Hike at Torrey Pines

Exploring seascapes just outside of San Diego with our kids was an adventurous way to spend a week in December. Torrey Pines is known for its famous golf course with stunning cliffside coastal views. However, we did not golf – instead, we spent the day hiking at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. Finding our way down a dusty path which periodically opened up to stunning views of the ocean from above, we eventually began descending. We carefully climbed down steep rocks to the pristine beach below. Looking left, we saw the majestic cliff from which we had descended which jutted into the ocean. The waves were not violent, but they sprayed into the air as they crashed into the cliff and barrier rocks beyond. The cliff seemed backlit by the way the sun was hiding behind it, but you could still see the bold ridges and structures that have been carved by nature over time. We spent some time here, enjoying the serenity of the water movement, the refreshing spray, and in awe of the contrast of elements. Using modeling paste and a palette knife, I emphasized the textures and colors of the rock before contrasting the gentle waves with smoother mark-making as they came in and moved out. In the distance, you can see some birds which I found myself observing in that moment. I found it interesting that they calmly perched there as they were being repeatedly splashed by waves from a front row seat.