Harbor Light Adventures Travel and Tours

Harbor Light Adventures Hosted Tour - Yellowstone NP 9/2012

2012-03-03T15:00:00.000-05:00

September, 2012, Harbor Light Adventures is hosting a nature & photography trip to Yellowstone National Park. To get a sense and flavor for what you will enjoy when you join us – keep reading!

Imagine a waterfall twice as high as Niagara Falls, a park that’s larger than two entire states, more than a thousand miles of trails, and historic hotels built for the wealthy a century ago – including the largest log structure in the world, Old Faithful Inn. Welcome to Yellowstone National Park.

Yellowstone is nature at its most grand. It has ten thousand geothermal wonders — half of all that exist on the planet. The area is populated by two thousand buffalo, twenty thousand elk, moose, wolves, bighorn sheep, antelope, cougars, coyote, mule deer, grizzly bears and black bears…and those are just the larger animals. Yellowstone is known to America’s 46 million birders for its trumpeter swans, osprey, bald eagles, golden eagles, white pelicans, sandhill cranes, great blue herons,

Canada

geese, ravens, magpies, killdeer, yellow-headed blackbirds, dippers, and more.

Undoubtedly, much of the reason Yellowstone is a favorite destination is all the wondrous sights, but it’s also the sounds of the place — the whoosh and gurgle of exploding geysers, the bubbling, plopping sound of mud pots, the giggle of kids when seeing these things for the very first time. There’s always something happening in the park that will inevitably provide unforgettable memories.

And then there are the stories. Dinnertime for our group travelers is when we hear what everyone has seen, photographed and experienced during the day. That would be true even if you only drove through the park and took the boardwalk strolls around the hissing pools and geysers. But the road system covers only two percent of what there is to see. Specially arranged tours take people off the roads and into the backcountry by seldom-used trails, and just north of the park boundary (still in the Yellowstone Ecosystem) by horse into the high country guided by fourth-generation Montana cowboys. You can also raft the Yellowstone River, racing through its Class Two and Class Three rapids. You can imagine the stories that spill out at dinner after these activities!

Pay a visit to a remarkable park that’s a World Heritage site; a designated Biosphere Reserve; a “supervolcano” hundreds of times bigger than Mount St. Helens; is headwaters of the longest undammed river in the nation (the Yellowstone); has 290 waterfalls of fifteen feet or higher; and is home to a thousand archeological sites. Did you know that there is a Grand Canyon of Yellowstone some 800 t0 1200 ft deep and 1500 to 4000 foot wide?

But a final reason to travel to this amazing place — how better to unwind than to vacation somewhere so beautiful and unique!

FOR OUR HOSTED TRIP INFORMATION CONTACT 888-895-5255 or al@harborlightadventures.com

Details about the tour and itinerary can be found on our Facebook Page at http://www.facebook.com/harborlightadventures/events
or go to: http://go.gadventures.com/YellowstonePhotographersEscape

NOTE: Tour group is limited to 15 people. We have 5 spots filled as of 3/1/2012. CONTACT ME to reserve your spot

Video of Pictures Taken During Trip to Williamsburg, VA

2011-12-11T20:07:00.001-05:00

Assateague & Chincoteague Islands

2011-08-01T20:27:00.003-04:00

Assateague Horse on Road - Maryland Access
+++SEE BOTTOM OF ARTICLE FOR INFO ON JOINING US AUGUST 9-11, 2011+++

Wild horses, prairies, estuaries, plains. Sound like something you would find in the south or out west? Assateague Island, situated on the Maryland and Virginia borders, is an east coast destination for adventure and relaxation.

There is a Maryland access on the north end of the island (close to Ocean City & Berlin, Maryland) and a Virginia access on the south end at Chincoteague Island, VA. No roads connect the MD and VA sides on the island (which would make the drive much faster).

Maryland Access

Assateague Island is managed by three official park agencies. Assateague Island National Seashore is cared for and managed by the National Park Service, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and Department of Natural Resources (State Park).

This part of the island is accessible from the Maryland side on MD Rt 611. The Barrier Island Visitor Center is located on the RIGHT side of the road just before the bridge that takes you to Assateague Island. This is the National Park Headquarters for the island and a MUST stop for information, maps, and other vital information related to visiting the National Park part of the island.

There is no lodging close to the Maryland side of the island. Most people choose to stay in Ocean City, Maryland or surrounding communities that are within fifteen minutes to half hour drive from the island. Camping is available on this side of the island, including RV hookups.

Virginia Access

Assateague Lighthouse

Chincoteague Island access is about 1.5 hours south from the Maryland access on RT 13 & 113.

Chincoteague Island is in Virginia and adjacent to Assateague Island. The Chincoteague Wildlife Refuge is the southern end of Assateague Island in Virginia, the refuge was established in 1943 for the protection of migratory waterfowl habitat.

Over 14,000 acres of beach, maritime forest, saltmarsh, and freshwater marsh habitats are home to a spectacular variety of migratory birds, plants, and other animals. The Toms Cove Visitor Center is located on the south side of Beach Road, prior to the beach parking areas.
On Chincoteague Island you will find lodging in the form of hotels, cottages, beach houses, campgrounds and bed & breakfasts. Seafood restaurants can be found here and offer a variety of local fresh fish and shellfish.

Both islands are famous for the wild ponies that actually populate Asssateague Island. The Chincoteague Fire Department has a "pony roundup" annually in July and "swims" the ponies to Chincoteague for auction to keep the herd on Assateague at a manageable level.

GENERAL CONDITIONS TO CONSIDER
Summers at Assateague are generally hot and humid. Mosquitoes, biting flies, gnats and ticks are abundant from spring through autumn. Insect repellent and/or protective clothing is recommended. It rarely snows in the winter but it is often cold, damp and windy. Sturdy hiking shoes are recommended for long walks in the sand and hard soled water shoes/sandals or for wading in bay waters.

ACTIVITIES
Assateague Island at both the Maryland and Virginia access is a great vacation destination within easy reach for many East Coast residents. There are sightseeing cruises that depart from Chincoteague Island May through October, kayaking & canoeing, fishing (crabbing and clamming also), hunting, hiking, biking, photography and other activities that continually make this a paradise for visitors that enjoy outdoor recreation.

Assateague Island has over 37 miles of beautiful beach and has been rated one of best beaches on the entire East Coast. Search for seashells on white sand beaches, enjoy swimming along the Atlantic coastline or just relax on Assateague's vast unspoiled beaches.

The Assateague Lighthouse is on the way to the beach in Chincoteague and definitely worth a visit. Restoration has been ongoing and the light is still active.

CAMPING
NOTE: Campers may not bring firewood from out of state. Firewood must be purchased locally.
Camping at Assateague will be a pleasant experience if you plan ahead! The barrier island habitat can be harsh if you are not prepared. Camping is available only in the Maryland district of Assateague Island. Campers are reminded to bring firewood, sunscreen, insect repellent, screen tents for shade and insect protection, and long tent stakes to anchor tents in the sand and wind.
Assateague Island National Seashore Campgrounds:

Oceanside Drive-in: Tents, trailers and recreational vehicles (no hookups). Sites have a picnic table and an upright grill.
Oceanside Walk-in: Tent-only sites, located 100-200 feet from centralized parking areas. Sites have a picnic table and an upright grill.
Bayside Drive-in: Tents, trailers and recreational vehicles (no hookups). Sites have a picnic table and ground fire grill. A Drive-In "Generator-Free Zone" is located in Bayside B Loop.
Group Camping: Organized clubs and affiliated groups must use group campsites. Tent-only sites, located 100-200 feet from centralized parking area. Sites have a picnic table and an upright grill. Group campsites are available for reservations year round at $30 per night per site.

