I woke up early as usual but took my time getting ready. I didn’t seem to be in much of a rush. I think it’s from the previous days experience where it doesn’t do any good to get to the campsite too early or you can’t check in.
Even though it was a long ride ahead of me today, I didn’t expect it to be very difficult. It wasn’t too difficult either. The winds were either calm or a slight tailwind which made it the ride comfortable.
Immediately I started out exploring the nearby city of Capitola which almost seamlessly connects into Santa Cruz. These two places are impressive with lots of stores and activities all around.
There is an incredible amount of surfers. I’m no surfing expert but from what I can tell, this is the place to be in California. Everywhere you look out of the water there’s black dots of floating wetsuits waiting for the next big wave to come in. From what I could tell, there’s lots of big ways too.
There’s a nice pedestrian path and bike path that follows the beach for most of the way through this area. There’s open market, the Santa Cruz amusement park, pier, surfer viewing points on a bluff and so many things to see.
The problem I had is stopping so often and going so slow taking photographs and videos that before I knew it, I had only gone 10 miles and two hours had passed by. If I was going to make it to my destination, I was going to have to pick up the pace.
Fortunately I had a favorable tailwind and a limited number of hills to climb. So I was able to make my destination by about 5 PM. There were four other southbound bikers at the Half Moon Bay State beach when I arrived. I chatted with a couple of them for a while and they gave me a tip on a hostel option in San Francisco.
Tomorrow I will make it to San Francisco. The question is, will it be raining. This will dictate if I will press to go to the next state park or find a hotel to dry out.
Ride summary: 5/10 difficulty, 61 (+2 for dinner run) miles with 2786 feet climbing. Start foggy transitioned to overcast. Calm to mild tailwind. Today’s ride detailed GPS. Tour totals: 951 miles (47 / day). 53,051 climbing feet.
10 responses to “Day 20 – Bicycle Touring New Brighton SP to Half Moon SB. Santa Cruz, Surfing and off roading”
I’ve been silently following along until now. Your photos are wonderful. It seems to be a lovely adventure, even with the issues with spokes and such. And how lucky you’ve been wit the weather thus far! I hope it continues for you.
Thanks for the compliment and following. Unfortunately it’s really wet and rainy now. I’m holding out at a restaurant as it looks like it will be improving.
After seeing your pics and reading your story, I want to visit Capitola and Santa Cruz. We have driven past these places and have not stopped to enjoy the beauty or culture.
Yes, even I went through so quickly. It intrigued me as well and would have liked to spend more time there.
I love the Pigeon Point area, and the field of flowers overlooking the ocean seems like an optimal place to sit all day long and ponder.
Especially that day, as only light winds there.
Another day of beautiful pictures and God’s amazing creation!
Thanks and yes it is.
Hi DJ,
I was nice visiting with you on your journey this day. Your photos are great.
Have a safe journey,
Gary
Nice talking with you also. I just finished my tour today. When I get the chance I will read through your report.