Pacific Coast My Way

After renting an affordable little car, we decided to drive to The Getty to start off our Saturday. On the way, we stopped in Venice Beach for Intelligentsia lattes. Hearing how amazing their coffee was, we couldn't resist. Thankfully we did the right thing. Best. Coffee. Ever. No need for sugar, served by the nicest people around and foamed in flower patterns atop savory deliciousness. A wonderful start to the 3rd day of relaxation.

Riding the tram through the hills on the way up to the museum, I saw a vineyard in someone's sprawling acreage, houses in the hills that seemed built in and glued to the mountainous terrain in fascinating patterns. As we pulled into the museum proper, I was excited to approach the gardens before tour groups started cramming in (10am was a perfect time to arrive--first ones there Rusty!) Beautiful flowers and a grassy maze adorned the outer portions of the Getty. A cactus garden viewed from above provided a prickly frame for a landscape of mountainous beauty.

Entering the inner exhibits, I saw sculptures and paintings and a fabulous exhibit of Herb Ritts photography called LA Style followed by another stroll through the outdoor areas to sip iced tea and discover a little chubby legged child frolicking by the fountains, testing the security guards' patience as a toe was dipped in and removed time and time again. Peaceful breezes reached under the alcove where we sat, and the most enjoyable feeling descended--relaxation. Knowing that all I had ahead of me was a drive along the coast I felt blissful and calm.

As we headed north there was a bit of traffic, but the Pacific Coast Highway is a sight not to be missed when in Cali. Reaching Santa Barbara, we sat at a harbor-side restaurant called Brophy Brothers and enjoyed a shrimp and avocado salad, oysters (yes again!) and locally brewed Anchor Steam. The perfect lunch followed by a stroll down the nearby jetty: brilliant!

Next we took the PCH south and wound through seaside towns and beach bliss. Spotting surfers at Zuma Beach, we slowed to watch for a while. As the tide came in, we discussed what to do for dinner, and I delighted that this was the biggest concern for the day. Returning at about 8pm, we decided to shower and walk across to the Century City mall across the way, and have some Thai food at Rock Sugar which proved an amazing last minute decision. The atmosphere was tranquil and the food was light but satisfying.

Also in the same Westfield shopping mall is a lunch gem called Bread Bar, that we visited the day before for Ahi Tuna Salads: divine. So I realize the perks of vacation--meals out, no cooking and a selection of whatever you desire--pretty sweet.

Today we went to Book Soup, a huge and amazing indie bookstore--more coming soon on that! After that we went to The Grove and met family for dinner and ice cream. After driving back, we luxuriated in a swim and a soak in the hot tub before bed (which is now)

Tomorrow I drive to Santa Barbara to visit my good friend who I haven't seen in way too long. Thanks for all this fun so far California! Love you so!

Peace and Palms,
Keri