Gray Whale Cove in Half Moon Bay, CA

Usually I go hiking with a smaller group of people as part of Meetup, but some groups do not limit how many people can come on a hike, hence hundreds of people sign up. This weekend it was the first time I experienced hiking with a hundred and something people. I didn't like it, so together with my friend, we branched out pretty much at the very beginning to go a different route.

Instead of hiking up the mountain, we chose the easy route of going straight to the Gray Whale Cove Trail, which a relatively easy and short. It stretches right along the ocean beside Highway 1. Traffic and cars make the search for peaceful and relaxing atmosphere a challenge, but the views are still amazing.

To get to the trail, you can park along Highway 1, which is what I would have done if I didn't come with a group. Instead, we parked at the Farallone View Elementary School about a mile and a half inland and then hiked to the trail. Unfortunately, one section of the trail had mud, serious mud. My sneakers were very unhappy, but eventually they did get a nice bath when I got home.

After the hike we were starving and decided to check out the nearest seafood restaurant that turned out to be great! Barbara's Fishtrap is a cash only restaurant right on the beach with amazing views of the harbor, quick service and excellent food!

Finally, before heading back to Fresno, we decided to stop by the beach, just to check in. I even took my shoes off and tested the water out. Cold!