Butterfly Beach
Eight boats and paddlers showed up to launch at 0900 from Butterfly Beach into a very quieter surf. We headed almost due east in the direction of Carpenteria. The water was calm, the air was clear, there was a hint of sun through the clouds and the company was great. We talked with Rafael and his partner about kayaking experiences and our lives in general. We reached Carpenteria in less than two hours with a couple of breaks for a cool-off roll, etc. The landing at Carpenteria was without incident--we are getting better at this.

We stayed for a bit--relaxed, ate some snacks, looked at boat designs, etc. We launched into a slightly increased surf and except for a single OBE it was a good launch for all. We paddled almost due west then came close to shore to look at some of the homes and buildings. About half way back we met a gregarious group of dolphin. Actually there were two pods. The first played just outside and around the group--arching through the surface, some tail flapping and some questionable looks . We watched for about 15 minutes then they moved on only to be replaced by a smaller pod of 3 or so that just kind of swam through.

We continued our paddle uneventfully to Butterfly Beach where we were met by THE LONE RANGER who had paddled ahead of the group and landed before the rest of us. We landed without incident, loaded up and drove off.

This was a day for paddling--great weather, warm water (relatively), clear air, just the right amount of sunshine and some of the best company one could ask for--another great day on the water. If you weren't in the 8 then you missed a great time and the opportunity to meet Rafael and to see his boat designs.

Directions:

  1. 101 to Olive Mill Road in Montiecto.
  2. Exit Olive Mill Road and turn left.
  3. Follow this road past the Four Seasons Biltmore.
  4. A short distance later you'll come to a stop sign. Your there now and look for kayaks or cars and trucks with racks on them. Park and paddle!
    Mike Brown
Submitted on January 6, 2002