HIKING

Sunrise Hike Near Toms Cove
Chincoteague Wildlife Refuge

Hiking on a barrier island is a very unique experience. Be prepared for the challenges of heat, humidity, biting insects, fast approaching storms and changing tides. Hikers need to assume individual responsibility for planning their trips and hiking safely. Before setting out on your hike, stop by a park visitor center or ranger station to obtain needed warnings and recommendations. You will increase your odds of a safe hike, decrease your disturbance to park wildlife, and lessen damage to resources.

Trails are well kept and marked. The Maryland trails incorporate boardwalks and take the hiker through specific habitats.

Beach Hiking
Visitors interested in hiking on the beach should also consider:
Terrain: Beach hiking is much more strenuous than hiking on a hard surface. The hiking terrain is flat, but the sand is soft and uneven. Visual distances over sand are deceiving. There are few landmarks and it is easy to underestimate mileage. Please take this into account when planning your hike.
Tides: Knowing the tide cycles may help you. Hiking at low tide offers a somewhat flatter, harder sand surface. Hiking at high tide usually means hiking higher on the beach in soft sand which is extremely fatiguing.
Footwear: Sturdy walking or hiking shoes offer the best support for long hikes in the sand. Keep in mind, wet shoes filled with sand can cause serious abrasions.
For backcountry camping enthusiasts, two oceanside and four bayside sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis for visitors who wish to backpack or paddle the island.

BIKING
A great way to explore the island!
Maryland
Cyclists may travel to Assateague over a bicycle-pedestrian bridge and follow a paved bike path along Bayberry Drive through 4 miles of island habitat.
Virginia
A paved path leads bicycles from Chincoteague to Assateague. Enjoy these paths, too!
Wildlife Loop - 3 1/4 mile loop
Woodland Trail - 1 1/2 mile loop
Swan Cove Trail - 1/2 mile
Black Duck Marsh Trail - 1 mile

Kayaks & Canoes
Kayaks and canoes may be launched from designated areas on Assateague. Careful consideration should be given to weather conditions and tidal currents. Rentals are available seasonally in Maryland. Kayak tours are available in Chincoteague, VA.

Over-Sand Vehicles (OSV)There are 12 miles of beach in Maryland and a small section of beach in Virginia open to over-sand vehicles. An annual OSV permit may be purchased for $70 to $150 depending upon the type of access desired. Specific equipment is required.

Shell Collecting
Limit collecting to a gallon or less of UNOCCUPIED shells to ensure a supply for beach dwelling organisms.

Shellfishing
Crabbing and clamming are great ways to discover the bays behind Assateague and sample some local seafood specialties native to the area.

Surf Fishing
Surf fishing has been a popular recreational activity for generations. With a few basic tips on seasons, conditions, equipment, species & regulations, anglers can have an enjoyable experience. Fishing license is required. Check the PERMITS page of Assateague Island for details.

PARK ENTRANCE FEES
Maryland
Foot/Bicycle: No Fee
Individual: $3.00
Motorcycle: $10.00 - 7 Days
Vehicle: $15.00 - 7 Days
Vehicle: $30.00 - Park Annual Pass, valid from 1/1 - 12/31.
Vehicle: $15.00 - Beach Parking fee upgrade for USFWS Migratory Waterfowl Duck Stamp, valid July 1 - June 30 annually.VirginiaFoot/Bicycle: No Fee
Vehicle: $8.00 - 1 Day
Vehicle: $15.00 - 7 Days
Vehicle: $30.00 - Refuge Annual Pass, valid 1 year from purchase.
Vehicle: $30.00 - USFWS Migratory Waterfowl Duck Stamp ($15.00) plus beach parking fee ($15.00)

ANIMALS

Assateague Horses

Mare & Foal

Legend has it that the Assateague horses are survivors of a shipwreck off the Virginia coast. While this dramatic tale is popular, there are no records yet that confirm it. The most plausible explanation is that they are the descendants of horses that were brought to barrier islands like Assateague in the late 17th century by mainland owners to avoid fencing laws and taxation of livestock. The "wild" horses on Assateague are actually feral animals, meaning that they are descendants of domestic animals that have reverted to a wild state.

The horses are split into two main herds, one on the Virginia side and one on the Maryland side of Assateague. They are separated by a fence at the Virginia/Maryland State line. These herds have divided themselves into bands of two to twelve animals and each band occupies a home range. The National Park Service manages the Maryland herd. The Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company owns and manages the Virginia herd. It is the Virginia herd which is often referred to as the "Chincoteague" ponies. The horses on the Va side are not as approachable as those on the MD side. Many visitors first learn about the Assateague horses from Marguerite Henry's famous book Misty of Chincoteague.

There are few places in the United States where you can view wild horses. Due to their complex social structure the Assateague horses display a wide range of unique behaviors. Take advantage of the opportunity to view these horses in a natural habitat. Assateague's horses are beautiful, tough, and wild. They have learned to survive in a harsh environment. Feeding and/or petting them is detrimental to both visitors and horses. Horses can get sick from human food. Those that learn to come up to the road to beg for food are often hit and killed by cars. Visitors are kicked, bitten and knocked down every year as a direct result of getting too close to the wild horses. Horses tough enough to survive the scorching heat, abundant mosquitoes, stormy weather and poor quality food found on this remote, windswept barrier island have formed a unique wild horse society. Enjoy their beauty from a distance, and you can help make sure these extraordinary wild horses will continue to thrive on Assateague Island.

Sika Deer

Deer
Two species of deer take advantage of the island's interior forests and shrub habitats, the native white-tailed deer and the non-native sika deer, actually a species of oriental elk. Ongoing research is evaluating the ecological effects of sika deer on both native vegetation communities and other wildlife such as the white-tailed deer.

Other mammals of Assateague occupy a wide array of habitats and range in size from small rodents to large marine mammals - the latter including the bottlenose dolphins and several species of whales that feed in the island's offshore waters.

Egret

Birds
Located along the Atlantic migratory flyway, Assateague Island plays host to a wide variety of both migratory and resident bird species. Because its mid-latitude location is within the migratory routes of both northern and southern species, the island provides a unique opportunity for birders. The island's rich mosaic of forest, dune, and marsh habitats offers feeding and nesting opportunities for a wide array of shorebirds, songbirds, raptors, waterfowl, and waders.

Rat Snake

Other Inhabitants
Box turtles and diamondback terrapins delight visitors throughout the island, and Seven species of frogs and toads depend on fresh water ponds in the center of the island for breeding, and a variety of snakes, such as the black rat snake, can be found across the forests, dunes, and marshes preying on rodents, small birds, or toads.

Numerous invertebrates such as fiddler crabs and mud snails play key roles in maintaining the health of the island’s salt marshes. Even the seemingly barren beaches provide habitat for nocturnal ghost crabs, red fox, and raccoons, who scavenge the crustaceans, fish, and other organic matter washed in by the tides.

Finally, the coastal waters that surround Assateague Island teem with animal life. The sheltered, nutrient rich waters of the estuary formed by the island provide ideal breeding and spawning habitat for many aquatic species, some of which, like the blue crab, are commercially important to the local area. Each spring a variety of fish, including spot, Atlantic menhaden and summer flounder migrate into the estuary to breed. Later, the juvenile fish provide an abundant food source for birds, marine mammals, and larger fish.

Enough for you to do on your vacation? Assateague island will meet all your expectations!

JOIN US! Harbor Light Adventures will be on Chincoteague Island, VA, August 9th to August 11th, 2011. We can make your reservations and meet you for a nature photography expedition to the island. Call Al at 888-895-5255 Ext. 2

See You There!!!

Tour completed! Thanks to everyone who attended. We will talk about our stay in the next blog entry: Chincoteague, VA Stay, Play, Shop & Eat

Cape Cod National Seashore - 50th Anniversary (Part 2)

2011-07-01T13:42:00.001-04:00

During 2011, Cape Cod National Seashore celebrates its 50th anniversary. Several events are planned to commemorate this remarkable national park area. We are going to give you a rundown on areas to visit on "The Cape" and things to see and do from places we have visited there.

