Channel Islands National Park: Santa Cruz Island

Coches Prietos anchorage

We pushed on to Santa Cruz Island, expecting to ride out 30+ knot winds at an anchorage on its south coast--but the winds weren't strong on that side, so we turned in to Coches Prietos anchorage. Instead of hunkering down, we went swimming! If emerging out of fog next to Morro Rock was one juncture, sitting in bathing suits on a beach was the next big shift. I laughed out loud playing in the surf, actually swimming rather than just running in and out of cold water! It's a lovely place, and we relaxed here for a few days.

Beach time!

Island hike

Island Immersion: there's nothing better. We took a hike into the hills beyond the beach, catching great views of the ocean and the canyons, but primarily just enjoying the simple pleasures of walking-walking-walking through a unique world. Such deep satisfaction in stretching the muscles and the senses...

Petrified time

Our beloved Pacific Northwest coast is covered with tree and feels like home. But here, with no trees and few plants, the rock faces are exposed; different angles and colors and strata are laid bare. It is a striking kind of beauty.