Thursday 5/3, we loaded Harley in the car and headed to Joshua Tree NP. We stayed in the town of Joshua Tree and were only 5 minutes from the north visitors center. The rangers were happy to give done suggestions of what to see. We have seen the Joshua Tree in town but to drive into the park they look peculiar and almost prehistoric! The bark is hairy like Cookie Monster and the tufts of spiky leaves grow from the ends of the branches. We just missed the flowers which seemed to be like smaller versions of the yucca plants.
What really amazed me were the boulders, moved upwards by a volcano and then moved by the shifting plates under the surface. I can see why rock climbers gravitate toward this park!
We hiked a little around the rocks, they look smooth but actually have a surface like coral. At the end of the drive, we headed to Keys View where you can see the entire valley… the one we came into with all the wind! Spectacular view!
Out of the park within a mile from our campground, we found Joshua Tree Saloon for a quick burger. The place was a bit qwerky and very crowded. A good sign for a local bite to eat. Inside I found this sign that exemplifies it’s qwerkiness…
Friday, we took our time getting out of Joshua Tree. We were almost ready to go and Paul got news that his kelp dive was cancelled! 😞 The captain had a family emergency and there was no one to sub. They recommended other shops but he was unable to schedule something. SO DISAPPOINTING!
We eventually headed southwest to Oceanside, CA and encountered the same crazy wind coming out of Joshua Tree as we had going in. Our only hope was that once we got out of this valley, it would subside. After about an hour, thankfully it did.
WE MADE IT TO THE PACIFIC OCEAN!
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We are camped at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground… it is everything I had hoped for. Up on the bluff, watching the waves, dolphins, pelicans gliding over the bluff and taking it all in. We did it! We are here!
We started the afternoon by walking down o the camp store about 1/2 mile away and listened to some live music and met many locals who come here for the entertainment and beach vibes. A great way to start our Oceanside adventure.
What a bummer about the dive! I’m sure you’ll find other ways to celebrate the big 70! You’re still in Cali with beautiful surroundings! 😎🏖🌅
We have friends that flew in yesterday to join us. Paul and Mark were bummed but yes, we are making the best of where we are and sharing it with good friends!
Sunsets over the ocean! It’s Shore different! Enjoy!
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Love the pictures!!