PART 2 (of 2)
Welcome to Part 2 of our series about Cape Cod National Seashore. This part will explore the beaches of Cape Cod, lighthouses to visit, whale watch trips and more.

CAPE COD BEACHES

The beaches of the Cape can be managed either by the town that they are in or by the National Park Service (NP). We will focus on National Park beaches. For details about town managed beaches, go to the individual town website found in Part 1 of our 2 part series.

A reminder from Part 1: Beach passes are obtained from the NP Salt Marsh office in Eastham or at the fee collection booths located at each beach entrance. The park office is a great place to start your vacation! Pick up maps, get information from the rangers, and even shop!

Beach Passes cost $15 per vehicle ($3 for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcycles) for the day, and will admit you to all NP beaches in the area. If you plan to stay for a few days and visit the beach, it may be a better plan to buy the annual Cape Cod National Seashore pass which costs $45.

National Park Passes

Planning on visiting other national parks in a year? The Interagency Annual pass is available for $80 online and at all national parks. A pass is your ticket to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites. Each pass covers entrance fees at national parks and national wildlife refuges as well as standard amenity fees at national forests and grasslands, and at lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management and Bureau of Reclamation. A pass covers entrance and standard amenity fees for a driver and all passengers in a personal vehicle at per vehicle fee areas (or up to four adults at sites that charge per person). Children age 15 or under are admitted free. http://www.nps.gov/findapark/passes.htm

EASTHAM, MA
Eastham has two notable NP beaches. Coast Guard Beach and Nauset Beach.

Old Coast Guard Station
Coast Guard Beach

Coast Guard Beach
Perennially listed in the Top 10 Beaches in the United States, Coast Guard beach has a long history that dates back to November 9, 1620, when a ship named the Mayflower, 65 days out fro Plymouth, England, made her landfall in the New World here!

Author, Henry David Thoreau, named it "The Great Beach", and about two miles south, on the outer beach, stood the cottage where author Henry Beston lived while gathering the material for his book, "The Outermost House", published in 1928. The book describes life on the outer beach during all four seasons (a good read if you plan on visiting).

Surf's Up! Early morning surfing
on Coast Guard Beach

Coast Guard Beach is a prime swimming beach during the summer season (mid-June to Labor Day) and surfers frequent it year-round. It is a great place to observe and photograph wildlife such as shore birds (including nesting plovers and terns that frequent this area in the early spring to early summer), seals, and whales. The entrance to the beach is located behind the old Coast Guard Station. The parking area at this location is closed to all but park staff and visitors who are disabled during season, and access is provided by shuttle bus from the Little Creek parking area. The parking lot at Coast Guard Beach is open the remainder of the year. There are seasonal restrooms and a wheelchair-accessible ramp to the beach.

Two other areas of interest for wildlife observation here are Nauset Marsh, which is located behind the former Coast Guard Station. It is accessible by a pathway that leads to the bicycle trail bridge. Nauset Spit offers the opportunity to walk directly onto a barrier beach system and observe shorebirds and, during the winter months, seals.

Nauset Light Beach
One mile north of Coast Guard Beach on Ocean View Drive is Nauset Light Beach. The Nauset Lighthouse is across the street and makes for a great photo op! There is a large parking lot here that is managed by the NP, and be warned that the lot fills up early in the day. We cued in line for about an hour until parking became available at 11 AM. The rangers here were very helpful in directing people to parking spaces. There are restrooms, bathhouse and a concession stand located near the entrance stairs to the beach that are open in season.

Nauset Light Beach consists of a broad, sandy beach that is contained by a steep glacial scarp behind it (providing shade and a wind break). During winter months, the beach profile is considerably lowered, sometimes exposing features such as the brick foundation of one of the earlier Three Sisters lighthouses (more about the lighthouses later). Piping plovers nest on the outer beach from early spring to early summer and other shore birds frequent the area. Seals are occasionally found here as well.

WELLFLEET, MA

Artifacts on Marconi Beach

Marconi Beach is located six miles north of Salt Pond Visitor Center, off Route 6 in Wellfleet. The Marconi Area obtained its name from the famous Italian inventor, Marconi. From a site here, Marconi successfully completed the first transatlantic wireless communication between the U.S. and England in 1903. There are ruins of the station and artifacts located here. The NP has information plaques and a scale model at the site. An observation platform at the Marconi Station site offers an excellent overview of the Outer Cape, including both ocean and bay.

Forty foot sand cliffs (scarp) located behind the beach provide swimmers and beach walkers a sense of solitude and quiet here as the scarp and ocean provide an unbroken, pristine natural scene in all directions.

The uplands above the beach slope gradually westward, and provide a graceful vista of both the bay and sea horizons of this portion of the Cape. The flora here consists of the Atlantic White Cedar Swamp Trail which is a 1-1/2 mile nature trail that descends gradually in elevation into the swampy environment that hosts Atlantic white cedar and red maple trees. The road to the beach is lined with these beautiful specimens.

TRURO, MA

Head of the Meadow Beach is surrounded by glacial cliffs/sand dunes, offering seclusion for beach goers. These are the highest dunes on the Outer Cape, exceeding 100 feet in some spots.

There is actually a Truro town beach and also a National Park beach here. The ever-changing sandbars that run along the beach attract many swimmers and waders. At low tide you may even catch a glimpse of the remains of one of Cape Cod's many shipwrecks. Restroom facilities are limited and open during season only. Parking fees apply for both the NP and town managed beaches here.

PROVINCETOWN, MA

Race Point Beach
Lighthouse and Pilgrim Monument

Race Point Beach is named for the fierce rip tides that come around the point of the Cape. It is located on the Atlantic side of the Cape and has colder water and rougher surf. A look across to the bay reveals the quieter Herring Cove and beach. Race Point has a vast sand beach as a result of sand transport from the south. Race Point Lighthouse is a close walk from the beach.

Since it's on the Atlantic side, the water is colder with more surf. Be warned that the undertow can be a bit strong! Seasonal oversand vehicle permits can be purchased at Race Point Beach from April-November for $60. There are various restrictions and all vehicles must be inspected before the permit is granted. SUVs with these permits can drive from Race Point to High Head Beach in Truro. Tire inflation stations are located here.

Herring Cove is the most popular beach in Provincetown. This bayside beach has placid waters ideal for children and a relaxing swimming experience. There is no undertow, and water that is always warmer than Race Point.

Traditionally the right hand side of the beach is considered more family oriented, while the left is more gay-friendly. The beach is managed by the Cape Cod National Seashore and has restroom facilities, a concession stand, showers, and lifeguards. There are two parking areas to the beach. One is adjacent to the beach and the other is across the dunes which is a bit of a walk.

Bring your camera and binoculars as you may even see whales breaching or seals basking in the sun. Stay until sunset- this is the place to be for a spectacular view. The sunsets at Herring Cove are unparalleled on the entire Cape, since the sun actually seems to set into the ocean, unusual for the east coast.

The Travel Channel(R) has named Herring Cove Beach as one of America's Best All-Time Beaches by Region. They gave it particularly high marks for swimming, sand quality and atmosphere.

LIGHTHOUSES

Nauset Lighthouse

Located across the street from the parking lot to Nauset Beach, it provides great photo ops of a typical New England coastal lighthouse. Nauset Light was originally one of two lights in Chatham, MA and was moved to Eastham in 1923 to replace the Three Sisters Lighthouses. The Three Sisters have since been relocated to a small field on Cable Road, a short walk away.

