Week 69 - Avila Beach, California - 12-09-2007

Waves from Avila Beach,

We spent four days at Avila Beach, California. Avila Beach, established in 1867, is a well protected cove just south of San Luis Obispo. The "new" town is a very clean and cute place. Years ago oil tanks were atop the nearby hills. Over time oil seeped into the sandy beach and under the town. In 1989 oil soaked soil was discovered when a new building was being built. That began a decade long rebuild of the town. Buildings in the three by five block area were moved or torn down. The sand was cleaned or replaced and the town rebuilt. Some of the buildings were brought back, but most were newly built. While many old time residents long for the "old" town, those who have never been there will love this new and clean beach town.

Our US neighbors, Ben and Sid , came for a visit. And our friends, Ed and Sheryl, came to meet us. We met Ed and Sheryl in Indio, Aguanga and Burien, Washington. And we had a chance to see James. James is rebuilding a 43 foot sail boat that he purchased in Florida.

As these photos show, Avila Beach provides a variety of gorgeous landscapes.

We first parked on the jetty below. But predictions were that the coming waves would be crashing over our motorhomes, so we moved to higher ground. Pete and Ben pose for picture while Ellen and Sid claim "bad hair day".

Here come Ed and Sheryl. Sheryl is driving her brand new Winnebago Du Jour model.

Avila Beach wildlife: Birds, squirrel and hogs!

We took a tour of James and Anna's 43 foot Ketch. It is basically a motorhome with no wheels! Fully equipped for sailing and motoring, it has a cabin with kitchen, bathroom, dining, sleeping and charting areas. And it has storage everywhere including under the floor.

When you see beauty like this, you just have to be thankful to God.

Love, Pete and Ellen

Photos from Dec 2007