Throwback Adventure – Sanibel Island – Florida

I will have sections of my blog that I will title “Throwback Adventure”, and will plan on posting them every Thursday. These are journeys we have taken before I started the blog, but are well worth sharing. Many of these Throwback Adventures will include our Buster, who was known for his crazy tail, his happy howl, and his zest for life. We miss him dearly…he is forever in our hearts!

Shadow, Buster, and I had two separate Adventures to Sanibel Island back during our time living in Florida. Sanibel Island is located on the West Coast of Florida, and is approximately 15 miles in length. It is a popular tourist attraction, known for the beaches. A causeway connects Sanibel Island to the mainland. There is a fee to enter the Island.

We had beach-filled Adventures to Sanibel Island. I absolutely loved Sanibel Island, and the fact that it was so dog-friendly. There were beautiful beaches, with many shells, and the Sanibel Lighthouse. It was quite unique to find a Lighthouse in Florida. We spent lots of time wandering the beaches, and relaxing, the boys often playing and digging away. Definitely a peaceful, and gorgeous spot.

In searching for photographs I was able to locate a variety from our visit back in March 2012. Definitely memorable vacations in Sanibel Island. I hope some day we can make it back to this special oasis (Throwback Adventures will not always be rated).

November 3, 2019 – West Dennis Light/Bass River Lighthouse – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the West Dennis Light, also known as the Bass River Lighthouse in Dennis, Massachusetts. It is owned and sits on the Lighthouse Inn. The Lighthouse was formerly a light in the attic of a private owner before the federal government provided funding, and construction began in 1854 for the present-day structure. The Lighthouse is currently lit seasonally, when the Inn is open.

We had an unappealing Adventure to the West Dennis Light. I actually debated blogging about the Lighthouse as it is not what I visualize as a Lighthouse. However it is an official Lighthouse, a structure that contains light to guide ships in the sea. So, we took some photographs, and spent some time exploring the beach adjacent to the Lighthouse. The beach had several rock jetty’s, lots of thick green seaweed, and a variety of shells. We strolled around, Wilma enjoying some digging, while Shadow hopeful for a swim. There were few people in sight, and I believe the Inn was closed for the season, creating a peaceful visit. So glad we could cross off another lighthouse on our Adventure today (Rating: 3).

September 21, 2019 – Beavertail State Park (Includes the Beavertail Lighthouse) – Rhode Island

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Beavertail State Park in Jamestown, Rhode Island. Beavertail State Park is a Rhode Island State Park that encompasses 153 acres. It is located at the Southern end of Conanicut Island in Narragansett Bay, and is well known for its beautiful, scenic coastline. On the site you can view the Beavertail Lighthouse, a 64 foot lighthouse, built in 1856. There even is a museum and a gift shop at the site.

This was our second Adventure to the Beavertail State Park as Shadow, Buster, and I had been there in August 2016. Although I blogged about it in our Throwback blog, it is a special location so I decided to share another blog today.

We had a scenic Adventure to the Beavertail State Park. Upon arrival I could not believe the huge amount of visitors that had transcended to this location. However, being a long drive we could not resist joining the crowd and exploring the Park. We walked around the Lighthouse, found various spots along the rocks to climb down and explore, and enjoyed some lounging in the green grass. There were gigantic, singing waves, beautiful flowers along the shore, lovely textured rocks, and of course the scenic Beavertail Lighthouse. Before we left we visited a one room aquarium on the grounds. I had debated entering as Wilma can be quite energetic, and sometimes is nervous of other furry friends. Nevertheless we entered the aquarium, peaking at the fish and other aquatic wildlife. This soon became a humorous experience as Wilma began growling at the turtle, and as I was addressing her concern with this new creature I found Shadow drinking out of a low tank – oops. We scurried out quickly before creating a further scene.

Besides taking in the beauty of this location, highlights of our visit, included: finding a large tidal pool for Shadow to lay in, observing Wilma’s cheer in the many visitors, and finding a spot in front of the lighthouse to relax, roll, and cherish the coastal time with my best buds. We will definitely be back for future visits to the Beavertail State Park. Please see below for photos and videos from our visit today, and our previous visit (Rating: 4)

September 21, 2019 – Rose Nulman Park and Point Judith Lighthouse – Rhode Island

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Rose Nulman Park and the Point Judith Lighthouse in Narragansett, Rhode Island. The Rose Nulman Park is a public park with benches, and coastal views. It is a popular spot for surfers. Abutting the Park is the Point Judith Lighthouse, an active Lighthouse located on the Coast Guard grounds. The Point Judith Lighthouse was originally build in 1810, although has been reconstructed several time since.

