Tag: pacific ocean

San Diego and Yokohama: friendship, a girl and a bell.

A simple but meaningful pavilion stands at the west end of Shelter Island. It holds the Bell of Friendship.
A simple but meaningful pavilion stands at the west end of Shelter Island. It holds the Bell of Friendship.

At the west end of Shelter Island, which lies near the entrance to San Diego Bay, you’ll find a testament to the enduring friendship that has been established between two sister cities. San Diego and Yokohama are located on opposite sides of the wide Pacific Ocean, yet these two beautiful cities are closely connected.

In 1958 a large bronze traditional Japanese bell was dedicated on Shelter Island with great ceremony.  It’s located in a prominent spot; ships from countries throughout the world pass it every day. The bell, created by Masahiko Katori, one of Japan’s living National Treasures, was presented during a Centennial Celebration which marked a hundred years of formal relations between the United States and Japan. The bell hangs in a pavilion surrounded by a narrow moat of water and a space of green grass.

The Bell of Friendship, which is six feet high and almost two and half tons, is seldom rung; but on New Year’s Eve the ram strikes the heavy bronze, resonating deeply–many say spiritually–welcoming a hopeful future.

The Japanese Friendship Bell was presented by the City of Yokohama to the people of San Diego in 1958 as a symbol of eternal friendship.
The Japanese Friendship Bell was presented by the City of Yokohama to the people of San Diego in 1958 as a symbol of eternal friendship.
This magnificent bell was cast by the artist Masahiko Katori who has been designated as a living National Treasure by the government of Japan.
This magnificent bell was cast by the artist Masahiko Katori who has been designated as a Living National Treasure by the government of Japan.
The Japanese Friendship Bell is one of several landmarks that can be seen along the length of San Diego's park-like Shelter Island.
The Japanese Friendship Bell is one of several landmarks that can be seen along the length of Shoreline Park on Shelter Island.

At the front of the simple pavilion stands a three foot tall sculpture of a young girl. “The Girl in Red Shoes” by Japanese artist Munehiro Komeno debuted in 2010 and represents the friendship between the ports of San Diego and Yokohama. The sculpture portrays Kimi, a Japanese orphan who was adopted by a loving American couple in the 1920s. The girl was later diagnosed with tuberculosis and couldn’t leave Japan. The touching story has been told many times, and has become a symbol of the goodwill that exists between our two nations. Kimi holds a rose and carnation. The rose symbolizes Yokohama; the carnation is San Diego.

The Girl in Red Shoes by Munehiro Komeno. June 2, 2009. Kimi represents close friendship between the United States and Japan.
The Girl in Red Shoes by Munehiro Komeno. June 2, 2009. Kimi represents close friendship between the United States and Japan.
Biking past a unique and beautiful sight on a glorious summer day.
Biking past a unique and beautiful sight on a glorious summer day.

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Fun, sun and extreme sports action at Supergirl Pro!

Camera aims toward surfing action from the Oceanside Pier during 2015 Supergirl Pro World Surf League (WSL) competition.
Camera aims toward surfing action from the Oceanside Pier during 2015 Supergirl Pro World Surf League (WSL) competition.

Here’s my second blog post about yesterday’s huge Supergirl Pro event near the Oceanside Pier. If you haven’t already, check out these super cool photos of the surfing action which I posted last night!

The 2015 Supergirl Pro was a three day event with a record 108 female surfing contestants. It’s the largest professional women’s surfing competition in the world. But it’s also a big fun festival celebrating women who participate in extreme sports. Amazing young women were skateboarding on a halfpipe, and visitors could learn about snowboarding.  There was also a beauty contest, and the crowd along Oceanside Beach had plenty of cool sights, sounds, delicious food and fun.