The light was automated and the keeper's house was sold in 1955. Due to coastal erosion, by the early 1990s Nauset Light was less than 50 feet from the edge of the 70-foot cliff above the beach. In 1993, the Coast Guard proposed decommissioning the light. There was a great public outcry. The non-profit Nauset Light Preservation Society was formed and arranged the light's relocation in November 1996 to its present location. The lighthouse is the logo for Cape Cod Potato Chips.

Three Sisters Lighthouses

In the late 1800's three 15-foot high masonry towers were built. The lights soon gained the nickname “The Three Sisters” because from the sea they looked like women in white dresses with black hats. However, Cape Cod shores change quickly! The National Lighthouse Board ordered three new movable wooden towers to be built thirty feet inland from the original masonry ones. The new towers stood twenty-two feet tall; the lantern housing added an additional seven feet. The old towers were allowed to fall into the Atlantic where their foundations can occasionally be seen today at low tide.

The current Nauset Lighthouse replaced the sisters in 1923. The National Park Service purchased the center tower in 1975 with a plan to reunite it with the other two towers. The three are placed in their original orientation on a plot of land on Cable Road behind the current operating light. Restoration took place through the 1980s, and the site opened for its first public tour in 1989. Today one can visit the Sisters and marvel at the remarkable journey that brought them their current location. There is a walking path from the Nauset Lighthouse to the Three Sisters. Signs direct you to the lighthouses.

Cape Cod Highland Lighthouse

In 1797, a station authorized by George Washington was established at this point on the Cape, with a wood lighthouse to warn ships about the dangerous coastline between Cape Ann and Nantucket. It was the first light on Cape Cod. In 1857 the lighthouse was declared dangerous and demolished, and the current brick tower was constructed, with a first order fresnel lens from Paris. Along with the lighthouse, there was a keeper's building which can still be seen today. Due to beach erosion, the lighthouse was moved 450 ft to its current location in 1996.

It is on the grounds of the town run Highland Golf Course. The grounds are open year round, while the light is open to the public from May until late October, with guided tours available.

Race Point Lighthouse
Race Point Light is located approximately 2.5 miles from the heart of Provincetown, at the northwestern tip of the Cape. Due to the large number of shipwrecks in the area, Race Point Light was constructed in 1816 - the first of the three lighthouses in Provincetown (followed by Long Point and Wood End). The original 1816 tower was a twenty-foot rubblestone tower and it was replaced in 1876 with the current structure - a 40-foot cast iron tower lined with brick.

The keeper's house and whistle house are available for overnight accommodations with access to Race Point Beach. From the beach you can observe fishing and whale watch boats as they cruise by, and remember to bring your camera!

Wood End Lighthouse
This 38 ft brick tower went into service in 1872. Even with three lighthouses in the Provincetown area, shipwrecks still occurred regularly. A lifesaving station went in service at Race Point in 1872 also. Thomas Lowe (the first keeper at Wood End) would occasionally have to alert the citizens of Provincetown to help with the rescue of shipwreck victims. The lighthouse is still an active aid to navigation and can be visited by walking about 30 to 45 minutes. This is a strenuous walk and caution should be taken as you must cross the breakwater which could be tricky with breakers at high tide. Another solution is to view the light from aboard any of the excursion boats out of Provincetown.

Long Point Lighthouse
Long Point is located at the very tip of the Cape at Provincetown. The first lighthouse was completed in 1826 and consisted of a lantern on top of the keeper's house. In 1873, after an inspection of the structure, it was determined that it was in danger of being swept away by a heavy storm. A new 38 ft brick tower was erected by 1875. Long Point Light was automated in 1952 and is an active aid to navigation today.

You can see Long Point Light distantly from MacMillan Wharf in Provincetown and you can walk there via a breakwater to Wood End at low tide, but the lighthouse is viewed much more easily from various boats leaving Provincetown Harbor, including a ferry to Boston and whale watches.

WHALE WATCHES

The Dolphin Fleet, Provincetown, MA
Available from early April until the end of October, this is the whale watch cruise to take! Each cruise lasts three to four hours and journeys to Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary where you can observe feeding and other habits of these magnificent marine mammals. You have the opportunity to view species such as humpback, minke and finback whales. Additionally, you may view dolphins and other marine life. Many species of seabirds are also present.

What makes these cruises special is the scientific work that is ongoing by naturalists that accompany each trip. Naturalists not only collect data, but also act as guides and enhance awareness of marine life and habitat.
There is educational material and biological samples aboard each boat that provide a hands-on educational experience. Spend some time interacting with these naturalists and you will leave with a greater understanding and appreciation of the marine environment that surrounds us.

Tickets are available online at http://www.whalewatch.com/, area hotels and B&Bs, the Provincetown Chamber of Commerce Building, or the blue dolphin fleet booth on the pier. It is strongly suggested to get your tickets in advance, especially during peak summer season! Current cost is $42 for adults and $34 for children 5-12 years of age. Kids 4 and under are free. Purchasing online (or at your hotel) may earn you a discounted rate.

HIKING
There is an abundance of trails in the park to trek during your stay. We have hiked a small percentage during our stays here. Remember that a good place to start is the Salt Pond Visitor Center, Route 6, Eastham, MA 02642, 508 - 255 - 3421 (year round). YOU SHOULD STOP HERE AND GET CURRENT MAPS AND CONDITIONS BEFORE HIKING! Remember safety precautions and always have plenty of water, food and supplies for the trek you are planning!

Here is a link directly to popular self guided hiking trails available at the park FOR REFERENCE ONLY! http://www.nps.gov/caco/planyourvisit/upload/2009selfguidingrevise.pdf

BIKING
Likewise, there are plentiful areas to bike. Bike trails also differ in degree of difficulty and the same precautions (and additional biking precautions) should be taken before touring these trails! Remember that a good place to start is the Salt Pond Visitor Center, Route 6, Eastham, MA 02642, 508 - 255 - 3421 (year round). YOU SHOULD STOP HERE AND GET CURRENT MAPS AND CONDITIONS BEFORE BIKING!

WEAR A HELMET!!! It is required by law for children 16 and under to wear one and EVERYONE's head is just as vulnerable!

Here is a link directly to popular self guided biking trails available at the park FOR REFERENCE ONLY!
http://www.nps.gov/caco/planyourvisit/upload/Final2008bikerevise.pdf

RANGER GUIDED ACTIVITIES

Ranger Guided Hike
Photo Courtesy of Cape Cod NP

Don't want to go it alone? Ranger guided activities are also available and very informative. Rangers add their own expertise to a memorable visit and are very knowledgeable.

Here is a link to their guided activities.
http://www.nps.gov/caco/ranger-guided-activities.htm

PLAN YOUR VISIT
The Cape Cod National Seashore has an excellent website to help you make the most of your visit to the Cape. We strongly recommend that you visit the website for details about the area.
http://www.nps.gov/caco/index.htm

We hope that you do decide to visit this magnificent area! Cape Cod has something for everyone. For those of you that do go, please comment on your trip and let us know how you enjoyed the area.

Contact Us to help you plan your vacation to Cape Cod! We're glad to help with your accommodations and other plans! http://www.harborlightadventures.com/

Cape Cod National Seashore - 50th Anniversary (Part 1)

2011-06-17T22:54:00.001-04:00

PART 1
Today we will describe the park, accommodations, towns and food.

PARK AREA
This is a park that can not be seen in a day! In fact, after two visits, I have found that there is more areas to discover. Forty miles of pristine sandy beaches, marshes, ponds and forest support diverse species.

The area has attractions such as lighthouses, historic buildings, landscapes and ports that offer a view of Cape Cod’s past and continuing ways of life. Beaches for relaxing and hardy swimmers, along with walking, hiking and biking trails attract visitors.The area covers from the town of Eastham, MA approximately mid cape northward to Provincetown, MA at the north end of the Cape. The area makes a great day trip for those who are local, but for those who would like to stay longer there are several B&B's, hotels and motels nearby.

