We left in caravan led by Mike Lindley to Cayucos, dropped of the shuttle vehicles and drove up to Cambria. Shamel Park was a little rough so we elected to launch a mile up where the launch site was protected. A full launch was accomplished by 0730 and off we went--no wind, no breeze, no real swell, clear water. As predicted we split into two groups--a faster and a slower. The former paddled a little more coastal getting close to but not really into the rock gardens (those who bet against me can now pay off!). There were a few rest stops. The first was at a huge rock with seals jumping in and around the boats. Some picked some unusual kayak rest positions (photos forthcoming on CKF). Off we went again with warming and blue bird weather. No excitement, no carnage.

Just west of Cayucos is a huge point and great rock formations. While avoiding and gardening per se I paddled in around the back side of the breakers to take a good look. Beautiful formations. I was alone but George, John and Mike C waited outside for me. I think they were taking bets but no one would admit to it. I came back out between two rock formations and joined them for the last paddle into the beach.

The four of us landed. George, John and I "refreshed" then launched through the variable surf to play in the surf and rocks while the others arrived. The first paddlers landed at 1150 and the last landed at about 1230. None of us really fatigued though some were a little stiff from the time in the boats. We changed, shuttled the vehicles, loaded up and adjourned to lunch at a local smoke house. Patrick left early to take care of possible evacuation of his home. The rest appeared to be safe a the moment. Later email from Patrick--all okay. I hope it stays safe for all. Lew and Cindy were told they probably couldn't get home to Big Bear--I hope all is well and intact.

It was an uneventful paddle. We saw dolphin, a few sea otter, lots of seals/sea lions who were very interested in us! A relaxing paddle with good people on good water, new friends made to, hopefully, meet again to paddle. On the way back George and I stopped off at Central Coast Kayaks. Paul and I met last year and he remembered George and I by name. We talked about paddling areas and we developed a couple of thoughts for future paddles: A mid winter paddle in the area of Zihuatenejo, Mexico (about 300 km north of Acapulco) and paddle Big Sur next September.

While not a Darwinian paddle this was very loose for two reasons: one is the experience levels of the paddlers and the other the blue bird paddling conditions. My thanks to Mike Lindley who provided us with great land guide services and good restaurant choices. My thanks to everybody who made this another great day on the water. While this was but a brief respite from the natural disasters around us I hope that all are safe along with the families and homes and we are able to meet again to enjoy more adventuring in King Neptune's domain.

Click on the picture to see larger image

    Mike Brown

View pictures of Cambria (at San Simeon State Park)
View pictures of Cayucos Pier