Experience the Old Western Movie Set of Pioneertown
Just over two hours from Los Angeles, there is little desert city called Pioneertown near Joshua Tree National Park. This expansive western set looks frozen in the old western days of dust and tumbleweeds. You can wander, shop, eat barbecue, and sometimes watch live music in this quirky little town.
Eat Beachside & BYOB at Cha Cha Chicken
Cha Cha Chicken is a casual restaurant in a great location just a few blocks from the Santa Monica Beach. It has a spacious outdoor patio, with an amazing colorful caribbean beach vibe.
Experience Santa Barbara’s Gorgeous Wine Country by Bike
When most people think of California wines, they think of Napa Valley. Even most Angelino's (people from L.A.) have never heard of the Santa Ynez Valley. Santa Ynez is just north of Santa Barbara, and is one of most diverse grape-growing regions in the county.
Kayak through Sea Caves on One of the West Coast’s Uninhabited Islands
A half-day exploring the sea caves on kayaks with Channel Islands Adventure Company.
Experience a Thrilling Ziplining Adventure with Ziplines at Pacific Crest
A short ride from L.A. you can get out into nature and do a spectacular ziplining course in the beautiful mountain town of Wrightwood.
Long Branch Farms Western Venue
I recently went to a wedding at Long Branch Farms. This large western set is located in Half Moon Bay and has all the necessities for a good time for both adults and kids.
Visit the Mysterious Giant Rock
This is quite literally a giant rock in the desert. According to most sources it's the largest freestanding boulder in the world at about 7 stories high.
Book a Rejuvenating Sound Bath at Integratron
Integratron is a quirky and cute destination near Joshua Tree National Park in Landers, California. It's said to be situated on a powerful vortex of energy. Book a rejuvenating sound bath (meditation) far in advance, and hang out on the site at Hammock Village.
Explore Robber's Roost Ghost Town
Robber's Roost is a small “ghost town” that was once a hotel for passing travelers. Then owners made it kitchy by adding some things like a jailhouse and a saloon.
Beachside Dining at Playa Provisions
Playa Provisions is a hip restaurant in the hidden Los Angeles beach town of Playa Del Rey. It has several different concepts within the same space. The best way I can describe this space would be beachy-hipster.
Try a Scoop (or Two) of McConnell's Ice Cream on State Street
McConnell’s Ice Cream shop is located on Santa Barbara's State Street and has really unique flavors like Whiskey & pecan pralines, Eureka lemon & marionberries, Cardamom & Gingersnaps, and so many more.
Brunch at Scarlett Begonia
Scarlett Begonia is my favorite brunch spot to date in Santa Barbara. It's a quaint and hidden gem inside a courtyard off Santa Barbara's popular State Street