Eagle Wing Motel

ACCOMMODATIONS
Arriving via Rt. 6 (the main highway through the Cape) there are many places to stay. Most are local hotels and motels or B&B's. A Days Inn is also available. For our trip we did extensive research and chose Eagle Wing Guest Motel in Eastham. This is a motel / B&B on Rt. 6 hosted by Mary and Gerry Orris. Both are very knowledgable about what to see and do in the area. Gerry is also a local radio host and knows extensive history of the area. The motel's rooms are spacious and nicely appointed. Rooms have refrigerators and some have a back porch where you can relax after a day's activities. Prices are nominal and a continental breakfast of fresh muffins, juices, tea and coffee is served daily. Take your breakfast to your room or eat at the tables outside of the motel's office and plan your day! Other similar accommodations are available in the area.

TOWNS
There are four main towns on the Cape that offer an array of scenic and cultural attractions. History predates the colonial era, and the coastal heritage is evident in the communities that comprise the Cape.

EASTHAM, MA
The National Park Service (NPS) operates the Salt Pond Visitor's Center for the National Seashore in Eastham, MA. Open daily (except Thanksgiving and Christmas), this is an excellent place to start your visit, get information and maps of the park and plan your stay. You will find the rangers extremely helpful and always willing to discuss anything regarding the park and surrounding area. Beach entrance and other fees are collected here. Check out the website listed here for details. It is also a starting point for various ranger led tours of the park.

Boat on Salt Marsh

My first visit to the salt marsh immediately behind the National Park Office was initiated with the screams of a golden eagle flying overhead, and there was plenty more to come. Many species of birds, fox, deer and seals at the beach. Plenty to photograph and enjoy.

Area attractions include two main swimming beaches (Coast Guard Beach and Nauset Beach) and the Nauset Lighthouse which we will cover in Part 2 next week. Other attractions of interest include:

Eastham Windmill is probably the oldest on the Cape (1680's). Each summer, a guest miller instructs tourists in the history and operation of the mill. Each fall, the residents of Eastham celebrate Windmill Weekend with a parade and activities on the Windmill Green.

The Schoolhouse Museum is located on Nauset Road across from the National Seashore Visitor Center. It is housed in a one-room schoolhouse built in 1869.

The Penniman House is a National Historic Site owned and interpreted by the National Park Service as part of Cape Cod National Seashore. Captain Penniman was a whaling captain who built his French Second Empire style house on Cape Cod in 1868. Today, over 100 years later, the house holds the Penniman family's written records and artifact collections, which provide glimpses of the places and people that the family visited on their whaling voyages.

On the trail
Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary

WELLFLEET, MA
Bounded on the east by the Atlantic Ocean and the west by Cape Cod Bay, it is home to beautiful beaches, freshwater ponds, bay and ocean fishing, a boating fleet and plentiful supply of shellfish, including the famous "Wellfleet Oysters". The area has a rich seafaring history that goes back to the mid 1600's. Over half of the town is located inside the Cape Cod National Seashore Park.

Mass Audubon/Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary offers five miles of trails that traverse salt marsh, sandy beach, pine woodland, freshwater pond, and rare heathland which attract a wide array of wildlife, especially songbirds and shorebirds. Nesting sites are easily viewed and the area makes for great photo ops!

The Wellfleet Historical Society Museum is open in season (late June 25 - just past Labor Day). The society's collection includes old photographs, maps, documents, marine artifacts, Indian artifacts, a small collection of period clothing, household, agricultural and commerce related items. Guided Walking Tours take place on Tuesdays and Fridays at 10:15am (in season). Self-Guided Audio Walking Tours are also available.

TRURO, MA
Located just south of Provincetown, Truro is also bounded on the east by the Atlantic Ocean and the west by Cape Cod Bay. Beaches are town managed (not NPS). The Highland Lighthouse (Cape Cod Light) is located in North Truro and worth a stop. The lighthouse is located next to the town run golf course.

The Pamet River is Truro's entrance to Cape Cod Bay. It's named for the Payomet Indians, and is primarily salt marsh. The river flows west nearly all the way across Cape Cod from its eastern beaches, and empties into Cape Cod Bay.

PROVINCETOWN, MA
Located at the northern tip of Cape Cod, the Pilgrims made first landfall here and signed the Mayflower Compact when they arrived at the harbor. They agreed to settle and build a self-governing community, and then came ashore in the West End.

The Pilgrim Monument, a 252-foot tall tower, is the tallest all granite structure in the United States and is part of the downtown historic district. It can be climbed daily. A series of ramps takes you to the top for an outstanding view of the area.

Sometimes called "P-town", the town is known for its beaches, harbor, artists, tourist industry, and its status as a gay village. This is an active fishing port town and visiting the harbor is an attraction in itself. Whale watching trips depart from the port and are highlighted in Part 2. This is the largest town on the Cape and very active throughout the day.

LUNCH! Lobster Roll w/ "local"
Cape Cod Potato Chips

FOOD
Chain restaurants will not be found frequently on Cape Cod! There are a few fast food restaurants, but the majority of eateries are locally owned and operated. Seafood is obviously featured at many. Kids menus are available at most and will usually satisfy even the finicky eater. There is a Wendy's in Orleans, MA south of Eastham. We'll be glad to assist you with your dining needs if you plan your trip through us!

Restaurants covered here are locals that we have tried. How did we find restaurants? Park Rangers know where to eat and we took their advice for many of the places we chose. We also looked for parking lots that were filled! Most restaurants have menus posted outside that help you decide if there is enough fare to keep everyone happy.

Capt'n Elmers Seafood, Orleans, MA (south of Eastham)
Located just off Orleans Center and adjacent to the Bike Trail, Capt'n Elmer's specializes in fresh Cape Cod seafood and lobsters. We had a "Shore Dinner" which was clam bake style with lobster, steamers & broth, drawn butter, corn, coleslaw & clam chowder. It was definitely a taste of New England and reasonably priced!

Lobster Shanty, Eastham, MA (across from the Salt Marsh National Park Office)
The Lobster Shanty features ... lobster! On the day we ate there our dinner special included whole lobsters, clams and sides. The establishment is a shanty. Clean and reasonable, and there was plenty of seating. The food was good, but if you're looking for gourmet dining - this is NOT the place!

The Beachcomber, Wellfleet, MA

AWESOME! Right on the beach! The Beachcomber has been a must-visit destination for surfers, families, beach-goers and music lovers for more than 50 years! Live music, cool cocktails, fantastic food (Cape Cod Clam Bake and BBQ Ribs were both excellent), stunning scenery and friendly atmosphere. Platters are reasonably priced and the "Minnows" Kids Menu has plenty of favorites for kids to choose from.

Lobster Pot, Provincetown, MA
"A Provincetown tradition" is stated on their website and in reviews. There was a line at the door for dining in and for take out. Entering the front door you view lobster tanks with various sized lobsters to choose from. We ate "Tim's Clam Chowder" after returning from a whale watch cruise. This award-winning (Cape Cod Chowder Fest, Boston Chowderfest) recipe is the creation of their Executive Chef, Tim McNulty. Thick and creamy, full of clams and well seasoned. One of the best I have ever had! We also shared a combo of Oyster Rockefeller, clam casino, mussels marinara and blackened shrimp. All prepared excellently!

In Part 2 (next week) we will explore beaches, attractions, whale watches and other venues. Cape Cod National Seashore is a great destination for singles, couples and families looking for a relaxing vacation. Contact us for ideas and to make your reservations! 888-895-5255

For information regarding the Cape Cod National Seashore go to the National Park Service site at http://www.nps.gov/caco/index.htm

64th Annual Maine Lobster Festival - August 3rd to 7th, 2011

2011-05-16T09:14:00.007-04:00

August 2010, we toured the 63rd Annual Maine Lobster Festival in Rockland, ME. Rockland is located along Maine's Mid-coast (4 hours from Boston). The fair is located at the Port of Rockland with beautiful views of Penobscot Bay.

