The Pacific Coast turns a corner of sorts between Point Arguello and Point Conception. From here the coast trends southeast all the way to Panama. If you’ve been way north, as we have, this is the last area with any degree of challenge before the density (and easy cruising) of Southern California. You also have Vandenberg missile launch facilities.

Not to mention the beginning of a string of offshore oil platform that go almost to San Diego.

Ah, but there is also an amazing density of wildlife. Today, for example, we’ve seen no less than eight humpback whales.

Including this fellow with his mouth open as he swoops up through a late afternoon meal.

Some of the humpbacks were feeding, or maybe playing, within patches of kelp.

This couple were sharing their bounty with the local bird population.

There are hundreds of sea lions. Some are just catching a few rays and discussing the events of the day.

Of course the pelicans are out in strength. In fact, we’ve seen huge flocks of these amazing birds as far north as Gray’s Harbor, Washington. A plus for global warming.

And all of this within a couple of hours of the Channel Islands. Maybe civilization won’t be so bad if we remember that we can partake in the wildlife with just a short cruise.