We had a coastal Adventure to the Rose Nulman Park and Point Judith Lighthouse. Upon arrival I was quite disappointed that the Point Judith Lighthouse was surrounded by tall metal fencing, making it difficult to fully discern, and therefore photograph. I had known that it was on the Coast Guard grounds but failed to realize that it was inaccessible to the public. We attempted to wander as close as possible.

After finishing our attempts in viewing the Lighthouse we wandered over to Rose Nulman Park, an area that visually was popular for surfers, and motorcyclists. We immediately ventured to the edge of the park, high above a steep cliff to the shore. We noted that there were people relaxing in chairs along this border, many appreciating the show of the numerous surfers. We then headed down to the end of the Park, eager to find a path to the shore. Along the way we located some benches, and a memorial. After strolling through a small, open field we were quite thrilled to find a path to the shore. The shoreline was steep, and full of rocks, leading to challenging footing. Shadow was very hopeful to dive into the water, but quite disappointed to find the rocky shore. Luckily there was a large wave or two to help cool him down a bit, but swimming was unfortunately not an option. Wilma enjoyed perching on a large rock, viewing the sea. We attempted to sit for a bit, but the ground was not too cooperative so we soon ventured back up to the land above. There we found a flat spot in the grass to relax, and roll. The waves sang their crashing noises, and the coastal scene was quite gorgeous. Pleased to visit the Rose Nulman Park and Point Judith Lighthouse today (Rating: 3)

September 14, 2019 – Neddick “Nubble” Lighthouse – Maine

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Cape Neddick “Nubble”. Cape Neddick “Nubble” Lighthouse is located in Cape Neddick, York, Maine. It is on Nubble Island off of Cape Neddick point. It was initially put into use in 1879, and continues to be a working lighthouse. The area is popular for visitors, and even has a small gift shop and restrooms (available in season).

We had a perfect Adventure to the Cape Neddick “Nubble” Lighthouse. We have been to the Nubble Lighthouse many times previously, but it really is quite spectacular, so I decided to blog about it again. We arrived to find huge gust of winds, an incoming tide, and an abundance of crashing waves, a gorgeous scene. Upon wandering around, we soon found some scuba divers performing a practice exercise. Wilma was quite intrigued by the divers, unsure of the scene. We observed for a bit before moving on, climbing on the rocks, and loving every moment. There were flowers between the rocks, and in the grass, bright yellows, pinks, and whites, just lovely. We explored, and explored, cherishing the full coastal experience. Shadow especially loved his rolls, and often searched for a tidal pool, hoping for a sip and dip. Wilma was quite wild at this location, energized by the rocks, and guest attention. Thankfully I manged to stay on my feet in Wilma’s exuberance. After wandering around for awhile we sat in the grass to relax and savor our wonderful afternoon.

Before we left Nubble Lighthouse I decided to check out the food at Fox’s Lobster House, located on the property. I was quite thankful to see an outdoor window. The menu appeared a bit pricey so a good excuse to order myself an ice cream, and a “puppy pop” for Shadow and Wilma. Although there was a seating area the location was very busy with guests so I felt it ideal to find a rock and a grassy spot to savor our treats. Our timing was not ideal as it began pouring! Shadow quickly began eating his “pop” while Wilma wanted nothing to do with the rain. So I attempted to eat my ice cream, and next thing I knew Shadow’s had vanished. I searched the crannies of the nearby rocks and was unable to locate the “pop”. Shadow decided to go for seconds, grabbing Wilma’s bowl. I somehow was able to rescue it for Wilma and we scurried back to the car. I felt badly I could not locate Shadow’s dish, and thought for a quick moment – did he eat that too?! Wilma was able to eat her “pop” in the car but seemed to have lost interest.

The Nubble Lighthouse is a special place. The only downfall is the large tourist draw, buses even arriving and dropping off guests. However, we had a magnificent visit to the Nubble Lighthouse, a quintessential New England landmark (Rating: 4.5)

Please see below for photos and videos from today’s visit, and at the bottom I included several from previous visits, including with our love Buster

Previous Visits:

Throwback Adventure – Avery Point Light – Connecticut

In January of 2017 Shadow and I Adventured to Avery Point Light in Groton, Connecticut. The Avery Point Lighthouse is located on the campus of the University of Connecticut. It was established in 1944, and is the last Lighthouse that was built in the Connecticut. The Avery Point Lighthouse was later restored in 2006 due to disrepair. It is currently is managed by the American Lighthouse Foundation.