20,000 lbs of Maine lobster are cooked during the event in what is said to be the largest lobster cooker in the world! You may also want to try a lobster roll - a local sandwich concoction, or feast on "steamers" (clams), shrimp and other seafood that is either steamed or fried. You will not be disappointed!

Not sure how to eat them? Volunteers circulate through the food tent and provide instructions to both the novice and experienced lobster eater. You'd be amazed on how much meat you might be missing!

A three lobster dinner last year (including soft drink, corn, roll & butter) was $32. These are whole lobsters that are chix size (approximately 1 to 1.24 lb).

Breakfast is served daily during the event and include all-you-can-eat blueberry pancakes! Food is reasonably priced.

There is a parade with floats, coronation of a sea goddess, live entertainment, various arts and crafts vendors (many with local wares), local marine life exhibit, U.S. Coast Guard Station tours, races, carnival rides, seafood cooking contests, games and plenty of activities for the kids! Downtown Rockland is full of shops and local artists. Definitely a great place to shop!

The fair runs from Wednesday through Sunday. Admission is free on the Wednesday when the fair opens. Four day tickets and daily tickets are available at the gate. The festival, with a "Lobster Palooza" theme for 2011, officially opens on Wednesday, August 3rd and runs through Sunday, August 7th, 2011. For other details regardin g the event go to the Maine Lobster Festival website at http://www.mainelobsterfestival.com/

Captain Jack w/ Catch in Pot

AREA ACTIVITIES
Other things for couples and families to do in the area include a ride on a lobster boat (or sailboat) and actually watch the crew "pull pots" hopefully full of lobster! Rides are available from the dock at the fair where you can contact the captains directly. These are small group tours and fill quickly! Our group boarded Captain Jack's Boat. Yes, we caught lobster and Jack was full of local information!

Take a short road trip to Chester, ME. Great food and stroll the area near the water and port. Many local shops with plenty to see.

BOAT TOURS

New Harbor, ME is about a one hour drive, and where you can board a tour boat from Hardy Boats to do a Puffin Tour, Lighthouse Cruise, Seal Watch or visit Monhegan Island, ME for the day. Great photo opportunities abound at all locations!

You may also see seals, whales, dolphins and other marine wildlife during any of these tours.

The crew is very knowledgable and Captain Al was excellent! Reservations strongly encouraged.

The puffin tour takes you to Egg Rock where a colony of puffins have been reintroduced to the area and are thriving. The island is inhabited by many species of seabirds, and scientists & interns studying the birds.

August is a great time to view the puffins before they return to the sea for their winter feeding.

The Puffin Project headquarters is located in downtown Rockland and worth a visit.

"Downtown" Monhegan Island
(From Lighthouse)

Monhegan Island is an island community of less than 100 people, occupying one sq. mile at about ten miles from the mainland. Great hiking trails that take you to a view of the town from the lighthouse at one end, and a typical Maine rocky tree-lined coast (with shipwreck) at the other end. Use caution as there are no emergency services on the island! This is an artist community and there are shops there to buy local produced arts & crafts. Overnight and longer accommodations are also available on the island. Everything that the island needs is brought daily by boat, including the tourists!

Pemaquid Point Lighthouse

LIGHTHOUSES

After your return to New Harbor, visit Pemaquid Point Lighthouse which is a short ride away. Speaking of lighthouses, there are plenty in the area to visit. During our stay we visited Rockland Breakwater, Pemaquid, Monhegan Island and Owls Head lighthouses. Many more lighthouses are in the area and we can help you locate and visit them on your journey.

There is also a great maritime museum with many artifacts just outside the Lobster Festival fairground entrance.

The American Lighthouse Foundation is also located in Rockland, ME. A good place to visit and shop.

View of Bay from Rooms
at Strawberry Hill Seaside Inn

ACCOMMODATIONS

Accommodations in Rockland (and nearby Rockport) include B&B's, hotels and rental properties. Some adjacent to the fairgrounds. Our group stayed at the Strawberry Hill Seaside Inn in Rockport, ME. Nice accommodations, pool and all rooms view the bay!

A great time was had by all and we would recommend this for couples and families alike.

Travelers should contact us for information and accommodations if interested in attending this year. 888-895-5255

Florida's Forgotten Coast - A Great Place to Visit!

2011-05-09T13:37:00.009-04:00

A quiet section of Florida's panhandle coastline, stretching from Mexico Beach to Carrabelle, Florida including the areas of Cape San Blas, Apalachicola, St. George Island and Eastpoint is known as the "Forgotten Coast." It got its name (a trademark of the Apalachicola Chamber of Commerce) when it was left off a Florida tourism brochure in the 1990's, and the "locals" still refer to it this way today.

Carrabelle, Fl (at Lighthouse)
Facing Rt. 98 and Bay

There is no Interstate Highway in the area (I-10 runs well north of the area), and the coast is accessible via Rt. 98 / 30 which is frequently a two lane road traveling the coastline. There are great views of Apalachicola Bay and the barrier islands beyond while traveling this road. The area is also accessible via Rt. 71 from the North, taking you through forested and scenic back country roads.
The area is quiet, inviting and consists of beautiful state parks, pristine bays, sugar white beaches, coastal marshlands, estuaries rich with sea life, and barrier islands with impressive dune formations. A great place for couples and the family to visit! This is NOT the place for high energy day or night life.

Beaches & beachcombing, bird & animal watching, fishing, shopping, boating, photography and other relaxing activities abound here. There are plenty of sights to photograph. Animals (local favorites like pelicans and alligators!), seascapes, palm trees, docks, quaint villages, and as with all our trips, lighthouses are always a great stop! We visited St. Marks, Crooked River, Cape St. George and Cape San Blas Lighthouses!

Boss Oyster Restaurant
Dining on the dock!

When the daytime activities are through, you can relax at a local dockside restaurant and partake of the local catch. Local mariners are dependant upon shrimp, oysters and fish (grouper, snapper, kingfish, bass and even shark) for their livelihood. The fleet heads out in the early morning (bring your camera) and many can be seen trolling the coast for shrimp, or fishing off shore. The Apalachicola River and Bay meet in the eastern Gulf of Mexico to form one of the most unspoiled and productive estuaries in the country. This mixture of fresh and saltwater makes an ideal nursery for a diverse group of marine species that includes oysters, shrimp, crabs and a wide variety of fish. Apalachicola Bay produces 90 % of Florida’s oysters and 10% of the nationwide supply.

Coombs House Inn

The locals are welcoming and enjoy the company of travelers (a good source of income to the area). Bed and breakfasts far outnumber chain hotels and provide a comfortable place to unwind. We chose the Coombs House Inn in Apalachicola. The rooms are well appointed and have a private bath. Breakfast (served from 8 to 10 am) varied by day and consisted of fresh muffins as well as a main course prepared by the owner. The Inn also offers picnic baskets prepared by staff for a beach lunch, bicycles, beach chairs, towels and umbrellas, afternoon tea and cookies (3 to 5pm), and a wine reception in the parlor (6 to 7 pm on Fridays, Saturdays and Holidays). For those who need to stay connected, wifi is present and a TV is in each room. Very cozy and pleasant!

To familiarize you, below is a review of the areas we visited (traveling west from St. Augustine):

St Marks Lighthouse

St. Marks Wildlife Refuge

St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge offers a variety of outdoor recreation activities. The Visitor Center presents a general overview of what there is to see and do. You should stop here first to get information and a map of the park. It is also one of the few places in the park that has restrooms. Trails for hiking, wildlife observation, fishing, crabbing, boating and photography are some of the activities. The main route through the park is County Road 59. It is approximately seven miles from the visitor center to the lighthouse. You will pass many fresh, brackish and saltwater pools where you are bound to observe wildlife. Many birds are wadding, "fishing" and nesting. You might even observe an alligator in one of the ponds or sunning on a bank.

