Category Archives: US travel

Walnut Creek Cheese, Amish Country, Ohio

Visitors come from miles away to visit Walnut Creek Cheese in Ohio’s Amish Country.  Entering the store is an Amish Wonderland of local produce and specialty stores that I could spend hours exploring.  A unique shopping experience, Walnut Creek also includes a small restaurant, a gift shop and an area that sells kitchenware and accessories.  Throughout the store are incredible displays of antiques and nostalgic collectors items.

I decided to purchase a few items to make gift baskets using several items from Walnut Creek and couldn’t believe all of the various flavors of jellies, jams and preserves.

Walnut Creek Cheese and Market began in 1977 when Mark Coblentz the President and Founder purchased a pick up and refrigerated truck  and refrigerated truck at the young age of 21.  Starting small with a few cheese products and Trail Bologna, Mark grew the business developing strong relationships, expanding his line of products and worked with integrity and a solid work ethic.

By 1987, Mark expanded the business by adding several buildings including the retail store and added Coblentz Chocolate Company.  Over the years, he added manufacturing and acquired a few brands as well.   Ten years later, he opened an additional store in Berlin and continues to expand the Walnut Creek brand today.

My favorite part of the shop are the antiques that have been carefully displayed along the mezzanines.  Some of these items I remembered seeing in local Ohio museums and historical sites.  Several of the appliances are used by the Amish today.

After wandering each of the sections of the grocery, it was time for ice cream from the Creamery.   It was a great break from the hour visit through the produce, meats and cheeses.

Of course I saved room for a cherry fry pie, one of my favorite items to purchase at Walnut Creek Cheese.  Seriously, have you tried one?

I would love to hear about your visit to Amish Country and Walnut Creek Cheese if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section.  Many thanks for reading about my visit and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Walnut Creek Cheese
2641 State Route 539
Walnut Creek, OH  44654
Telephone:  330 852 2888

Second Location: 

4727 US 62
Berlin, OH  44610
Telephone:  330 893 3273

Where to Eat:

Walnut Creek Cheese
2641 State Route 539
Walnut Creek, OH  44654
Telephone:  330 852 2888

What to Eat:

Everything!  It is all homemade!

What to Read:

  • Love Finds You in Charm, Ohio by Annalisa Daughety

Things to Do in Ohio in the Month of July

As the summer heats up, enjoy some time outside with some of these fine ideas for exploring Ohio in the month of July.

 

Ohio Wine Month Featured Winery: Old Mason Winery

Parking near the large pole barn, I noticed the dark clouds and picked up my  umbrella as I exited the car.  I was happy to sample a few local wines at Old Mason Winery in nearby Miami County which had opened its doors in 2013.  I entered into a beautifully transformed pole barn, decorated with light colored brick and  granite counter tops.

Several tables with chairs were open in the tasting room, so I took a seat near the beautiful fireplace.  Reviewing the menu, Donna stopped by to provide me with a tasting sheet and explained that I could select five wines in either 1 or 2 ounce pours.  There were so many options available that included:

  • Frontenac, a dry red wine with cherry over tones and characteristics of black currant, plums, leather and vanilla, aged on American Oak.
  • Marquette, a complex ruby colored wine with notes of cherry, berry, black pepper and spice
  • HyBlend is a blend of Frontenac and Marquette grapes. Fermented dry and then aged on American and French Oak, this smoky smooth wine satisfies.
  • Chambourcin – smooth, French oak, smokehouse and earthy

  • Sunlight – This white wine is made from local Cayuga grapes and is fermented dry.  With a slight citrus aroma, it has a crisp citrus taste.
  • Vidal Blanc – a hybrid white grape fermented dry provides a crisp and clean fruit flavor and texture
  • Traminette – a semi-dry white wine with a floral scent and fruit aromas.  The flavor is rich with hints of pear and honey.
  • La Crescent – a sweet wine made with 100% Estate grown grapes.
  • Nature’s Ink – smelling like a fruity Flintstones vitamin, you can tell the sweetness compares to the other Noiret grapes. With a  berry taste / green and black pepper, raspberry and mint, this wine is dry and has tannin structure
  • White Blossom – This white wine is made of three varietals that give it notes of melon with a slight citrus flavor on the finish
  • Dark Rose- a berry flavored wine best served chilled
  • Niagara – typical of Niagara with its off-putting smell, it has an average taste

  • Statesman – my favorite from the list, this is typical Ohio wine with a cherry finish
  • Razz – made from raspberries
  • Apple Blend – made from apples
  • Cool Mango – made from apple and mango

In addition to the Statesman, I also enjoyed the Razz, Cool Mango and LaCrescent and don’t forget their slushies.

