The Hidden Jewel of California's North Coast

Shelter Cove is the hidden jewel of California's north coast. It is one of the state's most scenic destinations, yet few people, even in northern California, have ever heard of it. If the residents of this idyllic oasis have their way, this is exactly the way it will stay.

California's north coast is legendary for it's beauty. The Marin Headlands, Point Reyes, Bodega Bay and Jenner represent some of the most spectacular vistas in the world. The combination of the color of the water, the roughness of the ceaseless sea, the sharp cliffs and the rolling saw grass combine to take the breath away. The fresh smell of the cool ocean breeze seems to elevate the senses. As many times as I have visited the majestic locales, I never lose my sense of awe.

It is with this understanding and appreciation of these majestic places that I am able to say that Shelter Cove exists on another level of beauty. It is as if mother nature combined everything that was breath-taking from the coast, distilled it into a single raindrop and that rain drop fell onto the shore called Shelter Cove.

The unique nature of this village is evident in the complete lack of all normal tourist trappings. There is not one fast food restaurant here, no bars, no nick-knack stores or artist galleries. And leave your cell phone at home because they don't work here either.

What Shelter Cove does have is a links-style golf course that wraps around a general aviation airport. It has spectacular views of California's majestic coastline and it is wrapped in peaceful serenity.

Shelter Cove has a number of wonderful restaurants for fine dining. It has a limited number of hotels that sit right on the shoreline with mysterious tide pools hiding beautiful marine creatures. It also has a small campground right next to the golf course and landing strip. To the south of the runway is the the cove itself - perfect for fishing and diving.

A visit to Shelter Cove is a tranquil escape from the world. The melting red sunsets will warm your soul and the gentle surf will soothe you to sleep. Exploring the tide pools for brightly colored magical creatures will draw you back to the innocence of childhood. It will touch your heart like no other place on earth. But please, don't tell your friends....