Anhinga

Oak Snake

Local Maritime Antique Shop
Apalachicola

Apalachicola

Situated on the Apalachicola River and Bay, Apalachicola or “Apalach“, as it is known by locals, is far from a typical tourist town. Established in 1831, it was once the third largest port on the Gulf of Mexico. It features over 900 listed historic homes and buildings.Travel to Apalachicola continues to increase as tourists seek experiences of "Old Florida," as many describe the feel of smaller coastal communities in the state. As someone who grew up spending summers in Florida (1960's and 70's) I definitely agree! With one blinking traffic light for traffic control on Main Street and a population of 2400, Apalach has a downtown that includes the Dixie Theater, shops and restaurants. - some that occupy restored sponge, oyster and fishing buildings along the waterfront. Locals and tourists alike spend time walking the downtown area to browse a shop, watch boats come and go, or enjoy a meal.

St. George Lighthouse

St. George Island
St. George Island is a 22-mile barrier island with some of the most beautiful beaches on the Gulf Coast. It is one of the last inhabited, yet unspoiled, barrier islands of Florida, with miles of uncrowded beaches for sunning and shelling, clear Gulf waters for swimming and excellent fishing, pristine marshes for wildlife viewing and photography. Cape St. George Lighthouse stands prominently in town.

Cape San Blas Beach
(Adjacent to Lighthouse)

Cape San Blas
A scenic, 10-minute drive east of Port St. Joe will take you to the most hidden beaches of Cape San Blas. This is a 17 mile long barrier peninsula that curves around St. Joseph Bay. It has pristine white sand beaches on the Gulf side, with just a short walk across to spectacular fishing on the bay side. It was named America's #1 Beach for its natural beauty, in 2002. Annually it is consistently in the top 10! Shell collectors will enjoy this beach as many varieties wash ashore here.
The current (and fourth) Cape San Blas lighthouse was built in 1885. It is a skeletal tower with a lens house atop. The U.S. Air Force owns the property and ran a LORAN station here until 1972. The museum and shop (in restored keeper's house) is open Wednesday - Friday: 11am - 5pm, Saturday: 10am - 4pm.

St Joseph Peninsula State Park (On Cape San Blas)

Conch at low tide

With miles of white sugar sand, this park has one of the top rated beaches in the United States. Sunbathing, snorkeling, and swimming are popular activities along the Gulf of Mexico and St. Joseph Bay. Canoeists and kayakers can take in an excellent view of the dunes and sand pine scrub. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy camping, fishing, hiking, photography and bicycling. As a coastal barrier peninsula, St. Joseph provides excellent opportunities for bird watching; over 240 species have been sighted in the park. At low tide, you can explore tidal pools teaming with life. Shrimp, conch, fiddler crabs, pipefish and other sea life can be observed.

Eastpoint
Just across the Bay from either Apalachicola or St. George Island, is the central point of the Forgotten Coast. Seafood docks stretch almost the entire length of the community and you can dine on the bay while watching the shrimp and oyster boats bring in the day’s catch. Great place for pictures also. We ate at Captain Snook's in Eastpoint. Great seafood combination meals, soups and try the "fish dip" for an appetizer. You will enjoy a view of the bay (and fresh oysters) while dining here.

So what's a vacation on the Forgotten Coast have to offer? Away from crowds, a relaxing vacation where you can re-energize, slow down and enjoy the local laid-back style ... this is what the "Quiet Coast" (renamed!) has to offer!

Whether looking for a bed & breakfast, hotel or other accommodations, we will help you find the perfect location for your stay.

St. Augustine, FL - April 2011 - (Tour & Pictures)

2011-04-20T11:00:00.008-04:00

St. Augustine in April was a great place to be! Crowds were low and the weather... well, after THIS winter here in PA it was awesome! Come along and visit America's oldest continuously occupied European-established city and port in the continental United States.

St Augustine (Downtown)
Taken from St. Augustine Lighthouse

Founded in 1565 by Spanish explorer and admiral Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, St. Augustine lies in a region of Florida known as "The First Coast", which extends from Amelia Island in the north to Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and Palm Coast in the south.
The Spanish influence is apparent throughout the area. Downtown (Old City) especially has the theme. The restaurants feature Spanish cuisine (as well as local seafood and American dishes). Something for everyone.

The 1565 founding of San Agustín (St. Augustine) makes this city the first permanent European settlement in what later became the continental United States. In 1566, Martín de Argüelles was born in San Agustín, the first European child who was recorded as born in the continental United States. Argüelles was born in San Agustín 21 years before the English settlement at Roanoke Island in Virginia Colony, and 42 years before the successful settlements of Santa Fe, New Mexico, and Jamestown, Virginia.

Gates to the City
At the north end of St. George Street stand the stone gates to the Old City. These ancient pillars were once the only entrance to the enclosed city.

The gates are built of stone, but the rest of the wall was of logs stood on end. On the outer side of this wall was a moat. The approach to the gates was over a drawbridge which was pulled up at night.
Downtown (Old City) has many shops, fine dining and even ghost tours nightly.

Fort: Castillo de San Marcos
The Colonial Era (1500 - 1800) was filled with warfare as European countries vied for wealth in the many "New Worlds". The Castillo de San Marcos, though a remote outpost, weathered many attacks.

Once founded in 1565, the need for defense of St. Augustine was recognized and over the next 100 years, the Spanish built nine wooden forts for the defense of the town in various locations. The Castillo (the 10th fort) is a masonry star shaped fort made of a stone called coquina, Spanish for "small shells", made of ancient shells that have bonded together to form a type of stone similar to limestone. Construction began in October of 1672 and lasted twenty-three years, with completion in 1695.

The National Park Service manages the fort and provides interpreters and volunteers for a great learning experience. It was declared a national monument in 1924 and placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1966 (I visited there that year!). A great place to visit!

St. Augustine Lighthouse

St. Augustine Lighthouse
The lighthouse is located on Anastasia Island, a barrier island, in St. Augustine, FL. Since it's founding in 1565, it was obvious that a tower was needed for mariners to find St. Augustine. After all, it was "wilderness" in those days. The original wooden tower (as well as the town) were sacked and burned by Sir. Frances Drake (guess he wasn't such a nice guy). In 1683, the Spanish government replaced the wooden tower with a sturdier structure made of coquina stone.

Within six months of Florida becoming a United States territory in 1821, the Spanish coquina guardhouse/watchtower was converted to a true lighthouse. On April 5, 1824, Juan Andreu was named the first lightkeeper of the first lighthouse in the State of Florida. Ten big oil lamps in front of mirrors produced the light. By 1870, it was evident that the sea was encroaching upon the coquina lighthouse and it was in danger of collapse. The new lighthouse was built of brick on a concrete foundation. The first order Fresnel lens was first lit on October 15, 1874. Four years later the old coquina keeper's house fell into the ocean. The tower collapsed in a storm two years later. The location of the old lighthouse is an underwater archaeological site and visible at low tide.

St. Augustine Lighthouse is open to the public daily, and can be climbed (165 ft tall and 219 steps!). Be sure to visit the museum and gift shop! Oh yeah, as the crew from SyFy's "Ghost Hunters" discovered - it's haunted! Many people have lived at the light, two keepers died (consumption, fall) and three children (girls) died during construction when a rail car went out of control and into the water.

Other Attractions in St. Augustine

Ripley's Believe It or Not
Collections that include real shrunken human heads, rosaries made of human bone, and a drum kit featuring two human skulls fused together and covered with human skin. Those and 800 other unique exhibits, artifacts, artwork and so much more inside this museum.

