Today was a long drive down the Pacific Coast, pretty mundane driving on the interstate (I405/I5), but stops en route lightened the mood. Pelicans and Elephant Seals provided light relief from the slow drag into San Diego.

An evening trip to La Jolla was called for to unwind and enjoy the sun setting over the ocean.

Seals basking on the beach, pink Art Deco buildings bathed in the fiery hue of the setting sun and people out enjoying a balmy evening and the twinkling lights of oceanfront villas along the coast. Californians have life sorted.

San Diego, is a military city, home of the US Pacific Fleet, Special Forces Seals and naval aviation at Miramar..."I feel the need!"

The local fishing boats were moored up for the weekend and visible across the harbour was the superstructure of the USS Midway, now a floating naval museum and tourist attraction.

The Coronado Bridge dominates the skyline as we approach. High enough to allow the passage of the fleet beneath, driving this behemoth requires full concentration…time for sightseeing later.

Coronado Island boasts one of the Pacific coasts finest beaches, and right on the sand is the Hotel Del Mar. In all its Art Deco glory, the hotel featured in the 1959 classic “Some Like It Hot”. Maybe one day I will meet Marilyn Monroe on the beach...but not today, sadly.