Historical, legendary, mysterious, ancient, even supernatural…these are all words used to describe the cypress tree. While the history of this tree is long and wide, all I really know is that cypress trees move me every time I visit the coast of California.
A foggy evening in Pacific Grove, along Monterey Bay
Their lines, sometimes curving and sometimes jutting straight out, are like no other.
The cypresses on Carmel Beach are unforgettable
Some of them tell a story, reflecting their ability to withstand the elements day in and day out.
Standing strong against the wind on the wild Bodega Bay headlands
Shaped by the Pacific Ocean's power, just above Portuguese Beach, Bodega Bay
What are your favorite trees? Have you seen the cypresses of California’s coast?
(This post is part of this week’s photo series at Budget Travelers Sandbox.)
They sure have a distinct character and strength. It’s so California, though, eh?
InsideJourneys recently posted..#TPThursday: Crackling Pig Roast
Yes, very California!
If only trees could talk. I have been to Bodega Bay and can well appreciate the winds these tress endure.
I have a beech tree at home – which I am loving. It starts off with green leaves and white flowers and over time the leaves develop a beautiful deep maroon colour. I could go on and on about trees – I have many favourites after taking gardening courses.
Leigh recently posted..Photos from Hiking the Heather Trail, Manning Provincial Park
I also love trees and could go on and on about them, partly from the influence of my husband, who really loves plants and has a degree in horticulture.
I remember the windswept cypress trees at Big Sur in late autumn. Stark, almost naked, yet oddly beautiful.
Sophie recently posted..Atlantic Canada: Lively Lunenburg
Oddly beautiful is a good way to put it.
Beautiful photos! I’ve never seen cypress trees but the pictures of these remind me of the Divi Divi trees in Aruba – almost growing sideways because of the prevailing winds.
Lisa recently posted..Searching for Tulips in Ottawa
I have never heard of the Divi Divi trees but they sound nice.
I’m always moved by the cypress trees along the coast, too. There’s just something about them — so dramatic looking. You really capture the full effect in that top photo!
Cathy Sweeney recently posted..An Afternoon with George in Alexandria, Virginia
I agree, very dramatic. I just love them and as soon as we drive onto the coast, I can’t wait to see them.
I love how the trees bend along with Mother Nature. You would think they would just give in, but no, they go with the flow, creating some very impressive tre sculptures in the process.
walkingon travels recently posted..A Funny Thing Happened at the Chinese Garden
I love your sculpture analogy!
You see these cypress trees at various windswept locations along the Central to Northern California coast. I first saw The Lone Cypress on 17 Mile Drive in Carmel back in 1968.
Dick Jordan recently posted..Travel Photo Thursday: Fun “Photo Ops”
Back in 1968? I love that you can remember the exact year!
Beautiful photos, Jenna! I love seeing these cypress trees along the coast. One of my favorites is that lone cypress that’s used as a symbol for Pebble Beach golf course on the 17-mile drive in Monterey. My favorite trees would have to be the cherry blossoms in full bloom.
Mary @ The World Is A Book recently posted..Roatan with kids: Monkey Business
Cherry trees are beautiful! And I have a post about the Lone Cypress. It is an amazing sight.
Great photos. I love cypress trees, each one is so unique and they have so much character.
Laurel recently posted..Drakensberg: A Photojourney to S. Africa’s Highest Mountain Range
They are very distinct. I’d love to see the one on Carmel beach.
Lisa recently posted..Memories of Venice
Love these wind blown trees- we have a ton in Florida too along the coast. They all have “blown” the same way- it’s pretty cool.
jade recently posted..Hiking Trails near Palm Springs
I had no idea there were trees like this in Florida. I would love to see those someday.
Every tree has its own personality. These are gorgeous, and if they could only talk!
Nancie recently posted..Travel Photo Thursday — May 30th, 2012 — Amazing Critters I’ve Encountered On My Travels
Thank you! I agree, it would be great to hear what trees have to say. They have seen so much!
I’ve never been to California, so I had no idea that cypress trees are such a big part of the coastal area. Fascinating how some branches can really grow so long in straight lines parallel to the ground.
Sabrina recently posted..Italian Cemetery in Monte San Vito
You will have to come out here someday. I’m sure you will love it!
It’s so interesting how the trees look like they’re in a never-ending wind storm! How beautiful. I love the way Italian cypress trees shoot into the sky. Must be something about the cypress family!
maq203 recently posted..Guide to Enjoy A Day Visit in Barcelona
Thank you! A never-ending windstorm is a good way to describe it!
Cyprus trees are beautiful! My favorites are on the California coast at Point Montara Lighthouse, but the ones near Monterey are also lovely.
Andi at The Particular Traveler recently posted..Travel Tip: When to Use a Travel Agent
I don’t know Point Montara but will definitely look it up.