I miss the full shells I’d get at Gulf of Mexico beaches. It’s different here. Maybe the wildness of the ocean breaks shells apart.
Nature forms a perfect star.
This perforated shell is a tiny work of art.
And then, evidence of a Good Samaritan. A found key, called to the attention of any who might be looking.
The Good Samaritan stuck the key in the sand.
I wonder if the owner came back to look for it–this would be a beautiful surprise.
And, as with all things Santa Cruz, a message of love, peace and joy. I wish you a summer full of the same. And some beach time.
My daughter was just there with her Oakland,California born boyfriend and his family. First time–and she loved it. I’ll pull this post up for her when she comes home for a weeks visit next monday. Pretty story and photos, Carol. Nice and summery.
Summer is speeding by, though!
Thanks for the quick trip to the beach! Gorgeous!!! Such a nice way to start a Monday! xo
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We’re planning to take Riley to a dog friendly beach there tomorrow morning.
breathing in the sea air….thanks for starting my morning off with a lovely walk to the beach.
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Didn’t you love the lost key?
Always fun to see beach photos. I didn’t make the beach this year–miss it. I go to the beaches in North Carolina.
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Beautiful pictures! I love the concept of the lost key being highlighted to grab the owner’s attention – how thoughtful.
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Me, too! I hope the owner came back to get it!
Such a beautiful beach! We don’t have as many here in Vancouver but we do try and take advantage of what we have, especially in the summer!
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Vancouver is beautiful. Just lovely.
Lovely pictures. Great graffiti !
I loved the graffiti, too
Loved this post Carol! Although my side of the world we have the Atlantic, any great body of water will do! I love to sit and just watch the waves roll in. It just does something for your spirit and makes you feel so small! I love that feeling! Trip to the beach needed immediately that’s for sure!
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We’re taking Riley tomorrow!
Just lovely, Carol! I’m from the west coast too, but a bit further north…I miss it so much!
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It’s all lovely…
Lovely, lovely photos, Carol! What a nice post to wake up to….you know my feelings for the ocean! We were just there last month, but we missed this beach. Thanks for showing it to me!
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You went to some fantastic beaches in my neck o the woods, though!
I wish I could live at the beach!
I did for several years and it was GREAT!
I love the beach – it is my calming place. We vacation on the Oregon Coast every summer – it’s the perfect, relaxing getaway. Thanks for the lovely pictures!
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My calming place, too.
One of my favorite California coast things is beach glass. The power of all that is, turning trash into something beautiful! Love your finds and observations!
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I love it, too!
What a fun day! I love the beach and the sun too! thanks for sharing!
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