January 2019 in Southern California

Travel Journal 2019

We started off the new 2019 by working at the Lake Cahuilla kiosk. We also completed the new guest-bed that we added to the slide-out. Additionally, we organized and prepared for our two-week trip to Pacific Grove.

On Sat. 1-5, we picked-up Rose at the Palm Springs airport and made final preparations for our Pacific Grove trip. We worked Sat. at the Park kiosk and finished record-keeping for the period.

Sunday 1-6

We hooked-up and headed west to LA where we followed the I-210 (Foothills Freeway), and had a picnic lunch near Pasadena. We then pulled on up to Santa Clarita and Castaic for a night at the Valencia Travel Village. This Park is adjacent to Six Flags and numerous operating gold mines. Originally, Castaic was a Chumash Indian camp, then home of the Tejon Ranch, a stagecoach stop, and later a railroad station. It was also the location of William Mulholland’s, St Francis Dam, an LA Aqueduct impound  lake, in San Francisquito Canyon, which failed (1928) and claimed the lives of over 400 people down the canyon.

Valencia Village, nestled in the canyon, just west of I-5, had large trees, and nice amenities. The RV Park was quiet, clean, accommodating, and a light rain provided for a cozy overnight rest.

Monday 1-7

We cruised over the “grapevine”, north into the San Joaquin Valley, to Buttonwillow, for a picnic lunch. The ”grapevine” is a steep grade in the Tehachapi Mountains between Tejon Pass and the San Joaquin Valley. I-5 bypasses many of the once-winding, narrow sections of road that were the inspiration for a popular song known as "Hot Rod Lincoln".

 The San Joaquin Valley is the southern part of the California Central Valley, among the most fertile and productive soil in the world. The San Joaquin Valley is contained within the Tehachapi Mountains in the south, the California coastal ranges on the west, the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range in the east, and the Sacramento Valley in the north. Referred to as the “food basket of the world”, it produces a virtual smorgasbord of crops. It is just amazing to see the enormity and agronomy of the valley. Descending into the valley, you immediately observe the enormous expanse of the flat valley, nestled between the distant mountains.

Continuing north, we took CA 46 west to Paso Robles, on US 101, and a night at the Paso Robles RV Ranch, a very picturesque park overlooking the Salinas Valley.

Ca 46, at Blackwells Corner, is the site of James Dean’s (1955) fatal crash and is now signed as James Dean Memorial Junction. We popped-in at the local roadside market, which has all things “James Dean”.

Paso Robles is known for its hot springs, its abundance of wineries, its production of olive oil, and almond orchards. Situated in the Salinas River Valley, the area is primarily a wine-producing region and it is worth the trip to experience it. Many tourists come here just to tour and taste the abundant wineries, enjoy the hospitality, comfortable weather, and picturesque, rolling hills. The vineyards literally stretch across the undulating hills as far as the eye can see. It’s worth the trip to experience this unique resort. We enjoyed a quiet, peaceful nights rest among some friendly fellow-travelers.

Tue. 1-8

Continuing north on US 101, following the Salinas River Valley, we stopped for a visit at the San Michael Mission, then continued to Marina, for a 1-week stay at the Marina Dunes RV Park.

The 1797 San Miguel Mission, remains as the most intact of all the California Missions. The sixteenth in the chain of missions, San Miguel was founded on July 25, 1797 by Padre Fermin Francisco de Lasuen, who was a successor of Padre Junipero Serra, as Presidente of the missions. We enjoyed seeing this special place and it was like going back in time. One can easily imagine what early mission-life was like in the Spanish Alta California.

Marina, California is wonderfully diverse, teeming with options for food, culture, and adventure. On the north side of Monterey Bay, its scenic trails and seascapes afford endless possibilities for fun and exploration, attracting bicyclists, hang-gliders, paragliders, kite enthusiasts and admirers of Mother Nature. Vast stretches of dunes and rolling sand-hills, ethnic cultures and cuisines, and historic and renowned attractions make Marina a perfect destination for our base-camp on the Central California Coast. Marina Dunes RV Park is snuggled in the massive coastal dunes, between the ocean and the Pacific Coast Highway. We had a convenient access trail over to the Pacific Ocean, a beautiful stretch of pristine beach.

