Los Islotes, Isla San Francisco, Half-moon Bay
As the sun rose this morning, the National Geographic Sea Bird was positioning into her morning anchorage at Los Islotes. This very tiny set of islets is famous for its haul-out of California sea lions, though they are not the only residents who share this very small piece of property. As the National Geographic Sea Bird finished setting her anchor and all was quiet on board, the sounds of Los Islotes wafted over our ship. The barks of many sea lions were mixed with the mating song of Blue footed boobies, the calls from Brown boobies and the ancient squawk of a solitary Great blue heron.
There was excitement on all decks as we prepared for our morning activities of Zodiac cruises and snorkeling with sea lions. As an introduction to Los Islotes, our full fleet of Zodiacs was launched and a double set of cruises were made in and around this California sea lion haul-out. The early morning light was spectacular and sea conditions were very good! Each vessel was able to spend time watching, photographing and laughing as the smallest California sea lions followed our boats biting engine bubbles gathering close to each boat and even jumping in for a closer look!
Meanwhile, blue-footed boobies had begun their ritual mating dances, pointing their wings skyward while whistling into the light winds. Brown boobies were preening on ledges while a large Great blue heron took on a strong hunting pose wonderfully lit in morning light.
Once the Zodiac cruises were finished it was time to get in the water and join our hosts and permanent residents of Los Islotes. Nearly the whole compliment of guests from the National Geographic Sea Bird, entered the water, much to the delight of the sea lions and definitely to the enjoyment of each human. Visibility was excellent for all snorkelers and in and amongst the darting sea lions were many schools of fish, who were also watching the watchers!
All too soon it was time to return to our snorkel platform and eventually the National Geographic Sea Bird, anchored a short distance away from Los Islotes. Once back on board we adjourned to the bridge deck for a barbecue lunch. As dessert was being served, our Expedition Leader made announcements for the afternoon’s activities.
The El Norte wind was increasing, so plans had been switched to a new afternoon anchorage that would provide protection from wind and offer a variety of activities. Long hikes, tide pools and just plain hanging out on the beach after a long relaxed swim were all offered. As the afternoon stretched towards sunset, a nearly full moon began peaking over the eastern ridge of Isla San Francisco. Red cliffs, a bit of greenery, and the sandy beach of Half-moon Bay all created a gorgeous backdrop for the rising moon.
The sun was setting to the west over the Sierra de la Gigantic of the Baja peninsula, moving towards a lovely soft peachy sunset. Many of us remained on the beach past sunset sharing stories from our morning and afternoon exploring another unique and exquisite corner of this desert by the sea.
