New Brighton is turning into a nice yearly winter tradition. And this is the second year where I’ve been able to connect with my Altoiste pal, Annie, during our stay. In fact, we had so much fun paddling on the Elkhorn Slough, that I plum forgot to take any pictures of Dory in her campsite. Oops. It was site 87, one of the premium ones and the same place we camped last year. So you can use your imagination.
We could not have been more lucky in terms of weather Saturday. It was sunny and mid 60s with no wind at all. We parked by the launch by Monterey Bay Kayaks, where Annie got a rental and I set up my Advanced Elements inflatable. The fee for a park and launch is $11, so be prepared with cash or a check to put in an envelope by the public bathroom.
We saw lots of otters and pelicans, and even some seals. The current from the tide going out was strong enough that we didn’t get very far up the slough, but we also didn’t really care. It was a lovely day. Afterwards, I got to use the wash facility at the rental place. I always really appreciate this because it means I can give Squirt a good power spray down. I took my first lesson at this place and bought pretty much all the gear I use from them on the spot, so they told me at the time that if you’ve taken lessons there, you are henceforth welcome to use the boat wash. They’re a great outfit and I highly recommend taking a lesson.
While we were out on the water, Richard tried a hike in the Forest of Nisene Marks State Park. Because of his highly predictable disability, he of course got lost. Luckily, he was able to turn himself back toward the way he came and got back to the entrance without needing a helicopter rescue. We both met up back at Dory around 3.
After taking in the sunset scene, we met up with Annie again for dinner at Zameem Mediterranean Cuisine. Afterwards, we headed to Marianne’s for ice cream. A lovely time was had by all!
Total miles: 89.0, 17.6, 2 hours 39 min. Site 87, huge premium site with ocean view, but no hookups. LTE for both of us and a tiny bit of solar. Bathrooms are nice and have showers. Good dump station.