Enjoy some photos…

Spectators filled the beach, boardwalk and Oceanside Pier as people enjoyed many cool things to see at Supergirl Pro.
Spectators filled the beach, boardwalk and Oceanside Pier as people enjoyed many cool things to see at Supergirl Pro.
The annual female sports festival included high flying girls skateboarding a big halfpipe.
The annual female sports festival included high flying girls skateboarding a big halfpipe.
Three day surf competition schedule on a sign near the pier. I viewed the Quarterfinals on Sunday.
Three day surf competition schedule on a sign near the pier. I viewed the Quarterfinals on Sunday.
People watch an athlete defy gravity on the halfpipe at 2015 Supergirl Pro!
People watch an athlete defy gravity on the halfpipe at 2015 Supergirl Pro!
Unlike surfers in the ocean, should a skateboarder fall off their board, there's no soft landing!
Unlike surfers in the ocean, should a skateboarder fall off their board, there’s no soft landing!
Young girl watches female skating athlete at Supergirl Pro. Perhaps what she sees will provide her with inspiration.
Young girl watches female skating athlete complete a trick at Supergirl Pro. Perhaps what she sees will provide her with inspiration.
Just walking along the huge event venue, checking out interesting sponsors, vendors, food, and fun surf-related stuff.
Just walking along the huge event venue, checking out interesting sponsors, vendors, food, and fun surf-related stuff.
The Surf Diva has a big pink canopy on the sand!
The Surf Diva has a big pink canopy on the sand!
A couple of lifeguards watch the huge crowd from their tower on Oceanside's always popular beach.
A couple of lifeguards watch the huge crowd from their tower on Oceanside’s always popular beach.
Some surf graphics on a banner hung beneath the Oceanside Pier.
Some surf graphics on a banner hung beneath the Oceanside Pier.
Youth and a surfboard just north of the pier. It's another perfect sunny weekend in Southern California.
Youth and a surfboard just north of the pier. It’s another perfect sunny weekend in Southern California.
Someone walks past the Supergirl Pro staging tent, where contestants assemble and get ready to compete.
Someone walks past the Supergirl Pro staging tent, where contestants assemble and get ready to compete.
Colorful umbrellas and waders in the water can be seen for miles south along the coast, all the way through Carlsbad.
Colorful umbrellas and waders in the water can be seen for miles south along the coast, all the way through Carlsbad.
Folks in the shade of beach umbrellas look toward the surf, where dueling Supergirls are performing astonishing feats during 25 minute heats.
Folks in the shade of beach umbrellas look toward the surf, where dueling Supergirls are performing astonishing feats during 25 minute heats.
And hundreds are watching from up on the pier, as well.
And hundreds are watching from up on the pier, as well.
Amazing action like this took place for three straight days. The event is all about female strength and empowerment.
Amazing action like this took place for three straight days. The event is all about female strength and empowerment.
Walking farther out on Oceanside Pier to get closer to the powerful Pacific Ocean breakers.
Walking farther out on Oceanside Pier to get closer to the powerful Pacific Ocean breakers.
Guys on the other side of the pier seem more interested in fishing.
Guys on the other side of the pier seem more interested in fishing.
Now this person had the best view of all. A paraglider soars quietly above!
Now this person had the best view of all. A paraglider soars quietly above!
Eyes are fixed on the water below.
Eyes are fixed on the water below.
This year's 2015 Supergirl Pro winner, Tatiana Weston-Webb of Hawaii, rides a wave during the Quarterfinals.
This year’s 2015 Supergirl Pro winner, Tatiana Weston-Webb of Hawaii, rides a wave during the Quarterfinals.
When the competitors return to land, a crowd forms around them for a post-heat interview, photos and autographs.
When the competitors return to shore, a crowd forms around them for a post-heat interview, photos and autographs.
I see a pink Supergirl cape on one superheroic surfing celebrity! The event is in part sponsored by DC Comics, where the fictional character was born.
I see a pink Supergirl cape on one superheroic surfing celebrity! The event is in part sponsored by DC Comics, where the fictional character was born.
Just kicking back and taking in all the cool World Surf League action.
Just kicking back and taking in all the cool World Surf League action.
As I walk back down the pier, ready to go home, I hear something's going on at the outdoor Junior Seau Pier Amphitheatre.
As I walk back down the pier, ready to go home, I hear something’s going on at the outdoor Junior Seau Pier Amphitheatre.
It's an announcement of this year's winner of the beautiful woman contest. Supergirl Pro's main sponsor is Paul Mitchell, maker of beauty products.
It’s an announcement of this year’s winner of the beautiful woman contest. Supergirl Pro’s main sponsor is Paul Mitchell, maker of beauty products.
Blogging about an awesome surf event requires a photo of someone walking along with a surfboard on their head!
Blogging about an awesome surf event requires a photo of someone walking along with a surfboard on their head!

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Photos of cool surfing action at 2015 Supergirl Pro!

Professional World Surf League (WSF) Supergirl Pro Women's Qualifying Series surfer rides the foam in Oceanside, California.
Professional World Surf League (WSL) Supergirl Pro Women’s Qualifying Series surfer rides the foam in Oceanside, California.

Today I headed up the coast from San Diego to watch the 2015 Supergirl Pro surfing competition, which is held every year just south of the pier in Oceanside, California. Wow! The event is bigger than ever and simply incredible!

Supergirl Pro is the only World Surf League 6-Star Female Surfing Competition in the United States. It’s the largest women’s surfing event of its kind in the entire world. And this year there were a record 108 contestants! The ones I saw today, during the Quarterfinals, were almost superhuman. Surfing must be their superpower!

I got so many photos, I’ll break things up into two blog posts. This first post is my modest camera’s photos of the cool surfing action. I had to sharpen and alter the contrast on most images, but I’m surprised how decently many came out. I kept notes on the names of the surfers competing in each heat, but once I looked at my photos I wasn’t too sure who was who. So please excuse the fact that I don’t include the names of contestants in most captions.

