The Great West Coast Land Grab: How Much Did California Steal? (Spoiler Alert: It Wasn't Land)
Ah, the West Coast. Land of sunshine, surfers, and a whole lotta avocado toast. But have you ever stopped to wonder, just how much of this glorious coastline does California hoard for itself? Did they shove Oregon and Washington off a cliff and claim the whole Pacific paradise?
Hold on to your surfboards, folks, because the answer is both surprising and slightly terrifying.
California: The Big Kahuna (or Should We Say, Burrito?)
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Let's be honest, California's the heavyweight champion of the West Coast. It's got Hollywood glamour, sprawling deserts, and enough redwoods to make a lumberjack cry tears of joy (or maybe that's just allergies). But here's the thing: California's coastline stretches a whopping 840 miles. That's a lot of beach for one state, enough to make even the most dedicated sunbather need a nap break.
But Is That All There Is to the West Coast? Don't Be Ridiculous
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Now, some folks (looking at you, over-enthusiastic Californians) might act like their state swallowed the entire West Coast. But fear not, fans of flannel and rainy days, Oregon and Washington are still very much in the picture. Oregon boasts a stunning 296 miles of coastline, perfect for battling the waves or whispering sweet nothings to a particularly majestic Douglas fir. And Washington? Don't let their grunge exterior fool you, they've got a respectable 157-mile stretch of Pacific paradise, ideal for spotting orcas and contemplating the meaning of life (while wrapped in a cozy fleece).
So, the answer? California takes up a big chunk, but our friends to the north are holding their own.
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But Wait, There's More! Alaska and Hawaii: West Coast Wanderers?
Now, things get a little tricky. Technically, Alaska and Hawaii are part of the big, happy West Coast family (at least according to the US Census Bureau). But let's be real, Alaska's a whole different beast with its glaciers and grizzly bears. And Hawaii? Well, that's an island chain so far out in the Pacific it practically has its own time zone.
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The Verdict: It's All About Perspective (and Maybe Burritos)
California might be the loudest West Coast sibling, but it doesn't own the whole beach. Oregon and Washington have their fair share of stunning scenery, and Alaska and Hawaii bring their own unique flavor to the party. So, the next time you're pondering the vastness of the West Coast, remember: there's more to explore than just Hollywood and celebrity sightings (although, those can be fun too, as long as you brought enough sunscreen).
Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a sudden craving for a giant California burrito. Maybe I can sneak some guacamole in there for Oregon and Washington.
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