Shell Beach, Calif.

Evening light bathes the Avila Pier.  (Donna Wares / For The Times)

In a Shell Beach cove’s rocky inlet, tide pools brim with anemones, hermit crabs and fish darting between crevices and natural aquariums carved into the outcroppings.  (Donna Wares / For The Times)

Visitors take in the view from the Pismo Pier.  (Donna Wares / For The Times)

San Luis Obispo‘s farmers market on Thursday nights is full of colorful, tasty produce.   (Donna Wares / For The Times)