Sweet spot.

Sunday dawned bright and blue.

Morning temperature was a brisk 47.

Being intrepid east coasters and immune to the cold we set out at 7:30am for Pt. Dume in Malibu.

The Pacific Coast Highway was empty which was a good thing since in many parts the road narrows to one lane due to rock slide closures from all the rainstorms this winter.

We parked along the road that frames the beach and got stuck in the mounting sand. Luckily, we were in my light and breezy VW and a family of three guys along with my husband pushed us out of the sand trap!

We then proceeded to hike the mountain.

The trail has recently deteriorated what with cliff erosion and missing steps, but it is such a gorgeous climb.

The poppies are outrageous and the ocean views breathtaking.

After the hike, we read on the beach until the wind and flying sand became overwhelming.

We headed to Sunset Restaurant, our favorite lunch place at the beach.

We indulged in fresh mussels and a grilled wild salmon salad.

We took the path less traveled and enjoyed an outstanding day.