elephant seals

Originally uploaded by genesister

We were fortunate on this trip to get to see elephant seals in their rookery at Piedras Blancas, near Big Sur and San Simeon. We’ve passed by there several times, but never seen the seals before. It’s pretty amazing to watch them. They are so enormous, and when they come out of the water they will only go a few yards at a time before stopping to rest – they have a lot of bulk to move! I think we were pretty lucky to catch them so early – they are generally not expected until late November, and then stick around until about February. They are quite noisy, and they reminded me of a big family after Thanksgiving – everyone taking naps and belching.

We ate at several good places while we were gone – a couple of old favorites, and some places that were new to us. In Monterey, we spent a lot of time at the Crown and Anchor. Eric was impressed with the selection of beers, and they have pretty good pub food and a nice, neighborhood feel.

Whenever we’re in Big Sur, we always try to have a meal at Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn. The menu changes, but I’ve never had a bad meal there. We’ve never stayed at the Inn, but the restaurant is rustic and charming. Eric had bouillabaisse and I had bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin with mushrooms and apples and polenta – delicious!

In Cambria, one of our favorites is Robin’s Restaurant.  They have an international menu that changes with the seasons – the last couple of times we’ve been there the selection skewed Asian, but everything is yummy. I had the kobe flank steak with ginger green beans and wasabi mashed potatoes, and it was fabulous. We also tried the Sow’s Ear for the first time – it’s basically upscale comfort food, in a warm and intimate setting. Very good. I tried the chicken fried steak, which was pretty good (still not as good as grandma’s) and Eric had shepherd’s pie with yams.  The food was good and they have a nice wine list. I’d definitely go back.

And although it’s not a restaurant, I’ll throw in a quick plug for the Cambria Pines Lodge. We’ve stayed there a couple of times now, and like it a lot. It’s a bit quirky, but nice and homey, and much better than an Econolodge or Motel 6 for not much more money (look for Internet specials).

Oak Grove Trail 6

Originally uploaded by genesister

Big Sur is just breathtaking. Driving in, it was clear but windy, but the fog came in and it was pretty gray the rest of the time we were there. We went for a nice hike on the Oak Grove Trail in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. The trail guide said it was an “easy to moderate” hike, about 3 miles. We decided it’s solidly moderate, but enjoyed it anyway. The terrain reminded me more of Southern California than Big Sur.