Each pairing of surfers is given 25 minutes. Whoever achieves the highest score moves on in the competition, avoiding elimination.
Each pairing of surfers is given 25 minutes. Whoever achieves the highest score moves on in the competition, avoiding elimination.
Amazing athlete in Sunday's competition at the 2015 Supergirl Pro, the largest female surfing event of its kind in the world.
Amazing athlete in Sunday’s competition at the 2015 Supergirl Pro, the largest female surfing event of its kind in the world.
Cool photo of superhuman surfing action at 2015 Supergirl Pro. This year a record 108 contestants entered the huge three day competitive event.
Cool photo of superhuman surfing action at 2015 Supergirl Pro. This year a record 108 contestants entered the huge three day competitive event.
Riding a wave, hoping for glory. Supergirl Pro is the only WSL 6-Star Female Surfing Competition in the U.S.
Riding a wave, hoping for glory. Supergirl Pro is the only WSL 6-Star Female Surfing Competition in the U.S.
Tatiana Weston-Webb, professional WSF surfer from the island of Kaua'i, competes at 2015 Supergirl Pro event in Oceanside, California. She eventually went on to win the final!
Tatiana Weston-Webb, professional WSL surfer from the island of Kaua’i, competes at 2015 Supergirl Pro event in Oceanside, California. She eventually went on to win the final!
Tatiana plunges down the face of a Pacific Ocean breaker like Supergirl!
Tatiana plunges down the face of a Pacific Ocean breaker like Supergirl!
Cool photo of today's surfing champion shredding the crest of a wave.
Cool photo of today’s surfing champion shredding the crest of a wave.
Tatiana has classic form on a relatively smooth curler in choppy conditions.
Tatiana has classic form on a relatively smooth curler in choppy conditions.
Two competitors duel, trying their best to advance in the 2015 Supergirl Pro in Oceanside, California.
Two competitors duel, trying their best to advance in the 2015 Supergirl Pro in the surfing-friendly Southern California city of Oceanside.
Supergirl is flying on a surfboard! (The Silver Surfer doesn't get to have all the fun!)
Supergirl is flying on a surfboard! (The Silver Surfer doesn’t get to have all the fun!)
2015 Supergirl Pro is a super cool competition where every competitor is an absolutely amazing world-class athlete.
2015 Supergirl Pro is a super cool event where every competitor is an absolutely amazing world-class athlete.

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Photos of cool sand sculptures at Sun and Sea Festival!

A long time ago at a beach very very close...it is a period of sand wars. Cool Star Wars sand sculpture at the Imperial Beach Sun and Sea Festival!
A long time ago at a beach very very close…it is a period of sand wars… Star Wars sand sculpture at the Imperial Beach Sun and Sea Festival!

The 2015 Sun and Sea Festival at Imperial Beach today had almost everything. Lots of good food, live music, happy people, the beautiful ocean, and, of course, a whole bunch of awesome sand sculptures. What it didn’t have was sun. Monsoon conditions in San Diego have produced dark skies, frequent showers, even thunder and lightning this weekend.

But nothing could stop the crowds from enjoying this great annual tradition.

