Ruffin it with Rufus: South Carlsbad State Beach

I’ve often told my daughter if I knew the Grand-girls would be so much fun I’d had them first! But this weekend the entire SoCal clan was able to get together for a camp out at South Carlsbad State Beach.

The campground boasts 223 sites along 1.5 miles on the bluffs just south of Carlsbad CA. Access to the beach is via stairs or a ramp at the south end of the park. This is a California State Park and although technically not-for-profit, it is not an inexpensive place to camp. There is a $15 premium for a sunset view from the campsite! And at least 2 tokens are needed for a shower.

But the ocean view is great as is the sunset.

There is a convenience store located near the entrance station. It offers a nice selection for what might have been forgo ten (eggs), souvenirs (‘fridge magnet), snacks and picnic area with tree stumps to get a better view of the ocean.

However all sites come with a fire ring and a picnic table. No stump needed for a view and the sites are surprisingly spacious just take advantage of the picnic table.

Water is really full of color under the flat afternoon sky it is 50 shades of gray, but by dusk it is black, green and briliant white … memorizing.

The campground is at the top of these bluffs.

The beach itself is mostly rocky at the north end, opening to greater areas of sandy stretches further south.

This is a great park for surfing! The breaks are there for ‘normal’ or ‘goofy’ footed surfers. There are gates that allow public access to the beach, but the north end at Pelican Point has the most public parking outside the park. Along with a gate and staircase to the beach, many local surfers use this area.

After stumbling across a small geo-cache along one of the stairwells, we are prepared to add our own touch to the adventure.

First step is to collect the rocks to be used as our 'canvas'. There are lots of rocks, but Aj has found a bit of coral. Kg is also trying to be selective, but in the end it is the solid ‘canvas’ that works.