The Coastal Hiking Trail didn't hold back. Twelve miles of sand, dunes, and boardwalks taught me that my expectations were way off — in the best way possible.
"The trail doesn't care about your fitness level. It'll humiliate you with sand, then reward you with a view that makes you forget your sore feet."
The Gear That Saved Me
Sand is the great equalizer. It'll slow you down, drain your battery, and find its way into everything. My Z30 survived beautifully, but I learned the hard way that sand filters on lens hoods are mandatory. Three times I almost lost shots to grit — until I learned my lesson.
Key gear lessons: Trail shoes over boots for sand. Pack light, carry water like your life depends on it (it does), and always check the weather twice.