We awoke Monday morning to beautiful sunny skies that lasted all day long. Nothing big planned for the day. At 10:30 we hopped into the car and drove the 12 or so miles to Newport for a walk along the harbor and bayfront. On our walk we stopped at the Sea Lion Docks to watch the critters.
These are California sea lions. On our previous visits in late May/June, there may have one or two of them sunning themselves on the docks built specially for them. They leave in droves in May to go the California Channel Islands to breed. Then they return in August/September. Well, they are definitely back. And in great numbers. It seems there may be up to 1,500 sea lions in and around Newport Harbor. The numbers are up due to El Niño conditions that causes the waters around California to be warmer than usual.
After watching the sea lions, we walked up Bay Street to Local Oceans Seafoods. It is a combination fish market and restaurant, and it’s our favorite spot in Newport. Lunch was delicious and picture worthy. Elaine sipped Pinot Noir and I guzzled Dead Guy Ale (from the local Rogue Breweries). We split a grilled calamari salad that was simply to die for. Then I chose a special – a grilled rockfish sandwich with fries. Elaine had fish wraps. Mine was fabulous. Elaine enjoyed her lunch but envied mine.
The Story of the Chair
So we love our condo and have stayed here twice before. My only complaint has been that the furniture on the balcony is not comfortable for a big guy like me. On our second trip here we brought our comfortable portable chairs with us on the road trip, mainly to use at picnic spots along the way. So I was able to bring one in and use it on the balcony. This time we flew. We couldn’t bring our chairs. So, thinking well in advance of my comfort, I ordered the same chair from Amazon and had it delivered to the condo in Depoe Bay on the day we arrived. Elaine (and some others) thought I was nuts. Anyway, the chair ($30 including shipping) was here when we got here. And I am comfortable with my cocktails on the deck. Brilliant! (I don’t love the chair color, but the choices for immediate delivery were limited.) Here’s a picture of the chair (inside where it rests for the night in case of rain). The chair will remain here for others to enjoy and maybe it will still be here on our next visit. I could take it home on the plane, but we already have two of them at home.
Dinner was cheese, crackers, and fruit. That’s all we needed after our delicious lunch. Of course, gimlets and pinot noir were also in evidence. It was all enjoyed on the balcony to a beautiful sunset. Here’s a video of what we watch every night as we sit on the balcony:
Do you find that it’s emptier or more crowded there in September than in June. The weather appears to be nicer. Sounds like you are getting your walking in for sure. Any trip planned to cannon beach? Or the train in Grimaldi? That’s where the wood cutter’s studio is….but be careful, he lost a few fingers.
I think it is less crowded, but not significantly. Weather has been perfect. In the 70’s every day but forecast calls for 60’s from tomorrow on out. Doubt we will get as far as as Cannon Beach. The train (Garibaldi, not Grimaldi) only runs on weekends after Labor Day. We have the Salmon Bake on Saturday, so Sunday would be the only option. Probably not this trip.
Joe, comfort is everything. $30 for 2 weeks of enjoyment. Very small price. I like the color.
Nice win for Pats.
Sat hello to Elaine.
F