I consider myself a beach girl, but the truth is we hardly ever go there. Not because it’s too far away (Half Moon Bay is about a 30-minute drive). Or because taking kids is too labor intensive (it’s not much more work than a day at the baby pool). But because years of living on Southern California beaches have spoiled Lenny and me. While Northern California has a lot of things going for it, it’s sorely missing the soft white sand, the sunny summer mornings and, most importantly, the warm water. So when we had a quiet day in San Diego visiting Lenny’s family, I was thrilled to head to Del Mar—our first trip to the beach this summer. And it was even more magical than I had imagined.
Lesson #1: Having kids who wake up at the crack of dawn has its advantages. Like parking spots.
Lesson #2: A few early clouds don’t stop surfers—or little boys—from surrendering themselves to the waves.
Lesson #3: Feeling the tickle of sand crabs in your hands is just as thrilling at age 35 as it is at 5.
Lesson #4: When the only thing louder than the sound of crashing waves is your kids’ delighted squeals, there’s no question that life is good.
Lesson #5: Try as you might to resist the force of the ocean, it always pulls you back in.
It may be awhile before we return to our favorite So Cal spots, but we’ll always have Del Mar.
Great article Amy. We live in Pacifica – a mecca for surfers and for all those that love the fog. I desperately miss the combination of sand and sun (I guess we’ll have to wait till October for that). I would like to point out (as I am sure you know) the need for vigilance on the beaches along the San Mateo coast. There are very strong rip tides and sneaker waves and it is very easy for a small child (or anyone for that matter) to get caught unawares. Golden rule of thumb: “never turn your back on the ocean (or your kids).”
Thanks – Adrian S
Great point, Adrian. Thanks for the reminder!
I had lived in HMB/El Granada on and off my entire life until I moved to AZ when our daughter was 4. Love the Coastside!! Have been trying to get my AZ native husband to return to the area for years now with no luck. He said yes, it may be pretty but it is cold, dark, dismal…the list was rather long. My need to move home got even greater after my beloved Giants won the series. Still no luck, until last week! We spent vacation in Coronado and we all fell in love with the San Diego area!! So our plan is to relocate in 18 months! Hooray for compromises 🙂
Wow, that’s an amazing story. I hope you guys both love it there (what’s not to love?!).
I like your blog style. Glad you had a great time in Del Mar-my town. I need to take advantage of the beach more. The end of summer is coming fast.