As I left Old Mason Winery and Vineyard, the rain had let up and I noticed the picnic area.  I would love to return when the weather is clear.  Surrounded by open fields and lush green grass, the rural setting would be perfect for a picnic.

Have you visited Old Mason Winery & Vineyard in West Milton, Ohio?  Which wines did you drink?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my visit Old Mason Winery and wishing you many Happy Travels.

Ohio Mason Winery & Vineyard Inc.
4199 South Iddings Road, West Milton, OH  45383
Telephone:  937 698 1122

  • Hours of Operation:  Monday – Thursday from 12 – 6; Friday and Saturday from noon to 9 and closed on Sunday
  • 10% discount on a case of wine

Wishmaker House Bed and Breakfast

Passing through the picturesque town of Bellville, I noticed a pristine, gorgeous white bed and breakfast built along the charming main throughway, Wishmaker House Bed and Breakfast.  A full moon gave additional light to the brightly lit home advertised as a winery and wine bar.  Catching my attention, I decided to stop for a glass of wine before continuing my drive home from visiting Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens in Akron.

The wine bar was open on this Saturday night and I immediately made the acquaintance of the guests sitting to my left, Tammy and Bill, who were staying at the bed and breakfast for the weekend.  They had recently learned that the B&B won the Best of Ohio award and although they lived close by, they wanted to investigate it for themselves.

With the list of beers written on the chalkboard behind the bar, the server explained that there were additional twelve house wines available as she handed me a menu.  I placed my order for the Artisan cheese plate and requested to sample a few of the wines before making my decision on which bottle to purchase.

I started out with an ounce pour of Harvest Moon but favored my next sample of Midnight Rendezvous which was a Niagara/Concord blend sweet wine.  Having learned that the Moscato had won Double Gold at the 2015 Ohio Wine Competition, I requested to try this one and agreed it was a great wine.  My last two samples were Star Bright and Pear (very light and crisp) before I decided that I would order the Midnight Rendezvous.

Brad and Karen Smith opened this beautiful 10,000 square foot bed and breakfast in 2013. With eight guestrooms, decorated with Amish-made furniture, several have fireplaces and balcony access with charming town view.  One room is handicap accessible and the 1200 square foot suite is also available for booking.  Guests are provided a full breakfast using local ingredients and the winery and wine bar are a welcome addition opened over the weekends. Vic and Carrie Swisher (Carrie is Brad and Karen’s daughter) produce the wines in the basement of this elegant 1890’s home, bottling about 1000 gallons of wine per year.

My Artisan Cheese tray arrived and the serving size could have fed a family of four.  I offered to share with my new friends, but ended up having to take half of it home (super exited about that!), only to save it for the next day with my remaining wine (yes, I actually had some wine left over…).  The tray included a variety of local cheeses, served with crackers, olives and meat, worth the $!3.  The next time I will have to try their Buffalo Shrimp Po Boy or the Cuban Pizza Flat Bread (yum!).

Have you had the opportunity to visit Wishmaker House Bed and Breakfast?  Did you stay the night or have dinner?  I would love to hear about your visit if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my visit to Wishmaker House Bed and Breakfast.  Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Wishmaker House Bed and Breakfast
116 Main Street
Bellville, Ohio  44813
Telephone:  419 886 9463

Where to Stay: 

Wishmaker House Bed and Breakfast
116 Main Street
Bellville, Ohio  44813
Telephone:  419 886 9463

Where to Eat: 

Wishmaker House Bed and Breakfast
116 Main Street
Bellville, Ohio  44813
Telephone:  419 886 9463

I had ordered the artisan cheese and meat board, but there were several exceptional menu items I would have loved to have tried.

Things to Do in Ohio in the Month of June

Things to Do in Ohio in the Month of May

 

A Gorgeous View of Del Mar

Heading north from LaJolla, I was on a mission to find a beautiful view of Del Mar, California.  Del Mar offers 2.5 miles of coastline and I learned that a stop at Dog Beach would be one of the best locations to watch the sunset.