Ready to see the cool photos? Here they are…

The annual Sun and Sea Festival in IB features food, music, fun, people-watching and sand castles galore! This banner is hung on the pier above the beach.
The annual Sun and Sea Festival in IB features food, music, fun, people-watching and sand castles galore! This banner is hung on the pier above the beach.
The Port of San Diego is a sponsor of the yearly festival, home of the famous Imperial Beach Sandcastle Competition. This sculpture was created by sand master Kirk Rademaker.
The Port of San Diego is a sponsor of the yearly festival, home of the famous Imperial Beach Sandcastle Competition. This sculpture was created by sand master Kirk Rademaker.
A second photo of Kirk Rademaker's sculpture. Tiny sand people stand out on a sand IB pier over the sandy Pacific Ocean!
A second photo of Kirk Rademaker’s sculpture. Tiny sand people stand out on a sand IB pier over the sandy Pacific Ocean!
Sandstorm Fabrication team seems to be creating a large Viking head sand sculpture.
Sandstorm Fabrication team seems to be creating a large Viking head sand sculpture.
Cool froglike creature coming to life on the beach conveys a Help Conserve Water message.
Cool frog-like creature coming to life on the beach conveys a Help Conserve Water message.
The Sandcastle Man team is building an elaborate sandcastle! Of course!
The Sandcastle Man team is building an elaborate sandcastle! Of course!
The I.B. Posse team is crafting a complex, exotic scene of Myths and Legends out of sand near the Imperial Beach pier.
The I.B. Posse team is crafting a complex, exotic scene of Myths and Legends out of sand near the Imperial Beach pier.
Looks like the fallen head of a classic statue from a time long ago.
Looks like the fallen head of a classic statue from a time long ago.
Sand sculptor is closely watched by the unblinking eyes of an inanimate subject.
Sand sculptor is closely watched by the unblinking eyes of his inanimate subject.
This team wearing tie-dye was creating a hip sand scene with a fun, fanciful 60s flavor.
This team wearing tie-dye was creating a hip sand scene with a fun, fanciful 60s flavor.
Is that a mud-covered hippopotamus rising from a river? No. Just some imaginative Southern California artwork!
Is that a mud-covered hippopotamus rising from a river? No. Just some imaginative Southern California artwork.
Peace and Love. Hippie Hippos are cool, groovy and happening!
Peace and Love. Hippie Hippos are cool, groovy and happening!
These are my favorite sand sculptures: Star Wars. Chewbacca, R2-D2, stormtroopers, the Millennium Falcon and an X-Wing starfighter. 'Nuff said.
These are my favorite sand sculptures. Star Wars icons Chewbacca, R2-D2, stormtroopers, the Millennium Falcon and an X-Wing starfighter!
Fierce looking stormtroopers seem to be hanging out on sandy Tatooine. Where it happens to be raining today.
Fierce looking stormtroopers seem to be hanging out on sandy Tatooine. Where it happens to be raining today.
Han Solo is probably hoping this gifted sand artist can get the Millennium Falcon to jump to light speed.
Han Solo is probably hoping this gifted sand artist can get the Millennium Falcon to jump to light speed.
Okay. You have to admit this is a lot of fun.
Okay. You have to admit this is a lot of fun.
San Diego Sand Castles was skillfully carving toothy land sharks.
San Diego Sand Castles was skillfully carving toothy land sharks.
Hope it doesn't bite.
Hope it doesn’t bite.
Over here we have a large mechanical shark, driven by a small fish! The real shark must be terrified.
Over here we have a large mechanical shark, driven by a small fish! The “real” shark must be terrified.
This team seemed to be digging out a whale. It's huge!
This team seemed to be digging out a whale. It’s huge!
Of course, there were Minions. Lots of Minions. Oodles of 'em. They were popping out of the sand everywhere you turned.
Of course, there were Minions. Lots of Minions. Oodles of ’em. They were popping out of the sand everywhere you turned.
Five silly Minions seem to be having a party in a sand pit.
Five silly Minions seem to be having a party in a sand pit.
Another team had some Minions, too. This guy is just riding a sand wave on a surfboard. Too bad the sun isn't out.
Another team had some Minions, too. This guy is riding a sand wave while sitting on a surfboard. Too bad the sun isn’t out.
Lastly, I spotted Baymax of Big Hero 6 being created out of sand. Lots of sculptures at the family friendly festival appealed to kids.
Lastly, I spotted Baymax of Big Hero 6 being created out of sand. Lots of sculptures at the family friendly festival appealed to kids.
A cloudy, showery day with lightning, thunder and crowds on the beach enjoying a cool Imperial Beach tradition.
A cloudy, showery day with lightning, thunder, and crowds on the beach enjoying an awesome Imperial Beach tradition.

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An amazing walk from Point La Jolla to Cuvier Park.

Sea lions sun on a large rock in the Pacific Ocean off Point La Jolla.
Sea lions sun on a large rock in the Pacific Ocean off Point La Jolla.

This blog post resumes my walk from the prior post. Here I head south down a truly amazing stretch of coastline, from Point La Jolla at the edge of La Jolla Cove to Cuvier Park. A good argument can be made that this is the absolutely most beautiful spot in all of San Diego. I’ll let you decide…

