September 10, 2025 - Wednesday - Today we were in Huntington Beach, CA to visit the Shipley Nature Center. Located in Huntington Beach Central Park, Shipley Nature Center stretches across 18 acres of fenced California native habitat, offering a serene escape for visitors where more than 200 bird species have been spotted. Former Huntington Beach Mayor, Donald D. Shipley wanted to have a place in Huntington Beach that reflected what California was 100 years ago.
We started out at their interpretive center.
In one section they have a redwood forest.
Next to it is a section of coastal oak trees.
There are birds, butterflies and hummingbirds everywhere.
It was a perfect day, full sun and about 70°. It is very relaxing here.
For lunch today, we headed across the street to the Park Bench Cafe, serving food for over 36 years.
Judy had their "Sourdough Bacon Cheeseburger" with Angus beef, bacon, double cheddar, and burger sauce on grilled sourdough bread.
I had their "Bacon Jam Cheeseburger" with Angus beef, house made bacon jam, cheddar, avocado, an onion ring and thousand island dressing on a brioche bun.
It was the best hamburger I've had in years. The setting is beautiful.