I parallel parked along the street and found the trailhead that leads up into the cliffs.  Making the climb, I could clearly see the River Mouth, which is where the San Dieguito River dumps into the ocean.  It wasn’t long before I could see the spectacular view of Del Mar and patiently waited for the sun to set.

The beaches of Del Mar are beautiful and this northernmost beach is perfect for walking or jogging.  This is also a lovely location for visitors to bring their dogs for a beautiful hike among the cliffs.

Within minutes, the glow of the sun began to reflect off of the coastal buildings of Del Mar beach, so I knew the sunset was just moments away.  I continued to wait and shortly the sun disappeared into the horizon.  The California sunsets never grow old and I will always search them out on my visits to the Golden State.

Do you have a place where you love to watch the sunset?  I would love to hear about your favorite place if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reminiscing about my amazing sunset adventure in Del Mar and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Del Mar Shores Park
Del Mar, CA  92014

Del Mar Dog Beach
3902 29th Street
Del Mar, CA  92014

Where to Stay:

Hotel Indigo San Diego del Mar, an IHG Hotel
710 Camino Del Mar
Del Mar, CA  92014
Phone:  858 755 1501

Where to Eat:

Poseidon Restaurant Del Mar
1670 Coast Blvd.
Del Mar, CA  92014
Telephone:  858 756 9345

What to Eat:

  • Mexican Tamales
  • Seafood
  • Sushi

What to Read:

  • The Girls in the Stilt House, by Kelly Mustian
  • Of Women and Salt, by Gabriela Garcia
  • The Last Thing He Told Me, by Laura Dave

Photo Guide to San Diego:

  • Flower Child Restaurant
  • The Dog Park
  • The Race Track
  • Fairmont Grand

Torrey Pines Natural Reserve, California

1 IMG_0654

Having lived on the coast of California, I was determined to watch the sunset each night in San Clemente.  I would walk down  to the pier, take a stroll along the beach until the last flicker of light disappeared into the horizon.  I vowed never to take the experience for granted and wanted to continue my tradition on a recent visit to San Diego.  I was so excited to meet my friend Kristi with whom I had hiked so many times.  I thought about all of the SoCal hikes we had done as I drove  into Torrey Pines Natural Reserve.  This is absolutely one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world and I couldn’t wait to take in another Pacific Coast sunset.

2 ZView of PCH from TPSP

We decided we would hike the Guy Fleming Trail because it has the most scenic overlooks.  Measuring a short two-thirds of a mile loop, this hike is also known for its wildlife and wildflowers. There are several trails within the reserve including a beach trail.  This one is most popular with the locals during the evening hours because it is easy and in good condition as well as provides the most beautiful views of the sunset from here.

3 ZState Park, San Diego

Torrey Pines surprisingly reminds me of the Badlands.   Approaching the trailhead, we walked up the hill along the paved roadway, but soon turned into a dirt trail.  Parts of the hike were somewhat unstable due to water erosion from a previous rain, so we knew to tread carefully and stay away from the edge.

4 ZBerries 1, Torrey Pines State Park, San Diego

Shortly into the hike, we noticed the berries along the path and the diversity of plant life that grows  in Southern California.  The best time to see the blooms are during the spring season but there is always some type of vegetation to see throughout the year.

7 Rock Formations Torrey Pines

It became clear that we were nearing the edge of the cliff as we caught glimpses of the ocean through the thick vegetation.  I was looking forward to the scenic views once I arrived closer to the shore where we could look out into the horizon, or count the number of people strolling the beach below.  Ghoulish rock formations hiding between the trees appeared as we continued heading west towards the coast.

8 111207 Light Shadow, Torrey Pines

Along the path were Mojave Yucca plants growing along the trail and we began to hear the crashing of waves along the Pacific Coast.    Looking down towards the beach we noticed the sculpted sandstone canyon.  The rocks and vegetation were an interesting desert-like contrast against the ocean and beach below.

10 Vegetation at Torrey Pines

The Mojave Yucca plants looked like scarecrows standing along the trail.  Adding to the interesting landscape, they appeared as fireworks sprouting out from pillars of hay.  The yucca bloom between the months of April to May exhibiting green capsules with white flesh that eventually dry up in the late summer months.

