Cambria

My favorite weekend escape is located on the central coast of California. Cambria is a small town anchored on a long narrow stretch of coastline, where the pine trees, rocks and cliffs battle for dominance across the horizon.

The architectural style of the motel, where I stay, would be at home anywhere on the highways and byways of America. What makes this motor lodge so special is the spectacular view of the ocean, which is located just a few hundred yards from the room. No matter where they may roam during the day the guests of the motel can be found walking the cliffs at twilight. Ears attuned to the sound of the many rocks being sculpted by the powerful force of the high tide.

Lovers stop and catch their breath captured by the brilliant display of colors created by the sun as it sinks into the sea. The evening sky begins to fill with more stars than even Hollywood could imagine. The rising moon finds families and couples returning to their rooms accompanied by the mournful cry of a foghorn calling out to the passing ships.

I have spent countless memorable weekends in Cambria. It is the one place I love to go when the pressures in Southern California become too intense. In my lifetime visiting this coastal town is the closest I have come to finding heaven on earth.