The 6,000 acre San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park off the coast includes an Ecological Reserve and the Marine Life Refuge.
The 6,000 acre San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park off the coast includes an Ecological Reserve and the Marine Life Refuge.
Numerous seals and sea lions live on the rocks and beaches of La Jolla.
Numerous seals and sea lions live on the rocks and beaches of La Jolla.
People love to walk across this rocky landscape right up to the sea cliffs to watch the surf.
People love to walk across this water-sculpted landscape right up to the sea cliffs to watch the surf.
Over the years many have carved names and messages in the soft sandstone.
Over the years many have carved names and messages in the soft sandstone.
Sea lions enjoy La Jolla just as much as human visitors!
Sea lions enjoy La Jolla just as much as human visitors!
Some of those curious humans are grouped around a small tide pool in the rock looking for sea life.
Some of those curious humans are grouped around a small tide pool in the rock looking for sea life.
An unexpected wave crashes in. Scatter!
An unexpected wave crashes in. Run!  Scatter!
Looking south along the narrow beach from Point La Jolla. One of many lookout structures is visible up on the cliff.
Looking south along the narrow beach from Point La Jolla. One of many lookout structures is visible up on the cliff.
This cool lifeguard box is sculpted with many beach related words.
This lifeguard box features many barnacle-like beach-related words. The box is titled the David C. Freeman Memorial, by artist Paul Sibel. It marks the location of Boomer Beach.
These simple, open gazebo-like structures along the walking path are good places to gaze out at the ocean.
These simple, open gazebo-like structures along the walking path are fine places to gaze out at the broad ocean.
Or you can just relax on an outdoor seat provided by nature.
Or you can just relax on an outdoor seat provided by nature.
A major attraction along Coast Boulevard is large, grassy Scripps Park.
A major attraction along Coast Boulevard is spacious, grassy Scripps Park.
Gnarled old trees dot the picturesque park, which contains many picnic areas and places to recreate on the grass.
Gnarled old trees dot the picturesque park, which contains many picnic areas and places to recreate on the grass.
Ellen Browning Scripps Park is reported to be the most photographed spot in San Diego.
Ellen Browning Scripps Park is reported to be the most photographed spot in San Diego.
More trees growing slantwise, blown by the prevailing sea breeze over the course of many years.
More trees growing slantwise, blown by the prevailing sea breeze over the course of many years.
Scripps Park contains the Abraham Lincoln Centennial Memorial plaque dedicated in 1909.
Scripps Park contains the Abraham Lincoln Centennial Memorial plaque dedicated in 1909.
Continuing south, more views of a truly spectacular coastline.
Continuing south, more views looking back north of a truly spectacular coastline.
Guy takes a nap on bench beneath a lifeguard tower.
Guy takes a nap on bench beneath a lifeguard tower.
Shell Beach is one of many tiny sandy nooks that can be found among the rocky cliffs.
Shell Beach is one of many tiny sandy nooks that can be found among the rocky cliffs.
A lady lies on a flat rock reading a book, as waves crash nearby.
A lady lies on a flat rock reading a book, as waves crash nearby.
A beautiful walkway run down from the Cave Store along Coast Boulevard for about a mile along the ocean.
A beautiful walkway runs down from the Cave Store along Coast Boulevard for about a mile along the ocean.
An artist paints a beautiful scene in a cozy view point not far from Children's Pool.
An artist paints a beautiful scene from a view point not far from Children’s Pool.
I peer over the low wall and am greeted by a squirrel!
I peer over the low wall and am greeted by a funny squirrel!
One of these double-crested cormorants on a rock has its sun-drying wings spread dramatically.
One of these cormorants on a rock has its sun-drying wings spread dramatically.
Getting very close to Children's Pool, where many seals lie side by side on its wide, sunny beach.
Getting very close to Children’s Pool, where many seals lie side by side on its wide, sunny beach.
A quick turn back northward shows waves breaking against a vertical sandstone cliff!
A quick turn back northward shows waves breaking against a vertical sandstone face!
Legal disputes have entangled Children's Pool over the years. The facility was created in 1931 by benefactor Ellen Browning Scripps as a safe spot for children to swim.
Legal disputes have entangled Children’s Pool over the years. The facility was created in 1931 by benefactor Ellen Browning Scripps as a safe spot for children to swim.
People head down to see the many seals on the warm sand.
People head down to see the colony of seals on the warm sand.
At Children's Pool Beach, a rope now keeps people from disturbing the protected marine mammals.
At Children’s Pool Beach, a rope now keeps people from disturbing the protected marine mammals.
Fisherman on the protective sea wall have cast their lines into the blue Pacific Ocean.
Fisherman on the far sea wall have cast their lines into the blue Pacific Ocean.
Continuing to walk south along more beautiful coastline in La Jolla.
Continuing to walk south along more amazing coastline in La Jolla.
Some surfers on a beach and in the foaming water below.
Some surfers on a beach and in the foaming water below.
Sculpture at the rear of La Jolla's Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego called Pleasure Point is made of rowboats, canoes, jet skies, and surfboards.
Unusual sculpture at the rear of La Jolla’s Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego called Pleasure Point, by artist Nancy Rubins. It’s made of rowboats, canoes, jet skies, kayaks, surfboards…
A stretch of green grass at Cuvier Park is the perfect place to sit or lie on a glorious Southern California day.
A stretch of green grass at Cuvier Park is the perfect place to sit or lie on a glorious Southern California day.
Tide pools become visible at low tide along this easily accessible stretch of La Jolla.
Tide pools become visible at low tide along this easily accessible stretch of La Jolla.
A dog takes a happy rest by some flowers as the surf rolls in.
A dog takes a happy rest by some flowers as the surf rolls in.

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Photos of Coast Walk Trail to La Jolla Cove Beach.

Taking an easy stroll above the wide, blue ocean in beautiful La Jolla.
Taking an easy stroll above the wide, blue ocean in beautiful La Jolla.

My day in La Jolla yesterday was so wonderful I had to do it again!

A second walk today has my computer bursting with photos. So I’d better share some!

I’m going to create two blog posts. This first one involves a walk down the short but breathtaking Coast Walk Trail, then down Coast Boulevard from the Cave Store to La Jolla Cove Beach. Where the ocean meets land here is one of the most amazing, magical places a person might ever visit. A few photos hardly do the experience justice.

Be forewarned, this post starts with great natural beauty, but ends with sudden ugliness. You’ll see why I became a bit angry during my otherwise glorious adventure.

