SeeCalifornia.com

Ah, Spring Break in California! For photographers, this is great silhouette season as shown in photos.

Even though there’s still plenty of skiing to be had, the top destinations continue to be California beaches. When you have 1,000 miles of them, it’s not to hard to make the final cut. Among the beach news happening this spring:

• The beaches have less lifeguard service than summer. Here are some basics for keeping it safe.
• Many of California’s beach cities are banning plastic bags with hopes to ease the ocean pollution. It’s not likely that you’ll see a significant difference or reduction in plastic trash, but do beware that you may need to bring your own bags to shop, as many beach cities are getting on the bandwagon and getting rid of the plastic ones.
• Baby sea lions are malnourished along the shores. Rescue centers are trying to fatten the small animals up by feeding them fish, then releasing them back into the Pacific Ocean wilds. Visitors are urged to not touch the animals on the beach.
• The water is cold–still in the 50s to 60s. Cold water can actually cause cramps that aren’t good when you freeze up and can’t swim.  Bring or rent a wetsuit if you plan to surf, and for ocean swimming, you’ll probably not want to stay in the water too long.
• Smoking is outlawed on most beaches, and though bonfires are in jeopardy of being banned at Southern California beaches, that decision won’t be announced till May when spring break is over.  So go ahead and build a bonfire when you see a ring!
• The biggest and most obvious problem tourists face is sunburn. You come to visit looking all pale and within a day you’re roasted red, like a chili pepper. Ease into the sun exposure. Sometimes it only takes 20 minutes to get burned. Imagine what 2 or more hours will do to your skin! Wear sunblock, cover up and take it easy.
• Driving into the sunset can be blinding, as we discussed a few weeks ago. Here are some tips for handling glare.