From eBiking in Pebble Beach and glamping in Big Sur to hiking and snowboarding in Lake Tahoe, The Planet D’s Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil covered some of California’s best aspects during their recent road trip. We caught up with the adventurous couple—who documented their trip on their blog, Instagram feed, and YouTube channel—to hear about the highlights of their Catch the Winter Wave vacation.
1. What was the top highlight of your trip in California?
The #1 highlight of our trip was driving Highway 1 to Big Sur. We have heard so much about this road trip and to drive this iconic highway was a dream come true. It lived up to the hype with incredible views from the sea arch of Pfeiffer Beach to the scenic Bixby Bridge and gorgeous stacks at Garrapata State Park. It seemed that with every corner we took, another breathtaking view unfolded before our eyes.
2. Which destination or attraction surprised you the most, and why?
Carmel-by-the-Sea was by far the most surprising destination. We expected to spend time in a small sleepy town where we'd simply want to relax. But instead, it was chock full of adventure and exciting attractions. It's a fun place to learn to surf on a shallow sandy beach. Nick of Carmel Surf Lessons was patient and made learning to surf fun and easy. Our bike ride through 17-Mile Drive was amazing. We didn't know there could be so many scenic stops and lookouts on one stretch of road. It was one view after another with great stories told by Joaquin of Big Sur Adventures. We saw all the famous sites like The Lone Cypress, Ghost Tree, 20 million dollar mansions, and the world-famous Pebble Beach Golf Links.
3. Which one picture or social media post best demonstrates how others can Catch the Winter Wave in California?
I think this tweet shows it perfectly. From the sea and surf to the ski hills.
4. What is your best piece advice to visitors looking to experience California’s winter surfari?
The best piece of advice we can give is to pack layers. The weather changes constantly and that is what makes it so much fun. It can be balmy and warm in one area, and then you are in the mountains and there will be snow in another. Be prepared with warm layers that you can take off easily when the sun comes out. And pack a good set of hiking boots, because you are going to want to get out of your car and explore the scenery.
5. What California destination is next up on your bucket list, and why?
There are still a lot of places that we have yet to visit and want to explore again, but San Diego is high on our list as we've only passed through it on our way to Mexico once. So we'd like to stop and explore the city and surrounding countryside one day soon. But next on our California itinerary is a trip to L.A. for the Visit California advisory board meeting. We are honored to be a part of this group of people.
6. Can you share your best tips for taking amazing photos while traveling?
The best tip is to get up early. Sunsets are spectacular on the West Coast, but sunrises are extraordinary too. And what makes sunrises better than a sunset is the fact that you usually have the place to yourself.
When taking photos at sunset, you have to share the space with crowds and other photographers. It's difficult to get a shot free from people. Nobody wants to get up before dawn, so when you take photos early in the morning, you'll get that picture perfect postcard shot.
Early morning and late evening are the best time for light and light is the most important part of any photograph. You want deep shadows and different shades of colors. This is the time of day that you have the best chance to capture beautiful hues.
