Dana Point to Treasure Island

13 of us left Mother's Beach in Dana Point under warm and clear conditions. Several other San Diego paddlers made the trek northward to join their OC brethren. We cruised up the coast enjoying the sunshine. Two of the paddlers decided to turn back after Three Arch Bay, the rest continued.

I am happy to report that everyone landed safely at Treasure Island even though Dumpy was also enjoy the weather. I missed the group photo as I was using the four star bathrooms at the resort.

The paddle back to Dana Point was uneventful. The worst part is the fact you have to paddle the entire length of the jetty, then back again to reach the beach. We cleaned up the boats and headed over to grab some food and drink. Although I missed the New Year's Day Paddle, this was a fine way to kick off 2010!

Dana Point to Three Arch Bay

Decided to drive up the coast to Dana Point Sunday morning to go paddling with several OCers, along with Dennis H. Five of us launched from Mother's Beach and headed up the coast. Both Dennis and I had some time constraints, so we did not paddle as far as originally planned.

The waters were very calm, and the skies overcast. We all worried about being fogged in, as we had all encountered some while driving to the launch point. This was my first time traveling up the OC coast, so Kathy acted as my guide to the sights along the shore (and a few in the water).

We reached Three Arch Bay, and Kathy and I turn back. Henry, Dennis and Nichol continued northward for a bit. Kathy and I chatted along as we made our way back down the coast. As we approached the Dana Point harbor jetty, the other three caught up with us.

We opted to take the inner route past the boats, rather than along the jetty and it's lovely smell. All told I think we covered about 11 miles in about 3 hours. Dennis made back for kick off of the Charger game, and I made back to have an early dinner for Yom Kippur started.

A Whale of a story...

Although Kathy wrote up a fine trip report and Dennis has posted a nice set of photos, I thought I would write up my own account of the adventure.

I was glad I had loaded most of my gear the night before, as I reliezed the paddle was at 8:00am not 8:30. Traffic was light as I headed up the 5 toward Dana Point, hoping not to be late. As I pulled into the parking lot, Jon Brindle was just walking by with some gear. I guess I found the launching point. He helped carry my boat down to the water, and I found parking close by. Dennis Hyndman was also there. Kathy came walking over across the beach to greet me. I was unsure of the proper protocol in greeting a CKF board member... Bow? Kiss her ring? We had a bit of a chuckle over it. I quickly finished unloading, and soon joined them on the water. In addition to Kathy, her husband Henry was there, as was a fellow OC'er David Coons. With the report of blue whales being sighted a few days earlier, we opted to change our destination and go out in search of whales. I'm sure I can convince them to escort me up to Three Arch Bay another day...

Under grey skies and calm waters, we enjoyed a nice steady pace, chatting about all sorts of things. This was a wonderful way to spend the morning. It took me a little bit to get into a groove, but after about 20 minutes, I found my sweet spot.



We headed south for about 3 miles, Dennis' GPS unit had a way-point saved entitled "Blue Whales". We sat on the calm waters, keeping our ears open. There was almost no boat traffic. But nothing.



We headed a bit further out and then turn back toward the coast. After about another 30 minutes of paddling, we stopped for another quick break. Dennis and Henry were in front, Kathy and I were a bit behind, Jon and David were to the left of me.



Then came a sound heard so often on the Discovery Channel, as Kathy and I spoted the back of whale to our left. It seemed as whale then turned and headed straight in front of us. This incredible animal came within about 15-20 feet of Dennis. Henry was backing up. Dennis said he could see it swim right under him. We were in amazement of what just happened.

Mark Sanders came paddling up, having just missed it. But, just then the sound of another whale was heard behind us. We spun quickly around, and watched another slightly larger whale pass by. (See, that why a strong sweep stroke is useful!) We estimate that this one was about 80-85 feet.



We all were completely amazed at the size and how close we were. King Neptune must have been honoring Kathy's new role ;)
The whales soon disappeared from view. Mark decided to stay out and see if he might have anymore luck.



We then turn back toward Dana Point. As we approached the break water, my elbow began to feel a little sore. I eased up a bit, keeping an eye on the boats and jet skis. The water picked up a touch of texture, but it was nice to feel comfortable in your skills and your paddling partners, as we rounded the breakwater.



Upon landing, folks were amazed at our encounter. All but Jon headed to Charos for lunch. (what's a CKF trip without food, right?). For just a little more time on the freeway, this was by far one of most memorable paddle. Thanks to Kathy and Henry for hosting. Hope to see them in July for the trip around Coranado. Thanks to Dennis and Mark for the photos!