Just a short drive north of Jug Handle State Reserve on Highway 1 we managed to stumble across an amazing little spot that felt like a local secret. Aside from a small gravel parking area and an open spot in the fence, there wasn’t much to indicate coastal access, and we weren’t sure what to expect when we stopped to check it out. The trail wound through a thickly wooded area for less than half a mile before emerging on the cliffs overlooking the ocean, with some typically beautiful views on this clear, windy day.

All along the bluff tops colorful wildflowers were dancing in the breeze, and I spent more time trying to shoot the crimson Paintbrush than watching the waves crashing below me. I also found some pale yellow flowers that I tentatively identified as Evening Primrose.