USA 2016: Santa Cruz to Monteray

After breakfast we walked to the end of what is supposed to be the best Wharf on the California Coast. Everyone always thinks what they have is the best. From about half way along there were lots of sea lions. Many were on the cross beams underneath, they must have climbed on at high tide, or else they have learnt to jump. Once again the wind was cold, with low cloud or fog. It was a pleasant wander, but the winds off the Pacific are much worse than the easterly in Christchurch.

It was a short drive of 50 miles to Monterey where we were staying the night. This used to be the centre of fish canning. Sardines in oil etc. It became famous through John Steinbeck's book Cannery Row. Most of the trip was through dry and scrubby country. But there was one section with irrigation where Strawberry fields stretched for miles, and also lettuces, cabbages and Artichokes. We stopped and bought some peaches, strawberries and 10 small avocados for $1.

As we approached Cannery Row there was a car park on the side of the road. Excellent. It was only a short walk to the shops and restaurants. By now it was a beautiful day, the sea was glassy calm, and there was warmth in the sun. Lunch was at the bakery, stuffed croissants.

By about 2-30pm we had seen all we wanted and headed for the Motel via a supermarket. Both David and Aimee have had a nagging cough, so it was good to have a bit of a rest. Just before 5pm we set off to go on 17 mile drive which takes you through the Pebble Beach golf club. The greens and fairways were a vivid green, in total contrast to the surrounding land. No surprise then that there were deer eating the green grass in a number of places. A number of people live on the peninsular and there were several 'mansion' type dwellings. It was a very interesting drive. Pinus Radiata which is so significant in NZ comes from Monterey. We saw several growing.

Back at the motel we walked across the road to have dinner in a Chinese restaurant. We are learning.We ordered two meals to share between the three of us. That was just the right amount.

David and Aimee's colds were getting worse. Fortunately we had some effective tablets.