Getaway Guide: One-Tank Trip to Westlake Village

Distinct California culture meets natural beauty at Westlake Village. Cradled in the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains, just 25 minutes from the beaches of Malibu, Westlake Village once set the stage for the filming of "Robin Hood," "Tarzan" and "Bonanza." With the surrounding communities of Thousand Oaks and Malibu, Westlake Village serves as the center for a well-appointed resort, a hub for cultural adventures and endless outdoor recreational activities, and a gateway to one of the best beaches in the state.

Getting There

Located just half way between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara and nine miles from the Pacific Ocean, Westlake Village is a 20-minute drive to the beaches of Malibu. From south Los Angeles, head north on the 405 and then take the US-101 north. Exit Lindero Canyon Road to reach the heart of Westlake Village. Total driving time from south Los Angeles is roughly one hour.

Learn to Surf LA
Malibu/Santa Monica
(310) 663-2479
learntosurfla.com/

Click here for lessons and pricing

With a fool-proof technique in place, Learn to Surf LA caters to beginners and surfers of all levels. With safe foam boards to use, wetsuits for comfort, the best instructors on the west coast and idyllic Malibu waves, there's no reason you won't stand up on your first lesson. If you'd prefer a mellow float down the coast, try cruising on a stand up paddle board. Don't forget to bring sunblock, a towel, water and a snack.

Related: A Guide to Malibu's Best Beaches

Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza
2100 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd.
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
(805) 449-2100
www.civicartsplaza.com/

Don't miss your chance to see a brand new 25th anniversary production of the legendary musical, "Les Misérables." Showing at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza this Sept. 4 to 9, the stage will set with re-imagined staging inspired by the paintings of Victor Hugo. Later in the year, an international cast will host the Broadway hit "Cirque Dreams Holidaze." Change up the traditional "Nutcracker" routine and opt for toy soldiers marching on tiny wires, icemen sculpting, gingerbread men flipping mid air and reindeer soaring high above the air here as well.

Related: Best Summertime Theater Activities for Kids In Los Angeles

Getty Villa
17985 Pacific Coast Highway
Pacific Palisades, California 90272
(310) 440-7300
www.getty.edu/

Price: free

With free entrance to the Getty Villa, seize the day and explore more than 1,200 works from the ancient arts and cultures of Rome, Greece and Etruria. Situated high on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, peruse Roman-inspired architecture and gardens. Integral to the genuine ancient Roman setting, the gardens play a vital role at the Villa as well, including distinct garden themes featuring more than 300 plant species. Take note: Access to the Getty Villa entrance is only possible from the northbound right-hand lane of the Pacific Coast Highway. While admittance is free, reservations are required in advance.

Boccaccio's Restaurant
32123 Lindero Canyon Road 110
Westlake Village, CA 91361
(818) 889-8300
www.boccacciosonthelake.com

Dine lakeside at Boccaccio's and find out why visitors from all over Southern California have been coming here since 1968. Nested on the Westlake Lake, feast on the patio and enjoy waterside views of the Santa Monica Mountains. Specializing in continental cuisine, try specialty items from lobster bisque to a wide array of pastas including penne campagnola, a unique blend of whole-grain pasta, portobello mushroom, tomato, garlic, spinach and eggplant.

Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village
Two Dole Drive
Westlake Village, CA 91362
(818) 575-3000
www.fourseasons.com/

Click here for rooms and reservations

This summer, Four Seasons Westlake offers a chance to mix the perfect blend of surf, spa and siesta for the ultimate California experience — in style. For the young at heart, the room and board package offers surf lessons with Learn to Surf LA in nearby Malibu tied with luxury accommodations and a surf-themed welcome package. Upgrade your adventure quotient and add a Jeep Wrangler rental to the package. After a day of sun, surf and sand, redefine the meaning of calm in one of the top spas in America, as voted by Conde Nast Traveler. Try the lavender milk and honey cocoon for the ultimate skin nourishment — perfect after a day of sun worshipping.

Jessica Blotter has over 10 years experience in the advertising industry and is Founder of Publicly Loved, a Los Angeles media agency at the heart of brands, causes and events. As a published travel writer, she has written for CBS Local, LA Examiner, 944 Magazine and Fairways and Greens Magazine. Her passion for charitable endeavors has led her to volunteer and fundraise for Habitat for Humanity, Much Love Animal Rescue, and Toys for Tots. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.