We had a lovely Adventure to the Avery Point Lighthouse back on a sunny winter afternoon. There was limited parking, and I remember being a little unclear if I had parked in an appropriate spot. However, we stationed and headed off to the Lighthouse. The grass was surprisingly bright green, and the sky blue, masking the “normal” landscape of a winter afternoon. We were able to stroll directly up to the lighthouse, and of course we walked around to view each angle. Shadow was quite photogenic, although the bright sun was not too cooperative in capturing these moments. The Avery Point Lighthouse was definitely unique in location, and style. It was great that we could get an up-close and personal view. So glad we were able to Adventure to the Avery Point Lighthouse (Throwback Adventures will not always be rated.)

July 23, 2019 – Castle Hill Lighthouse – Rhode Island

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Castle Hill Lighthouse in Newport, Rhode Island. Castle Hill Lighthouse was built in 1898, and is made of granite. It is located in the Narragansett Bay and continues to be an active lighthouse.

We had a perfect Adventure to the Castle Hill Lighthouse. We were pleased that the rain subsided, cooling down the air, and providing us the perfect opportunity for a new Adventure. I had done some research online about the Castle Hill Lighthouse but contacted the Castle Hill Inn to ensure that we could park at the Inn and visit the “private property”. I was thrilled to have that information confirmed so we hit the road. Upon arrival the Valet at the Castle Hill Inn informed us that they were not busy so we were able to park in the main parking lot, immediately next to the trail. The Lighthouse trail was not labeled so I was pleased to get these directions.

We were immediately drawn to the gorgeous views of the Narragansett Bay. It was absolutely breathtaking! The shores were rocky and we were able to check out the scene from high above. We took in the scenery, Shadow celebrating our arrival with a joyful roll! After appreciating the sites we headed down the trail. The path was simple, but perfect. There were wildflowers, and it was closed in at points with gorgeous greenery, almost magical. It really was just lovely. I was excited, eagerly awaiting the view of the Bay, and the Castle Hill Lighthouse. It did not take long for us to arrive at the Castle Hill Lighthouse. It was absolutely spectacular, quite unique in style. Pleased to have the area to ourselves we walked down the steps to the bottom of the Lighthouse, before heading back up and viewing each and every angle. It was a gorgeous location. We spent some time at this spot, snapping many photographs.

After taking in the scene we headed back to the trail to wander farther. We met several visitors along the way, which delighted energetic Wilma, who took in every bit of love. We walked for a couple minutes, and soon found a bench leading to the spectacular rocky shore. The rocks were uniquely shaped, and almost silver in color. I have been to many rocky shore but have never seen such stunning rocks. I did my best to find a smooth walk for Shadow and I, while Wilma jumped athletically from rock to rock. We soon found a perfect spot to sit, and relax, watching the fisherman, and appreciating the coastal breeze. Shadow enjoyed some rain water left in the rocks, and took a seat next to me, while Wilma focused her attention on the birds. Everything about this Adventure was just perfect. We will definitely have to visit the Castle Hill Lighthouse again (Rating: 5)

July 14, 2019 – The Watch Hill Lighthouse- Rhode Island

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to The Watch Hill Lighthouse in Watch Hill, Rhode Island. The Watch Hill Lighthouse is located on a peninsula in Southern Rhode Island. It can be accessed by foot via a private road, while the museum is open during scheduled times. It is managed by the Watch Hill Lighthouse Keepers Association.

We had a scenic Adventure to The Watch Hill Lighthouse. I was glad to have done some research ahead of time as I may have never found this hidden gem without it. We parked in the town of Watch Hill, in one of the two-hour parking spots and then headed up the hill to the private road. My attention was drawn to a red sign on the street which appeared to be the private road to the Lighthouse (although not indicating that specifically). I was a bit humored by the sign stating “NO DOGS, unless leashed”, and of course relieved that they were permitted as expected. Maybe a savvy way to ensure visitors followed the rules, or maybe something only I would notice?? From this sign we began our journey down this affluent area, gorgeous mansions lining the street with elegant landscaping. The street was very small so we were careful to watch for cars. It was not far when we spotted the Lighthouse from afar. It was quite the scene with the Atlantic Ocean on both sides, flowers scattered throughout and a large lawn immediately before it. Just a lovely journey leading to the final destination.

