Day Trip: Lompoc and Surf Beach

The heat of the season meant it was time to take a break from wine country, even if only for an afternoon. I had always wanted to visit Surf Beach, so I decided it was the perfect time to see something new.

After a couple of quick stops in Lompoc, I came upon a beautiful surprise: Ocean Beach Park. Just a few miles from the coast, this park is a remote oasis of bird watching and engaging shoreline. If you're not familiar with the area, the park sneaks up on you as you head up the hill just beyond the entrance. Once I saw what I had missed, I turned around and drove in for a closer look. After watching the ducks and Snowy Egrets, I continued onward to check out the other sights. Because the walkway under the bridge was flooded, I admit I ignored the railroad no trespassing sign in order see what was on the other side. I'm glad I made the short climb, because the view from the rustic tracks was one of my favorite moments. I then gently surfed down the sand and rocks in my flip flops which gave me access to the only small area open next to the protected cove. Although the beach is closed from March to September to protect the Western Snowy Plover, I took a moment to look over the fence and noticed several of the endangered birds frolicking about in their natural habitat. Lucky me!

From the park, it was a short drive to Surf Beach. As I walked across the Amtrak landing and tracks onto the warm sand, I was grateful I had made the choice to check out this part of the coast.  Holy gorgeous... I hope you agree. Xo