Dawn’s pastel light revealed the National Geographic Sea Bird northbound in the great Pacific Ocean, easily riding a long, low ocean swell and picking up the first glimpse of Pta. Tosca, the southern point of Isla Santa Margarita, and the southern boundary of the extensive coastal lagoon system called Magdalena Bay. Groups of short-beaked common dolphins joined us off and on to leap joyfully through the swells and ride our bow wave. Black-vented and pink-footed shearwaters were identified and discussed, and several humpback whales surfaced nearby. It was a leisurely morning at sea; a time to enjoy conversation with fellow travelers and the fine weather as we made our way along the mountainous coastline.
At La Entrada, we tucked into the protection offered by Isla Magdalena, ever northbound, following the narrowing mangrove-lined channel inside the desert dunes of this fifty mile long barrier island. Low tide revealed impressive mudflats, and the birding was sensational! White ibis, great, snowy and reddish egrets (doing that wonderful canopy dance) were feeding along Hull Canal, while osprey swooped in for a fish or perched on available sticks. The delightful song of the western meadowlark charmed us all, and one wily coyote stopped for a look.
At anchor near Boca de Soledad, surrounded by California gray whales, we stepped ashore for the sunset and moonrise and a moment to appreciate this extraordinary place.