The Historic Coast Walk Trail begins near Torrey Pines Road and ends at the Cave Store on Coast Boulevard.
The Historic Coast Walk Trail begins near Torrey Pines Road and ends at the Cave Store on Coast Boulevard.
Dozens of kayakers were out on the water as I walked west down the trail enjoying magnificent views.
Dozens of kayakers were out on the water as I walked west down the trail enjoying magnificent views.
Red kayaks bunched close together below, east of Goldfish Point.
Red kayaks bunched close together below, east of Goldfish Point.
Rounding a corner, shops and restaurants on Coast Boulevard come into view.
Rounding a corner, shops and restaurants on Coast Boulevard come into view.
Wooden steps plunge down to a scenic view point atop amazing sandstone cliffs. In the narrow cove on the left is an entrance to a sea cave.
Wooden steps plunge down to a scenic view point atop amazing sandstone cliffs. In the narrow cove on the left is an entrance to a sea cave.
Nature's beauty takes many forms, including a golden flower.
Nature’s beauty takes many forms, including a golden flower.
From the view point I look east along eroded cliffs toward La Jolla homes.
From the view point I look east along eroded cliffs toward La Jolla homes.
Heading back up to the Coast Walk Trail, which ends nearby at the Cave Store.
Heading back up to the Coast Walk Trail, which ends nearby at the Cave Store.
A man-made tunnel inside the Cave Store leads from the gift shop to the Sunny Jim Sea Cave.
A man-made tunnel inside the Cave Store leads from the gift shop to the Sunny Jim Sea Cave.
About to turn north, beginning down Coast Boulevard, toward La Jolla Cove.
About to turn north, beginning down Coast Boulevard, toward La Jolla Cove.
The amazing Coast Boulevard passes La Jolla Cove, Scripps Park, Children's Pool and the La Jolla tide pools!
The amazing Coast Boulevard passes La Jolla Cove, Scripps Park, Children’s Pool and the La Jolla tide pools!
A message on the sidewalk caught my eye. Your troubles will cease and fortune will smile upon you.
A message on the sidewalk caught my eye. Your troubles will cease and fortune will smile upon you.
Now it's possible to see into Sunny Jim Sea Cave.
It’s possible to see into this sea cave.
The rocky cliffs along Coast Boulevard are the home of brown pelicans, sea gulls and double-crested cormorants.
The rocky cliffs along Coast Boulevard are the home of pelicans, sea gulls and cormorants.
Long-beaked pelicans and black cormorants have a rest in the warm sun between diving and hunting for fish.
Long-beaked pelicans and black cormorants have a rest in the warm sun between diving and hunting for fish.
The cliffs of La Jolla are made of unstable sandstone, which occasionally crumbles into the ocean.
The cliffs of La Jolla are made of unstable sandstone, which occasionally crumbles into the Pacific Ocean.
A gorgeous view of La Jolla Cove on a perfect spring day.
A gorgeous view of La Jolla Cove on a perfect spring day.
A lifeguard tower rises above La Jolla Cove Beach. To the right of the tower is Point La Jolla.
A lifeguard tower rises above La Jolla Cove Beach. To the right of the tower is Point La Jolla.
Looking down at La Jolla Cove Beach from the north. Buildings along Coast Boulevard are surmounted by those on Prospect Street.
Looking down at La Jolla Cove Beach from the north. Buildings along Coast Boulevard are surmounted by those on Prospect Street.
City of San Diego sign provides a warning. Caution, do not approach seals or sea lions! Harassing these marine mammals is against the law.
City of San Diego sign provides a warning. Caution, do not approach seals or sea lions! Harassing these marine mammals is against the law.
A lady climbs stairs up from the beach, past a lifeguard's rescue board.
A lady climbs stairs up from the beach, past a lifeguard rescue board.
Some benches allow people to enjoy the view. Scuba divers in the cove swim with the sea life.
Some benches allow people to enjoy the view. Scuba divers in the cove swim with the sea life.
Several thoughtless, self-centered people almost stepped on a seal as they crowded in to get a photograph.
Several thoughtless, self-centered people almost stepped on a seal as they crowded in to get a photograph.
Agitated sea lion on a rock angrily confronts pestering people who don't seem to care.
Agitated sea lion on a rock angrily confronts pestering people who don’t seem to care.

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Photos of a walk down to beautiful Bird Rock.

Looking down from the high viewing area at picturesque Bird Rock below.
Looking down from the high viewing area at picturesque Bird Rock below.

Please enjoy some photographs!

Yesterday I took a long walk through La Jolla. Before leaving home, I checked the tide chart. My intention was to photograph the tide pools at beautiful Bird Rock. I’ve read you can actually walk out to this spectacular rock in the ocean at low tide. Unfortunately, as it turned out, yesterday the tide wasn’t low enough!

But I did get my fill of natural beauty. Will you please join me as I walk from La Jolla Boulevard a couple blocks down Bird Rock Avenue, and then down to the water?