We met Jim and Maureen for dinner at the Beach House, at Lovers Point. This spot on the Monterey Peninsula is an enchanted and romantic dining destination and we enjoyed a nice evening together. We made plans for the next day, so we could enjoy the day together. On the Monterey Peninsula, we’re looking forward to exploring Monterey, Pacific Grove, Pebble Beach, and Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Wed. 1-9

We met Jim and Maureen at the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History, a 3-D field guide of the California Central Coast, showcasing local native plants, animals, geology, and cultural histories. We enjoyed a terrific visit and quality time together. Central Coast “birders” should come here first!

Next, we visited the Pacific Grove Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary. We enjoyed watching the Monarch’s flutter around the pine, cypress and eucalyptus trees in the Sanctuary. We also enjoyed some bird watching and passed a real fine time together.

Later, we went out to Pinos Point to surf-watch and bird-watch, as the Pacific was crashing giant waves on the rocky point. Very exhilarating and refreshing!

Our farewell dinner was at the Vivolo’s Chowder House, a favorite of locals and visitors alike. Saying goodbye to Jim and Maureen, we were left with warmhearted memories of our Pacific Grove visit with them.

Friday, January 11, 2019

Our tour plan today began at the Monterey State Historic Park in “Old Town”Monterey, Alta California’s first Capital. The old buildings and adobe houses mark the birthplace of California beginnings to statehood. It was a “walk on the path” of California history!

Next, we toured the “17-mile Drive” in Pebble Beach, one of the most scenic drives in the world. We learned that Pebble Beach is a vast collection of elite country clubs and golf resorts. We admired the rugged coast, ancient groves, stunning ocean views, wildlife, exclusive clubs and spas, and extravagant estates and mansions. Pebble Beach is an iconic championship golf venue, both for its spellbinding beauty, and its inspiring challenge. It is one of the most beautiful places we have ever seen!

We ended our touring with an early dinner at the Fisherman’s Wife seafood restaurant, a cozy spot in Pacific Grove. I couldn’t resist the “fish and chips”, a superb Pacific Coast lunch. Rose and Terry had chowder and seafood entrees that were just as good!

Saturday, January 12, 2019

Today, we visit Carmel by the Sea.

Mission San Carlos Borromeo del río Carmelo or Misión de San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo, first built in 1797, is one of the most authentically restored Roman Catholic mission churches in California. Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, it is on the National Register of Historic Places and is a National Historic Landmark. The mission was the headquarters of all Alta California missions from 1797 until 1833. It was headed by Saint Junípero Serra from 1770 until his death in 1784. It was also the seat of the second presidente, Father Fermin Francisco de Lasuen, who was in charge of completing nine more mission churches. We got to see where they are interred in the Church. It was good to see this historical Mission after having read so much California history. 

The stunning natural beauty of Carmel-by-the-Sea has inspired artists, sparked romances, and attracted world travelers. Situated on the California Central Coast, just south of Monterey Bay, it gets awesome surf action on the rocky basalt shore. A fantastic destination, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a unique, European-style village nestled above a beautiful white-sand beach where everything is walking distance. From performing arts to hundreds of shops, art galleries, and restaurants, you can do everything or nothing at all. We’re glad we came to visit! At Carmel, we saw the gorgeous beach and charming downtown. Carmel by the Sea was crowded and parking was scarce, so we did some drive-around shopping. We took lunch at a cozy deli, in the Barnyard Shopping Village, just off the Pacific Coast Highway.

Point Lobos and the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is the "crown jewel" of California’s 280 state parks. This is a place that offers stunning views every time you visit! It was very crowded and parking was impossible but we did get to see the beautiful setting. We had another delightful day on the California Central Coast!

