Women Who Explore is a community for outdoor-loving females around the world and its founders aim to bring together passionate and adventurous women through budget-friendly group trips, local meet-ups, and organized bucket-list adventures. On a recent adventure, Women Who Explore ambassador Kerri Jackson cycled across California, previewing parts of the upcoming Amgen Tour of California route. Jackson shared some trip highlights with us, including stops in Morro Bay, Pismo Beach, and Ventura.
1. What were the top highlights of your trip?
Staying at Waypoint Ventura, a hotel property with luxury vintage trailers. It was such a neat experience and every time I explain it to people they think it’s so cool. I really enjoyed cycling along the ocean and seeing those California sunsets!
2. What did you discover while wandering around Morro Bay?
There are tons of little unique shops and boutiques. The ocean wildlife is everywhere—sea otters, sea lions, birds, etc. The people in Morro Bay are so proud of their little town. And the Garden Galley was the most amazing garden shop I have ever seen!
3. What was the riding like in Pismo Beach? Do you have any recommendation for cycling or outdoor activities in San Luis Obispo County?
Cycling in Pismo Beach was fantastic and there were so many routes to choose from. Drivers are courteous to cyclists, which makes for a safe riding experience. Ride the trails along the ocean cliffs. I would recommend that people pick a route that has a brewery or a great coffee shop along the way for bevy break. If I had time, I would have loved to try a Hummer dunes tour, paragliding, or done some hiking.
4. What did you like about the riding in Ventura?
Ventura had a great trail along the ocean and there were no crazy hills to climb along the bike route, so it made for a leisurely ride.
5. What were some of the best things you ate during your trip?
Definitely oysters and beer in Morro Bay! And a lunch from Channel Islands Provisions was delicious and a unique way of getting a packed, to-go lunch.
6. What do you think the benefits are of exploring a destination by bike?
Enjoying the warm weather in California. Riding along the ocean and covering a lot more ground [than if] you were to walk the trails. There are designated bike lanes on the roads and drivers are courteous to cyclists.
7. Do you have any advice for those traveling to these destinations during the Amgen Tour of California?
You must catch a California sunset. The seafood is delicious. I didn’t have a chance to go hiking but was told that there are hiking trails around these areas that provide amazing views of these ocean towns. Rental bikes are reasonably priced and the staff at the bike shops are really friendly.