Bench on La Jolla Boulevard sidewalk spells out Bird Rock with colorful tiles.
Bench on La Jolla Boulevard sidewalk spells out Bird Rock with colorful tiles.
This bench features sea shells. Let's head down Bird Rock Avenue, a few steps away.
This bench features sea shells. Let’s begin our walk down Bird Rock Avenue, a few steps away.
Kid skateboards down hilly Bird Rock Avenue toward the small lookout point.
Kid skateboards down hilly Bird Rock Avenue toward the small lookout point.
Local guy is already here enjoying the beautiful view and ocean tranquility. Few tourists come here.
Local guy is already here enjoying the beautiful view and ocean tranquility. Few tourists come here.
Gazing north along the rocky shore. La Jolla Cove is on the other side of that distant jutting land.
Gazing north along the rocky shore. La Jolla Cove is on the other side of that distant jutting land.
Looking down over the view point rail at rugged rocks at the edge of the shining Pacific Ocean.
Looking down over the view point rail at rugged rocks at the edge of the shining Pacific Ocean.
Here's where we're going to descend to the water.
Here’s where we’re going to descend to the water.
Heading down the short staircase to get a closer look at the beauty of Bird Rock.
Heading down the short staircase to get a closer look at the beauty of Bird Rock.
We quickly glance up at the viewing area, where we were a moment ago.
We quickly glance up at the viewing area, where we were a moment ago.
Gazing south as we stand on large jagged boulders. Someone is walking along the base of the cliff.
Gazing south as we stand on large jagged boulders. Someone is walking along the base of the cliff.
We carefully head a bit south, too. Watch your step! The tide is fairly low and we get close to the splashing water.
We carefully head a bit south, too. Watch your step! The tide is fairly low and we get close to the splashing water.
These stones were made smooth and rounded by that great Earth-encompassing rock tumbler, the mighty ocean!
These stones were made smooth and rounded by that great Earth-encompassing rock tumbler, the mighty ocean!
Look out! A foamy wave is crashing in!
Look out! A foamy wave is crashing in!
Finally, we turn westward to look at Bird Rock. At a distance, the birds are just visible in this photo!
Finally, we turn westward to look at Bird Rock. At a distance, the birds are just visible in this photo!

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Cool pics from a wonderful walk around Encinitas.

Welcome to the City of Encinitas, home of sun, surf, cool sights, and an endless summer.
Welcome to the City of Encinitas, home of sun, surf, cool sights, and a wonderful endless summer.

Here’s just a bunch of cool pics from my weekend walk around Encinitas. I mostly stuck to Coast Highway 101, often referred to as Pacific Coast Highway, south of Encinitas Boulevard.  I also took a short stroll along Cottonwood Creek down to beautiful Moonlight Beach, and a short walk to the D Street Viewpoint.

Surfer crossing sign on Pacific Coast Highway near trail to Moonlight Beach.
Surfer crossing sign on Pacific Coast Highway near trail to Moonlight Beach.
Approaching Moonlight Beach along Cottonwood Creek trail.
Approaching Moonlight Beach along Cottonwood Creek trail.
Pathway down to concession stand at beautiful Moonlight Beach.
Path down to concession stand at beautiful Moonlight Beach.
Just another perfect day at Moonlight Beach in Encinitas, California.
Just another perfect day at Moonlight Beach in Encinitas, California.
Gazing a short distance along the coast from a scenic overlook point.
Gazing a short distance along the coast from a scenic overlook point.
Sign on Pacific Coast Highway explains history and importance of Cottonwood Creek.
Sign on Pacific Coast Highway explains history and importance of Cottonwood Creek.
Gazing down at Cottonwood Creek nature trail from Pacific Coast Highway.
Photograph of Cottonwood Creek nature trail from Pacific Coast Highway.
Heading down PCH. Sculpture on street side is titled Encinitas Child, by artist Manuelita Brown.
Heading down old Coast Highway 101. Sculpture on street side is titled Encinitas Child, by artist Manuelita Brown.
Pacific Coast Highway through Encinitas won Great American Main Street award in 2004.
Pacific Coast Highway through Encinitas won Great American Main Street award in 2004.
Coast Highway 101 is one of the most amazing drives, especially through San Diego's North County.
Coast Highway 101 is one of the most amazing drives, especially through San Diego’s North County.
Cool sights as I walked included this big peace sign and tie dye design.
Cool sights as I walked included this big peace sign and tie dye design.
The big Encinitas landmark sign over South Coast Highway 101.
The big Encinitas landmark sign over South Coast Highway 101.
Colorful murals along the sidewalk in this happy, carefree beach town.
Colorful murals along the sidewalk in this happy, carefree beach town.
Public art shows sailors running their boat to shore through breakers.
Public art shows sailors running their boat to shore through breakers.
Lots of small shops, eateries and galleries line Pacific Coast Highway.
Lots of small shops, eateries and galleries line Pacific Coast Highway.
Classic image on building shows surfer and his longboard.
Classic image on building shows surfer and his longboard.
Cool street art on side of business just off Pacific Coast Highway.
Cool street art on side of business just off Pacific Coast Highway.
Electrical transformer box decorated with sun, surf and guitar.
Electrical transformer box decorated with sun, surf and guitar.
People wait at Swami's pedestrian crossing, with exotic golden domes of the Self-Realization Fellowship across PCH in the background.
People wait at Swami’s pedestrian crossing, with exotic golden domes of the Self-Realization Fellowship across PCH in the background.
Elephant mosaic on side of Self-Realization Fellowship gift shop.
Elephant mosaic on side of Self-Realization Fellowship gift shop.
Java Hut is a typical little beachy place.
Java Hut is a typical little beachy place.
Funky art along sidewalk is hung about a cactus.
Funky art along sidewalk is hung about a cactus.
Bikes and surfboards are abundant in sunny Encinitas.
Bikes and surfboards are abundant in sunny Encinitas.
Tile art on trash can depicts the D Street Viewpoint.
Tile art on trash can depicts the D Street Viewpoint.
Wooden stairs down to beach from D Street Viewpoint. Don't you wish you were here.
Photo of wooden stairs down to beach from D Street Viewpoint. Don’t you wish you were here?

