California
In late June I took a trip to California with my mom and sister, and lets just say it was one of my favorite trips we’ve ever gone on. We drove the PCH, ate some incredible food and had some much needed R&R.
The last time I visited California was my Sophomore year spring break, on a whim we bought tickets and flew to the city of angels. It was probably one of the best weeks of my life. My best friends and I rented a house in the heart of Hollywood and lived our best lives. We of course did all of the touristy things- Warner brothers, walk of fame and the Hollywood sign- but there was something about just driving through the city, riding scooters home and getting to experience it all with my best friends that made it so memorable.
I was elated to go back to California, I wondered how nostalgic it would feel to that trip in 2019. We weren't staying in Los Angeles, but an hour away in Huntington Beach, looking forward to experiencing a new part of Cali. Known for its surf beaches- long piers and boardwalks lined the water with plenty of restaurants and beautiful views. Close to Laguna Beach, we spent many nights driving down the highway to catch the glowing sunset and surfers riding the final waves. Our first evening, we made our way to Dana Point, in Southern California. The Marinas were stunning, overflowing with sailboats and yachts. We found the perfect beachy restaurant with mouthwatering seafood called Harpoon Henry’s, exactly what we needed.
Last time I was in California, we rented a convertible for a day and it might have been the best day of my life. So of course, as an homage, I told my mom we HAD to rent one. Top down, music blasting is the only way to do it. We took full advantage and did a ton of tourist attractions. We saw the Griffith Observatory, and of course I couldn’t help but think of that magical La La Land scene with Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling. We drove past the walk of fame, stepping out to admire Marilyn Monroe’s pink star. Obviously had to get all the fixings at In n out, my sister and I also had to ask for the iconic white hats. And if you know me, you know about Vanderpump Rules. That reality show scandal that took over the entire world last year? I’ve been watching those 20 somethings start drama since 2019. So of course, we had to drive past the Lisa Vanderpump restaurants in La… Sur and TomTom. Our first few days were jam packed to say the least.
Before we could really settle down and relax, we took a drive down to San Diego. We visited the Torrey Pines State Beach, a trek down to a beautiful and serene place, a very picturesque spot. Be prepared to get that heart rate going as you make your way down and climb your way back up, and prepare to see some butts as (unknown to us) it is a nude beach. We of course had to stop by La Jolla beach which was brimming with people, surfing, swimming, taking kayaking lessons, playing volleyball or skateboarding down the boardwalk- such a lively and scenic area. We enjoyed some seafood and margaritas at a restaurant by the sea, with a sign that read “No shirt, no shoes, no problem” and if that doesn’t speak to the beauty of San Diego, I don’t know what does!
I took advantage of all of the beautiful scenes around me by putting my camera skills to the test. California really must be a photographer’s dream. I was so excited to capture everything around me, though I didn't need to do much- it all speaks for itself.
We spent our last few days lazing by the pool, indulging in good books, delicious food and the glorious weather. I finished my 700 page fantasy romance novel, A Court of Mist and Fury (which we will discuss in another blog post) in about two days. Before we left we got to have dinner with one of my childhood bestfriends at one of the prettiest restaurants i’ve ever seen. A view of the luminous sunset (the most perfect golden hour) as we sipped on our Aperol spritzes and shared some intoxicating desserts.
Sunkissed and well rested it was finally time to go back to good old New Jersey. California continues to be one of my favorite places i’ve ever visited and I truly cannot recommend it enough. There is plenty to do that will be sure to please anyone, and it’s just downright GORGEOUS. I cannot wait to go back and see everything else there is to experience!
