"Housequake is a sunny, approachable single-pitch sport climb on the Sea of Love Wall. Offering consistent holds and manageable moves, it’s an ideal route for intermediate climbers aiming for a confident 5.9 on solid Central Coast limestone."
Housequake offers a straightforward yet thoroughly engaging climbing experience on the Sea of Love Wall, a spot that basks in sunlight for most of the day—an inviting choice for climbers craving warm exposure with an easygoing challenge. This single-pitch sport route stretches about 50 feet, presenting consistent moves that ease you through the climb without demanding intense technical effort. The rock is dry and solid, typical of the Central Coast’s limestone, providing reliable holds right from the bottom.
Located just off Highway 166 near Silly Rock, this route sits amidst a landscape of open skies and gentle coastal breezes that stir through nearby chaparral and oaks. The approach is brief, and the wall’s southern aspect ensures you stay warmed by the sun’s reach well into afternoon, making it a perfect choice for early season or cooler days.
The fixed protection includes 6 to 7 draws bolted securely into the face, offering straightforward clipping without the stress of placing gear. However, the route isn’t heavily trafficked, so occasional cleaning with a quick brush or two might be needed to restore optimal friction on holds covered by dust or light debris.
The climb’s 5.9 rating feels appropriately honest—accessible for climbers looking to push confidently into intermediate terrain while offering enough textured movement to keep things interesting. Its moderate length means you can focus fully on flow and footwork without worrying about endurance, making it a great option for warm-up or a relaxed afternoon send.
Planning your visit? Pack climbing shoes with sticky rubber to take advantage of slightly polished but still receptive footholds, and bring a brush to maintain the route’s cleanliness. Hydrate well, especially under the unyielding sun, and consider starting early to avoid the peak heat without sacrificing ample light on the wall.
Approach trails are straightforward, with minimal elevation gain, easily accessible from roadside parking near the Sea of Love Wall trailhead. While the climb is low-risk, always double-check your anchor setup and be mindful of other climbers sharing the space given the route's smaller size.
Overall, Housequake provides a no-frills climbing session wrapped in natural warmth and coastal charm—an inviting slice of California climbing that rewards simple preparation and steady movement with an enjoyable, sun-kissed ascent.
While the route is well equipped with fixed gear, climbers should double-check anchor integrity before descending. Sun exposure can increase dehydration risk—carry ample water and take breaks off the wall as needed.
Start early to avoid the strongest sun and secure better grip on holds.
Wear sticky climbing shoes to optimize footing on slightly polished rock.
Bring a brush or climbing cleaning tool to maintain key holds.
Check anchor chains before your descent for safety and reliability.
Bring a standard sport rack with draws; thankfully, 6-7 fixed draws are in place. A small brush is useful for removing natural dust and chalk build-up due to limited traffic.
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