The Pacific Coast turns a corner of sorts between Point Arguello and Point Conception. From here the coast trends southeast all the way to Panama. If you've been way north, as we have, this is the last area with any degree of challenge before the density (and easy cruising) of Southern California. You also have Vandenberg missile launch facilities.

Not to mention the beginning of a string of offshore oil platform that go almost to San Diego.

Ah, but there is also an amazing density of wildlife. Today, for example, we've seen no less than eight humpback whales.

Including this fellow with his mouth open as he swoops up through a late afternoon meal.

Some of the humpbacks were feeding, or maybe playing, within patches of kelp.

This couple were sharing their bounty with the local bird population.