Big Sur, CA and Chandler, AZ

June 27, 2022 - Reading time: 13 minutes

On the morning we left Carmel, the fog had returned with a vengeance.  We departed the hotel at 6:15 still determined to travel Big Sur Highway One with fingers crossed that at least SOME of the cliff side ocean vistas would be visible from the various pull off points. Between Monterey and San Simeon, it’s ninety curvy miles and in that blanket of fog we navigated each one with care.  Even in the best of weather it takes several hours to complete, but with it’s ranking as one of the best scenic drives in the world, we kept the faith.  

Most spots were too foggy to see very much.  And while that was disappointing, there were scant other vehicles at that early hour and in those driving conditions.  So we took our time.  Oh, and I successfully avoided my first deer:  a young buck with fuzzy antlers who dashed across the road, thankfully allowing me time to brake! Happily, the further south we ventured, the more we encountered patches of sunshine.  It was fascinating to view the distinct demarcation line between fog and clear skies in several places just beyond the shoreline.  The rocky coastline is so beautiful.   And we were very lucky to find great weather at San Simeon where dozens of elephant seals were lazing about or enjoying a mutual neck rub on the sunny, sandy beach.  These creatures make the most unique sound, like the lowest notes of a digeridoo being pushed through a large metal pipe that echoes.  What a wild sight to witness and one that I’ll never forget.  Preston took tons of photos, thus we’ve picked the best among them. 

Our destination of Chandler, AZ (just south of Phoenix) was still 10 hours ahead of us.  We knew it would be the longest road day of the trip, so made the most of it.  We splurged on McDonalds milkshakes at one of our gas stops.  We took turns playing music and discussing bands, movies, books and games.   We stretched our legs and snapped photos at a roadside pull out in Lake Cachuma, CA where we happened upon a gorgeous recreational valley area that we never knew existed.  The Los Padres National Forest is a gem, y’all. 

And yet, after a lovely long drive, it was wonderful to arrive at the Crowne Plaza Hotel & Resort in Chandler.  The property was outstanding.  I had booked it months ago based on great online reviews, a good price point and the photos of the pool (anticipating a full day of recovery would be in order before attempting another long drive). What I did not expect was just how much Preston and I would fall in love with the overall location.  Downtown Chandler is charming, striking the right combination of walkability, landscaping, interesting boutique shops and dining, and a hip, solid vibe.  When we weren't relaxing at the hotel, me reading by the pool and he mining through photo shots, we were checking out the nearby scene downtown. 

If you are ever in the area, these local spots feature a delicious selection with great service:

Cheba Hut -  We grabbed lunch there before I camped out at the pool for the afternoon.  Their specialty is toasted subs, but I opted to get the ham and turkey combo as a salad with their homemade Italian dressing.  It was perfect for a hot summer day. 

SanTan Brewing - This place was hopping for dinner! We sat outside at dusk, but the Arizona temps are cleverly managed by misters on the patio of most establishments, making for a really nice atmosphere.  Preston and I split a quesadilla filled with smoked carnitas and tried their signature seasonal brew made with pineapples.  Both were truly tasty.  But, what grabbed our attention on the menu just moments after we sat was the dessert specialty for the evening -  a pineapple white chocolate blondie served warm from the oven beneath a generous topping of banana gelato, toasted coconut shavings, dried pineapple and whipped cream.  Needless to say we saved room and it did not disappoint.  I LOVE fresh pineapple, so this place was a treasure to find.  The entire meal knocked it out of the park. 

The Tipsy Egg -  The morning of our departure, we filled up on Saturday brunch before hitting the road to El Paso.  Another very popular place with the locals, seats were available at the bar, so our little party of two cozied right up for a colorful cocktail and perused the menu.  Everything sounded fresh and tasty, which made it hard to choose!  I finally decided on the goat grits (Yes!  GRITS!  In Arizona of all places!!) and this dish was a yummy mix of bacon parsley grits beneath eggs scrambled with feta and spinach.  The bartender and the other folks sitting near us were a jovial, friendly bunch and we left Chandler, AZ that morning with happy stomachs and happy smiles. 

Our little 36 hour respite in Chandler allowed me time to sit and digest (literally and figuratively) all that I had seen and done since the start of this journey.  It gave me time to just soak in the feeling of knowing that life is a blessing.  It was a good reminder that slow days, coming and going at a leisurely pace when the mood strikes, are just as much of a gift as the busy ones filled with plans and reservations.  I need to remember that.