11 View of Pacific at Torrey Pines

This area is home to the rarest tree in North America, the Torrey Pine, for which the preserve is named.  Indigenous to southern California, these pines also grow in Santa Barbara, but only in these two locations.  It is for this reason, the Torrey Pines Preserve was designated to protect these trees from further city development.

13 View of TPSP Lookout

Along the trail were several scenic lookouts where we stopped to admire the coastline.  Looking towards the north, I was able to see Del Mar’s Peñasquitos Marsh which is a part of the preserve.  The name is Spanish for little cliffs and forms a natural border between San Diego and Del Mar.

Growing among the rocks were pink sand verbenas that added vibrant color to the clay hues of the sandstone.

15 View for the Torrey Pines Path

Off in the distance, I could see  La Jolla Cove as I looked south from the trail.  On a clear day, San Clemente and Catalina Island can be seen from here as well.

16 PCH View 2, TPSP

Peering down from the trail towards the parking lot and entrance station, we were  looking up the coast towards the north.  From here, we could once again see a small section of the Los Peñasquitos Marsh Natural Preserve and Lagoon.

17 Beautiful View of Ocean and Path, TPSP

We began to travel back inland on the trail through a small forest of Torrey Pines.  Looking closely at the pines we noticed that their needles grow in bundles of five which is unique to its species.  The Kumeyaay Indians collected the pinon nut from the Torrey Pine as food while the needles were used to make baskets.

We were hoping to come across some of the local wildlife on the trail because there were not many hikers that day.  The only encounter we had was a small bunny hopping across the path, but foxes and mountain lions have been spotted on the preserve.

18 Bunny Rabbit on the Trail

We returned to where we had first started our hike and happened to notice shafts of sunlight creating shadows on the rock formations.  We had eventually reached the paved road with only a ten minute walk to the entrance gate up the steep Torrey Pines Park Road.  With plenty of time to arrive at the beach, I was on schedule to watch the glorious sunset.

What trails have you hiked in Southern California?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my hike through Torrey Pines and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Torrey Pines Natural Preserve
12600 North Torrey Pines Road
San Diego, CA  92307
Telephone:  858 755 2063

  • Admission Fee:  The facility use fee depends on which parking lot you use.  South Beach parking during high season (starting at Spring Break until the end of September) costs $15 from Monday – Thursday and $20 from Friday – Saturday.  Low season begins in October until Spring Break where fees are $12 from Monday – Thursday and $15 from Friday to Sunday.  Note that high season prices may be charged during holidays, so be prepared.  For parking on the North Beach, high season (from Spring Break to end of September_ are $10 from Monday – Thursday and $15 from Friday – Sunday.  Payment is accepted at the Automated Pay Machine if no staff is available at the kiosk.  Low season rates are $3 from Monday – Thursday and $10 from Friday – Saturday.  Annual passes are available for $195.
  • Hours:  Open all year from 7:15AM to sunset
  • Amenities:  Visitor center, museum shop, guided nature walks, fishing, parking
  • Scenic View:   Gorgeous views of the coast from the hiking trails and this is the perfect place for watching the sunset.
  • Length of Visit:  3 – 4 hours, but there are hikes that will take under 1 hour
  • Tips for Your Visit:  This is a popular location for sunset and holidays can be extremely busy.  Bring water especially if you are hiking.  Food and drink (with the exception of water) is not permitted on the Reserve, but are permitted on the beach. No alcohol on the Reserve and the beach.  Dogs are not permitted and there is no smoking allowed.  Drones are also banned from the Reserve and beach.

Where to Stay:

San Diego Marriott La Jolla
4240 La Jolla Village Drive
La Jolla, CA  92037
Telephone:  858 587 1414

Where to Eat:

Nozomi La Jolla
4150 Regents Park Row #190
La Jolla, CA  92037
Telephone:   858 452 7778

I absolutely LOVE Nozomi’s Famous Chirashi Salad!