We soon arrived at the official entrance. There were few visitors, and many of those whom we observed were fishing. We headed toward the Lighthouse but quickly made a detour over to the rocky shore. Shadow, as expected, was eager for a swim, so I figured we would head through the rocks to the waters edge. Probably not the wisest decision as the rocks were extra slippery. I myself fell, and both Shadow and Wilma were surprisingly challenged by this footing. However we managed to make it to the Ocean therefore making Shadow’s day. I sat for a minute while Shadow could enjoy his moment. He seemed pleased, even though he could not wade in due to the excessive rocks. We only stayed briefly before stumbling back through the rocks.

After returning to stable footing we slowly weaved our way to the Lighthouse. It was a warm morning so we took time to sit in the grass and drink some water. Once we arrived at the Lighthouse I were disappointed to see it was a private entrance but took several photos at the gate. We then checked out the fisherman quarters and headed back. Of course we took some more time relaxing in the grass, appreciating the atmosphere and treasuring the journey. Shadow and Wilma showed their cheer with continual rolls and were clearly quite satisfied with their coastal Adventure. Our Adventure to the Lighthouse came to an end when we spotted Taylor Swift’s lovely mansion, and then strolled back down the road of dreams. Definitely what the doctor ordered as our coastal Adventure to The Watch Hill Lighthouse was just right. I may just have to start working on my singing career (Rating: 4.5)

July 8, 2019 – Plum Island Lighthouse/Newburyport Harbor Lighthouse – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Plum Island Lighthouse in Newburyport, Massachusetts. This Lighthouse is also referred to as the Newburyport Harbor Lighthouse. This Lighthouse was established in 1788, but later rebuilt in 1898. The tower is made out of wood, and is approximately 35 feet in height. The Lighthouse is now owned by the City of Newburyport, and managed by the Friends of Plum Island Light. It is open for scheduled tours.

We had a coastal Adventure to the Plum Island Lighthouse. We began our morning with a long walk at one of our favorite local parks before heading to the Lighthouse. As we got closer the drive became very scenic with bright blue water, framed by brilliant green grass. It was absolutely gorgeous, and beautifully completed by a perfectly blue sky. We drove to the end of Northern Boulevard and located the Lighthouse on the left. Parking was a bit unclear, but I had emailed to get additional information, and it appeared to match the parking description. After parking we meandered over to the Lighthouse. It was tall, and a crisp white color. The location was simple, the lawn somewhat overgrown, but the Lighthouse structure was flawless in form. We spent some time walking around the area and Shadow and Wilma enjoyed a nap under the shady bushes, and their expected happy, enthusiastic rolls. Although I knew ahead of time the beaches were not dog friendly, I was still a bit disappointed. However, so glad we were able to visit the Plum Island Lighthouse. We will have to return in the off-season when we can romp on the beach as well. A beautiful sunny day exploring the Plum Island Lighthouse (Rating: 3).

Throwback Adventure – Palmer Island Lighthouse – Massachusetts

In January 2017 Shadow and I Adventured to the Palmer Lighthouse in New Bedford, Massachusetts. The Palmer Lighthouse is located in the Acushnet River at the entrance to New Bedford Harbor. It was built in 1849. The Lighthouse is twenty four feet high and is made out of stone rubble. It can be reached by foot at low tide through the hurricane wall in New Bedford Harbor. The Palmer Lighthouse is no longer a working lighthouse.

We had a wild Adventure to the Palmer Ligthouse on a cool winter day. We had many Adventures in New Bedford on this day, and the Palmer Lighthouse was one of our most scenic stops. I do not remember doing much research but found that we could make our way to the Lighthouse as the tide was low. Having no idea what the tidal patterns were we decided to journey to the Lighthouse, closely watching the water. We met a nice family along the way that adored Shadow, while also ran into some teenagers in the appearing to be up to some trouble. I was quite disappointed at all the trash in the area, I guess left behind from the tide. However we carried on, sometimes on rocky footing, but soon arrived at the Palmer Lighthouse. The Lighthouse was quite stunning, bright white and uniquely stone. There was a stone-like pathway directly to the Lighthouse so we were able to climb to the door to check out this beautiful Lighthouse. We really lucked out finding low tide on this visit, but did not stay long unsure what to expect upon our return. A fun, and memorable Adventure to the Palmer Lighthouse (Rating: 3).