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Colorful street banners in Encinitas along Coast Highway.

A happy dog tries to jump through space and catch the moon.
A happy dog tries to jump through space and catch the moon.

I got lots of pics yesterday during a long walk in Encinitas near the beach. I was amazed by all the different artistic banners on street lamps that line Coast Highway 101.

Very awesome! Check them out!

Elephants and a spiritual butterfly surfboard. Hindu imagery is popular in Encinitas near the beach, due to the presence of the visually distinctive Self-Realization Fellowship ashram.
Elephants and a spiritual butterfly surfboard. Hindu imagery is popular in Encinitas near the beach, due to the presence of the visually distinctive Self-Realization Fellowship ashram.
Bold art on a street banner along Pacific Coast Highway.
Bold art on a street banner along Coast Highway 101.
The Yogi Surf Crossing is a popular path for surfers, locals and tourists alike.
The Yogi Surf Crossing is a popular path for surfers, locals and tourists alike.
Another beautiful female figure in sunny beach destination Encinitas.
A beautiful female figure in sunny beach destination Encinitas.
I think these are two heart-covered puppy dogs, but I'm not sure.
I think these are heart-covered puppy dogs, but I’m not sure.
Playing a cool saxophone near the Pacific Ocean.
Playing a cool saxophone near the Pacific Ocean.
A typical beach scene with palm trees and setting sun.
A typical beach scene with palm trees and setting sun.
Artwork shows the coastline along San Diego's North County.
Artwork shows the coastline along San Diego’s North County.
Fun, lush art on many different banners on Encinitas street lamps.
Fun, lush art on many banners on Encinitas street lamps.
Surfers carry their boards on the beach at Swami’s Reef point break.
Surfers carry their boards on the beach at Swami’s Reef point break.
Exotic figure references Hinduism and Eastern philosophy. The world famous Swami's surfing spot is overlooked by the Self-Realization Fellowship grounds in Encinitas.
Exotic figure references Hinduism and Eastern philosophy. The world famous Swami’s surfing spot is overlooked by the Self-Realization Fellowship grounds in Encinitas.
Colorful image adds life to an already delightful beach town.
Colorful image adds life to an already delightful beach town.
Waves and sunset seem nestled in a tree above a street sign.
Waves and sunset seem nestled in a tree above a street sign.
Graphic shows dirt path down to the beach.
Graphic shows dirt path down to the beach.
Several jellyfish seem to soar through the blue sky.
Several jellyfish seem to soar through the blue sky.
Encinitas street banner depicts a tropical island girl.
Encinitas street banner depicts a tropical island girl.
A sleeping cat dreams of being a lion king!
A sleeping cat dreams of being a lion king!

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Birds take flight above San Diego River Estuary!

Birdwatching on north side of San Diego River, not far from Pacific Ocean.
Birdwatching on north side of San Diego River, not far from Pacific Ocean.

Today I enjoyed a glorious walk. I hiked along the always life-filled San Diego River Estuary.

Beginning along the north side of the San Diego River from Friars Road, I headed west down the bicycle and jogging trail which parallels Sea World Drive. I then crossed the river over the Sports Arena Boulevard bridge and returned along the San Diego River Trail back east to Morena Boulevard.

I didn’t expect to get any decent shots of birds with my dinky little camera, but as it turned out I got lucky. While the estuary is always teeming with both migrating and native birds, most tend to gather on the small islands and mud flats a fair distance from the path.

The San Diego River estuary is one of the best birding spots in Southern California.
The San Diego River Estuary is one of the best birding spots in Southern California.
Snowy egret takes flight from river's edge, very close to pedestrian and bike path.
Great egret takes flight from river’s edge, very close to pedestrian and bike path.
Hummingbird takes a rest on a twig on a sunny winter afternoon.
Hummingbird takes a rest on a twig on a sunny winter afternoon.
Plenty of ducks and shore birds dot the living river throughout the year.
Plenty of ducks and shore birds dot the living river throughout the year.
Black-necked stilt walks through the water, perhaps watching for a meal.
Black-necked stilt walks through the water, perhaps watching for a meal.
Looking north across blue water. Mission Bay and SeaWorld lie beyond the trees.
Looking north across blue water. Mission Bay and SeaWorld lie beyond the trees.
Huge flock of seagulls takes flight from mud flat near mouth of San Diego River.
Huge flock of seagulls takes flight from mud flat near mouth of San Diego River.
A fish-hunting osprey flies above the San Diego River estuary.
A fish-hunting osprey flies above the San Diego River Estuary.

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