Sunday, January 13, 2019

After a nice leisurely morning at the Marina RV Park, we decided to visit the Monterey Presidio Museum, where exhibits lead visitors through Monterey's various stages of military development from the indigenous period which highlights the area's native populations; through the Spanish and Mexican periods; and up to present day. The museum grounds have nice walking-trails, landscaping, monuments, and splendid views of Monterey Bay. Such a remarkable piece of history!

Next, we visited the Monterey Royal Presidio Chapel, the 1794 Cathedral de San Carlos Borromeo. The building, architecture, history, artifacts, and grounds, make it a superb example of early life on the California Central Coast. Loved seeing it!

Finally, we did a self-guided, driving-tour of Monterey and admired lots of interesting places like Cannery Row, Fisherman’s Wharf, Aquarium, Lake El Estero, and grocery shopping at Andronico’s.

Another extraordinary day of touring Monterey, California!

Monday, January 14, 2019

Our last day in Monterey included a visit to the Colton Hall, a historical government building and museum in Monterey.  It was built in the late 1840s by Walter Colton, who came to Monterey as a chaplain on Commodore Stockton's vessel and remained to become Monterey's first alcalde in the American Period. Built to serve as a public school and town meeting hall, it’s where California's first Constitution was drafted in October 1849, leading to Statehood in 1850. Colton Hall is an original historical landmark in the City of Monterey, once the capital of Alta California.

A quote from Colton’s book:

“Thursday, March 8, 1849. The town hall, on which I have been at work for more than a year, is at last finished. It is built of a white stone, quarried from a neighboring hill, and which easily takes the shape you desire. The lower apartments are for schools; the hall over them - seventy feet by thirty - is for public assemblies. The front is ornamented with a portico, which you enter from the hall. It is not an edifice that would attract any attention among public buildings in the United States; but in California it is without a rival. It has been erected out of the slender proceeds of town lots, the labor of the convicts, taxes on liquor shops, and fines on gamblers. The scheme was regarded with incredulity by many; but the building is finished, and the citizens have assembled in it, and christened it after my name, which will now go down to posterity with the odor of gamblers, convicts, and tipplers. I leave it as an humble evidence of what may be accomplished by rigidly adhering to one purpose, and shrinking from no personal efforts necessary to its achievement.”

Walter Colton, Three Years in California

We had a late lunch at Rosine's Restaurant on Alvarado Street, serving delicious homemade soups, hearty meals, homemade fresh pies and very tall, sumptuous cakes. It was a fine day and a delectable lunch! We have tremendously enjoyed our week around Monterey, Pebble Beach, and Carmel, the heart of the Monterey Peninsula.

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

Saying goodbye to Monterey, we took the US 101 south to San Luis Obispo. Our plan to take the Pacific Coast Highway was annulled due to closures (slides), as a result of a rain-storm. On the 101 we had rain but enjoyed countryside views of the Salinas Valley. We had lunch at Paso Robles and then cruised on down to Oceano and our campsite at Pacific Dunes Ranch, situated in the high sand dunes, along the ocean. The rain cleared but we had strong winds for the remainder of the evening. Our campsite, in huge sand dunes, is adjacent to the Ocean, and close to Pismo Beach, Shell Beach, and San Luis Obispo. Regardless, we had a nice dinner, relaxing evening and a good night’s rest!

Wednesday, January 16, 2019

A warm, sunny morning with more rain predicted for tonight, prompts us to plan our day with expedience. With a Mediterranean climate, the temperature remains in a comfortable range day and night. All things considered, we decided to drive the Pacific Coast Highway to San Simeon and visit the Hearst Castle.

The Hearst Castle was very impressive, an imitation of numerous architectural styles that William Randolph Hearst observed during boyhood travels in Europe. The landscaping on the huge property was a garden experience in grand proportions. Appointing American architect Julia Morgan to create his vision, the project went on for many years, with constant changes and additions. It was an awesome sight but odd in many ways, due to the challenge of incorporating the many art and construction objects which he imported from Europe. The Hearst Castle and surrounding grounds are now a California State Park, with the majority of the vast property still owned by the Hearst family. The area is situated between the ocean and the western slope of the Santa Lucia Range, with few opportunities for development, so the original castle and ranch were one-half-million acres along 14 miles of coastline. The castle is located five mile inland, along the mountain ridge. We’re glad that we visited the mansion and learned the fascinating story of the Hearst Castle.

