SeeCalifornia.com

CALIFORNIA PIERS –There are primarily two types of materials California pier deckings are made of– concrete or wood. When you walk on both types of piers, you’ll notice the difference and quickly see why people prefer wooden piers. Nearly two-thirds of piers in California have wood planks and decks. On the few piers and wharfs allowing automobiles, the sound you hear as cars drive over the wooden planks is a bump, bump, thump, where the tires rise & fall to the  uneven surface. Pedestrians taking strolls are also are subject to the warping effect beneath their feet when they walk. You must watch your step, though rarely does anyone fall. On the wooden pier in Seal Beach a sign posted says “No High Heels” or something to that effect, but few tourists pay attention. (The pier sign also says “No Dogs” and there are plenty of them on the pier with their owners.)

Though wood piers require more maintenance than concrete, the aesthetic advantages to wooden pier planks include a warm and appealing visual appearance, softer surface easier on the feet when walking, and less visibility for certain types of stains. The joy of strolling on a wooden pier is what really counts for 9 out 10 people interviewed who prefer walking on a wooden pier because ‘it just feels better’.

Photos left to right above: Wood piers in California include Oceanside Pier, Santa Cruz Wharf, Stearns Wharf in Santa Barbara and Seal Beach Pier.