Day 27



We had decided to set off early to get a few miles done before it got too hot.
Unfortunately I figured out that the Airbnb reservations I thought I’d made for Sarah, Eddy and myself had been cancelled (my error entirely). So I spend an hour rebooking them (with the help of Simon and Kenny who both have patience and skill, neither of which I seem to possess) so delayed our departure drastically.


Ken (with the patience of a saint) escorted us by bike through Long Beach back to our route. Our stay with Ken and Kenny was really special and when it was time to say goodbye it felt like we were leaving good friends behind. I hope they are able to come and stay with us in the UK. Indeed, they have inspired me to host warm showers and as Ken said ‘pass it on’.


We made it as far as Leguna Beach (32 miles) before stopping for lunch, then headed off at around 2pm into the heat for another 52 miles – “daunted” didn’t even get close.

As it happened, the miles went swiftly, passing some lovely coastal towns before coming to a stretch of the old coast road which had been closed when the i5 was built


We were then forced onto the i5 (interstate – motorway) for 7 miles to avoid Camp Pendleton. Luckily the traffic was moving very slowly (at times were making better pace than the cars which made us all feel very smug).

We passed through a few more towns (stopping at  Carlsbad for probably the most delicious ice cream I’ve ever had – not sure if 40 miles I’m burning sun had any effect) before getting to Encinitas and our final campsite for the trip – San Elijo State beach.

We had decided to make a night of it (being our last one) so found a great fish restaurant and followed it by swinging by a supermarket for booze, ice cream and crisps. By the time we made it into our tents it was gone 1am – but we had had a lovely evening.

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