Santa Cruz Wharf in Santa Cruz, California

The Santa Cruz Wharf stretches gracefully into the Monterey Bay, offering a timeless blend of coastal beauty, history, and everyday California life. Built in 1914, it stands as the longest pier on the West Coast that is still open to vehicular traffic, a testament to its enduring role in the city’s identity. Walking along the wharf, visitors are greeted by the rhythmic sound of waves below and the salty air that defines the Central Coast.

One of the wharf’s most iconic features is its wildlife. Sea lions famously lounge beneath the planks, barking and basking in the sun, while pelicans glide effortlessly overhead and otters occasionally appear in the kelp beds nearby. These moments of unscripted nature give the wharf a lively, ever-changing atmosphere. Fishermen line the railings with poles in hand, continuing a tradition that connects modern visitors with Santa Cruz’s maritime past.

The wharf is also a destination for food lovers. Seafood restaurants serve fresh clam chowder, fish and chips, and locally caught crab, best enjoyed while watching the fog roll in or the sun dip below the horizon. Small shops sell souvenirs, candy, and coastal curios, adding to the nostalgic charm.

At sunset, the Santa Cruz Wharf becomes especially magical. The lights glow warmly, the water reflects the sky’s changing colors, and the nearby Boardwalk comes alive in the distance. Whether visited for a leisurely stroll, a meal by the sea, or a moment of quiet reflection, the Santa Cruz Wharf remains a beloved landmark where ocean, history, and community meet.

 

Big Sur on the California Coast

Driving through Big Sur is one of the most breathtaking road trips in the world. Stretching along California’s rugged central coast between Carmel and San Simeon, this iconic portion of Highway 1 offers dramatic ocean vistas, towering cliffs, redwood forests, and a raw natural beauty that feels untouched by time.

The journey begins just south of Monterey, where Highway 1 begins to hug the coastline. As you climb into the Santa Lucia Mountains, the road winds and dips with the contours of the cliffs, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. One of the first major landmarks is the Bixby Creek Bridge, a graceful, arched span often featured in photographs and films. Just beyond are stops like Pfeiffer Beach, famous for its purple-hued sand and rock arch, and McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, where an 80-foot waterfall cascades directly onto a secluded beach.

Big Sur is more than just a scenic drive - it's an experience. Along the way, you’ll encounter small lodges, rustic cabins, and roadside cafes nestled among the redwoods. The area has no major towns, limited cell service, and only a few gas stations, reinforcing a sense of isolation and peace. Many travelers pull over frequently to hike, picnic, or simply admire the views.

Driving Big Sur is best done slowly, ideally during daylight hours to appreciate the views and safely navigate the narrow, winding roads. Whether you're exploring for a day or staying overnight, this stretch of coastline is unforgettable. A place where land and sea collide in the most spectacular way.

 

Top 6 Photo Essays of 2021

Last year I released over 125 new photo essays spanning a variety of unique destinations. After review, here were the TOP 6 most popular releases based on web traffic on the Editing Luke site in 2021. As always, thank you for the incredible support.

6. Santa Cruz, California | Surf Culture

Photo essays of Santa Cruz, California included spotlights on Surfers at Steamer Lane, the Wharf, Beach Boardwalk, and Surfing Museum.

5. Ford Piquette Plant in Detroit, Michigan

This photo essay highlighted the factory where the Ford Model T was born.

4. Rebuilding Notre Dame in Paris, France

This photo essay showcased the reconstruction of Paris' iconic cathedral.

3. Inside Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee

A look inside Elvis' iconic estate in Memphis.

2. Exploring the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, California

A photo essay from inside the home of the Academy Awards.

1. Neon of Shinjuku in Tokyo, Japan 

An evening under the neon lights of Shinjuku was the most viewed photo essay of 2021.

Santa Cruz Wharf in Santa Cruz, California

Sea lions, seafood, and sunset views of the Pacific. These are a few visuals from an evening spent exploring the Santa Cruz Wharf in Santa Cruz, California.

 

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk in California

A few visuals of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a popular tourist attraction and amusement park along the scenic waterfront in Santa Cruz, California.