Afterwards, we stopped off for lunch at San Simeon and then enjoyed the Pacific Coast views on our return to San Luis Obispo. San Simeon grew up around an 1869 whaling wharf, which was later improved by the Hearst family. The whaling is gone but a large rookery of Northern Elephant Seals remain.

Along the way, we stopped off at Morro Bay and viewed 581-foot Morro Rock, a huge volcanic rock and historic landmark, just off shore. The rock is a refuge to marine birds and animals and a prominent landmark for ancient mariners and a curious attraction for visitors.

Thursday, January 17, 2019

Experiencing better weather today, we grocery-shopped, had lunch, visited San Luis Obispo downtown, Mission, and California Polytechnic State University.

The highlight was (1772) Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, with its historic grounds, architecture, and museum. Situated just east of the Ocean and in the foothills hills of the Santa Lucia Mountains, the area is an enchanting place.

We made a driving-tour of California Polytechnic State University and were impressed with the campus size, scenic location, various Colleges, academic and residence buildings, Greek life, and elegant assembly facilities. The campus is situated in Poly Canyon, adjacent to downtown San Luis Obispo, and is a very attractive landscaping, trees, architecture, and grounds.

We had lunch at In-N-Out, a good California burger place. Today was fun and nice weather too!

January 18, Friday

Departing San Luis Obispo, we drove the Pacific Coast (US101/PCH1) admiring some marvelous views. The surf was high, a result of the recent storm, and this made for an awesome display of the power of the Pacific Ocean. At Santa Barbara, we had a nice lunch and then headed south.

Arriving in Los Angeles, we went into our campsite at Hollywood RV Park, made dinner, and spent the evening planning our day-in-LA. Hollywood RV Park is a compact and convenient campground on Balboa, just north of the 101 (Ventura Freeway) and just west of the 405 (San Diego Freeway), in the San Fernando Valley. It’s a good location for visiting L.A.

Saturday, January 19, 2019

In L.A., we visited the Gene Autry Museum and had lunch in Sherman Oaks.

Gene Autry was an actor, businessman, and humanitarian, who fashioned a mission to promote art, history, and cultures of the American West. The Autry Museum, located in Griffith Park, is an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, costumes, textiles, firearms, tools, toys, musical instruments, and other objects. We were very impressed and enjoyed this colossal museum!

Lunch at Marmalade Café was a “full dining experience” with eclectic California inspired food for busy Angelenos. It was sooooo good!

Sunday, January 20, 2019

It’s a cool, cloudy morning in L.A. and we’re having coffee in preparation for traveling back to La Quinta. Deciding which route to take through L.A. depends on the traffic when we get ready to travel. The preferred route takes the 101 to the 5, to the 10, if the traffic is manageable, otherwise we’ll take surface streets Balboa to Victory, to the 405, to the 101/134, to the 210 to the 10. What we did was take was the 405(San Diego Freeway) to the 118(Ronald Reagan Freeway) to the 210 (Foothills Freeway) to the I-10 at Redlands then La Quinta. So, the best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry, especially on L.A. freeway driving!

We had a pleasant drive today, with a nice bar-b-que lunch at Banning. It was good to return to Lake Cahuilla and a warm welcome from our friends and associates. Settling back into our site at Lake Cahuilla, we began to experience high winds from a front moving east. Overnight, we had the highest winds we have experienced in La Quinta. It was unnerving but we had prepared and thankfully had no damage.

1-23-19 Wednesday

After a couple days at the lake, we had an early morning to get Rose to the PS airport. We sure enjoyed her visit and our trip to Monterey Bay, Pacific Grove, and the California Central Coast. We had a good time and were sad to see her leave!