Butterfly to ALMOST Carpenteria
It was a bit on the chilly side as we prepared to launch; about 47 degrees. The sun was out, there was adequate beach with a small dumping surge, the water was otherwise flat and clear. Patrick, Hank, me and Leah (newbie to our paddles in a 14' wood boat) prepared and launched. Some days I am more graceful than others, this was not one of them. While putting my skirt on above the tide line a huge swell broke swamping my cockpit.

We were all in the water by 0845 and on our way to Carpenteria. We just cruised along--no significant swell or wind. We decided that some white buildings were Carpenteria and aimed in that direction, landing at about 1000 without incident. It turned out we were at Santa Clause Lane--a mere 4.18 miles from start. We spent about a half hour with "resting" and snacks then launched without incident through a dumping surf and headed back landing at about noon. As I said, this was not one of my more graceful days and was awarded the kelp award by Patrick. We cleaned up and headed home. No carnage, no damage, just a calm, easy paddle with some really nice folks in nice weather and good water conditions. Is there more...?

    Mike Brown

View map
View picture of Butterfly Beach
View picture of Carpenteria State Beach

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!

Submitted on December 28, 2003