What to Eat: 

  • Burritos at Fred’s on Pacific Beach
  • Ceviche at Karina’s Ceviches & More
  • Fish Tacos at Wahoo!
  • Uni at Pacific Beach’s Sushi Ota

What to Read: 

  • From What I Remember, by Stacy Kramer
  • Beat, Slay, Love by Thalia Filbert
  • The Tombs, by Clive Cussler
  • How to be an American Housewife, by Margaret Dilloway

Photo Guide for La Jolla: 

  • La Jolla Cove
  • La Plaza La Jolla
  • The beautiful architecture of La Valencia Hotel
  • View from the Park Bench at the Museum of Contemporary Art
  • Salk Institute
  • Scoops Ice Cream
  • Scripps Pier and La Jolla Shores

19 Sun beginning to Set at TPSP

The Sun Setting in Torrey Pines

20 Sunset 2 TPSP

The Sunset from the Beach at Torrey Pines

21 111207 Clear night with Moon, TPSP

Dusk at Torrey Pines State Preserve

BCheck out more photos of Torrey Pines State Preserve in the Gallery below

La Jolla, California, the Jewel of the West Coast

+120312 La Jolla Cove Beach

After a long day of hiking in Poway, my friends and I decided to spend the rest of the afternoon in La Jolla, an exclusive, upscale suburb of San Diego.   La Jolla means “the Jewel” in Spanish which is befitting its name with perfect weather year around, high end fashion boutiques, picturesque coastal bluffs and a scenic seaside.

My favorite hangout is La Jolla Cove, a sandy beach inlet with crystal clear water.  This beautiful harbor is also home to sea lion colonies, pesky pelicans and gorgeous blue Brandt’s Cormorants.  I enjoyed the time I spent at the beach, watching the noisy sea lions bark for a spot on the rocks.  More often than not I would stroll out to the craggy coastline to watch them fight for their small piece of high end real estate.   Along the beach, there is a small, cave-like cluster of rocks where I could have a much closer view of the seals.  The opening into the cove provides a perfect frame for some amazing wildlife photography.

Often times I would check out the walking path above the cove where I could take in the dramatic cliffs.  The stunning views of the shoreline and the cove below are the reason why some refer to this area as the California Riviera.

We decided to stop for drinks at Duke’s La Jolla, to enjoy the views of the upper level which look out into the Pacific.  We thought about booking tickets at the La Jolla Playhouse or even playing a round of golf at Torrey Pines Golf Course, but since we were celebrating my friend Kristy’s birthday, we made reservations at George’s at the Cove which gave us plenty of time to stroll Prospect Street with its upscale shops and boutiques.

I never tire of the scenery at La Jolla cove, nor strolling the streets of its downtown. This is truly a Southern California paradise.

Have you had the opportunity to visit La Jolla, California?  What are your favorite restaurants and shops? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave your message in the comments section below!  Many Thanks for checking out my fun evening in La Jolla and wishing you many Happy Travels!

Disclosure:  Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

What to See and What to Do:

La Jolla Cove – stroll the beaches and check out the amazing wildlife at The Cove!

La Jolla By the Sea – explore the boutique shops and enjoy a fabulous meal in La Jolla!

Where to Stay:

La Jolla Cove Hotel & Suites
1155 Coast Blvd.
La Jolla, CA  92037
Telephone:  858 459 2621

Where to Eat:

George’s at the Cove
1250 Prospect Street
La Jolla, CA  92037
Telephone:  858 454 4244

Duke’s La Jolla
1216 Prospect Street
La Jolla, CA  92037
Telephone:  858 454 5888

What to Eat:

  • Mexican cuisine, especially tamales
  • California wood-fired pizza
  • Southeast Asian foods
  • Sushi
  • Seafood
  • Local Wines

What to Read:

  • The Dawn Patrol, by Don Winslow
  • San Diego Noir, by Maryelizabeth Hart
  • I So Don’t Do Mysteries, by Barrie Summy
  • Under the Perfect Sun: The San Diego Tourists Never See, by Mike Davis

Photo Guide for La Jolla and nearby San Diego:

  • La Jolla Cove
  • Downtown La Jolla
  • The Botanical Building and Lily Pond at Balboa Park
  • Greetings from San Diego mural on the sidewall of Belching Beaver Brewery
  • Sunset Cliffs
  • Old Town San Diego

+120312 Seals on the South End of La Jolla Cove

Massive Seals at La Jolla Cove

120312, Close to the Seals

So Many Birds, La Jolla Cove

120312, Close Up of Birds with Blue Beak

120312, Penguins at La Jolla Cove

Flowers with La Jolla Cove in the Background+Birds on a Rock at La Jolla Cove, March_2012

Point Reyes National Seashore: The Lighthouse

+DSC_0118

During a previous stay in San Francisco, I tried to reach the Point Reyes National Seashore to watch the sunset, but I had failed.  Not anticipating the hour long, intense drive of switchbacks and winding roads, I knew I was not going to reach the lighthouse in time for the sunset.  I was so disappointed and began the drive back in hopes to make this trek again in the near future.