Lightner Museum

Relics of America's Gilded Age are elegantly exhibited on the museum's three floors. Costumes, furnishings, mechanical musical instruments and other artifacts give you a glimpse into 19th century daily life. The Lightner collection includes beautiful examples of cut glass, Victorian art glass and the stained glass work of Louis Comfort Tiffany.

Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse in The United States

Located near the City Gates, The Old School House is a surviving expression of another time. Built over 200 years ago, while Florida was under the rule of Imperial Spain, it was constructed of red cedar and cypress and put together with wooden pegs and handmade nails.

Contact me for full travel information! 888-895-5255 http://www.harborlightadventures.com/

Ship Inspection: Norwegian Cruise Line - Come Along!

2011-04-16T17:20:00.004-04:00

Our recent trip to Florida included a ship inspection of the Norwegian Sun. Come aboard and share the experience. If you have never been on a cruise, you will find that there is plenty to do aboard and during excursions at ports of call. Here's another secret: EARLY BOARDING (approx. 11:30 AM) allows you to enjoy the open spaces and pool - start your vacation early! You will check into your room later! It's part of the "Freestyle" culture! More freedom to do what YOU want!

Freestyle Cruising is all about giving you the freedom of choice to have your style of vacation. Relax or be adventurous. Eat a burger or filet. Dress up or go casual. And never have a fixed schedule or restriction to slow you down. It's your vacation, so make sure it's exactly what you want!

In this picture above note the Balcony and Oceanview staterooms (windows). More about rooms later...
Let's talk about a stress-free arrival.

ARRIVE THE DAY BEFORE YOU CRUISE

If possible, it is a great idea to arrive the day before and stay close to the port. We stayed at the Days Inn in Cocoa Beach, FL and even enjoyed a complimentary breakfast buffet across the street at the Best Western, their sister hotel. After breakfast it was a short ride (8 minutes) to Port Canaveral. This port is very accessible! No long lines of traffic! There were three cruise ships departing this day, and did I mention no traffic!

WELCOME ABOARD!

ABOVE is the main entry into the ship. At the perimeter of the area are the registration desk, concierge, seating and other areas. Pictured is the main stairway and elevators servicing the center of the ship. Easy access to all floors. You can relax and meet friends, enjoy something to drink or get oriented to the ship.

ACCOMMODATIONS (Stateroom-y)

No matter what level of room you choose, rest assured that NCL provides roomy accommodations! Some of the roomiest in the industry! Family rooms accommodate up to four guests. Normal accommodations include

Inside (no view)
Oceanview (window)
Balcony
Mini-Suite
Suite

Balcony Stateroom

Inside Stateroom
Can be configured as two singles
or a queen bed.

There are many configurations and we can help you choose the level of accommodation that is right for your group, budget and needs! Staterooms for folks with disabilities are available also and provide additional space for wheelchairs.

DINING - Freestyle!

All NCL ships have plenty of choices for dining. No set dining times, no assigned tables, a relaxed dress code and more restaurants than days in the week on every ship, so you can enjoy whatever you're hungry for, whenever you're hungry. Your choice!

Know before you go!
Each ship has a real-time status board of all restaurants,
making it easy to choose which one is best for you.

Dining rooms are divided into:

Complimentary

Morning, noon and night you'll find tempting restaurants, grills, buffets and cafés to satisfy any craving - and they are all included in your cruise fare. If it's a three-course feast you're in the mood for, welcome to our beautiful dining rooms that serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. Maybe dining al fresco with ocean views is in order. You got it - our "endless" buffets offer indoor and outdoor seating with made-to-order omelets and pasta dishes, fresh salads and much, much more. Plus, there are casual grills by the pool, 24-hour eateries with your favorite comfort foods, lively sports bars, kid's cafés and of course dining à la pajamas with room service.

Specialty Restaurants

Every ship in the fleet also offers true Texas-style steakhouses, gourmet French bistros, Italian trattorias and that's just the beginning. Try exotic Asian Fusion restaurants or be entertained by master chefs as they grill up steak, seafood or chicken and veggies at authentic teppanyaki grills. Some ships offer sophisticated supper clubs with dinner and dancing, Cirque Dreams", and Dinner shows with world-class acrobats and more. These specialty restaurants are optional and have a cover charge that ranges from $10 to $30 per guest.

Fun & Adventure Aboard!
From the pools (including kid's pool) with slides, Jacuzzis, and activities (shuffle board, table tennis, golf, basketball, etc.) on board including Wii" on two-story screens, modern fitness centers, expansive spas, fun kids and teens programs, wine tastings - you will have plenty of things to see and do! ... OH! And I should mention that some ships actually have bowling! Our host said he was asked how the bowling balls act on a ship at sea? His answer: "In very mysterious ways!" ;{)

Pool area aboard the Norwegian Sun
NOTE: People enjoying themselves before cruise sets sail!

On board Entertainment
NCL's fleet of ships offers the best live entertainment every day and every night. Whether you are looking for something intimate like the singers in their lounges or you want to laugh with The Second City® comedy troupe, you'll find something perfect for you. Then, there's the award-winning and inventive Blue Man Group, who you can only see aboard Norwegian Epic. And, with special events like the White Hot Party and amazing production shows, you'll be entertained throughout your cruise.

Casinos at Sea

With all your favorite slots and table games including live poker, it's easy to see why they've been rated the "Best Cruise Line Casino" of any cruise line for seven years running by the readers of Casino Player magazine and "Best Cruise Line Casino" by Porthole Magazine last year.

Beyond awards, NCL's Casinos at Sea are also the most rewarding. Players Club offers rewards for everything from spa treatments to complimentary cruises. And with the freedom and flexibility of Freestyle Cruising, you have the ability to play your way.

View of casino aboard the Norwegian Sun

On board Shopping
Duty Free Shopping

When you shop at NCL on board boutiques, you'll feel like you're at your favorite shops at home! And because all of the products sold on board are Duty-Free, you'll get great savings on favorites. From high-end couture and exotic jewelry to beach supplies, like suntan lotion and flip flops, you'll find a wide selection of brand name and specialty goods.

Shopping Ashore

When you are looking to go shopping on shore, you want to know where to get great deals on the best merchandise available. That's where NCL's Port Shopping Consultants can help. They know the ins and outs of every port visited and they'll be willing to share all of their knowledge with you. Just check your Freestyle Daily or stop by the Port Shopping Consultants' desk for the times and dates of their Shopping Seminars.

Adventures - Port of Call

Spanning five continents and more than 120 ports of call, the world of Norwegian Cruise Line has something for everyone. Find adventure in Alaska. Golf in Hawaii. Dive a shipwreck in the Caribbean. Shop in Italy. Or just look good on the French Riviera. With more than 65 itineraries calling on 52 countries, there's definitely a cruise that's perfect for you and yours.

Well, that about covers our visit to the Norwegian Sun! The tour was great and the food was excellent during our stay! We wished we could have sailed away with them that day!

On behalf of Jan and myself (both of us now certified NCL Cruise Consultants), thanks for coming along on this tour! Remember to contact us no matter what your vacation needs are! OR - join us on our next travel / photography adventure!

Harbor Light Adventures - Guiding Your Travel

Travel & Photography Blog

2011-03-25T20:07:00.001-04:00

Welcome to my blog!

Many of you who know me are aware that nature and scenic photography / videography are my passions! This blog has been created to post tours that I am currently hosting or attending. Need ideas or help planning your trip or vacation? Contact us when you need to make your travel plans. http://www.harborlightadventures.com/

YOU CAN DO IT TOO!

You can take great pictures! I want to help you! We are catering to the photography hobbyist and those new to digital photography. Photographic tips will be posted here, and I hope that you will plan on coming along on one of our planned tours. Our classroom is the great outdoors! A schedule of tours is currently in production and a link will be posted to itineraries when completed.

So... Pack your bags! Can't wait to see you on one of our "adventures".

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See you out there! ~Al