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THE ROUTE

You begin the beach journey at pint-size Swami’s Park. From the edge of the cliff, descend the 145 steep steps leading down the sheer slope to Swami’s Beach, which is rocky to the north and sandy to the south. Simply head south on the wide or narrow (depending on the tide level) strip of sand that soon becomes a part of San Elijo State Beach. During extreme low-tide episodes in winter, the water level recedes 50–75 yards from the base of the sea bluffs, exposing sandstone reefs rich in marine life. This is less likely to happen in summer or fall because gentle wave action in those seasons tends to deposit a thicker layer of sand on the beach.

Even though the busy Coast Highway 101 lies atop the bluffs, you can’t see it. The summertime sensual experience at the water’s edge includes the soothing sound of the pounding surf, an ever-steady breeze out of the west caressing your skin, the spicy scent of salt-tinged air, and, of course, sunshine in variable amounts—depending on the cloud cover. (Take off your hiking shoes or sandals and let the foamy water lap around your feet and ankles to enhance this experience.)