If you are anything like me, you recognize the mystique of the California Coast. If you catch the right spot at the right time, it is the stuff of which dreams are made. While I have certainly spent some time driving on the PCH (Pacific Coast Highway), it is the privilege of all those able to take a longer look. One of the best ways to do this is on a biking path.

California’s central coast boasts some of the best scenery in the world. The old coast road, which runs from Big Sur to Carmel now acts more like a bike path than a highway. The beautiful Bixby Bridge is where the cars go now so the old coast road is perfect for cyclists, be sure to check it out.

Fort Ord was made legendary by the old Vietnam era photo of a young soldier, waiting for deployment, standing on its beaches. That area was a hub of military activity during the 60s and 70s and lots of ex-military personnel return to the area year after year because of the beauty they witnessed then. The Fort Oro/Toro Creek Trail will reveal this beauty to you in a way that might keep you coming back year after year.

California’s Gaviota State Park is a bike ride that will excite you. After you roll through the hills and inland valleys you will end up finishing the ride on the beach. It is well worth fighting the wind. It can be severe so be sure to bring some goggles or glasses along.

San Eiljo State Park is an awesome place to ride your bike and for a couple of reasons. Two of the best are Huntington Beach and Newport. Far enough away from the hustle and bustle of LA these beaches will help even a very beginning cyclist to chill out and relax. These are 2 of the best beaches in the world and you will know why when you see their beauty. You might actually think about moving to LA.

If you are thinking about San Diego then be sure to think about the Pacific Coast Bike Ride. The stretch from San Elijo to Torrey Pines is smooth but parts can be a challenge. You will need to be in decent shape for this trail. If you can handle it, the coastal scenery will not let you down. This is the ride that will keep you coming back to California year after year.

If you have the opportunity to bike the coastal regions of California, consider yourself blessed. The coastline seemed to be carved from biking divinity. Though there are too many areas to name in one short article, consider just stopping and picking a trailhead at random. I’m sure there are far more treasures to be discovered.

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