Pacific Tide Pools

29 June 2012

We wanted to go to see some tide pools but we weren't sure where they were. So we asked a ranger and he suggested this hike. He said that it was a little ways to walk - about a mile - but the beach was really secluded and the tide pools were great. He was right!

 On the trail to the beach.

 

 Almost there. There's a little fresh water stream that flows down a small canyon and into the ocean. It runs through a little primitive campground at the edge of the beach. It would be a super place to camp.

 Tyler and Derek found some interesting sticks and rocks.

 We rolled up our pants and ventured into the FREEZING water.

Jared found a cave. When the tide is high, that big log is under water and rolls around in the surf carving the cave out even bigger. We found all sorts of rocks and shells embedded in the log. We climbed up through the cave and found an amazing secret cove full of star fish. It was so cool!

Fun fact: Starfish have no brains.

 Derek holding a starfish.

 Tyler holding a starfish.

I think this is cockles and muscles, but I'm not sure.

 It was pretty hard to keep from stepping on the sea anemones - especially the ones that weren't under water. When they are out of the water they just look like dark green mossy slime balls. The kids though they were gross.

 Holly also thought that holding starfishes was gross. She was trying really hard to pose for the picture on the outside even though she was freaking out on the inside.

 What a super fun day.