A couple of months later,  I found myself leaving from San Francisco driving north to Marin County.   This is not a road for the faint of heart, but I was determined to make it this time, on time and with enough time to reach this spectacular view.  +DSC_0117

Having navigated through the challenging landscape, I  turned into the entrance of the park.  I was surprised to find that I was driving through private farmlands, but continued to stay on course.  Posted signs clearly explained that the cattle farms were under the purview of the California government.

The roadway through the park continued until I finally arrived at the entrance to the park, a short distance from the lighthouse. The parking lot was practically empty with only a couple of cars and I noticed ahead there was a gate at the entrance to the lighthouse.  I was confused but started my hike when I was welcomed by a herd of deer grazing alongside of the path.

+DSC_0128

I continued along the paved pathway noticing the spectacular view of the seashore to my right.  Within a few hundred feet and around the bend, I noticed what appeared to be living quarters.  Thinking that I may be trespassing on private property, I thought about turning back towards my car.  At that time, a young girl was driving towards the house and mentioned that I was heading in the right direction to see the lighthouse.

+DSC_0122

It was turning out to be a great time to view the local wildlife.   Within a few hundred feet, I noticed a hawk-like bird sitting on the power line.

+DSC_0133

As I edged closer towards the Point Reyes Light, I was reminded of why I love west coast sunsets.  Having lived in Southern California, I couldn’t wait to head down to San Clemente pier each night to watch the sun disappear into the horizon.  The reflecting colors of the sun through the cloudy sky creates a different experience each time.

+DSC_0140

Around the corner, I noticed a fenced off area and as I approached closer, there was a set of stairs leading to the lighthouse.  While I had a great view through the fence, I wished I could have visited when it was open.  I’m just not sure if I could handle a third attempt on those crazy roads, but it won’t be anytime soon.

Have you been to the Point Reyes National Seashore?  Were you able to visit the lighthouse?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my trip to Point Reyes National Seashore.  Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Point Reyes National Seashore
1 Bear Valley Road
Point Reyes Station, CA 94956
Telephone:  415 464 5100

  • Admission Fee:   There is no entrance fee to visit Point Reyes National Seashore.
  • Hours:  Open all year from 6:00AM to 12:00AM;  Bear Valley Visitor Center is open (March through October) on weekdays from 10AM to 5PM and on weekends and holidays from 9AM to 5PM.  From November to February on weekdays from 10AM to 4:30PM and weekends and holidays from 9AM to 4:30PM
  • Amenities:  Lighthouse, visitor center, parking, camping, boat-in camping, ranger-guided programs, habitat restoration program, yoga classes, salmon spawning (seasonal)
  • Scenic View:   Gorgeous views of the coast from the hiking trails and this is the perfect place for watching the sunset.
  • Length of Visit:  1 – 2 hours
  • Tips for Your Visit:  The road to reach Point Reyes National Seashore from San Francisco may affect those that are prone to car sickness.  The length of the trip (1 hour each way) is long, so provide enough time if you are interested in watching the sunset.  Bring plenty of water and snacks and ensure that your vehicle has plenty of fuel for the drive. You can take the hike to the lighthouse or an easier option to park near it and take the short trail.  Summer is the best time to visit due to fog.

Where to Stay:

Tomales Bay Resort & Marina
12938 Sir Francis Drake Boulevard
Inverness, CA  94937
Telephone: 415 669 1389

Where to Eat:

Saltwater Oyster Depot
12781 Sir Frances Drake Boulevard
Inverness, CA  94937
Telephone: 415 669 1244

Did somebody say oysters?  I was ready for about a dozen raw oysters on the half shell!  As if that was not enough, Peter and I split the Shellfish Risotto….crazy amazing!